DallasNews.com

22nd December 2011

Knomo Kobe

The Kobe ($295, knomobags.com) is a messenger-style bag made of leather with minimalist exterior. 

There are no exterior pockets to break up the clean design. 

Inside, you'll find a large interior space and a padded pocket for a 15-inch laptop. 

Under the front flap, there are two large pockets, one that's zippered and one open at the top. The inside of the Knomo is nicely appointed with elastic pockets and slots to keep cords, cards, iPods and other small items organized. 

The case is soft and molds to the shape of your back nicely. The strap is wide and adjustable, and the rear of the case has a full-length pocket suitable for file folders or a newspaper. 

The back and bottom are made from a lightweight fabric created from recycled plastic bottles. 

I like the Kobe very much. Fit and finish are first rate. 

I wish it had a briefcase-type handle on top. When I take the Kobe off my shoulder to get in the car, I instinctively reach for a handle to grab to set it on the seat.