Best Work shoulder bag
Shoulder bags are a staple across countless working environments. But what makes for a good one? Work-appropriate form should definitely be present. But it should also function well too, delivering effective organization and access along with trusty build quality. Drop in a little versatility to zip between different settings and carry needs, and you're onto a good thing.
Our Best Work Shoulder Bag finalists aren't afraid to roll up their sleeves and get down to helping you conquer a busy day. But which one will score top honors? Cast your vote below.
Brooks England Strand Shoulder Bag
Cycling-oriented bags can sometimes slack off in the looks department. But the Brooks England Strand starts your day off in suitably professional style. And it's got that drizzly commute covered too with its durable, weatherproof PU-coated Nylon 66 and Cordura build complemented by YKK AquaGuard zippers. An easy-access padded laptop compartment takes care of your tech, while the cycling belt stabilizes the load during an active commute. A dapper pick indeed when two wheels take you to work and back.
Trakke Wee Lug V3
Trakke have dialed in on a host of collection revamps recently, from more sophisticated patternmaking to improved pocketing. And the tough and adaptable Wee Lug has welcomed a range of thoughtful updates to enhance its functionality and user-friendly design. The pattern has been honed for improved comfort, with a grab handle at the ready too for easy portability. And the organization has undergone a significant improvement too, with front pockets conveniently accessible even with the flap down and a redesigned interior layout so you can neatly store water bottles, small EDC or work items and a laptop. All while still enjoying the durable, weatherproof, handcrafted construction that has become a respected trademark of the Glasgow-based brand.
Porter Bond 2Way Briefcase
One of our favorite Japanese brands, Porter are always on point when it comes to balancing form, function and versatility and delivering it with world-class build quality. The Bond 2Way Briefcase is no exception, merging military inspiration with urban-ready functionality and aesthetics. The bag is crafted in Japan with a durable Japanese-made nylon, with leather detailing softening the rugged look and adding a sophisticated touch to the design. And the multiple compartments and assortment of pockets will please packers who appreciate the "place for everything” approach, keeping gear neat and at the ready throughout the day. Plus it carries as both a shoulder bag or briefcase to suit your needs, with a self-standing design for easy gear retrieval.
Topo Designs Messenger Bag
Topo's playful heritage vibe is ever present with their Messenger Bag, all in a straight-lined silhouette that's timeless and classy. Made with a burly 1000D nylon, water-resistant truck tarp lining and weatherproof zippers it can tackle long days on the go and inclement weather. The interior offers a padded 15"laptop sleeve, with an exterior back pocket that also accommodates a laptop if you want to keep tech quickly accessible. The messenger can be carried with the removable shoulder strap or top carry handle and also offers dual closure options including G-hooks and hook and loop for quick access or added security as required.
Outlier Experiment 154-Paper Nylon Cross Chest Bag
Outlier have never been ones to shy away from experimentation, pushing fabric innovations and rethinking formats to deliver their signature take on everyday and travel gear. And their Experiment 154-Paper Nylon Cross Chest Bag does both. It's crafted with a Japanese-made nylon canvas that undergoes a process to create a crackly, paper-like structure. The Fidlock Strike closure lets you adjust the volume to suit different loads, with rear hooks and webbing to secure extra items externally. Slim and chic, it's an eye-catching piece for carrying smaller work loads.
beruf baggage brf CF11 Rush Messenger Bag
beruf baggage have designed the Rush Messenger with urban bike commuters in mind who want a bag that moves smoothly between on and off-bike use. The tough, water-resistant Cordura nylon build embraces demanding, all-weather use, while the clean aesthetics look suitably appropriate across a range of work settings. The bag also offers an ambidextrous shoulder strap, a 13"laptop sleeve and a variety of organization pockets to tailor it to your setup preferences.
BOND Travel Gear Attache 13
The Attache 13 may be inspired by military toughness and reliability, but it's ready to conquer the urban jungle. Low-key aesthetics allow it to fly under the radar across varying work, everyday and travel environments. The removable shoulder strap lets you swap easily between shoulder bag and briefcase modes. And the access is solid, with a clamshell opening and a host of pockets and elastic loops for quick, convenient access to all your gear. And with its durable, water-resistant nylon and Hypalon build backed by a lifetime guarantee, it's a piece you can reach for time and again and trust to get the carry job done.
Incase Kanso Convertible Brief
Flexible portability, plenty of organization and pared-back aesthetics all in one adaptable bag? Challenge accepted and well met by the Kanso Convertible Brief. The bag offers three carry options including shoulder bag, backpack and briefcase mode, letting you carry comfortably during commutes and step up your professional appearance during working hours. Dual compartments and an assortment of pockets take care of your work tools and EDC, with padded storage for up to a 15"laptop. And Incase's signature clean urban styling is in fine display here, helping you seamlessly transition between formal and informal environments alike.
