GET OUTFITTED
Tales from the trail
Behind the Seams: The Machines
That Make It Happen
Photo by Jonny Gios
I am a fan of Frost River, so let's start with that disclosure. This bag is nice. Waxed canvas, leather bottom, leather handles, an external pouch on each end. It is roomy and stands up by itself, with some sagging of the canvas. I am using it as a daily carry-all. It will hold just about anything I can imagine putting in it. Exactly as described. No complaints. Made by hand in Duluth.
Lake Michigan Tote
This completes my pairs of lg & sm premium Lake MI & Lake Superior Totes w/ loads of leather, along w/ several other "lesser" FR ones. No bags at Cosco? No prob--brought my own!
I ordered this bag as a rugged yet stylish carry-all for my garden design materials when meeting with clients, and it is exactly that. I love it. The leather is beautiful. Sturdy base and super soft handles. Beautifully constructed and I foresee lasting a very long time.
I bought the Premium with the leather accents, but especially the leather bottom. And I believe the minimal extra cost is worth it. That's because the more rigid bottom than canvas alone provides a more sturdy structure for the bag to stand on and carry stuff. Plus, the canvas is thick. Even the sole zipper sealing the lone, but spacious inner pocket is hefty. Nothing in this bag is cheap quality. But it doesn't scream braggadocious, either. The fashion statement is understated, but a timeless classic. From informal to formal settings, this bag will fit right in. I also proudly own its bigger brother, The Lake Superior Tote. The two bags differ only in their considerable size difference. However, what I wish for both bags to have as a useful accessory is a padded insert for more content protection and organization, and further bag rigidity.
