Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag vs Timbuk2 Especial Stash

This is my first Timbuk2 bag and overall I have to say I am quite impressed, but not without some room for improvement. As a first time Timbuk2 bag owner, I am reviewing this mostly on its own terms, less so by comparing to the 2013 version. I ordered the extra small to use during my next trip to Europe. (If you order the XS it comes with a funny tag inside saying "XS - itsy bitsy teeny weeny

I really like the style of this bag. It's sleek, modern and large (wide) enough to hold two 17" laptops with a bit of room for other stuff. Unfortunately, the pad on the strap is fixed at one end and not adjustable. Unless you are *always* going to sling it across your back like you're on a bit, the pad will be in the middle of your back and the strap will dig into your shoulder

. not a viable option. And all the backpacks, totes and messengers, specifically made for art supplies have very mixed reviews and don’t even look big enough to hold everything

I can't use this bag. It's made really well, like obviously bombproof, but the design and fit are so bad for me that I just can't do it. The strap is bewilderingly over-engineered to the point that it only fits one way on your body. It has one point that's designed to shape to your shoulder, and if you're fat/large-chested or you want to wear the bag so it bounces off your hip, it won't fit