These days, the GearGuide team finds themselves trekking into the City with increasing frequency. We’re carrying everything from laptop computers to our favorite new Micro 4/3 cameras, along with all the other gear we just can’t do without. Finding the right bag for the urban battle hasn’t been easy. Here are two that stood the test:

Mountainsmith Red Rock 25Mountainsmith Red Rock 25 – Dynamite good looks and a raft of features make the Red Rock 25 a great choice for both outdoor and urban pursuits. We love the bright yellow liner that makes the interior bright and even small items easy to find. Read review.


Tom Bihn Synapse Tom Bihn Synapse – With a compact size and shape (and some nifty fabric choices) the Synapse from Seattle-based Tom Bihn has a decidedly feminine appeal. But don’t let those good looks fool you, the quality hardware and construction kick some serious urban butt. Read review.


Check out the full product reviews and let us know what you think. If you find some other alternatives, or want to share your experiences with these products and others, please drop us a note or leave a comment.

Thanks for reading another gear review from GearGuide. And thanks to Mountainsmith, Tom Bihn and Ingrid Niehaus PR for providing product for this review.