Best sling bag-1
Best Sling Bag is a new award category we're welcoming this year. But it definitely merits the attention. The sling game has really stepped up in recent years, with designers building on the foundations of more traditional waist bags/fanny packs and taking them to the next level. Seriously upping style, honing functionality, improving organization and access, and playing with portability options to enhance that always appreciated versatility.
And so to our Best Sling Bag finalists below. All designed with these points in mind. But which one brings them together in a particularly noteworthy way? Cast your vote.
Aer Day Sling 2
Aer are all about fusing urban minimalism and functionality. And the Day Sling 2 expertly delivers both. The understated aesthetics are well complemented by a tough, water-resistant build featuring 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon. A harmonious mix of low-key style and durability that blends easily into a variety of everyday and travel environments. The organization is on point too, with front and back pockets for frequently used items and a range of further pockets in the main compartment, including space for a 7.9"tablet. A solid go-to solution for carrying work, play or travel essentials.
DSPTCH Unit Sling Pouch RND Edition
Part of DSPTCH's experimental RND line, the Unit Sling Pouch does a fine job of merging simplicity, straightforward functionality and quality construction. It's made with Dyneema Composite Fabric and weatherproof YKK zippers, so you get reliable durability and protection from the elements in a bag that weighs a mere 7 oz. The quick-adjust shoulder strap lets you easily secure and access the bag on the go. Plus it's removable, so you can transform the bag into a large pouch if desired. Two zippered compartments provide uncomplicated organization. All in a design that exudes technical street chic.
Bellroy Sling
Smart enough to carry work essentials in style, low-key enough to zip through travel environments without standing out, and easy to integrate into a wide range of day-to-day carry needs. The Bellroy Sling does all of this with an elegantly understated design that integrates useful features in a clever way. The centered strap and two-way zippers create an ambidextrous design, with a magnetic strap clasp to quickly and conveniently remove or secure the sling. The clever design also offers effortless expandability when you need to carry a little extra, with simple self-compression when you don't. And two compartments are on hand to organize your gear, with an interior soft-lined pocket for delicate items like sunglasses.
CODEOFBELL X-POD
Want the flexibility to haul larger loads, with the convenience of more compact carry when you just need the essentials? While enjoying a range of options to keep your gear tidy? The X-POD is well up to the task with dual compartments, the front of which expands to provide an extra 2.2L of space if required. There are also multiple pockets at the ready to neatly stash smaller items. And it's all delivered with slick urban styling in a tough, weatherproof and comfy build that can be worn across the back, chest or around the hips to suit your preferences.
The Brown Buffalo Concealsling
Functional, stylish and adaptable, the Concealsling is a versatile piece that works just as well carrying commute essentials as it does storing important travel necessities or EDC items for a day about town. Made with abrasion-resistant, water-resistant 420D nylon, it makes organizing and accessing gear straightforward with a choice of three compartments. And side compression straps allow you to cinch it down when you're traveling light and breezing through traffic.
Greenroom136 Metrodrifter
The Metrodrifter is a tough and trusty sling that can tackle a range of carry needs and environments. An exterior pocket and webbing take care of quick-access items, while further pockets in the main compartment provide additional organization, including storage for a 9.7"tablet. And the extended inner shell does double duty keeping items in while keeping wet weather out. The adjustable strap includes a removable shoulder pad, and the build is backed by a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
CamelBak Pivot Sling
Sleek and minimalist in style, practical for everyday and travel use, and giving a nod to eco-conscious construction, the Pivot Sling is an enticing choice for carrying smaller loads. It's made with 70% recycled materials and backed by a lifetime guarantee. It can be worn as a sling or around the waist, and offers a discreet exterior back pocket along with a choice of pockets in the main compartment and handy two-way zip closure.
Minaal Crossbody
Uber-clean aesthetics and a compact form allow the Minaal Crossbody to effortlessly glide into a range of travel or day-to-day settings. But don't let those minimalist looks fool you. It's not lacking in functionality, dishing up useful features such as layered interior pockets for easier access, a discreet security pocket, a magnetic quick-release strap clip for one-handed removal, as well as a custom-molded foam back panel and stretch-fabric wings for enhanced user comfort.
The North Face Purple Label Cordura Nylon Lumbar Pack
The North Face Purple Label Cordura Nylon Lumbar Pack delivers the brand's signature Japanese streetwear vibe in a durable, versatile design for tackling the city streets or travel adventures. It's made with a combination of 500D Cordura nylon and 100D ripstop nylon. Front and side pockets store small essentials at the ready, while the main compartment houses larger items. And compression straps allow you to adjust the bag's size when you're after a slimmer profile.
