Chrome debuts new Corsair and Vega commuter bags

(Credit: Chrome Bags)

Chrome started with a couple of guys in Boulder, Colo., who set out to built a bag that could stand a lifetime of daily abuse. Eight years later, the operation is now based out to San Francisco, where Chrome bags have become the staple of bike messengers, students, and packrats alike. Today, Chrome also announced its sojourn into the techie commuter market with the release of two stripped-down, laptop-friendly bags: the Vega and Corsair.

Chrome Vega

(Credit: Chrome Bags)

The Vega draws inspiration from the classic "musette" bags used to feed cyclists in the middle of a big race. Since weight is everything to these pros, the bags have to be minimalist and utilitarian, and the Vega is no different. It's light, tough, and can easily fit up to a 15-inch laptop.

It's important to stress the tough material used in the build: 1,000 denier Cordura material, a heavyweight nylon with a urethane coating to protect from water, abrasian, and grime. Make no mistake about it: these are some of the toughest bags you can get.

Chrome Corsair

(Credit: Chrome Bags)

The Corsair bag looks strikingly similar to Chrome's popular single-strap messenger bag, but with a few key changes. Conceptually, the bag is built for versatility on and off the bike. To facilitate this, the Corsair is significantly lighter than the standard messenger and features an easily adjustable strap mechanism with an integrated bottle opener (same with the Vega). The strap itself is made of five bar seatbelt webbing to save weight while still retaining its durability and shape. Like the Vega, the bag is made to fit a standard 15-inch laptop, and Chrome sells an external laptop sleeve as well for added protection.

Both the Vega and Corsair bags are available now in a variety of colors on the Chrome Web site for $80 each, with full reviews on CNET.com coming soon.

Chrome debuts new Corsair and Vega commuter bags