When ordering the Ristretto, Large Cafe, Imago, ID, Super Ego or Ego TOM BIHN messenger bags, you are given a choice between three different shoulder straps — the Standard Shoulder Strap, the Q-AM Shoulder Strap, or the Absolute Shoulder Strap. You can also choose to buy two or all three of the shoulder straps and switch between them, but we think most people will be happy with just one of the shoulder straps.
This is a guide to help you understand the differences between the three straps. More detailed information and pictures of the Absolute Shoulder Strap and the Q-AM Shoulder Strap are available: click here to read more about the Absolute Shoulder Strap, and here for the Q-AM Shoulder Strap.
The Standard Shoulder Strap - The Standard Shoulder Strap sounds a bit ordinary, but our version of "ordinary" is definitely above average. The Standard Strap features a 1-1/2" wide heavy nylon webbing strap and a comfortable, wide foam pad that won't slip off your shoulder. The pad is designed to conform to your shoulder and back, and is comfortable even on bare shoulders. We find the Standard Shoulder Strap comfortable, and for those who don't need the special features of the Absolute Strap or the Q-AM strap, it's more than adequete. The price of the Standard Shoulder Strap is included with the price of the Ristretto, Large Cafe, Imago, Ego, Super Ego and ID bags.
The Q-AM (Quick-Adjust Messenger) Shoulder Strap - With the Q-AM (Quick-Adjust Messenger) Shoulder Strap, you can wear your bag slung low on your hip at one moment, and with a quick tug, cinch the strap up snug so that the bag rides high on your back the next moment. The Q-AM strap comes with a removable webbing loop with half of a side— release buckle — we call it a Messenger Stabilizer — attached to the strap, in case you need extra stability. The Q-AM is great strap for walking, running to catch a bus, or riding your bike. The added part of strap extends 20" for maximum comfort whether you wear your bag on your back or by your hip. For a more detailed description of the Q-AM Shoulder Strap and to see pictures of it in use, click here. The Q-AM Shoulder Strap is available for $10.00 when purchased with a Ristretto, Large Cafe, Imago, ID, Super Ego or Ego as an upgrade from the Standard Shoulder Strap. Purchased separately, the Q-AM Shoulder Strap is $20.00.
The Absolute Shoulder Strap - The Absolute Shoulder Strap, which combines a soft, durable neoprene pad with comfortable stretch backing, has a unique patented internal control-stretch system that has given it a well-earned reputation as the best shoulder strap available. Many customers have told us that they think the Absolute Shoulder Strap makes their heavy loads feel up to 50% lighter. The Absolute Shoulder Strap is a great choice for those of you who carry a lot of heavy gear. For a more detailed description of the Absolute Shoulder Strap, click here. The Absolute Shoulder Strap is available for $15.00 when purchased with a Ristretto, Large Cafe, Imago, ID, Super Ego or Ego as an upgrade from the Standard Shoulder Strap. Purchased separately, the Absolute Shoulder Strap comes with removable metal hardware that allows you to clip it on bags with d-ring shoulder strap attachments, and is $25.00.