I've had this item for 6 months now (medium, long handles), and it's about time I left a review because it is fantastic! I like to have a rough-love relationship with my bags; I don't want to worry about them I just want to use them. I love the look of it and it's very comfortable to carry on the shoulders (once broken in). Probably my favorite thing about it is that it stands up on it's own. The reason I finally decided to leave a review is because a while ago I had a bottle of red wine spill on the inside! I was devastated, but this bag seriously has no damage. The fabric is so thick, the only part that is stained on the outside is the threading (and lightly at that). In addition, I was pouring boiling water on and in the bag for a considerable amount of time to get the stains out of the inside and it's still in perfect shape! Can't believe it, would get this bag a million times over again.
Just received my first boat and tote, i am not a boat person but always wanted one of these bags, i got the extra large, will be ordering the large soon. Great Bag and the service and postage Fantastic
I just recieved my small tote today. I wanted a summer bag that would last and would be sturdy, yet stylish. I love this bag. Aside from It's other attributes, its really roomy. I was surprised. It's everything I wanted! I will definitely be ordering more items fron ll bean!
It took me over a week trying to decide what size, short or long handles, what color and whether or not to pay more for the zip top. I ended up with a large, zip top, green tea with short handles and LOVE IT!
The large can easily fit 3 adult size towels and possibly squeeze a fourth towel. (These towels are big & fluffy and take up more space than the average towel....to give an idea of capacity).
The zip top, lays completely flat/flush to the sides when not in use, and actually adds a nice splash of color to the bag. Basically, it's non-obtrusive and yet it's there when you need it. Brilliant!
The green tea is a nice, light, bright green color.
And lastly the short handles WILL fit over the shoulder; it's a tight fit (not the most comfortable fit) but they do fit if the bag gets heavy. I think the short handles look more proportionate to the bag itself, so I am very happy I ordered the shorter handles.
As others have mentioned, the bags stands upright and don't collapse whether empty or full. It's so easy to see what is inside.
My only negative, I wish llbean would offer the outside pocket as an additional choice in all the colors. I would have ordered a custom bag, just to get the outside pocket, but the color choices were limited. (Please llbean!)
I also bought a few medium size Adventure nylon totes so my kids won't have to haul the boat & tote into the bathroom or changing room; and will have their own smaller bag for that.
Together, the Boat and Adventure totes will make the perfect set. (I already want more!)
