I have tried Gewa Air and Bam Hightech Slim cases and couldn't get over the squeaking of the backpack straps against the hard shell. Enter this Gewa Space Bag...combining nice mesh backing with a hard shell I can still put stickers on! How well is my violin protected? I don't really know...it seems okay. Is the case waterproof? I don't really know...wish I'd been able to find this before purchasing...took a star off for that. But it's likely somewhat resistant to weather as it has a great zipper. The backpack compartment comfortably fits my laptop, cords, a book, sheet music, my purse, glasses, and probably more. There is an inside pocket for extra strings, and a small zipper pocket for my keys and phone. Best yet, water bottle pocket on the side...a must-have! If they were to redesign, I'd ask for an inside strap on the underside of the hard shell to strap my shoulder rest...it just floats around for now. Although there is a subway handle, it's not very plush so hurts to hold that way for long. Also I'm really missing having a side handle...this is on my back most of the time, but every time I go to put it in the car I find myself grasping at the zipper edging to set it down. Should also mention that the bow case zipper is a little funky although I haven't had any problems with it...just doesn't open easily due to the cap sliding around a bit
Overall, I am using this case over the others because it can haul all my gear (including water bottle!) on my back but isn't bulky.