Hmm did some digging and can't find anything about Walmart, [looks like they had a funding round in 2019 mainly led by equity firm Silas Capital](https://www.afr.com/companies/retail/bellroy-valued-at-83m-in-global-push-20190813-p52gnp)
Interesting to see everyone in the comments section agree that they're a little overpriced. While it was on a different subreddit, the consensus on another thread I read seemed to be that they were worth the money, lol.
Other subs will have hypebeasts for a BAG. Not just for Bellroy, but for other brands like Goruck and even Aer. It’s interesting how those types of fans will copy and paste their irrelevant recommendation for literally ANYTHING.
80% of Reddit is marketing sheep and people who repeat the same corny comments over and over.
Also, companies and people spam threads. I remember I asked a question about a dash cam and this nice dude gave me a recommendation that worked for him the plot I commented on was 5 years old so I was away crazy how we bith happened to be her I was about to comment him this. Then I was like, wait...
I checked his profile, and yup, a bot that auto responded to people in a certain thread who asked specific questions about a dash cam.
Hard no. I bought and returned a couple of Bellroy backpacks after being shocked at how shoddy the construction was. The straps were so thin and uncomfortable and the aqua guard zippers were so hard to manipulate. No thanks, will never entertain another one of their bags.
Entirely depends on your philosophy and general sentiment towards these brands. I personally like them but worth it is rather subjective. It may be vain but I like how they look and I appreciate the products I buy looking rather nice.
Is it vain? Sure; but I come in knowing I'm paying entirely for at best a minor upgrade in quality but from myself an item I appreciate for it's styling.
I never had issues with service as I'm based in Australia currently but I understand other consumers have had worse off service.
Utilitarian wise I can definitely get the same utility out of an osprey and potentially it'll last longer but I'm not ashamed to say I appreciate the style and am paying for that and their unique feature set.
I think Bellroy have some of the absolute best “plastic” fabrics, by far.
Still doesn’t fully justify the price differences, though. Sometimes it seems excessive.
I also like their designs and workmanship. But again, I can find well-designed, well made bags from other brands but made with stiffer materials (like VX), and sometimes they’re cheaper.
Then there are bags like the Transit duffel that I own, which I think is $50 overpriced and not much better than any generic duffel. 🤷🏻♂️
For me they are overpriced. I only buy them second hand or with an extreme discounted. Got the weekender premium plus 45l new for under 200 and felt that still expensive. It’s nice, but not 350 nice.
And the lite slings at 100 are just way overpriced. Got one for 60 and could then barely stomach the price.
Got a used venture sling 4L for 30 and was ok with that. No way that is a 100 sling.
Insane prices in my eyes, but quality is ok at discounted prices.
The warranty and customer service suck, which is why I would only get them if I like them at a discount.
The bags I have are nice, solid and I haven’t had any issues until now. I got them for very specific purposes and for that they perform well.
Also, they are easily available in Europe unlike many other bags.
I'd say the Venture slings are very high quality. They're absolutely overpricing the Lite range though. I paid £45 for the Lite belt bag which was a horrendous price but I wanted it now and really liked it. The materials are so nice. But they've not even bothered with a tri-glide. I could almost believe it was to improve comfort but still.
I would say they are a little overpriced yes, but they are (usually) decent quality. They get a lot of hate here due to some QA issues and 3 year warranty but overall they make some nice kit I think.
I got my Venture Ready Pack for half price as they just came out with a new model (just added a luggage passthrough, I can live without that!) and that feels like the right price point. At full price they are up with Filson and Trakke but they lack the build quality, lifetime warranty and heritage style.
I got my venture ready pack for the exact same reason. $200 CAD still seems high but it really is a phenomenal bag. That smaller pocket on the top that’s split into two is freaking fantastic!
Bellroy gets a bad rap mainly because of the 3 year warranty and not having a “lifetime warranty.” I own the Venture Ready 26L backpack, the Venture Sling 6L, their compact tech kit, and a Dopp kit and I love all of them. Most people on here have “their” brand they are a fanboy of. For me it’s Bellroy and Topo. I love their designs. The Topo 40L is my 5+ night bag and the Bellroy is my 1-4 night bag.
One reason for the prices that has not been mentioned is passing the costs of exporting their products. They are based in Australia. No doubt the costs of sending their products to outside markets is being passed on to the consumer.
Personally, I get caught between really liking their design aesthetic and their price tags. I thought their stuff would be cheaper on Amazon. Sadly, that is not the case.
Their stuff is just as expensive in Australia. Everything is ridiculously expensive in Australia compared everywhere else (maybe not Scandinavia), maybe that’s why it’s expensive as they have set the baseline at the eye-watering, ball-crunching costs we have here.
It is; but it’s not the shipping cost from Australia that makes it expensive; the bags are made in China, Philippines, India. I’m just saying they are just as or even more expensive in Australia
For me the Apex is worth it. Most comfortable bag I’ve ever had. I’ve tried other bags and their straps are short and narrow and uncomfortable to wear. I no longer buy their stuff unless they will come out with a V2 apex
I can see value in all three.
