Messenger Bag Archives - BestLeather.org

December 19, 2016December 19, 2017

First Impressions – Rugged Material Messenger Bag

Recently I reached out to the good folks at Rugged Material. Having successfully funded and provided goods through a Kickstarter campaign, I expected great things. I think it is fairly understated to have the ability to speak directly with the founder of a staffed company as a first-time customer. I got that experience from Tyler Condie, the founder of Rugged Material. He’s surrounded by a great team of folks dedicated towards designing and making goods guaranteed for life, and proudly made in the USA. Tyler was kind enough to send in a pull-up brown messenger bag that I’ll be giving my first impressions on, with a long-term use review in the future.

The Rugged Material Messenger Bag is a merge between the classic messenger design with modernized, rugged construction. The exterior of the bag is constructed of four major pieces of full grained oil-tan leather, with additional belt straps and a front pocket which bears the laser-burned logo. A polyester thread is used that is UV-resistant and also resistant to breakdown from leather creams and conditioners. Nickel-plated brass hardware is evident in the rivets, d rings, and handle. The closures are constructed of matte finished aluminum slide release buckles. The outside dimensions of the bag are 16.5″ x 5″ x 13″.

While the bag is definitely rugged, it has some formal finishing. The rounded corners on the leather as well as the attention to detail played on the stitching of the entire bag and the handle make solid statements.

The strap is the epitome of ruggedness – substantial full grain leather with nylon webbing (think seat-belt) stitched to the backside to prevent stretching and sustain heavy loads. This webbing is also implemented in the d-rings for the shoulder strap attachment as well as the handle. Adjustment of the strap is simple using tri-glide keepers and the bag can be worn on one shoulder like a briefcase or cross body like a messenger. The width of the strap is 1.5 inches, not too thick to look overbearing on a person of smaller stature and expandable from 36” to 59”.

The interior of the bag is nicely lined on the front and back with a black pigskin leather. This adds rigidity to the bag as well as it is a durable, easy to clean surface in case of spills. I do wish that a piece of pigskin coated the bottom of the bag, but that may add too much construction/rigidity if stitched in. A removable piece of pigskin would be nice to prevent spills to the bottom as well as stash extra bills or small documents under. The pockets hold a cellphone, most 14 inch laptops, and a full sized iPad or similar tablet. The front pocket could easily hold document folders, receipts, and other small items.

After handling this bag initially, I can say that the Rugged Material Messenger Bag is one of the bags I wish I’d had to get through undergraduate and graduate studies. At $295 it is very competitively priced among bags of the same dimensions and quality. Being a direct-to-consumer company, customers are not hit with the additional costs associated with outsourcing production from companies that choose to only design their products. Going along with their motto, their bag is USA-made and guaranteed for life. The bag is also set to handle the working environments I am in, so I am looking forward to giving it some long term use and following up on its durability and function.

December 5, 2016December 19, 2017

Korchmar Garfield Laptop Messenger Bag Review – $465

We’ve recently partnered with Korchmar to host a giveaway. Prior to the giveaway, I was given a chance to review the bag chosen. Check out this review and head on over to our giveaway page to participate!

When shopping for a bag that can carry larger sized laptops, there is often a fight between major components such as size/weight, capacity, durability, and look. For those with 15-inch laptops, you can often run into a bag that is too big or too small, and made out of cheaper materials such as nylon. Too heavy – you’ll likely not want to carry it given the added weight your electronics will add. Too light – and you’re left wondering how long the bag will last. Korchmar has created the Garfield messenger bag as a solution to those who may need to carry larger laptops and other items while being durable enough to handle their daily activities.

Korchmar is a fourth-generation family owned company which produces goods made in the United States. They have been in business since 1917, nearing 100 years. Michael Korchmar is the current President of the company that has been making business-style cases since the 1920s after originally starting with leather headlamp covers for automobiles.

The Garfield bag is constructed primarily of Full grain leather. This bag is part of Korchmar’s Pull-up Collection which includes chrome tanned leather that was also re-tanned with vegetable tanned methods. This particular bag comes with its share of full grain characteristics – scratches and veining/marbling of the cowhide showing. While full grain, I suspect the Texas-raised hides for these bags are picked and cut such to avoid using high stretch-mark areas of the hide such as belly leather which could affect durability. Having previously carried another heavier full grain bag for my laptops, this one is considerably lighter but not too light. As the bag begins to take on patina it will take on more scratches from use, perfect for those who love the aged look. The hardware is solid brass and compliments the leather color.The major edges of the bag are covered with another layer of leather, which adds to a more formal finished look. The logo is placed on the right front pocket, de-bossed in with a subtle appearance.

