Sherpani Solstice FL Review
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Solstice FL Wheeled Carry On Luggage in Sunfire Red
Sherpani makes more than commuter bags and purses. The Solstice FL Wheeled Carry on Luggage is one example from Sherpani’s expanding travel and luggage line.
The Solstice measures 20 inches x 13.5 inches x 8.5 inches (length x width x height) and features a capacity of 2600 cubic inches. The Solstice can easily accommodate a weekends worth of clothing, with room to spare. To test the Solstice out in varied terrain, I took it to New York packed it to the gills with running and casual apparel in order to tackle the New York City marathon. For starter’s, the bag was easy to hoist up into the overhead compartment on the airplane, thanks to the Solstice weighing in at a mere 6lbs and 6 ounces and skid plates on the rear side. The Solstice fit with ease into the compartment with the large loop handles clasped over-top (as seen in the image above). I was skeptical of the large loop handles because I thought they would surely get in the way and not allow the bag to slide easily into the compartment. I was pleasantly surprised and liked the handles, which velcro together, because they add another place to pick up the bag from and offer a bit of security as they prevent the bag from being unzipped and opened. If you are not fan of the handles, they can be easily taken off thanks to a clip on each end.
The Solstice features an over-sized U shaped zippered entry into the main compartment. The shape allows the user to really see the contents of their bag and aids in retrieving packed items. As you can see, Aspen, on of the dog testers can easily visualize a crumb left behind from a recent trip. The main compartment also features a small zippered pocket for added security with small items and two bungee cinches that buckle to help pack down the compartments’ contents. During my trip to New York, I was able to fit running shoes and 2 days worth of active apparel, as well as casual clothes for 3 days, toiletry items, my iPad, and a few small souvenirs that I picked up in this main compartment.
The Solstice features an internal mesh divider built into the lid of the main compartment (visible at the top portion of the photo below). This mesh pocket is a great place to put sweaty clothes, to keep them separated from other items within your bag. I also used this pouch to organize my smaller items, such as socks and other undergarments. This pocket could easily house a straightener or small hair dryer, as well. The photo below highlights the Sherpani’s floral pattern lining, which adds a touch of style and definitely sets this bag apart from the gender neutral category.
The Solstice has a second, smaller, U-shaped compartment that lies over-top the main compartment. It has multiple dividers to keep your smaller items organized. This compartment is where I placed items such as my liquids for easy in and out through security, as well as quick must have’s like my sunglasses, chapstick, etc. There is also a small zippered compartment on the outside of the Solstice that is about 6 inches long; I have yet to use this pocket but feel that this might be a nice place to stash a copy of your itinerary, in case you and your bag get separated.
Now how does this bag move? For starter’s, I really put the Solstice to the test in the streets of New York; where sidewalks are uneven and congested. The trip from the airport via bus-train-and a second train was made easy thanks to an retractable handle that was plenty long enough for my height. The handle was easy to get up and down thanks to a large red push button and smooth transitions up and down. I utilized this feature quite frequently as I had to often put the handle down and carry the Solstice up the subway stairs. Fortunately, the Solstice features a wide handle just in front of the retractable handle. This handle is soft as well, and doesn’t pinch any skin when grasped tightly.
The Solstice features high rebound polyester wheels. You may ask, what does that mean? Think of in-line skates. The wheels run smoothly and have performed well on cobblestone, carpet, and rugged sidewalks.
The Solstice, as you can see, packs a lot of noteworthy features. Sherpani is able to produce a wheeled carry on that performs while also utilizing recycled products when able. The Solstice is composed of 67% recycled polyester and 30% recycled aluminum. The combo makes you feel a little better about your purchase as well, while the rugged construction of the Solstice leads me to believe that the bag is going to stand up to some heavy use in the years to come. Quality production and recycled materials are one of the ways that Sherpani continues their “Pro Planet” approach and commitment to the environment.
Overall, I was quite pleased with the Solstice’s features, ethos, and feminine design. With a reasonable price tag of $179, the Solstice can easily be added to your travel line.
The Solstice is available in Sunfire Red, Air Blue, and Black.
If you are looking for a larger wheeled carry on, please also check out he Meridian also by Sherpani.
For more info, visit www.amazon.com/sherpani.