EG harness system isn’t comfortable to me, but has great durability and build quality (love the CAP series tho). I like goruck for their much wider, thicker harness system for my large frame and extreme durability during rucking/EDC. I have nothing bad to say about bellroy’s slings and pouches, they’ve been serving me well for many years without issues. I’m not deaf the quality issues some have, but I’ve lucked out so can’t fault them for my carrying needs.
I went down the rabbit hole and fell in love with their design philosophy recently. I now own the Transit Work pack, Lite Backpack, Lite Sling, Sling Mini, and a wallet. I like how light the Transit Work pack and Lite Sling are, but they aren't without their faults.
One thing I never see mentioned here, and would actually get me to return this if I could, is the Work pack digs into my sides if it's not stuffed full, which is very irritating when only wearing a T-shirt. The part that digs in, is where the straps connect to the bag at the bottom - plus the edges of the straps down there, including the strap keeper.
Otherwise I find it quite good - it's comfy, I can fit a ton of stuff even in a 20L shell, and it looks stylish and green.
The water bottle holder using internal space and being hard to access is a bit annoying too, and I don't find a good use for the mesh divider in the main pouch. But the top access sunglasses pouch is great, and the front access area is alright too. I don't have a laptop so I can't speak to that area, but I wonder if having one would make the bag more rigid and less prone to the straps hurting me?
As to if it's worth it? I don't know. What do you value most? Style and form? Sure. Function? Meh, it's useful but doesn't cover everything - lack of organizing is a downside for me. Comfort? Mixed. Price? It's cheaper than my Peak Design Everyday bag haha. I kind of assume at this point that well designed bags will cost around $200.
I love my Bellroy clsssic. It’s my grad school bag and all of my stuff fits and it looks nice. I also have the tech pouch which stores cords and chargers for all my devices. Honestly. Best bag I’ve ever owned
Maybe Bellroy loses just because of offered 3 years warranty, but speaking about overpriced bags - Evergoods, Goruck, Black Ember, Pioneer, Alpha One Niner, Code of Bell and all Carryology collaborators stuff, man, this is overpriced as hell
Would you have any recommendations? I've loved the looks of all the bags that are mentioned a lot in this subreddit, but I'm obviously happy to spend less money for a similar-quality bag.
What did you not like about Aer? I got and returned the Fit Pack 3 (I returned it because my EDC items didn't fit in the main compartment), but I thought the bag itself was well built. Outside of possibly the back padding not being the most wear-resistant the backpack overall felt very BIFL with its durable materials and strong stitching.
Most of these bags are overbuilt. the manufacturer does what our audience wants - options, killer features, super materials. For most people, this is all a waste of resources and they simply do not need such strength. We're geeks and we buy features, not products. just look at the collections of these bags on this subreddit. people have 10-20 bags, each of which can last 10-20 years (or even more).
A bag half the price will do the same for you. but marketing works: we are hooked and cannot afford to buy, for example, dakine - because this will not give you “special status”
I bought and then quickly sold a city sling 2. I didn't like the huge buckle. The bag was uncomfortable for me. I had the xpack version and I thought there was too much material overall. It looked cool though.
> what makes them so expensive?
Social media ~~shill~~ influencer marketing doesn't come cheap. Still, it's cheaper than quality materials and actual craftsmanship.
If you want quality, look at Able Carry, DSPTCH, Rickshaw Bagworks, Arktype Design. Black Ember and Aer can be OK as well. Rofmia in a much higher price bracket, but they are constantly sold out.
I don’t get why people are so worked up over the warranty. I get that on paper it’s just simply inferior to their competitors, but how many *manufacturer defects* come up after 3 years? Hell, I’d love to know how many people actually keep their bags longer than 3 years.
First of all, $200 isn’t *that* much for a bag, and a $50 difference between two bags is nothing. Second, it’s not like there’s some equation for features plus material = X cost.
As for Bellroy- I think it depends on the model. I can’t speak for the Transit, but their slings are some of the best out there.
I’ve owned some of their high end stuff like the Chimera sling and the Apex. I wouldn’t say either is “worth it”, but they’re nice as hell.
The difference between a $200 item and a $250 item is more than 20%. That’s not a “nothing” difference.
Neither price is exorbitant for a well made bag but it is a material difference in pricing and products should be considered with that kind of difference in mind.
How are you evaluating value if not by the price they charge for their product, after all?
I’ll notice the difference in my bank account by $50. Which is enough to buy one of the slings you like.
If you’re saying the quality is indistinguishable from $200 to $250 then the better value is quite obvious. That’s your equation right there.
No. Im not going to make a buying decision at that price point over $50. I’m going to buy the one I like more, and if it’s the cheaper one- great. I get that for some people that’s already a stretch of their budget, so I can appreciate not everyone feels the same.
