Spring is on the way... I don't say that because of the unnaturally warm and, frankly, scary weather we're having here in New York -- it hit 60 degrees in January? -- but because Timbuk2 sent me a couple of laptop bags from its spring line to try out. First let me disclose that I'm a huge fan of this company's bags. They are sturdy, well made, thoughtfully designed, and can be really, really, colorful, if you like that sort of thing, and I do. So I was psyched to try these.

On the left is the Hayes Day Pack, which is made "for women." That is, it's slimmer and lighter than most backpacks. It also has a great variety of little compartments inside and out, for phones, water bottles, music players, and of course, your laptop. I like the blue color in this picture, but I love the one I was using: a combination of two slightly different bright greens. And the bag feels wonderful to wear; even with a laptop inside, it's very comfortable. $70 will get you one.

The bag on the right is the back view of the Outtawhack Day Pack. The hook is that you can carry it like a briefcase or like a messenger bag, or pull out hidden straps and wear it like a backpack. I like the bag's versatility, though the off-kilter style isn't my favorite. Still, this is the bag several guys in the PC Magazine offices told me they want to get. Viva la difference! The Outtawhack goes for $100.