Well, like many people, I was lusting after a Mono gig-bag. They just look so gorgeous - and I'm sure for top pro's they're the thing. But do you really want to pay five times the price of this one? I've had a couple of Rockbags in the past - and this one is much the same: well-made, solid, does exactly what it's meant to - and all at a very reasonable price. The padding depth is so much better than the free 10mm things you get with a new guitar. The outside carry-handles and back-pack straps are solid and well-secured. There's plenty of pocket space. The zips aren't top quality, but I've never had one fail yet. Most importantly, it seems pretty tear- and water proof. You wouldn't want to check it in the river probably, but for showers it keeps everything nice and dry. It's not a Mono for sure, but it does what I need much more cost-effectively.