Originally Posted by
JohnnyP
What do you guys think of their Bravo collection? There seem to be some very good deals on that.
The Bravo collection is basically the same as the Valoroso collection in terms available models. The difference is that in Bravo there are more business type cases available and the materials used are different which also makes Bravo somewhat lighter. The Bravo design is a bit more modern and sleek I find. The Valoroso design is classic luggage design and somewhat inspired by canvas bags with leather applications which makes sense since the material looks and feels a bit like canvas. There are also other colors available in Bravo like Pewter and Mocha which are quite nice.
You can check the differences in construction and material on their website. It's listed in great detail.
Here are some main differences in Bravo:
- no swivel ergogrip handles
- no belting leather
- no armor cloth but 1050d ballistic
- YKK self-repairing coil zippers instead of YKK tooth zippers
All other things including the layout are virtually identical. So, yes, this makes the Bravo series also very interesting.
However, in this case, I might go with the Revolution XT series which was Pathfinder's (same company) top series that came with the same warranty as Andiamo. Again a bit lighter than Bravo but uses 2520 ballistic (same as BR) and a different frame material than Andiamo. Andiamo uses basically Lexan. You can even see how clear and transparent it is when you take the lining away; it's quite cool. Extremely shatter proof which is why car headlights are made out of it. The prices on the XT series are even nicer, as you'll see and there are also interesting colors available among them a metallic grey and a nice, unusual black cherry color.
To add to my little review above, I have to say that the lining is really nice and the honeycomb pattern is cool. But it could be even a bit lighter in color. There is still a bit of the black hole effect despite what they say that the grey color makes it easier to see the contents of the case.
The tooth zippers are sturdy indeed but they are obviously not as smooth as coil zippers. The fat leather velcro flap on the bag of the duffel to attach it to telescope handles is a GREAT idea. Most other luggage types have a slit or sleeve and you have to slide the entire contraption over the extended handle or reach down into the sleeve to pull the handle through it. With this flap style you just cinch the bag to the tele handles. Works like a charm. In addition, within the Valoroso series the duffles have quick lock buckles that have the receiving end made out of cast alu. Looks and works very nice. So the duffel literally snaps into the roller bag quick lock. You can then use the handle for something else. Finally, the roller bags (they call them Pullman) are made so that this buckle is detachable and comes even with an extra adjustable web belt which allows you to use the system on non-Andiamo bags or just an ordinary purse. Just smart.
I just ordered two more pieces in steel color from the source above. They are almost out of stock. When you order, from wherever, don't forget to ask if they can monogram the leather patches for you. Usually that service is free.
Till