It's hard to find a bag or sleeve that matches the striking style of the Z1.

Here I've started a list of some of my favorite sleeves and bags. Some I own (or have owned), while others I'd trust work well and would like to try out.

Let's start with sleeves. I love sleeves - but in many cases they're not practical. A sleeve is some combination of materials that form a glove-like casing for your laptop. Some have straps, while others don't (careful!). You might use a sleeve to "travel light" with your computer - or use it to protect your computer within a regular bag.

Sony's Z1 Portfolio Sleeve (PCGA-CK5Z)
A perfect fit for the Z1

I've owned two of these sleeves - one for each of my Z1 units. The sleeve is very attractive. It's fun to carry the computer in just this sleeve but since it is one without a strap, be careful not to set it down somewhere and forget about it (something I have personally experienced).

The case looks protective, but don't expect to take this out in the rain. The box it comes in states several warnings - the sleeve does not protect against liquids, and may discolor or even bleed onto the contents when moistened. A small amount of moisture to wash this sleeve will not cause problems. The designer of the sleeve chose wisely when it came to the velcro closure - they placed the soft half of the velcro (loop) on the flap where the computer will often rub against. This makes for a flawless entry and exit into the sleeve.

Overall, this is an essential accessory to accompany your Z1. If I don't use it to take the computer out somewhere, I simply use it as a storage spot for my Z1 while I'm not using it.

Protection: 2/5
Style: 4.5/5
Features: 4/5
Value: 3/5

Buy direct from Sony for $59.99

Booq's Vyper (Size XM for Z Series)
Very stylish and protective sleeve.

I'm a sleeve freak, and I have to say that even though I haven't had the chance to try this one yet - it appears to be one of the most attractive I've seen thus far.

Booq, self-proclaiming the sleeve as the "coolest yet," promises high durability and great protection for your valuable computer inside. Booq uses high quality materials which come together to create a very sleek looking package.

My only potential concern with this sleeve is with the very "boxy" shape of its interior, which is made to "fit the iBook like a glove." This internal shape however, may not suit the Z1 as well, because of the sloped shape which may not be stable in the sleeve.

I will report grades on this one as soon as I try one out!

Protection: N/A
Style: 5/5 (First take)
Features: N/A
Value: 4/5 (First Take)

Buy direct from Booq for $44.95

ACME MADE's Slim & Design Slim (Size Medium for Z Series)
Designer textures give this simplistic sleeve a stylish impact.

Another sleeve I have not had the privilege of trying - ACME MADE's "The Slim" and "The Design Slim" is a very stylish sleeve that includes a removable strap and carry handles, making it more practical for use independent from a bag.

The soft padded material on the inside is encouraging, but the entrance way for the computer worries me - surrounded by the zipper teeth which appear unprotected. At a high price of $175 (designer), this case will meet the style factor of your Z1 but will leave a hefty dent in your bank account.

Tons more styles to choose from than shown. More details, if I choose to try one of these out!

Protection: N/A
Style: 5/5 (First take)
Features: N/A
Value: 2/5 (First take)

Buy direct from ACME MADE for $79.99-$174.99

Merrell Tetra Sleeve
A basic sleeve with strap for a sunny day...

This is a sleeve I own, however, mine is silver. I originally purchased this as a low-cost alternative to strapless sleeves. I wanted something basic to carry just the computer, but not make me set it down whenever I needed to handle something else.

A rather profound feature of this sleeve is that it's made of weather-resistant material, while the sleeve does not close at all. The top computer entrance does not seal off. Further, there are two holes at the bottom of the sleeve - on the sides where the elastic fabric is, which holds together to two sides of the sleeve.

Protection is found mostly in the fact that it'll protect your laptop from bumps and scratches - although I find the sleeve still leaves some of my Z1 exposed with the potential for cosmetic damage in those areas.

The sleeve's appearance is decent, although I have become increasingly bored with my silver version of it - especially because of the awkwardly contrasting orange handles on it.

Overall, the sleeve is simple and does not harm the computer, but getting it in and out can sometimes be awkward. This sleeve also has a version that includes a buttoned pocket on the front.

Protection: 2/5
Style: 2/5
Features: 3/5
Value: 4/5

Buy from eBags for $40.00

Questions & Comments: maki@vaioz.com

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