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Compare the top 5 messenger bags
honorable mention
Courtesy of Rothko
Rothco Classic Canvas Messenger Bag $33: Made of simple, humble canvas, with just three pockets and a zippered pouch, this messenger bag is as straightforward as it comes. It’s cheap and light, and will last you a really long time. I’ve had one since 2006, and although the color has faded a bit, there are no pits or holes. Even with my stable of more expensive bags, I often pick this up because it’s not structured, and it’s pretty thin and light when carrying light loads. It’s not a good choice if you need something water-resistant, although canvas soaks up water like a sponge.
Billingham Hadley Pro Camera Bag for $330: Billingham has something of a reputation among bag photographers. These chic and stylish shoulder bags are renowned for their durability, understated style and lifetime warranty. They’re not just for cameras, though. The Hadley 2020, in particular, is a perfect mid-sized bag that can easily fit a 15-inch laptop along with other essentials. It features two front pockets and a water-resistant exterior so it can withstand the elements. For more camera bags, Read our guide.
Peak Design Field Pouch V2 $50: This compact organizer excels in its role as a small everyday carry bag for a few reasons. First, it’s weatherproof and doesn’t get soaked even if you go out in a rainstorm. Second, the horizontal orientation and slim profile make it a surprisingly roomy yet ultra-low-profile bag to carry. It’s big enough for a smartphone, wallet and small camera, plus it comes with Peak Design’s signature seatbelt-fabric-style strap, which makes it easy to sling around your body.
Courtesy of Savage Industries
Savage Industries EDC TWO for $160: I was a fan of Savage Industries EDC is a bagBut even I had to admit it was a bit big and heavy for me. Then came out EDC 2. It’s basically a smaller version of the original, which makes it much more comfortable to wear for long periods of time (even when it’s filled to the brim with farmer’s market produce). The top opens like an old-time doctor’s bag, revealing the entire interior, so you never have to dig for things.
The lining of the black version of the bag is a gorgeous high-content orange that makes it easy to spot any small items that might otherwise get lost randomly. Its generous size and sturdy, utilitarian design make it a great pick for builders or those who need a hybrid toolbox and shoulder bag.
Waterfield Designed Shinjuku Messenger Bag for $229: Waterfield’s Shinjuku Messenger Bag was designed with the iPad in mind, and it shows. The interior pocket fits the iPad Pro 11, takes up little space, offers a spacious central pocket, and the lid seals the flap with a magnetic closure. What makes this a great bag for the iPad is its size. Not only is it small—there are tons of bags that are small enough to fit an iPad—but it lets your iPad breathe without feeling over- or undersized.
Stuffing an iPad in there with other accessories like a power cord, Apple Pencil, phone, and other everyday carry-on items can make small bags feel tight. Others can feel too big, like your iPad swimming loose inside a giant bag that feels awkward to carry around with you. The canvas option uses X11 fabric from X-Pac, a high-tech canvas with an internal structure and a PFAS-free, durable water-resistant coating. It is durable, scuff-resistant and surprisingly water-resistant. It holds off some heavy Seattle rain and keeps everything nice and dry inside.
$400 to eat mission workshop: It’s a modern take on the classic messenger bag. Built to be completely waterproof, the Khyte is designed for heavy use. Interior pockets are intuitive and spacious; Every time I thought I couldn’t fit more into it, I found extra room and pockets. This bag is practically a hiking backpack. It can carry almost anything and stay bone dry at the same time. There’s plenty of style to go with substance, too.
External closures are magnetic and snap securely and easily, space and support Mission Workshop’s archive system, so if you don’t have enough pockets and pouches, you can always add more. Khaiti is not a bag that you throw a tablet in and take to a cafe. This is what you bring when biking to work in a rainstorm. (Note: This product is currently out of stock, but restocking is possible.)
Filson Surveyor Messenger Bag for $195: Filson is a Seattle-based manufacturer of outdoor clothing and gear renowned for its durability—the company’s roots lie in the miners outfitted for the Klondike Gold Rush. This bag has a natural look thanks to its camel color, but it’s made from 500D water-resistant dry-waxed Cordura nylon canvas and has a thin layer of foam backing to protect your laptop or tablet and maintain the bag’s shape. Inside, you’ll find two zones separated by a thin foam-filled layer and two pockets perfect for holding a phone or paperback. At the front, you have two zippered pockets with dividers. It’s a bag that feels sturdy and thanks to the waxed canvas, it’s water-resistant enough not to worry even in heavy rain. I love the look of the hunter-orange front panel and the leather zipper pull. (Note: This product is currently out of stock, but restocking is possible.) -Martin Sijmer
How we test messenger and crossbody bags
We’ve reviewed both classic and newer models, taking into account factors such as power, comfort, and durability. We’ve based our picks on real-world trials, testing each for at least four weeks and in some cases months. We pack each bag with a variety of gear, including work essentials, groceries and camera equipment. We also evaluated their durability in various commuting and weather conditions, such as walking through the rain in Portland, Oregon, trekking through the snow in Chicago, and enduring the heat of the New York subway. Because organization is so important, we’ve made sure each bag is easy to use and pack.
- Comfort: Messenger bags are designed for commuters, so we rank their comfort by evaluating weight distribution and strap comfort.
- Design: When it comes to design, we paid attention to the little details, like interior fabrics that help you see what’s inside, pocket placement and durable zippers and pulls. We also took a closer look at the handles and strap length, as well as the overall shape of the bag.
- Ingredients: A durable bag is where we prioritize quality and durability. We have ensured a range of fabrics for different styles and include brands that prioritize environmental care.
- Price: We ensure that the quality matches the price you are paying by evaluating it against your competitors.
What do we test next?
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