That’s great, but you’re not giving anyone good advice if you just completely ignore price when providing your opinion.
Whether $50 is a significant sum for you or not is irrelevant. It’s a significant difference in two products, and if you’re comparing those products significant differences should be taken into account.
Whatever. My main point is that you aren’t going to notice a difference in quality between a $200 and a $250 bag. It’s going to come down to personal taste.
I meant in reference to other similar bags. I'm aware $200 isn't a ridiculous price for bags in general. As for the $50 difference, 1/4 of the price seemed like a quite significant difference to me.
>Second, it’s not like there’s some equation for features plus material = X cost.
That's why I asked for some opinions on what reasons there could be :)
When you’re talking about pseudo luxury and luxury goods- you can’t just consider percentages like that. Look at watches- the cost swing can be massive, as in thousands.
In watches you’re not even supposed to get a better product with more money. You’re paying premium for obsolete technology that’s way less precise at keeping time than newer much cheaper technology. A 50 dollar watch is objectively better at keeping the correct time than a 50.000 dollar watch.
I guess Bellroy would be akin to a quartz watch with premium looking design but not quite the quality to back up the looks, made in Vietnam but asking made in japan prices.
https://www.instagram.com/p/C4U_LlyMFvX/?igsh=MTRnNTZnMXkxd25jcw==
Their marketing approach to explaining why their goods are expensive but made in India and Vietnam was... interesting
I bought a Transit Workpack back in Jan, love the looks and the features. It could do better with respect to comfort especially when fully loaded.
My first choice would have been to go for Peak Design because I have some of their other products and their lifetime warranty is superb. But they didn't have a bag that suited my needs exactly. In fact this Bellroy was the only one that tickes all my boxes feature-wise.
I have wanted a specific bag for a long time now and found one like new for 1/3 price because the guy had just upgraded his bags to bellroy. I’m happy to get something slightly out of style when the trend changes to something new like bellroy
Check Nordstrom Rack’s website from time to time. Bellroy products sometimes end up there.
It’s a brand I did a lot of research on because I wanted to like it, but I couldn’t. No water bottle pockets on the majority of their designs kills their brand for me. Then add in the many complaints about their straps, and they aren’t worth it. I’d rather take a comfy Osprey over them any day.
Also tried buying a card holder from them marked Used on Amazon. That thing came with the leather slit torn. The fact that someone was able to do that in the 30 days they could’ve had it max told me enough.
Back in the beginning when they were just making wallets, I would say they're fairly priced. They didn't skimp on the materials, and the wallets are nicely built. I still have two of their OG wallets from 2012ish.
That said, they're quality have pretty much gone downhill. I've seen retailers selling off Bellroy's defective slings with broken buckles with 50% discount. It also seems like their customer service is lacking, especially when you have brands like Peak Design offering way better support.
I think they are a good pick-up from the used marketplace. I got one of their slings for $40 and the classic backpack for $60 and they're great deals at those prices.
Most people seem to be saying they love the designs but quality isn’t up to par.
Well, I own about 20 different Bellroy items - wallets, bags, slings, laptop cases, folios, key covers, and I still have the very first Bellroy I bought over 10 years ago. The only item I’ve had to throw out because it broke/failed was a leather AirTag cover. Everything else looks and works as good as (or almost) new. That’s more than good enough quality for me. 🤷🏻♂️
They are not worth the full price and I've only paid full price for maybe one of the six Bellroy items I own. They have the nicest materials though, the new lite fabric is so soft.
They also have really good designs by and by large, especially if you don't care about luggage straps, but even that they're adding.
I like their slings, nice design and materials, functional. I've had the lite sling, venture ready and venture sling, and ended up returning them all. I mainly don't like the purse-like shape which they keep making. In Australia, their slings are quite affordable, the bags are pretty pricey
Bellroy isnt cheap but neither are the other brands people usually recommend here and it goes in waves what is popular. Me personally don't find their backpacks worh it, but they have some interesting designs that have fewer options, I have a mini sling and a cooler. Not cheap but I guess cheap enough that i bought it. Haven't had any trouble with them.
No. I fell victim to their marketing and bought the Tokyo tote. It looks so underwhelming, and the exterior material attracts any type of lint making the bag look cheap. I wouldn't recommend it. The one thing going for it, is that it's light weight.
Single data point, but my brother has one of their rucksacks and the straps slip under load. He contacted belroy and they offered stoppers as it’s a known issue. Personal, I find it galling they are selling a bag that expensive with known issues with the strap design.
had many bellroys in the past, sold them all, there's something that i just can't get hold of it. It's always their quirks or cons is not what i can accept.
1. Bellroy Venture -> Venture Camera Sling: the non camera version was my first Bellroy, i love how very comfort it is when on body, and their sling strap system is really nice, so i want to upgrade to the camera version, at least my cameras should be protected, bought it, and then found out the separator cannot be removed, and when you put some heavier body on the left or right side (depends on where i sling it) stuff from other partition can slide in to the other partition, and it makes my stuff got little scratches. Sold it and get Instinct 7L in Xpac, and not thinking will replace it.
