It’s Your Bag: Nine Satchels to Help You Man Up And Carry Your Stuff Right

It’s Your Bag: Nine Satchels to Help You Man Up And Carry Your Stuff Right

Longer than the term “manbag” has been around, men have needed to carry things around. Fortunately the stigma has passed, and men are once again free to transport their belongings in something other than a briefcase. By Bryan Myers

It’s time to retire the terms manbag and murse, and any other clever portmanteau used to describe that thing most stylish men are carrying their things in. They are satchels or bags (both messenger and shoulder), and they are no longer the sole property of metrosexuals and anarchists. Laptops need to be carried, as do books, wallets, and the other gadgets that make a man’s life worth living (they’re called magazines), and the time for briefcases is through. But, not any bag will do. Here are nine to help even the most ardent briefcase-wielders ease into the new shoulder-strapped world.

MODERN SATCHEL – TRIBE
This bag is appropriate for carrying a laptop to work, or, say, the sacred Sankara stones around the Temple of Doom. It’s the kind of bag that says you’re a mild-mannered professor of history by day, but a world-class adventurer by night. Made in Canada from 100% Italian leather, this satchel has a padded compartment for your computer, so you can blog safely about your after-work adventures. $338

LARGE SATCHEL
As proven by their 100-year warranty, these bags were designed to withstand a lot. They are handcrafted out of boot leather by the finest leatherworkers in Mexico. And while backpacks aren’t always recommended, this satchel can easily transform into one when absolutely necessary.$335

LOTUFF AND CLEGG LEATHER CROSS BODY MESSENGER BAG
Simple and elegant. There’s nothing to clutter up this bag. The inside has space for the essentials: pens, phones, a 17-inch laptop and paperwork, but has no unnecessary frivolities. The understated elegance of the bag makes it absolutely clean and professional. $750

STEVE MONO’S DENNIS
This bag is as much a utility as it is a work of art. Beautifully crafted in Spain, every detail is painstakingly executed to ensure a quality, long-lasting product. The leatherwork is classic. It’s workingman meets schoolboy: all business but in a playful way. Steve Mono warns that this bag is one that lady friends are apt to steal. $485

KILLSPENCER KOREAN WAR ERA BRIEFCASE
A sleek and modern design crafted out of canvas intended for use during the Korean War. Because of its military background, this satchel boasts impressive sturdiness. The course duck canvas is entirely water repellant, and the lining is completely flame retardant. Rest assured, your iPad and your business cards will be safe. $385

FILSON RUCKSACK
This is the gentleman’s backpack—and no, that isn’t an oxymoron. While it should never come within walking distance to a boardroom, it’s perfect for a weekend hiking expedition. Its water repellant canvas is handy in any soggy climate though, which means the rucksack also makes a handsome and rugged pack for urban travel as well. $260

FRED PERRY HARRIS TWEED WEEKEND BAG
Weekend bags should be versatile, much like the weekend itself. This Harris Tweed weekend bag from Fred Perry is so versatile that its usage should not be limited to the days between Friday and Monday. A part of Fred Perry’s Laurel Collection, this bag’s classic lines and subtle colour make it perfect for every day jaunts. $295

NAKED AND FAMOUS INDIGO RED TWEED DENIM DUFFLE
The Denim Duffle stands out in category dominated by canvas and nylon. The rugged denim adds a modern style, and the leather strap and detailing provides extra sturdiness. Perfect for travel, or for when the standard messenger bag just isn’t big enough—like when you actually pack your own lunch. $240

BILLYKIRK LARGE CARRY ALL
The Billykirk Carry All was crafted by Amish leatherworkers, so you know it’s going to have room for more than just an iPad and some loose papers. And while the metal hinge opening might be too reminiscent of a giant change purse for some, this waxed-cotton canvas bag will protect whatever you’re transporting, and it will do it with style. $295

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