With its Flex tool bag, FastCap is trying to address the problem that no matter which tool bag you choose, it never seems to have the right number of pockets, or have the the right-sized pocket in the right place. To accomplish this, they’ve created a tool bag where you can place removable pockets both inside and outside the bag.
The Flex tool bag is 18″ wide by 9″ deep by 11″ tall. Made from heavy-duty ballistic nylon, it’s covered both inside and out with Velcro-style “industrial” hook-and-loop fasteners. The pockets also have hook-and-loop fasteners on the back to attach to the bag and come in four sizes: 1″, 2″, 3″ and 4″.
The carrying handle can be rigidly fixed in the upright position, or you can remove a screw to allow it to swivel from side to side to get easier access to the inside of the bag.
The length of the 3″ wide shoulder strap is also covered in hook-and-loop fasteners, allowing you to easily adjust its length. It also allows you to use the shoulder strap as a tool belt, where the pockets can be attached directly to the fastener strip on the belt.
For $87 you get the Flex Toolbag with 14 pockets – (2) 1″, (6) 2″, (3) 3″, and (3) 4″ – and a 3 x 54″ shoulder strap/tool belt. You can also order additional pockets:
- 1″ pocket $4.40 each
- 2″ pocket $5.50 each
- 3″ pocket $7.7o each
- 4″ pocket $8.80 each
Buy Now (Toolbag via FastCap)
Buy Now (Extra Pockets via FastCap)
First Thoughts
At first I thought this was a pretty neat idea, but after thinking about it I have a few reservations.
I worry about the usability of the Velcro-style hook-and-loop fasteners after time on the jobsite. Hook-and-loop materials tend to attract sawdust, strings, and hair. I just wonder how well the pockets will stay in place after the hook-and-loop is filled with debris.
Even if the fasteners still hold fast after getting dirty, I wonder if it is really strong enough to hold the exterior pocket in place under the rigors of use. Will they be ripped off if you catch your bag (or “belt”) on the edge of a door frame?
The tool belt really seems like an after thought — like they designed the tool bag and decided they needed a tool belt that worked with it rather than designing a system that works together.
Other companies have modular tool belts that work with tool bags. Above you can see the Iron Dog Tool Gear system. The pockets and tool holders clip onto the tool belt and bags via a metal clip — I think I’d trust that over Velcro-style hook-and-loop any day.
