[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I bought this for my daughter for a gift it's her first suitcase. She is very happy with the rotation, weight and size. She always had to borrow one from a family member now she has her own.
This suitcase has a combination lock that holds the zipper pulls in place to prevent accidental opening but positions the zipper pulls on their edges in a vulnerable position. First round trip, no problem. Second round trip, the luggage arrived at the destination with both zipper pulls free of the lock. The lock itself now opens regardless of where the combination is set. On the return leg, I handed over the luggage with both zippers pulls locked. Upon receiving the luggage back at the end of the trip, one zipper pull was completely missing. If you look at the position of the zipper pulls when locked, it is easy to see how they would be very susceptible to potential damage in the course of normal luggage handling by airlines. I would say it’s not a question of if it will happen to you, but when. Also, one of the wheels no longer casters properly making it hard to roll the luggage on all four wheels making the only reasonable option to pull it behind you on two wheels. Both problems occurred on only the second trip with the suitcase.
This is a good a good piece of luggage. I do recommend it. I would like to see the design of the lock changed so the zipper tabs lay flat when it is locked. The current design allows for things to hook on to the tabs and rip them off. The airline replaced the bag. I got the same one because it is a good bag for the money.
I have just used this case for one transatlantic trip and two additional European segments and it's held up well with a full load (50 pounds). There are already 2 small dents at the corners and small scratched, but no cracking. The design and pattern on the shell hides these dings better than my previous Rimowa cases (which ultimately cracked). This shell seems less rigid. The color (blue teal) is great to spot on the carousel without being "too loud" for business travel.
The inner design with one side netted and the other side with elastic bands can be tricky when opening to ensure that everything doesn't spill out, but I personally like this set up best to seperate the two sides.
The wheels have overall been fantastic rolling over cobblestone and curbs with easy. It doesn't seem to glide as easily when you want it to roll parallel to you in airports, but that may be due to the size or my heavy load?
Overall, as a frequent travel who has burned through virtually every high end brand of suitcase, I am delighted. It's the perfect balance between light weight and sturdiness. The Samonsite quality is evident and I expect this suitcase to last me quite a while! I am glad I purchased it and would buy again. 4 star rating is simply to reflect the dings and rolling details mentioned above.