Best active messenger
A well-designed active messenger should deliver fast, convenient access to your gear. But it should also carry comfortably, keeping the load secure when you're on the move and taking inclement weather in its stride. Our Best Active Messenger finalists are all up to the challenge. But which one will cross the finish line first? Decide below.
Arc'teryx Granville 16 Courier Bag
Arc'teryx's Granville 16 Courier Bag is a honed offering designed for the user who wants slick, urban-ready aesthetics with outdoor technical performance. Arc'teryx's industry-leading AC² construction keeps the elements out, while one-handed release buckles and a useful range of pocketing including a padded 15″ laptop sleeve keep your gear accessible and tidy. Add in the ambidextrous shoulder strap with stabilizer, plus the padded back panel that wraps around the body for enhanced stability and comfort, and you're good to go wherever the day takes you.
Heimplanet Transit Roll Top Messenger
The performance of a messenger with briefcase-inspired style? Heimplanet's Transit Roll Top Messenger delivers both. It includes a removable webbing strap when you want to opt for top handle carry in more professional settings, and can be paired with an optional Courier Strap when it's time to get active. The water-resistant bag is made with eco-friendly DYECOSHELL fabric and adapts to changing loads thanks to its magnetic rolltop closure and G-hook. A thoughtful detail is the position of the protective laptop compartment, facing away from the wearer so the bag can wrap around the body for better comfort and stability on the go.
FROG.PRO ADEFT BLACKOUT P/01
The FROG.PRO ADEFT BLACKOUT P/01 serves up military-inspired functionality with a strong techwear vibe. An enticing mix brought together in a tough yet lightweight and adaptable messenger. Handcrafted in Italy courtesy of the Italian tactical design brand, it offers a versatile grid attachment system to tailor your carry setup to changing needs. The ambidextrous quick-release strap provides easy access on the move, while the rugged build can tackle anything you throw its way.
Blue Lug Messenger Bag
It's safe to say Tokyo-based cycling brand Blue Lug are obsessed by all things bike. And passionate about messenger origins too. The old-school aesthetics of the Blue Lug Messenger Bag give a fond salute to the original messenger bags of decades past, but the design is tricked out for modern use. A choice of six interior pockets including a 13″ laptop sleeve keep your daily essentials in order. And you'll also find webbing on the front panel under the flap, handy for securing smaller, frequently used items within easy reach.
Inside Line Equipment Mini Messenger Category One
Inside Line Equipment are a cycling brand dedicated to handcrafting durable, functional bags in Berkeley, California, using USA-sourced materials. The kind of bags that adapt to changing active needs and aren't afraid to take on demanding use. Bags like the Mini Messenger. Part of their CATEGORY ONE Collection which focuses on premium technical materials for top-of-the-line performance. The Mini Messenger is handmade with VX42 X-Pac material, giving you the benefits of lightweight, weatherproof durability in a sleek, eye-catching aesthetic. Two compartments organize your essentials, with a two-way zipper on the main compartment for easy access.
PaaGo WORKS Swing-L
Outdoor-ready durability, protection from the elements and multiple carry options make the PaaGo WORKS Swing a solid go-to trail companion for smaller loads. And with its adaptable design, it strides confidently from the wilderness into the urban jungle too. You can pick from medium and large sizes in a choice of fabric options. This version is made with X-Pac material, minimal seams and weatherproof zippers, giving you peace of mind if you're caught in inclement weather. The Swing offers three carry modes including shoulder bag and waist bag options, as well as the ability to set it up as a chest bag for easy access to outdoor essentials and more comfortable weight distribution when pairing it with a pack. And with a choice of pockets and loops at the ready, your urban and outdoor gear alike will stay tidy and conveniently accessible.
Fredrik Packers Storage Box Messenger
Sleek streetwear aesthetics, a tough build and a comfy design are things you might expect from an active messenger. But suitcase-style organization? Probably not. And that's where the Storage Box Messenger stands out, combining all of the above in a bag that transitions nimbly from everyday to travel pursuits. Multiple pockets and a clamshell-style main compartment make getting to individual items a breeze, while the cushioned harness and stabilizer strap keep the load secure on the move.
