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Urban Renewal
 Photo backpacks distribute weight evenly, usually hold a lot, and offer easy access to your stuff. So why are bags more popular? One reason: most packs are meant for outdoorsy types. But that’s not the case with Tenba’s new ProDigital backpacks ($199 street, large; $239, extra large). These all-black carry-alls of ballistic nylon and closed-cell foam padding are designed for urban, as well as off-sidewalk, action.
There’s a lot of creative engineering in this relatively low-tech product, and there are real-world dividends. For instance, on a recent flight, one of our editors was able to slide out a laptop without having to lower the pack from the overhead compartment, thanks to a zippered side panel. (Note to bag makers: Think twice before introducing a pack that won’t take a laptop.) Also unusual is a freestanding, removable partition called a WorkStation. Stand it upright to hold your media cards, keys, change, business cards, PDA, cell phone, pens, digital compact camera, notepad, and more—it’s a portable desktop! This makes it harder to leave items behind while traveling.
Other cool features: large, rubber zipper pulls; industrial-grade hardware; thick, shock-absorbing padding; quick-access pockets; and room to hold a full 6x4.5 medium-format kit (body, backs, lenses, and flash). Plus the laptop.
These Tenbas aren’t “me-too” photo backpacks. For more info: www.tenbagear.com; 914-347-3300.
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