The Best Leather Bags: Buying Guide 2024

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Best Leather Bags
Best Leather Bags

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Kenneth Cole Reaction Risky Business Messenger Full

Kenneth Cole Reaction Risky Business Messenger Full is a trendy laptop bag that will carry your laptop, books and accessories with ease. This four-wheeled messenger is made of a luxurious, full-grain cowhide Colombian leather. The interior also features a fully-lined, tear-resistant lining to stand up to daily use. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Samsonite Colombian Leather Flap-Over Messenger Bag

This Samsonite Colombian Leather Flap-Over Messenger Bag is the perfect travel companion for busy professionals. The rear compartment provides ample room for files, the adjustable padded shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, and the removable, padded compartment designed for your phone offers streamlined convenience. Read Review

3. Best Convenient: Kenneth Cole Reaction Manhattan Commuter Slim Backpack

Kenneth Cole Reaction Manhattan Commuter Slim Backpack, Leather is a stylish and sophisticated leather bookbag backpack that is perfect for business, work, school, college or travelling. This stylish backpack will not only complement your look with its sleek style but also give you the essentials you need for your everyday commute. Read Review

4. Best Versatile: The Sak Sequoia Hobo Bag

Design by The Sak, the New York-based company known for their iconic handbags and accessories. The Sak Sequoia Hobo Bag is perfect for everyday travel, featuring a main zipper closure, front zipper pocket, back slit pocket, and an interior with a back wall zipper pocket & 2 front wall multi-pockets. Read Review

Have you ever wondered why certain products have such a strong appeal? What makes people want to possess them so much that they feel the urge to keep them forever? How can something as simple as a leather bag trigger such an amazing response from people? This is because everyone has a different idea of what makes for top quality.

It might be the craftsmanship, or maybe it’s the materials used. Regardless of what it is, there’s no denying that owning high-quality items has its advantages. The good news is that you don’t need to break the bank in order to own some high-quality pieces either. In this article, we will discuss some of the best leather bags out there so that you can make an informed purchase when it comes time to buy one for yourself.

We think the best leather bags of 2024 is Kenneth Cole Reaction Risky Business Messenger Full. However, in order to provide the reader with a wider variety of alternatives, we recommend adding Samsonite Colombian Leather Flap-Over Messenger Bag if you are interested in purchasing another appealing one.

Here are the buying guides that we specially made for you guys. Follow all the words below for successful shopping!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Kenneth Cole Reaction Risky Business Messenger Full
Our Score:
9.9
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Two front organizer pouches with cell phone pocket, two pen pockets, three card slots

Overall Size: 15” L x 11” H x 3” D. Product Weight: 2.2 lbs. The perfect slim leather messenger travel bag for the modern traveler whom values both style and function.

This leather laptop travel messenger bag is made of a luxurious, full-grain cowhide Colombian leather that is very durable and ages beautifully, creating a bag that is uniquely your own. The interior also features a fully-lined, tear-resistant lining to stand up to daily use.

Longer strap is adjustable from 20 inches to 24 inches. Shorter strap has a drop of 3 inches

Slim messenger bag construction with dual magnetic closures under the leather flap. Roomy main compartment can fit documents, everyday essentials, a laptop or tablet, and features a full-length zipper pocket. Rear exterior open pocket for easy-access to frequently needed items.

Features a permanent, padded, and adjustable shoulder strap that extends 60 inches for comfortable carryign while on the move. Convenient top leather grab handle for easy carrying when needed. Main compartment is large enough to fit most tablets and laptop computers with up to a 15.6-Inch screen.

The Full-Grain Genuine Colombian leather used in crafting this bag is a natural cowhide that is minimally treated. As a result each bag will be slightly different and have its own unique characteristics that will age well with use. You may notice imperfections and color variations in the leather, which is normal. This is made of 100% genuine full-grain Colombian leather; no substitute leathers were used and no split leathers were used.

Flap with magnetic snap closure

TOP Choice #2 Samsonite Colombian Leather Flap-Over Messenger Bag
Our Score:
9.8
Samsonite

Overall dimensions: 16x 12x 4.5"

Rear Compartment provides ample room for files

A removable Compartment Designed to store your cell phone

Removable, adjustable padded shoulder strap

Fits up to 15.6" laptops; Weight: 4.4 pounds

Dedicated pocket for your ipad or tablet

organizer under front flap holds your business essentials

Zippered rear Compartment is Fully protected from dust, dirt, and moisture

Please note that the leather used in crafting this bag is a natural cowhide that is minimally treated; As a result each bag will be slightly different and have its own unique characteristics; You may notice some imperfections and color variations in the leather

TOP Choice #3 Kenneth Cole Reaction Manhattan Commuter Slim Backpack
Our Score:
9.6
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Backed by a manufacturer lifetime limited guarantee. A stylish and sophisticated leather bookbag backpack that is perfect for business, work, school, college, traveling, or for your everyday commute.

