I have been carrying a 2L sling from another brand for the past two years. Slings are where it is at. Worn close to the body, handsfree operation, not bulky and I never again have to worry about leaving a bag behind while out and about at home or when traveling. All the most important items I need are secure and available on my person at all times.
I found I needed more space for my EDC beyond what the 2L could offer, and after much research, selected the Toshi 5L. I absolutely require certain features on my slings to work with my lifestyle and this one checks all the boxes and did not disappoint.
Stealthy, strong, easy wipe clean fabric with no logos (yay!). The Black color goes everywhere, goes with everything, looks appropriate in almost all settings and shows no dirt. Love that.
The strap release buckle must be attached to the SIDE of the bag. Slings that have two equal length straps where the closure then meets exactly in the middle, where the straps meet, doesn't pass the security test for me. If the body of the sling is being worn forward or under an arm, that places the release clasp directly in the middle of the wearers back, behind them, out of view. In a crowd or on buses or trains, for example, all someone has to do is reach over and unclip the bag and it falls to the ground. Not a good design. This bag avoids this issue.
The glasses pocket is a must, as I need glasses to read my phone. The compartment on the front side that allows me to swap out between my sunglasses and reading glasses while never wondering if I set a pair down is genius.
I also require a back zipper pocket against my body, as that is where I carry my cards and cash and passport (if traveling). The Toshi back pocket is roomy and lined with light fabric, so I can easily see inside, and get to what I need quickly, without others being able to observe my the items in the pocket.
Inside the main compartment are pockets for organization so everything doesn't get jumbled up along the bottom and it is roomy enough in there to carry my pocket planner and a book, along with other day to day items.
The front zipper pocket expands forward, instead of in toward the bags main compartment, so it can hold an amazing amount and not take away from the storage in the rest of the bag.
Also appreciated are the external loops that can be used to lash on a reusable shopping bag or two, keys, or even a small water bottle. The loops along the bottom are great as well, holding an umbrella perfectly.
This bag is so thoughtfully designed, uses its space wisely and feels incredibly well-built. I am so happy to find a bag without a company logo splashed on it. I do not want to call attention to myself in that way. I am also happy to find it in solid black.
This is such a great product, I just might buy the 2.5L to replace my old 2L, just in case I need to choose a smaller sling on certain days.
I am happy to support this company and wish them well as they grow.
My only suggestion would be to offer a strap that has either wire mesh or a very thin, subtle cable running through it to prevent the strap from getting cut. I travel a lot, and I would appreciate this option from a safety standpoint. Other than that, this bag does exactly what it is designed to do and then some! Thanks!
