Yes, this is a fine bag. However, I ordered the Ember color, which looks like an orange-y red on line, and the name sounds like a dark orange (smoldering embers in a fire - hot orange/red). But the Ember color is actually PEACH. Bean should consider changing the name. Thankfully, I was able return the bag without a problem, even though it was monogrammed (in a default color of light pink... Odd).
Love, love, love LL Bean Boat Totes. I have them in every size, use them heavily for years. They can be washed, although I have found that they sometimes discolor on the tan/neutral part in a funny way (might be my machine/soap?). Nevertheless, they are fantastic. I prefer the zip-top because you can still keep it open if you want, but have the option of protecting your things. We put these bags to work and the zipper quality is exceptional. Many years of stuffed bags and never had a single zipper issue. I do wish there was a small slip pocket on the basic bag, either on the outside (like on the custom bags) or even on the inside. For me, this would move the bag from "awesome" to "perfection."
My compliments and thanks to the person who assembled my custom tote! I enjoyed the video showing how the Boat and Totes are made, and I was heartened to see Americans with pride and skill, still making durable, useful things in America.
We have several LL Bean Boat and Totes in various sizes, in service in our house and in my husband’s shop. I bought my first LL Bean Boat and Tote in 1993, when my backpack blew out from the weight of my books. Over the years these totes have held everything from my law school books, to apples and plums we picked from our trees. And, of course, they’ve come along on our jaunts in the wooden boats my husband has built.
I chose Cedar and Spruce for the colors of my new custom tote. The outside pocket is great--it easily holds my water bottle or coffee tumbler; or I can pack those inside the tote and stick my phone in the pocket, so it's easy to retrieve and doesn't get scratched.
These totes have a way of becoming constant companions. My custom tote is a size Small, but it is a bit larger than our older Small Boat and Totes. It fits easily on a grocery cart shelf, so my list, water, and phone are handy. I think it's as cute as any purse out there, and how can you miss when you get to choose your own personal color combination?
I love the way these totes stand up and stay open, and the fact that I can overstuff it to the top of the gusset and still zip it closed. There are good reasons the Boat and Tote is still an icon!
I am a designer and have to carry many things with me for projects, such as a laptop, fabric samples, design plans etc. I needed a bag that could accommodate all of these items, was sturdy, functional and tasteful. This bag comfortably carries everything I need, stands on its own, and has long handles that are great for over the shoulder. This bag will transition nicely as an overnight bag, and also useful for trips to the beach,museum or a busy day out. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of space and by the quality material of the canvas. I ordered this bag with a Monogram and am thrilled at how nicely done the embroidery is. I would recommend this bag to other designers, teachers, professionals, working Moms, hobbyists and students. I plan to order more so that I have different colors to choose from. As with any other LL Bean product I have ever purchased or received, the quality is top notch, and I will continue to purchase and highly recommend their goods.
