Why it stands out
The vertical layout gives the 173 a different rhythm in use. It feels fast, tidy, and more naturally suited to small essentials than a wider sling trying to do too much.
Long-term review
The GRAMS28 173 Vertical Sling is one of the more distinctive shapes in the range because it leans into a portrait-style carry layout rather than the usual horizontal crossbody format. That changes the way it feels in use. It is compact, lightweight, and very easy to grab essentials from quickly, which makes it especially appealing for travel, city days, and minimal everyday carry where easy access matters more than maximum storage.
The vertical layout gives the 173 a different rhythm in use. It feels fast, tidy, and more naturally suited to small essentials than a wider sling trying to do too much.
Quick access, low weight, and a compact organised shape are the biggest wins. It feels very focused in what it is trying to do.
Capacity is limited by design. If you need space for larger tech or a wider everyday loadout, you will be better served by a bigger sling.
The GRAMS28 173 Vertical Sling makes sense if you like to travel and move lightly but still want a bag that feels more elevated than a simple phone pouch. It is particularly good for a phone, wallet, passport, cables, earbuds, small battery pack, and compact camera, all in a format that feels easy to carry without adding bulk to the body.
The whole reason to choose this bag is the vertical layout. It changes how the items stack and how quickly you can get to them. The front pocket is designed for a phone, while the main compartment handles the rest of the essentials or a compact camera. In practice, that makes the 173 feel very intuitive for quick-access carry.
The 173 Vertical Sling works best when you want a lightweight premium grab-and-go bag for essentials and compact tech. It is especially strong for travel, urban exploration, and any situation where speed and comfort matter more than capacity.
The 173 makes most sense for people who already know they do not want a bigger sling. It is ideal for users who value lightweight everyday convenience, premium materials, and easy access more than bigger storage capacity.
If you want a compact leather sling with a fast, intuitive layout and a very easy all-day carry feel, the 173 Vertical Sling is easy to recommend. Its main strength is not capacity. It is the way it turns small essentials into a clean, quick-access carry system that still feels premium.