The interior is lined with patterned canvas as well as the two outside gusseted pockets on the front and the newspaper pocket on the back. Inside, there is a keychain strap as well as multiple pockets for storing iPads, most 15 inch laptops, charging cables, and cell phones/PDA. The bag also sports a rear pocket and a nylon webbing-backed luggage strap along the backside for transport on rolling carriers. I was able to fit my 14 or my 15 inch laptop, an ipad, iphone, a full sized notepad in cover, phone, keys, field notes, and kindle eReader in the main storage. There is still space in the zippered pocket that I used to stash receipts or smaller papers. I’ll note that next to the cellphone there are multiple webbed pockets for other items such as card readers, business cards, and headphone cables. In the front pockets I stored chargers for electronics in one, and lunch (typically a sandwich, chips, fruit) in the other pocket. The back rear pocket typically holds my bullet journal.

The shoulder strap is padded with a rough suede side that grips well to suit jackets, shirts, and sweaters. The only negative I’ve experienced with the strap is that its construction utilizes relatively thin pieces of leather glued and stitched together. I would have liked to see thicker leather strips sewn together for the strap. The padded handle is one of the most comfortable handles on a briefcase I have used, nicely cushioned without pvc inserts which are sometimes to maintain structure.

One of the most useful features of the bag is how it opens. The Garfield utilizes a Tuck-Tite quick release system partially hidden behind the buckles. They are magnetic and also release with a push of a button. The buckles are also functional in that they allow for expansion of the bags capacity. This is a perfect setup for the individual looking to hold that business briefcase look while also needing fast or frequent access to the inner compartments. I could classify this as a tech bag in that it adequately protects my 15-inch laptop as well as cased iPad mini. Fully loaded with my work gear, this the initial weight of the bag was not as cumbersome as bags I have owned in the past.

This bag really nails the design and aesthetics, particularly with the quick-release buckles and the shape of the top flap. Notice how the edges in the photo below curve in slightly towards the bag. This is a functional element I enjoyed because when you carrying briefcases by shoulder straps, the edges of the flap can begin to crease inward if they are straight cut. Korchmar’s choice to curve the edges allows more maneuverability and avoidance of the bag creasing at those points. The ability to slide the bag onto rolling luggage via the back luggage strap is also an important feature.

While the gusset on the main compartment is not one complete piece of leather, the bottom piece is placed in a way to insure durability. The bottom of the bag has some added support or padding to avoid damage of the inner contents. The construction gives me no suspicions or fears of splitting like bags that are stitched in the bottom middle part of the bag.

Overall, I can say with confidence that the Korchmar Garfield bag is a Buy it for Life product in all aspects. Priced at $465, it is worth the investment especially being proudly made in the USA. Accompanied by a 5-year warranty, the bag will surely stand up against regular use while protecting your goods. While some prefer suede or unlined interiors, I believe the canvas lining is the perfect choice when carrying electronics. The size of the bag is well-suited for the individual carrying a laptop and other business related items such as notepads and file folders.

Want this bag for free? Enter our giveaway below for your chance to win it!

[RF_CONTEST contest=’3805′]

September 18, 2015December 19, 2017

WOTANCRAFT RANGER CAMERA BAG + WATERPROOF INSERT COMBO SET – $549.00

In our last review with Wotancraft, we were introduced to their striking Ryker camera bag which combined a compact sized carry with excellent craftsmanship and detailed features. Unlike Biz Markie, Wotancraft is no one trick pony, they offer a full selection of carry options. We were very excited to review one of their larger and more rugged bags, The Wotancraft Ranger Camera Bag + Waterproof Insert Combo Set.

CONSTRUCTION

Wotancraft’s Ranger is primarily fabricated from their W.A.L. (Water-repellent, abrasion-resistant, lightweight) waxed canvas. All metal hardware is used for the buttons and buckles. The large front flap is made from specially ordered sheepskin and the strap is constructed from full grain leather. All straps are reinforced with a Box X pattern stitch for added strength. The removable interior is a U shaped foam padded insert with a microfiber interior, and features removable velcro padded partitions for separating gear.

The same interior configuration for the padded insert is used in the waterproof insert which Wotancraft describes as a “Waterproof insert made of hovercraft-grade thermoforming technique, making the insert fully waterproof all the way up to the zipper height. The zipper itself is YKK water-repellent zipper with edge sealing, capable of sustaining temporary drowning when fully zipped.”

So yeah, you can totally take this bag crocodile shooting. If one tips your boat, just rest assured that while you might not be found, at least your camera will be intact. The bag itself (excluding inserts) weighs in at 3lbs 8 oz. The microfiber insert weighs just over a pound and the waterproof insert comes in at 1lb 11oz. Bag dimensions are 12” high, 16” wide and 7” deep.

FUNCTION

If you’re carrying expensive camera equipment, rest assured it will be very protected in the Ranger. The U shaped insert offers ample foam padding on the bottom, sides and top. This bag is able to carry multiple DSLR’s and lenses. The smaller side pockets are great for memory cards and spare batteries. The flap allows quick access to your gear, and you can zip up the main compartment when you feel the need to keep your contents secure. Just by handling the bag, one can notice how much thought went into functionality. The button snaps have small finger pockets under them to allow you to close them one handed by pinching them shut rather than pressing.