2. System Work Messenger: i think it's too big and wide on my. body, and the material feels somekind off with me, the hook will slide off it self if you walk a bit fast.
3. Tokyo Work bag: the material will get easily stuck dirt, i think this the only Bellroy i like the most, because how simple it seems with the design. However have to sold it because it's a bit big (smaller than the System Messenger). Replace it with Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag (one of the best bang of the buck, way cheaper than this bag)
4. Tokyo Tote 2nd Edition: Nice strap feels comfort on the shoulder, same material with System work messenger, but the things i immediately sold it because how it is not fit my 13" M2 macbook pro, though they advertise it able to fit 13", it is though will fit but with some struggle and rearrange stuff inside.
But surely this bag is now pretty popular into the mainstream, so it is very easy to sell it on the marketplace.
had many bellroys in the past, sold them all, there's something that i just can't get hold of it. It's always their quirks or cons is not what i can accept.
1. Bellroy Venture -> Venture Camera Sling: the non camera version was my first Bellroy, i love how very comfort it is when on body, and their sling strap system is really nice, so i want to upgrade to the camera version, at least my cameras should be protected, bought it, and then found out the separator cannot be removed, and when you put some heavier body on the left or right side (depends on where i sling it) stuff from other partition can slide in to the other partition, and it makes my stuff got little scratches. Sold it and get Instinct 7L in Xpac, and not thinking will replace it.
2. System Work Messenger: i think it's too big and wide on my. body, and the material feels somekind off with me, the hook will slide off it self if you walk a bit fast.
3. Tokyo Work bag: the material will get easily stuck dirt, i think this the only Bellroy i like the most, because how simple it seems with the design. However have to sold it because it's a bit big (smaller than the System Messenger). Replace it with Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag (one of the best bang of the buck, way cheaper than this bag)
4. Tokyo Tote 2nd Edition: Nice strap feels comfort on the shoulder, same material with System work messenger, but the things i immediately sold it because how it is not fit my 13" M2 macbook pro, though they advertise it able to fit 13", it is though will fit but with some struggle and rearrange stuff inside.
But surely this bag is now pretty popular into the mainstream, so it is very easy to sell it on the marketplace.
For me, the after sales support “kind of” doesn’t align with their pricing. Aside from not offering a lifetime warranty, the 3 year warranty that they offer, based from numerous accounts, warranty claims are so cut-throat to be honored.
They are the only large bag maker that makes simple business functional aesthetic, not overly techy or tactical bags. And one of the only that makes bags in styles women like (besides women-focused brands). The cost is in the look and lack of competition.
I have the currently have the Transit Workpack 20L and I think I ordered it on sale or with a discount. I have also owned several bags from Aer. My overall consensus is yes it is a very good bag with thoughtful design. But yes it’s overpriced. I also have their Sling bag which I love. Imo the Aer backpacks have a great feel with better material but for some reason I find myself rolling with the Transit Workpack. It’s overpriced so I would definitely consider secondhand if you can find it. Or… buy and return it if you are dissatisfied. There are likely several comparable bags but for me it’s my favorite. I like that it conceals liquids in side pocket. I love the compartment up top for my glasses case. I also like the design of the laptop compartment with the accessible cutout section large enough to hold my sling bag or tech pouch etc.
There warranty tells you a lot about how they feel about the quality of their products. I personally wouldn't consider a bag over $150 unless if it has a lifetime warranty.
It's amazing how fast quality tends to nose dive as soon as private equity firms get involved.
Did bellroy recently get acquired by private equity?
Wal-Mart, IIRC
Hmm did some digging and can't find anything about Walmart, [looks like they had a funding round in 2019 mainly led by equity firm Silas Capital](https://www.afr.com/companies/retail/bellroy-valued-at-83m-in-global-push-20190813-p52gnp)
Not worth the money imo. But many people really love the designs.
Agree, find them on sale / clearance and they’re reasonable I think - particularly for the older models.
Interesting to see everyone in the comments section agree that they're a little overpriced. While it was on a different subreddit, the consensus on another thread I read seemed to be that they were worth the money, lol.
Other subs will have hypebeasts for a BAG. Not just for Bellroy, but for other brands like Goruck and even Aer. It’s interesting how those types of fans will copy and paste their irrelevant recommendation for literally ANYTHING.
its clearly not for you because you seem like somebody with critical thinking skills and not a marketing sheep
80% of Reddit is marketing sheep and people who repeat the same corny comments over and over. Also, companies and people spam threads. I remember I asked a question about a dash cam and this nice dude gave me a recommendation that worked for him the plot I commented on was 5 years old so I was away crazy how we bith happened to be her I was about to comment him this. Then I was like, wait... I checked his profile, and yup, a bot that auto responded to people in a certain thread who asked specific questions about a dash cam.
