Urban Tool Gadget Hip Holster Review

photo from urban tool

ThinkGeek sent me this Urban Tool Gadget Holster and I've had it for a few weeks now. (Not to be confused with the slotBar, which I will be reviewing when it arrives.) I wanted to wear it out as much as possible to get others' reaction to it. We'll start by looking at the fashion accessory itself and then explore public response.


Overview:
The holster is has a canvas hip strap and gadget pockets described as 80% polyamid/20% lycra. They're soft and stretchy so you don't have to worry about scratching the screens on your precious gadgets. At full extension, the adjustable hip strap is about 48" long so can accommodate most wearers. The leg strap is also stretchy and should have no problems fitting both small and large thighs.

There are three main pockets of different sizes, one top pocket, and an included "key yoyo" in a pouch. It also features a pen (or stylus) holder on the outside and a Velcro strip on which to hang headphones.

"Installation" and use:
I love calling this section "Installation." Simply adjust the hip strap to where it is comfortable around your hips, then position the holster over your right thigh. When in place, the leg strap can be wrapped around for added security (and fashion!) but can be removed entirely at the wearer's option. The three front gadget pockets require simply lifting the top flap and stuffing the gadget in. The top flap can then be pulled over the gadget for added security.

Once worn, the first impression is that this thing was MADE to be worn. Unlike other uber-geek accessories, the Gadget Hip Holster isn't about bling and narcissism. It's about having comfortable, easy access to gadgets. I am wearing mine now as I type this and can barely feel it's presence.

After extended use, it becomes obvious why gadgets in the Hip Holster are better protected than those in pockets. Hip pockets tend to bend and brush against chair armrests. Back pockets get sat upon and can put extra pressure on any devices. Having the device sit on your thigh keeps it from these added dangers in normal pockets.

Watch this video to see how many gadgets can fit and where they slide in:



Public Reaction and Conclusion:
In Arizona, there's a bit of an "old west" mentality. While people don't always wear guns out in public, it's not too terribly rare to see them. The first impression people get when they don't see the gadgets and pouches is that it is a gun holster. Once they see that it's specifically for gadgets, the reaction is entertaining. Here are some choice quotes:

• "That goes beyond geek, shoots way past nerd, and circles around to be cool again."
• "I wouldn't think to wear that out, but I wish I had it during some of my photo shoots."
• "It looks like a good place to keep my phone while skating since I never fall on that side of my leg."
• "You're the biggest geek I ever met."
  
• "Can I have it when you're done reviewing it?"

All in all, the reaction was more positive than I actually realized. It's clear it's a geek accessory, but geek fashion accessories are commonplace in urban environments.

This one, while way up high on the geekitude, is actually very functional well thought out. I wish there were two pockets wide enough for fat devices so I could carry both my N800 and my Motorola Q, but I still have pockets! ThinkGeek has these in stock for US $59.99. While on the expensive side for a gadget case, consider it a combined case for 4-5 gadgets at once.

A note about ThinkGeek.com:
I am a huge fan of ThinkGeek. You will find me wearing their clothing on nearly all of my videos. This is my first opportunity to review one of their products and I hope it is not the last. If you have reason to read this review, you have reason to hop on their site, amuse yourself with their offerings, and at least make a wish list like mine. I'm not being paid to endorse them - I just really really like their style. Major points go to whoever can figure out which ThinkGeek shirt I am wearing in this video. You only see it for half a second!