Not speaking to authentication but I love the Rockie. I've had several styles of AW bags and the Rockie is my favourite. Carries more than you'd expect and stays organized. The only negative IMO is that the small zip exterior pockets have zips that slowly slide down while you carry the bag (at least mine did) so I never carried anything in them. Not too heavy for me but I will admit I love large bags and so may be used to carrying a bit more weight than some people. The Rocco now, that's a different subject, I nick-named mine "the shoulder killer" and sold it to a male friend of mine!
LOL at the shoulder killer! I've heard similar things re: Rocco, it put me off buying one forever!
Ooh, I'm used to carrying big bags, too, so hopefully I wouldn't have any problems with the Rockie! I have the Brenda, and I really hate the shoulder strap. Hope this one is better for me! Thank you so much!