Pakuma's Choroka K3s lightweight messenger-style bag is aimed at urban-dwelling MacBook owners, providing just enough room to slot in the 13.3in laptop and a handful of accessories.
Available in two colour schemes - charcoal/light grey and two-tone green (Savannah and Lagoon), the K3s has a number of features that make it appealing if you regularly carry a MacBook around. Though very light it is well padded, supplementing the protective cocoon that comes with the MacBook. There are internal and external pockets and storage pouches for cables and power adaptors as well as for your iPod, for which there is a headphone out port. There's room too for such essentials as a travel pass.
The quick-release buckle and shoulder padding are excellent, while the additional cycle strap keeps the bag stable when you're out on a bike. We also liked the carry handle on top, something we consider essential but which is often overlooked on messenger bags.
The K3s is very comfortable to wear, and the quick-release buckle makes it easy to put on and take off.
We do have a couple of concerns though. First, the compromise for keeping the bag compact and lightweight is that there is very little extra storage for say, that book you read on the train or a digital camera. If you're the kind of person who stuffs a bag full of anything you might need during the day, the K3s is not for you. Additionally, the main zip can be fiddly to open and close, particularly when the bag is well loaded.
However, these are relatively minor niggles. The K3s is a good-looking piece of kit that provides plenty of protection for your MacBook. If you're comfortable travelling light, it's well worth the £42.99 price tag.
Author: Kenny Hemphill
MacUser Online