Recent years have seen an evolution in luggage design. The traditional horizontal layout of yesteryear is rapidly being eclipsed by vertically oriented, wheeled luggage. Our recent tests focused exclusively on such models.

In evaluating these bags, we first examine them for features. (Note: We've found no relationship between price and number of features.) As for features, some we look at include the number of interior and exterior pockets, length of extension handle, overall usable volume, volume-to-weight ratio, and whether or not there was a garment carrier.

Panelists rate the bags for comfort and performance. This is accomplished by having each panelist navigate our "obstacle course" with each bag loaded to a total weight of 50 pounds. The course includes sections of carpeted floor, smooth tile, and concrete, as well as sections that have wooden strips laid across them to mimic rough pavement or sewer grates. There is also a section simulating a high curb, a figure eight, and a series of "S" turns on different surfaces. Each bag is run through the course three times by each panelist.

Perhaps our most demanding test is presented by our tumbling machine, otherwise known as our "800-pound gorilla." Each model is placed in the tumbler for up to 1,000 cycles (if they can last that long). A minimum of two samples of each model are tested. This test really separates the wheat from the chaff, illustrating the bags' weaknesses and design flaws in a rather dramatic way.