When it comes to high quality and unique bags and sleeves for your devices, the first company to come to mind is SFBags/Waterfield designs. They’re known for making premium products that not only do a great job of protecting your computer but also making sure you carry them around in style. One of their newest products is the Outback Sleeve which launched alongside the Outback Tote, which are supposed to mimic the look of time-worn waxed canvas while lined with a neoprene interior to keep your computer safe. It has the looks, but does it deliver upon it?

Read on to find out.

The case comes in few different configurations.  You choose the size of your computer, then between vertical and horizontal openings, and finally between Grizzly and Chocolate leather trim. The one I have is the horizontal opening style with chocolate trim for the 15″ MacBook Pro. The first thing you’ll notice is the sleeve isn’t light. It’s a bit on the hefty side and is thickly padded to insure your MacBook will remain safe whilst in the case itself. Also it uses a button snap instead of a zipper close like most other sleeves which gives it a touch of elegance.

When you slide the MacBook inside, you’ll notice immediately that it’s nicely tailored to fit your computer because it doesn’t go in easily.  You have to give it a bit of a push to get it all the way in. It’s nice since it gives you a peace of mind that your computer isn’t just sliding around inside the case. The look of the case is meant to start looking worn out as you use it which really gives it that aged look they were going for. Both the leather and canvas portion look better over time as you use it more and take it around.

Protection wise this sleeve is excellent. It’s very thickly padded ensuring that in the even your laptop does drop it’ll be perfectly safe inside. The outside is tough and the inner neoprene lining is soft which will really absorb the impact. One downside when it comes to protection is the leather snap as opposed to the zipper. While it gives it a cleaner look the part left open does allow for debris to enter which can be a deal breaker for some.

Overall, the Outback Sleeve is a great way to protect your computer. It’s unique, provides great drop protection, and is high quality. It’s price is also very reasonable and you really might be hard pressed to find a better solution. I highly recommend you put this sleeve on the top of your list.

You can learn more about this product here.

MSRP: $49.99

PROS: High quality, protective, unique

CONS: A bit heavy, one side left exposed