Review: JJ Cole Metra Diaper Bag

If you are a parent, you know there are a multitude of diaper bag choices out there. You also know that when it come to babies, you need to have a bag to carry all of your stuff in or life is going to be much more difficult. As a dad, I have felt like most diaper bags look and feel like they are designed for moms. My choices were limited to either a flowery pink bag or plain black. This is where the JJ Cole Metra line comes in.

I have three kids, including a 3 month old. For the first two children, my wife picked out the bag. I did errands, family trips, and life in general feeling like I needed to apologize to other men for the silky purse-like bags I carried around. I spent my travel time lurking in the corner, trying to hide the diaper bag by my feet. I wanted to shoulder the load; I just absolutely hated the bags we owned. So when JJ Cole approached me about reviewing their Metra line, which is designed for both parents in mind, I jumped at the chance. 

The Metra is available in a few different colors and designs. I chose the “Black Stitch” which is black and grey in color. I was drawn to its subtle look, but also how it reminded me of my messenger bag that I carry my laptop and work supplies in. After loading it up with supplies, I confidently slung it over my shoulder. The feel of it was nice and comfortable.

Most parents know that the look of a diaper bag means nothing without it being practical. The first feature that caught my eye was all the handy external pockets. I appreciate the big outside flap on the Metra. Not only does it keep everything inside, but it also houses a number of different sized outside pockets. If you want to keep small items handy, this bag has you covered. I also really like the detachable pacifier carrier. However, the main internal compartment is smaller than other bags we have used. We had a bit of a difficult time organizing everything that we normally take with us. The included changing pad is great but it takes up valuable space inside the bag. The other option is to attach it to the outside of the bag, but that takes away from the look.

The Metra also comes with two rubber stroller mounts in order to hang the diaper bag from. They installed easy enough, however, I noticed right away that when a bag isn’t attached the straps could easily come loose from the stroller handle. I had one fall off while loading the stroller into the car. I’m hoping as they break in this won’t be an issue, but it is something you should be aware of. These straps did make the Metra very easy to put on and take off of our stroller.

The JJ Cole Metra price starts at $69.99 and you can find more information on their website www.jjcolecollections.com. If you are a parent wanting a great looking bag, and you don’t need an extra large amount of space, you should definitely consider the Metra. However, if you take everything with you wherever you go, it might not fit all your needs. Overall, I am happy with this bag and think it will serve my family nicely.

This "Black Stitch" model is available in store at Babies R Us and buy buy BABY, and on buybuyBABY.com. Select other colors of the Metra Bag are available in store and online at Babies R Us and buy buy BABY.

Disclosure: JJ Cole sent me their product to review. I have received no other compensation for this post and the opinions I’m expressing here are solely my own.



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