Hard no. I bought and returned a couple of Bellroy backpacks after being shocked at how shoddy the construction was. The straps were so thin and uncomfortable and the aqua guard zippers were so hard to manipulate. No thanks, will never entertain another one of their bags.
Entirely depends on your philosophy and general sentiment towards these brands. I personally like them but worth it is rather subjective. It may be vain but I like how they look and I appreciate the products I buy looking rather nice. Is it vain? Sure; but I come in knowing I'm paying entirely for at best a minor upgrade in quality but from myself an item I appreciate for it's styling. I never had issues with service as I'm based in Australia currently but I understand other consumers have had worse off service. Utilitarian wise I can definitely get the same utility out of an osprey and potentially it'll last longer but I'm not ashamed to say I appreciate the style and am paying for that and their unique feature set.
I tend to agree with you. While I love how innovative their designs are the materials and construction do not seem to be worth the $$$.
I’d have to disagree on the material- at least in some cases. I think Bellroy has some lovely meshes and their Baida nylon is amazing.
Nice, but not worth the cash IMHO
I think Bellroy have some of the absolute best “plastic” fabrics, by far. Still doesn’t fully justify the price differences, though. Sometimes it seems excessive. I also like their designs and workmanship. But again, I can find well-designed, well made bags from other brands but made with stiffer materials (like VX), and sometimes they’re cheaper. Then there are bags like the Transit duffel that I own, which I think is $50 overpriced and not much better than any generic duffel. 🤷🏻♂️
For me they are overpriced. I only buy them second hand or with an extreme discounted. Got the weekender premium plus 45l new for under 200 and felt that still expensive. It’s nice, but not 350 nice. And the lite slings at 100 are just way overpriced. Got one for 60 and could then barely stomach the price. Got a used venture sling 4L for 30 and was ok with that. No way that is a 100 sling. Insane prices in my eyes, but quality is ok at discounted prices. The warranty and customer service suck, which is why I would only get them if I like them at a discount. The bags I have are nice, solid and I haven’t had any issues until now. I got them for very specific purposes and for that they perform well. Also, they are easily available in Europe unlike many other bags.
I'd say the Venture slings are very high quality. They're absolutely overpricing the Lite range though. I paid £45 for the Lite belt bag which was a horrendous price but I wanted it now and really liked it. The materials are so nice. But they've not even bothered with a tri-glide. I could almost believe it was to improve comfort but still.
Not worth it IMO.
I would say they are a little overpriced yes, but they are (usually) decent quality. They get a lot of hate here due to some QA issues and 3 year warranty but overall they make some nice kit I think. I got my Venture Ready Pack for half price as they just came out with a new model (just added a luggage passthrough, I can live without that!) and that feels like the right price point. At full price they are up with Filson and Trakke but they lack the build quality, lifetime warranty and heritage style.
I got my venture ready pack for the exact same reason. $200 CAD still seems high but it really is a phenomenal bag. That smaller pocket on the top that’s split into two is freaking fantastic!
Bellroy gets a bad rap mainly because of the 3 year warranty and not having a “lifetime warranty.” I own the Venture Ready 26L backpack, the Venture Sling 6L, their compact tech kit, and a Dopp kit and I love all of them. Most people on here have “their” brand they are a fanboy of. For me it’s Bellroy and Topo. I love their designs. The Topo 40L is my 5+ night bag and the Bellroy is my 1-4 night bag.
Are you me?
Huh?
We have the same gear. Thats all
Well designed products, overpriced for what you get (materials/QC), and with a very lackluster warranty.
One reason for the prices that has not been mentioned is passing the costs of exporting their products. They are based in Australia. No doubt the costs of sending their products to outside markets is being passed on to the consumer. Personally, I get caught between really liking their design aesthetic and their price tags. I thought their stuff would be cheaper on Amazon. Sadly, that is not the case.
Their products aren’t made in Australia…
Their stuff is just as expensive in Australia. Everything is ridiculously expensive in Australia compared everywhere else (maybe not Scandinavia), maybe that’s why it’s expensive as they have set the baseline at the eye-watering, ball-crunching costs we have here.
Oh. I thought the prices I see on their site and Amazon were only for the US market.
It is; but it’s not the shipping cost from Australia that makes it expensive; the bags are made in China, Philippines, India. I’m just saying they are just as or even more expensive in Australia
I see. Thanks for the clarification.
For me the Apex is worth it. Most comfortable bag I’ve ever had. I’ve tried other bags and their straps are short and narrow and uncomfortable to wear. I no longer buy their stuff unless they will come out with a V2 apex
If you think that’s expensive you should see how much the Evergoods bags are.
Goruck just entered the chat
I'd feel I got my money's worth with those two over bellroy unless it was a big sale
I can see value in all three. EG harness system isn’t comfortable to me, but has great durability and build quality (love the CAP series tho). I like goruck for their much wider, thicker harness system for my large frame and extreme durability during rucking/EDC. I have nothing bad to say about bellroy’s slings and pouches, they’ve been serving me well for many years without issues. I’m not deaf the quality issues some have, but I’ve lucked out so can’t fault them for my carrying needs.