Trolley tunnel fits over most luggage trolley handles for hands-free carrying and trolley tunnel also features a hidden zipper stash pocket for passports, valuables, money, or credit cards.

Checkpoint Friendly feature is compliant with TSA guidelines, so laptops do not need to be removed at airport security checkpoints, allowing you to move through security faster. EZ- scan section also serves as a separate storage compartment that includes a full-length zipper pocket and two zippered accessory pockets.

Laptop Computer Dimensions: 16” H x 12” L x 2” D.

[RFID] Anti-theft Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Blocking technology in organizer pockets to block radio waves from being transmitted from U.S. Passports and certain Credit/Debit cards.

Fits most laptop computers with up to a 16-inch screen, including 13” MacBook, 15” laptop, & 15.6” computers. Also features a separate padded tablet pocket that fits most tablets with up to a 12.1” screen.

Product Weight: 3.15 lbs.

Features extra padded adjustable ergonomic backpack straps along with a comfortable extra padded rear exterior air mesh back panels with an air flow system for ultimate comfort while on the move.

Made of an elegant full-grain genuine Colombian leather exterior that ages beautifully with use over time with a tear-resistant fully lined interior that stands up to daily use.

4 The Sak Sequoia Hobo Bag
Our Score:
9.4
The Sak

PERFECT FOR EVERYDAY TRAVEL: Features a main zipper closure, front zipper pocket, back slit pocket, and an interior with a back wall zipper pocket & 2 front wall multi-pockets

DIMENSIONS & CARE: Bag dimensions are 14in L x 4in W x 10.75in H. Strap drop is 11in. To clean, use a water-based leather cleaner and moisturizer. Use a protective spray to protect the leather surface

PREMIUM ARTISANAL LEATHER: Bag exterior is Leather sourced from a Leather Working Group gold-rated certified tannery. Bag interior is PETA-approved & Vegan Certified Repreve Lining, durable, water and stain repellent, and made from recycled materials

THE SAK: We've always been about more than bags, capturing our love of hand-crafted, textural designs. We are B Corp certified, given to companies that meet the highest standards in creating a positive social & environmental impact

A CLASSIC & TIMELESS STYLE: The Sak Sequoia Hobo Bag is easy to carry and fits all of your everyday womens essentials. With the functionality of a tote, backpack & crossbody & the design of a hobo silhouette, this handbag is perfect for everyday wear

Lining of bag may be different than described/shown

Measurements: 14.5 inches W X 9 inches H X 4 inches D, handle drop 6.5 inches

Antique pull up leather zip satchel from Frye's best selling Melissa collection

1 interior zip pocket, 2 interior sleeve pockets

Adjustable leather straps

Laptop padding: The laptop padding fits 15.6 inch laptop for business travel. Other compartment fits 17inch Laptop. Large capacity and front and interior pockets organization for all your business needs.

If you are unsatisfied with our product for any reason, we promise 100% refund guarantee.

Made from genuine soft nappa leather for a professional and trendy appearance and Large capacity..The hardware parts are made of cast molding thick hardwareDouble stitched seams with thick stitching.

Suitable for a short business trip or a quick weekend getaway. size:17"L*6.5"W*12"H/43L*16.5W*30.5H(cm). weight: 4.2-lb/1.9kg.

A leather belt on back of bag--It can be easily hung on trolley case or trolley of airport, be sure it's safe, won't fall off.

7 Frye womens Frye tote handbags
Our Score:
9.0
Frye

center zip divider, 1 interior zip pocket, 2 interior sleeve pockets

Antique pull up leather shoulder tote bag from Frye's best selling Melissa collection

Measurements: 13 inches W X 12 inches H X 6 inches D, shoulder drop 9 inches

Antique pull up leather tote

Clip bridge closure

2 interior slip pockets, 1 interior zip pocket

Strap type: Double

9. 5"H X 15. 5"W X 5. 75"D; strap drop 8. 75"

9 Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack
Our Score:
8.2
Samsonite

Full-sized deluxe backpack; Fits up to 2 laptops

Dedicated padded laptop pocket fits 15.6” laptop

Front organizer pocket with tablet pocket; 2 phone pockets, pen pockets, and mesh zip pocket

Smart sleeve for ease of use while traveling

Body Dimensions: 18. 5" X 12. 0" X 6. 5", weight: 3.73 pounds

PERFECT FOR EVERYDAY TRAVEL: Features a magnetic snap closure and an interior with a back hanging zipper pocket and spacious slit pocket

PREMIUM ARTISANAL LEATHER: Bag exterior is leather sourced from a gold-rated certified tannery that complies with environmental sourcing processes & sustainable water usage.

DIMENSIONS & CARE: Bag dimensions are 15in L x 7in W x 12.75in H. Strap drop is 9in. For care, clean with a water-based leather cleaner and moisturizer. Use a protective spray to protect the leather surface

THE SAK: We've always been about more than bags, capturing our love of hand-crafted, textural designs. We are B Corp certified, given to companies that meet the highest standards in creating a positive social & environmental impact

STYLISH & SPACIOUS: The Sak Los Feliz Large Tote Bag is your ideal bag for a minimalist look with plenty of room. Your phone, wallet, keys, and other everyday essentials will be easily stored making this purse your new go-to

What to Look For in a best leather bags?

