Dakine District Bag (courtesy, Dakine)

My first thought when asked to test Dakine's District bag? "How many packs does one man really need?" (I have five). After using the District for about six weeks, my answer, is one.

At first glance, the District almost comes off as an oversized man purse—instead of being short in height and long, like your typical messenger bag, it's more box-like in shape. But, upon further examination, I'm come to the conclusion that it smokes any other purse—(man or not) I have ever seen or owned (but more on that another time). When I opened it up, the first thing I noticed was the multiple internal compartments and fleece-lined sunglass pocket, which I've been using for almost everything except my sunglasses.

Why was I salivating over the internal pockets? As the producer of the Outside Podcast, the gear I have to haul is both fragile and (crazy) expensive. The internal pockets on the District are separated by a layer of padding, ideal for packing—with tender loving care—the multitude of items I'm often hauling through the streets of Washington, D.C . Though set up ideally for a laptop, the padded pockets are perfect for stowing all of my podcasting gear. Being that my microphone alone runs near $1,000, one can never have enough protection. My mic case, cords, portable recorder, and headphones—along with all the usual miscellaneous items all guys typically carry around—are fortified within its 750 cubic inches. And since my bike is my primary mode of transport, the bag's ease, compression, and flexibility come as huge comforts.

Another great covet-point? The District's weight is pretty much determined by what you put in it. The leather shoulder strap is comfortable and easy to adjust on-the-fly, although the bag will sometimes shift if not placed perfectly in the center of your back. Style-wise, the olive green décor evokes an urban-savvy military vibe—but one two steps up from something found in the sales bin in your local surplus store. Envy being the sincerest form of flattery, I can't begin to tell you how many people have "oohed" and "ahhed" over this bag. Simply put, the District has made me The Bag King of DC. Just don't call it a man purse. $50; www.dakine.com.

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