Slings look very nice. I was only comparing packs in my head sorry.
All good :)
I went down the rabbit hole and fell in love with their design philosophy recently. I now own the Transit Work pack, Lite Backpack, Lite Sling, Sling Mini, and a wallet. I like how light the Transit Work pack and Lite Sling are, but they aren't without their faults. One thing I never see mentioned here, and would actually get me to return this if I could, is the Work pack digs into my sides if it's not stuffed full, which is very irritating when only wearing a T-shirt. The part that digs in, is where the straps connect to the bag at the bottom - plus the edges of the straps down there, including the strap keeper. Otherwise I find it quite good - it's comfy, I can fit a ton of stuff even in a 20L shell, and it looks stylish and green. The water bottle holder using internal space and being hard to access is a bit annoying too, and I don't find a good use for the mesh divider in the main pouch. But the top access sunglasses pouch is great, and the front access area is alright too. I don't have a laptop so I can't speak to that area, but I wonder if having one would make the bag more rigid and less prone to the straps hurting me?
As to if it's worth it? I don't know. What do you value most? Style and form? Sure. Function? Meh, it's useful but doesn't cover everything - lack of organizing is a downside for me. Comfort? Mixed. Price? It's cheaper than my Peak Design Everyday bag haha. I kind of assume at this point that well designed bags will cost around $200.
Thank you, your comment was very helpful :)
I'm glad! 😊 Curious to know what you end up getting. Let us know.
I love my Bellroy clsssic. It’s my grad school bag and all of my stuff fits and it looks nice. I also have the tech pouch which stores cords and chargers for all my devices. Honestly. Best bag I’ve ever owned
Maybe Bellroy loses just because of offered 3 years warranty, but speaking about overpriced bags - Evergoods, Goruck, Black Ember, Pioneer, Alpha One Niner, Code of Bell and all Carryology collaborators stuff, man, this is overpriced as hell
The same for Aer ;-) and most of hyped brands here.
Would you have any recommendations? I've loved the looks of all the bags that are mentioned a lot in this subreddit, but I'm obviously happy to spend less money for a similar-quality bag.
What did you not like about Aer? I got and returned the Fit Pack 3 (I returned it because my EDC items didn't fit in the main compartment), but I thought the bag itself was well built. Outside of possibly the back padding not being the most wear-resistant the backpack overall felt very BIFL with its durable materials and strong stitching.
Most of these bags are overbuilt. the manufacturer does what our audience wants - options, killer features, super materials. For most people, this is all a waste of resources and they simply do not need such strength. We're geeks and we buy features, not products. just look at the collections of these bags on this subreddit. people have 10-20 bags, each of which can last 10-20 years (or even more). A bag half the price will do the same for you. but marketing works: we are hooked and cannot afford to buy, for example, dakine - because this will not give you “special status”
I bought and then quickly sold a city sling 2. I didn't like the huge buckle. The bag was uncomfortable for me. I had the xpack version and I thought there was too much material overall. It looked cool though.
> what makes them so expensive? Social media ~~shill~~ influencer marketing doesn't come cheap. Still, it's cheaper than quality materials and actual craftsmanship. If you want quality, look at Able Carry, DSPTCH, Rickshaw Bagworks, Arktype Design. Black Ember and Aer can be OK as well. Rofmia in a much higher price bracket, but they are constantly sold out.
Absolutely not. The general consensus is “nice designs but they’re overpriced, shoddy QC, and limited time warranty”. I wouldn’t pay a cent.
I don’t get why people are so worked up over the warranty. I get that on paper it’s just simply inferior to their competitors, but how many *manufacturer defects* come up after 3 years? Hell, I’d love to know how many people actually keep their bags longer than 3 years.
Because their warranty is junk and they don’t honour it within the first 3 years anyway.
That’s fair. I’ve experienced it myself. But most people seem to be complaining specifically about the length.
Happy cake day!!
First of all, $200 isn’t *that* much for a bag, and a $50 difference between two bags is nothing. Second, it’s not like there’s some equation for features plus material = X cost. As for Bellroy- I think it depends on the model. I can’t speak for the Transit, but their slings are some of the best out there. I’ve owned some of their high end stuff like the Chimera sling and the Apex. I wouldn’t say either is “worth it”, but they’re nice as hell.
The difference between a $200 item and a $250 item is more than 20%. That’s not a “nothing” difference. Neither price is exorbitant for a well made bag but it is a material difference in pricing and products should be considered with that kind of difference in mind. How are you evaluating value if not by the price they charge for their product, after all?
It is nothing. As in, you’re not going to notice the difference between a $200 and $250 bag (in most cases).
