At a glance A classic and versatile design combined with an un-rivalled level of construction. The only major flaw is that I wouldn’t want to hand this bag down to anyone.
Tested by
Oliver Laverack
Performance
As well as making a whole range of über cool clothing, planet-friendly brand Howies have also designed a jacket and a selection of bags that demonstrate how serious they are about creating durable and long lasting items.
These extra long life pieces are labelled Hand Me Down items. "The idea was to create high quality bags that could stand the test of time," say the Howies team. "Not only did the design need to result in bags that had the right mix of materials and construction to actually physically survive multiple generations, but they had to have an aesthetic appeal that could endure the chronic wild swings in fashion."
The smallest of the three Hand Me Down bags is the satchel which
measures 300x220x120mm. Made from a combination of heavy duty waxed
canvas, thick leather and chunky aluminium this bag has weighty
feel to it. The waxed canvas covering the satchel, more comonly
found on hunting jackets, feels a little greasy to touch however
does make the bag more UK weather proof. The aluminium hook buckle
holds the satchel securely closed and can be moved up and down it's
strap depending on how full the bag is. As well as one main
compartment, covered by a 
single flap, the satchel has plenty of small
storage pockets making it extremely versatile. The smaller pockets
are ideal for carrying anything from keys to pens to phones and
clever padding on the rear of the bag protects you from anything
spiky inside.
The overall constuction can be likened to that of an old Mercedes, over-engineered but in a good way and with years of use will develop even more character. I have never come across a bag of such high quality before. The classic look and design ooze vintage cool so the satchel will still look good when you pass it on to the next lucky owner. The only major flaw in Howies logic is that I don't think anyone would want to pass one of their bags on!
The adjustable shoulder strap means it's the perfect cycling companion and I found it ideal for carrying all my usual gubbins - phone, diary, wallet, camera etc. However if you want to ride with a large laptop, the single strap 'Messenger' bag is the next size up. Alternatively there's a double strap 'Backpack' available which is slightly bigger.
As you'd expect, the very high quality construction and classic design are refelected in the price. At £125 this bag certainly isn't cheap, however Howies guarantee their craftsmanship for 10 years and say this bag should last much longer. If you like the classic design and like the idea of using kit until it's worn out then this bag is for you. Buying this satchel instead of ten cheaper ones isn't going to save the planet but if more brands had a similar philosophy there would be more bags for life and fewer tatty old sacks in landfill sites.
Check out The Bike List in 10 years time to see whether this one has got any holes in!
Manufacturer's summary:
Heavy canvas bag with leather straps and detail. Day bag with padded pockets. Solid aluminium buckles make the bag a friend for life.
Measurements: 300x220x120mm
Where can I find out more and buy one? www.howies.co.uk
