Leather messenger bags are very popular these days, especially since you can often carry your laptop and other important files while still maintaining some semblance of style. While the official messenger bag refers to the bag used by bike couriers (arguably originated by Globe Canvas De Martini in NYC), this post covers the modern messenger leather bag used by us common folk, in lieu of a backpack or tote. If you are woman, you may want to consider a ladies briefcase instead.
I have owned quite a few of messenger bags over the years, ranging from the classic Jansport nylon bag to a modern black leather messenger bag from Kenneth Cole. Functionally, I prefer a backpack – however, they are not quite as stylish nor do they project as professional an image (for the old-school corporate world) as a nice leather bag.
Basics
Black Leather Messenger
Brown Leather Messenger
A few basics first, though you may already know about these. There are two main styles of these bags – the smaller quick tote style (brown leather messenger bag right) and the more popular size (black leather messenger laptop bag above). For casual and weekend use, go for the former; for work or professional use, the latter. Most new styles feature the draping flap either with a buckle or hidden clasp to keep it shut. Older styles still have a zipper on top, though those are usually classified as laptop bags. No rocket science here, so let’s look at a couple of our favorites then some final tips.
Kenneth Cole Messenger
Kenneth Cole Messenger Bag
As mentioned earlier, we are partial to Kenneth Cole because they are very stylish and are known to be durable for the price you pay. We have also owned several in the past. One of our favorites right now is the Reaction Full-Grain Leather Laptop Messenger Bag, especially for budget minded shoppers. The outside is high quality full grain leather, which you know we prefer over bonded or genuine leather. It has plenty of pockets and space to fit a regular sized laptop or tablet. That said, the strap is nylon and is slightly shorter than others we have used (could be an issue if you’re very tall). Overall, a great bang-for-your-buck leather messenger bag.
Saddleback Messenger
Saddleback Brown Leather Messenger Bag
If you are looking for a top of the line leather classic bag, you have to go with a Saddleback Messenger Bag. You are going to pay over $300 for this bag, but the quality and craftsmanship is impeccable. In fact, they call it the bag “they’ll fight over when you’re dead”. With only one center buckle and made completely of full-grain boot leather, this bag is incredibly durable – in fact, the warranty is 100 years! Other details can be read at Saddleback or Amazon‘s page. If you travel a lot and need something durable and do not want to worry about “babying” it, this is the perfect bag. Due to the materials and ruggedness, it is slightly heavier than similar bags however. A very practical men’s leather messenger bag with a cost, but will last a lifetime.
We believe you would be happy with either of these two bags above. Both are from great companies which offer other similar messenger bag choices as well. However, if you go with something else, shop for top grain or full grain leather and try to examine the bag in person before buying. Also check them both out for some of their great leather luggage. Once again, thanks for visiting!
Tags: leather luggage, leather luggage tips, leather messenger bags