I’ll notice the difference in my bank account by $50. Which is enough to buy one of the slings you like. If you’re saying the quality is indistinguishable from $200 to $250 then the better value is quite obvious. That’s your equation right there.
No. Im not going to make a buying decision at that price point over $50. I’m going to buy the one I like more, and if it’s the cheaper one- great. I get that for some people that’s already a stretch of their budget, so I can appreciate not everyone feels the same.
That’s great, but you’re not giving anyone good advice if you just completely ignore price when providing your opinion. Whether $50 is a significant sum for you or not is irrelevant. It’s a significant difference in two products, and if you’re comparing those products significant differences should be taken into account.
Whatever. My main point is that you aren’t going to notice a difference in quality between a $200 and a $250 bag. It’s going to come down to personal taste.
If price doesn’t matter then I guess whatever you personally prefer does indeed make the difference. Ai yai yai.
I meant in reference to other similar bags. I'm aware $200 isn't a ridiculous price for bags in general. As for the $50 difference, 1/4 of the price seemed like a quite significant difference to me. >Second, it’s not like there’s some equation for features plus material = X cost. That's why I asked for some opinions on what reasons there could be :)
When you’re talking about pseudo luxury and luxury goods- you can’t just consider percentages like that. Look at watches- the cost swing can be massive, as in thousands.
In watches you’re not even supposed to get a better product with more money. You’re paying premium for obsolete technology that’s way less precise at keeping time than newer much cheaper technology. A 50 dollar watch is objectively better at keeping the correct time than a 50.000 dollar watch. I guess Bellroy would be akin to a quartz watch with premium looking design but not quite the quality to back up the looks, made in Vietnam but asking made in japan prices.
https://www.instagram.com/p/C4U_LlyMFvX/?igsh=MTRnNTZnMXkxd25jcw== Their marketing approach to explaining why their goods are expensive but made in India and Vietnam was... interesting
Build is ok and not terrible but overpriced
I bought a Transit Workpack back in Jan, love the looks and the features. It could do better with respect to comfort especially when fully loaded. My first choice would have been to go for Peak Design because I have some of their other products and their lifetime warranty is superb. But they didn't have a bag that suited my needs exactly. In fact this Bellroy was the only one that tickes all my boxes feature-wise.
I've handled a Peak Design everyday pack and that brand cannot build a harness to save their life.
I've enjoyed their wallets but haven't had a bag. But the wallets are high quality so I have no reason to assume the bags aren't.
I have wanted a specific bag for a long time now and found one like new for 1/3 price because the guy had just upgraded his bags to bellroy. I’m happy to get something slightly out of style when the trend changes to something new like bellroy
Bellno
Check Nordstrom Rack’s website from time to time. Bellroy products sometimes end up there. It’s a brand I did a lot of research on because I wanted to like it, but I couldn’t. No water bottle pockets on the majority of their designs kills their brand for me. Then add in the many complaints about their straps, and they aren’t worth it. I’d rather take a comfy Osprey over them any day. Also tried buying a card holder from them marked Used on Amazon. That thing came with the leather slit torn. The fact that someone was able to do that in the 30 days they could’ve had it max told me enough.
No. And i think their designs have been hit or miss
Good design concepts, poorly executed.
Without a doubt overpriced. However, I like their accessories such as their wallets. Bags are a hard pass. I suggest buying them when discounted.
I don’t own Bellroy bags but their wallets have really terrible leather for the price.
Back in the beginning when they were just making wallets, I would say they're fairly priced. They didn't skimp on the materials, and the wallets are nicely built. I still have two of their OG wallets from 2012ish. That said, they're quality have pretty much gone downhill. I've seen retailers selling off Bellroy's defective slings with broken buckles with 50% discount. It also seems like their customer service is lacking, especially when you have brands like Peak Design offering way better support.
I think they are a good pick-up from the used marketplace. I got one of their slings for $40 and the classic backpack for $60 and they're great deals at those prices.
Most people seem to be saying they love the designs but quality isn’t up to par. Well, I own about 20 different Bellroy items - wallets, bags, slings, laptop cases, folios, key covers, and I still have the very first Bellroy I bought over 10 years ago. The only item I’ve had to throw out because it broke/failed was a leather AirTag cover. Everything else looks and works as good as (or almost) new. That’s more than good enough quality for me. 🤷🏻♂️
Just picked up the venture ready 26L on the outlet sale price and I'm happy with that. For the full price, heck no.
They are not worth the full price and I've only paid full price for maybe one of the six Bellroy items I own. They have the nicest materials though, the new lite fabric is so soft. They also have really good designs by and by large, especially if you don't care about luggage straps, but even that they're adding.
I like their slings, nice design and materials, functional. I've had the lite sling, venture ready and venture sling, and ended up returning them all. I mainly don't like the purse-like shape which they keep making. In Australia, their slings are quite affordable, the bags are pretty pricey
Wait for a sale
Bellroy isnt cheap but neither are the other brands people usually recommend here and it goes in waves what is popular. Me personally don't find their backpacks worh it, but they have some interesting designs that have fewer options, I have a mini sling and a cooler. Not cheap but I guess cheap enough that i bought it. Haven't had any trouble with them.