Often buyers are reluctant to buy best leather bags. When considering a large purchase, certain things should be examined. Our knowledge and experience of best leather bags will help in making the best options.

Please keep in mind the following criterial before selecting the best leather bags:

Size/Weight/Capacity

It is important to consider your preferences and the way you will use the briefcase. Briefcases can be lighter and smaller than regular laptop cases. If minimalism is your preference, the bag may not have enough space for your laptop. (Unless the briefcase is an expandable one for traveling.

Materials

Not only does the hardware material affect the cost of the briefcase, but also its durability and aesthetics.
These items are most likely to fail quickly and take the most daily abuse.

Quality

A bag that you carry with you every day is essential for your job. A high-quality briefcase made from leather and with the strongest hardware will last a lifetime. The stitching won’t fray or come undone after repeated use.

Compartments

Comfortable, solid handles and ample storage space will make a quality briefcase a great choice. Sturdy metal hardware and heavy stitching should be used on straps and closures.
You get bonus points for having a pocket to keep business cards or a pen holder.

Style

Which occupation are you? If you are an accountant or attorney, then a luxurious briefcase made of leather would suit your needs. Are you a frequent traveler for work? An obvious option is a rolling briefcase.
You can use a casual, formal or messenger-type briefcase in a variety of situations. Although they are not usually considered a briefcase you could still use them in casual settings or when on vacation.
Hard-sided and soft-sided models are the most distinct styles. While the prevailing design may be different from time-to-time, both styles are suitable for office use and readily available.

Colors

Let's talk about colors quickly. The world we live in is a place where appearances matter. Think about the color of your bag. The more formal the bag, the darker it will be. A funeral is the most formal event. You will need a black suit and black shoes. For business meetings, navy suit or charcoal suit with brown shoes or black sneakers. Lighter-colored clothes and lighter-colored shoes are appropriate for business casual.

Waterproof/Weatherproof

Everybody gets wet sometimes. It helps to have a waterproof briefcase. You can get extra protection with weatherproof briefcases, such as the ones we have featured here.

Durability

These are the hallmarks of high quality craftsmanship when you buy a briefcase.
You should ensure that the stitching is straight and even. For consistent stitching, make sure to check the outer and inner surfaces. The bag's vulnerable parts are protected by reinforced stitching.
The quality of metal zippers is better than those made from plastic. To ensure smooth closing, open and close the zipper multiple times.
Take a look at the hinges of a hard-sided bag. The hinges should be strong and free from rust.
You should attach the handles to the briefcase's body with metal or reinforced stitches. After a while, handles that have been glued to the outside of the bag will likely come off.
These are the areas where most leather will be split or peeled.

FAQs

Is It Susceptible To Water Damage?

If the leather has been tanned with oil, it will repel water for many hours. However, your leather will still be fine and safe even if it is wet. It's possible for the leather to lose some of its color if it gets wet.

Are These Leather Briefcases For Women As Well?

Yes! There aren't briefcase laws. Women wear expensive suits for work. Some are even more expensive than the men's. She will use the briefcase in the same manner as a man and need the same features that the briefcase offers.

Is It Possible To Store A Laptop Inside A Briefcase?

Many modern briefcases have a separate laptop compartment. While most briefcases will fit a 15 inch laptop comfortably, some are designed to hold a 17.

Do People Still Use Hard Briefcases?

Hard briefcases have been in decline for the past two decades, as they are no longer fashionable. Soft briefcases, which are both practical and fashionable for professionals in business, can still be used.

What Is The Difference Between A Suitcase And A Briefcase?

A briefcase is used by business professionals to store documents. However, a larger suitcase can be used for clothes or toiletries.

Who Should Have A Briefcase?

Well, there isn't any law about who can use briefcases. law! Briefcase, lawyers! Anyone can have a briefcase. A briefcase will be the most suitable for those working in formal wear.
A shoulder bag, messenger bag cross-body, backpack, or backpack can help you look more beautiful than if you are expected to wear a tailored suit all day. That is not what anyone wants.
A briefcase is also elegant. Although it may not be as useful as a messenger or backpack for all day gear, such as lunches and your workout clothes after work, that is not its purpose. This bag is for days you feel like an extra boost of confidence while sipping your coffee.

Do Briefcases Have A Negative Impact On Your Back?

Although briefcases can be a problem for the back, they shouldn't be too heavy. The weight of a briefcase is often carried one-handed or across the shoulders with a strap. You should find that your briefcase can be carried without difficulty if it is light and not too full.

When new data becomes available, we routinely adjust the list of best leather bags. Please do regularly visit our website for the most up-to-date news.

If you have any questions or difficulties with best leather bags, please do not hesitate to contact us. We'll try our best to do everything we can to assist you if you ask!


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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

Read Katie's full bio