I was looking to replace the original TYR Alliance bag in this purchase. In settling on this back pack, I also ordered a Speedo bag, the old TYR Alliance and this the newer redesigned version. My two biggest needs in a backpack were that I wanted a wide opening and I wanted the bag to stand up without falling over. This bag provided both of those features. Compared to the Speedo bag that had a smaller capacity at 35L, smaller opening and wouldn't stand up. The newer version of the original TYR Alliance is not the quality it once was and I could see it not lasting as long as my old bag. A newer feature on this one is the top opens on the back side. That threw me off at first. Also I miss the two bigger side pockets of the older version. These got changed on the redesign. The newer 45L size though makes up for that a little bit in the extra room it gives me inside the main compartment. Also I'm a big fan of the lumbar support/laptop pad that is for both carrying a laptop and allows the bag to stand up without falling over.
Rating: [4 of 5 Stars!]