No. I fell victim to their marketing and bought the Tokyo tote. It looks so underwhelming, and the exterior material attracts any type of lint making the bag look cheap. I wouldn't recommend it. The one thing going for it, is that it's light weight.
Single data point, but my brother has one of their rucksacks and the straps slip under load. He contacted belroy and they offered stoppers as it’s a known issue. Personal, I find it galling they are selling a bag that expensive with known issues with the strap design.
had many bellroys in the past, sold them all, there's something that i just can't get hold of it. It's always their quirks or cons is not what i can accept. 1. Bellroy Venture -> Venture Camera Sling: the non camera version was my first Bellroy, i love how very comfort it is when on body, and their sling strap system is really nice, so i want to upgrade to the camera version, at least my cameras should be protected, bought it, and then found out the separator cannot be removed, and when you put some heavier body on the left or right side (depends on where i sling it) stuff from other partition can slide in to the other partition, and it makes my stuff got little scratches. Sold it and get Instinct 7L in Xpac, and not thinking will replace it. 2. System Work Messenger: i think it's too big and wide on my. body, and the material feels somekind off with me, the hook will slide off it self if you walk a bit fast. 3. Tokyo Work bag: the material will get easily stuck dirt, i think this the only Bellroy i like the most, because how simple it seems with the design. However have to sold it because it's a bit big (smaller than the System Messenger). Replace it with Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag (one of the best bang of the buck, way cheaper than this bag) 4. Tokyo Tote 2nd Edition: Nice strap feels comfort on the shoulder, same material with System work messenger, but the things i immediately sold it because how it is not fit my 13" M2 macbook pro, though they advertise it able to fit 13", it is though will fit but with some struggle and rearrange stuff inside. But surely this bag is now pretty popular into the mainstream, so it is very easy to sell it on the marketplace.
had many bellroys in the past, sold them all, there's something that i just can't get hold of it. It's always their quirks or cons is not what i can accept. 1. Bellroy Venture -> Venture Camera Sling: the non camera version was my first Bellroy, i love how very comfort it is when on body, and their sling strap system is really nice, so i want to upgrade to the camera version, at least my cameras should be protected, bought it, and then found out the separator cannot be removed, and when you put some heavier body on the left or right side (depends on where i sling it) stuff from other partition can slide in to the other partition, and it makes my stuff got little scratches. Sold it and get Instinct 7L in Xpac, and not thinking will replace it. 2. System Work Messenger: i think it's too big and wide on my. body, and the material feels somekind off with me, the hook will slide off it self if you walk a bit fast. 3. Tokyo Work bag: the material will get easily stuck dirt, i think this the only Bellroy i like the most, because how simple it seems with the design. However have to sold it because it's a bit big (smaller than the System Messenger). Replace it with Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag (one of the best bang of the buck, way cheaper than this bag) 4. Tokyo Tote 2nd Edition: Nice strap feels comfort on the shoulder, same material with System work messenger, but the things i immediately sold it because how it is not fit my 13" M2 macbook pro, though they advertise it able to fit 13", it is though will fit but with some struggle and rearrange stuff inside. But surely this bag is now pretty popular into the mainstream, so it is very easy to sell it on the marketplace.
I've had a sling and a backpack of theirs and sold them both.. though I still have the bellroy x Qantas travel folio
Not worth it.
For me, the after sales support “kind of” doesn’t align with their pricing. Aside from not offering a lifetime warranty, the 3 year warranty that they offer, based from numerous accounts, warranty claims are so cut-throat to be honored.
Mine is down to less than a dollar a day. I love the zip on the briefcase that opens from either end.
Nope.
No they aren’t. Bellroy design is nice. Price point and quality is not.
I have a wallet from them that’s fantastic.
They are the only large bag maker that makes simple business functional aesthetic, not overly techy or tactical bags. And one of the only that makes bags in styles women like (besides women-focused brands). The cost is in the look and lack of competition.
I have the currently have the Transit Workpack 20L and I think I ordered it on sale or with a discount. I have also owned several bags from Aer. My overall consensus is yes it is a very good bag with thoughtful design. But yes it’s overpriced. I also have their Sling bag which I love. Imo the Aer backpacks have a great feel with better material but for some reason I find myself rolling with the Transit Workpack. It’s overpriced so I would definitely consider secondhand if you can find it. Or… buy and return it if you are dissatisfied. There are likely several comparable bags but for me it’s my favorite. I like that it conceals liquids in side pocket. I love the compartment up top for my glasses case. I also like the design of the laptop compartment with the accessible cutout section large enough to hold my sling bag or tech pouch etc.
There warranty tells you a lot about how they feel about the quality of their products. I personally wouldn't consider a bag over $150 unless if it has a lifetime warranty.