Gear Closet: The North Face Talia Tote

The North Face gear week the Adventure Blog wraps up today with one last review, although this one is a little different from the others I've posted over the past few days. On Monday I shared my thoughts on the TNF Runners Gloves and Pass Through Beanie and I followed that up on Tuesday with a review of the fantastic Flashdry Crew Neck Baselayer. Yesterday I wrote about the excellent Radish Mid-Layer Jacket, which is a great option for nearly any cold-weather outdoor pursuit. Today, I bring you the Talia Tote, a yoga bag for that the ladies are sure to love.

Now, obviously I'm not exactly in the demographic for this bag as it is definitely designed with the active female in mind. The sample tote that the North Face sent my way was a shade of pink that doesn't exactly compliment anything I wear. So, knowing all of this, I passed the Talia Tote onto a female friend to get her opinion of this bag. The verdict: It's a hit!

This yoga bag scored big points with my friend for its spacious interior and numerous organizational pockets. The Talia features a laptop sleeve, mesh internal pockets, a fleece lined outer compartment made especially for smartphones and an absolutely cavernous main pocket. It also has a clip for keeping keys from getting lost at the bottom of the bag, a nicely integrated water bottle holder and a yoga mat sleeve built into the back. Throw in a comfortable shoulder straps and you have the makings of a very versatile tote that will come in handy for travel, as well as trips around town or the gym.

As you would expect from any piece of gear from The North Face, this bag is built to be tough and durable, while remaining very lightweight. The interior of the main pocket is lined with water resistant fabrics that help to keep its contents well protected from the elements, while the exterior fabrics are easy to keep clean and can withstand plenty of wear from day-to-day use.

My friend tells me that she loves that this bag can be used for so many things. She can use it as a large carry-all for excursions around town and later it can pull double-duty with trips to the gym. It also makes a great carry-on bag when traveling, keeping everything she needs organized and close at hand. She lamented the fact that it wasn't stylish enough to take with her on more formal occasions, but other than that, its safe to say she'll be using it often.

Obviously for male readers, this isn't exactly a piece of gear that will get you too excited. But there is a certain holiday coming up soon that the ladies in your life will be hoping you won't forget. (Hint: It's Valentine's Day! February 14th! Don't forget!) If you have an active woman that you need to keep happy this year, then by all means buy her flowers, chocolates and take her out to dinner. But the North  Face Talia Tote makes an  excellent gift as well and she'll love you for finding it for her. With a price tag of $70 it won't make your wallet weep too badly either.