Lastly, I wish there was a hook loop on either side of the strap to attach a carabiner as I wouldn't feel confident attaching one to the handle. So again, form over function? I guess that's why they're marketed as tension locks. It doesn't really compress a whole lot as the bag is already very boxy.

Functionally it helps keeps things from moving while in the bag. It allows you to compress your bag to get that sleek look when you wear it. I like the feel of the matte finish, very smooth and soft to the touch. The City 2 has aircraft grade tension locks. Just a fun fact, though, I don't think I'll be putting that much force anytime soon. On the City the Fidlock is 30KG of static force while the Tokai is 70KG. Both the City 2 and Tokai share the same strap and is thinner than their previous iterations of products. Form over function right for one baggers? That being said, the plastic is very sturdy and the sliding mechanism is amazingly smooth. While I am in love the design of the city sling 2 buckle from Fidlock, the corners are a bit sharp. What a nice upgrade! I will say that its more difficult to do with a maxed out bag so it does reduce your overall carrying capacity depth wise. And viola! it becomes a tech pouch, for example. You can store the straps using the adjustable plastic and put them in the pass-through on the back of the sling. I worry a little that it may become loose over time with use and lose that nice sleek look it currently has. However, its a too thin for my liking not because it would be uncomfortable under that weight, but because it also feels 'flimsy'. The new top handle is nice feeling and is very close to the body. There's also almost zero tags or branding on the exterior except on the pull tab for the zippers. Of course, x-pac has that water resistance which is get for those travels when you're near water.

It is louder but personally don't care about that as much. I'm not entirely sure about durability on those high wear areas, but man aesthetically speaking, it looks amazing. This City 2 model, it uses x-pac all over the bag, even the back and bottom. A bit lengthy so a summary is at the bottom. So had some time using the City Sling 2 but ultimately decided to return it.

Aer city sling bag