The Ranger is more than just a camera bag. Thanks to the removable inserts, the Ranger doubles as a great overnight bag, I was able to smartly pack for a overnight stay. You can fit a 15” laptop no problem, and the interior zippered compartment is great for tablets or books. The bottom has leather straps great for attaching a tripod or spare jacket as well making this bag a great option for someone desiring a multipurpose carry option.

AESTHETIC

The great thing about the Ranger….is that it actually looks just as good if not better than it does in pictures. It’s rugged without being over the top, and refined enough to transition from outdoors to city effortlessly. Waxed canvas, much like leather, only gets better with age, so expect character to develop with use. The grey canvas will be more forgiving and be able to hide stains and markings which I really appreciate as well. With an aesthetic that really conjures up adventure, the Ranger really lives up to its namesake.

CONCLUSION

Good looks, versatility and quality construction make this bag a triple threat. With a hefty price tag of 549.00, The Wotancraft Ranger Camera Bag + Waterproof Insert Combo Set isn’t for everyone. If you really like the bag but don’t feel the need for the waterproof insert you can nab a Wotancraft Ranger for $499. Either route you go you’re getting a top notch bag that does a lot more than carry your camera.

August 12, 2015December 19, 2017

LederMann Rugged Leather Briefcase Messenger Bag Backpack Review – $455

We’re changing things up a little bit here. That doesn’t sound quite right. We’re working to add a new component to our BestLeather readers with the addition of some occasional short video reviews of the products that we review. Our first foray into this is a feature style on LederMann’s newest bag – their Rugged Leather Briefcase Messenger Bag Backpack. And, apologies in advance for some of the wind noise in the video.

As you can assume from the name of the bag, it’s multipurpose in its design. It can easily serve as a formal, large briefcase. It functions very well as a messenger bag for casual, less formal business or scholarly pursuits. It can easily work as a classy overnight bag. And, you can load it up, reconfigure the shoulder strap and carry it backpack style. This is a new style of leather that LederMann is offering too. This “Rugged Leather” style has a unique texture to it and looks to offer great longevity and should develop an excellent patina with time and use. The Rugged Leather has a bit of a rough out feel to it…but certainly not that rough. It’s just similar.

We highlight most of these items in the video, but here’s a quick rundown of the LederMann bag’s features:

Thick Full Grain Leather, 4 – 5 oz. (2 – 2.2 mm)
Suede Lining
Heavy-duty, Industrial Nylon Thread
Machine Pressed Heavy Duty Rivets at all stress points.
Size: 16″W X 12″H X 6″D inch.
Front Pocket/Compartment Size: 13″W x 9″H x 1.5″D inch for the open
pocket compartment
Easily converts to a Backpack.
When you order from LederMann, you enjoy free shipping to United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia,
Italy, France, Germany and many other countries.

LederMann is also going to be sponsoring a giveaway for a slightly different bag featuring this same new rugged leather. So, be on the lookout for that very soon. And, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter too as we’ll be sending out a special promotion from LederMann offering some fantastic savings just for BestLeather readers! In the meantime, please check out the LederMann website and look at all of the great, well made leather products they create and sell there.

July 9, 2015December 19, 2017

White Buffalo Republic Fairview Messenger Bag Review – $279.99

Jim Bridger, Kit Carson, John Colter, Jedediah Smith, William Sublette – all mountain men who embraced adventure and the unknown on a daily basis. During the westward expansion of the United States, these men and their ways, became the “legendary stuff of legends”. To this day their grandiose deeds inspire. One of the things these guys were known for was their “possibles bags”. Generally a possibles bag was made from some type of leather – most likely from an animal they had harvested on their own. This bag was used to carry Items they deemed necessary and critical to have at hand at all times. While I’m sure today’s list of ‘necessary, at hand items’ is much, much different than during those days, White Buffalo Republic has designed a series of “possibles bags” for modern day adventurers and we’re taking a look at their Fairview Messenger Bag.

About White Buffalo Republic

White Buffalo Republic is based in Afton, WY. Its full catalog of bags and cases are made in Guatemala. “White Buffalo Republic bags are unique, simple, useful, handcrafted works of functional art. While the modern adventurer and explorer’s tools have changed, the need to have a quality bag to carry the tools in has not. Our philosophy and operations are based on the “old fashioned” notions of attention to detail, pride in our product, and value for our customers. Our calling is not just to produce fine quality leather goods – we also strive to treat all with whom we deal fairly and honestly. We believe that these traits are the marks of true craftsmen.”

Construction

The Fairview, and all of their products, are made with locally sourced, full grain, vegetable tanned leather. The entire tanning process is actually done right in Guatemala by local craftsmen. Each hide is cleaned and dyed using natural oils and waxes to produce an attractive and durable finish. Once White Buffalo Republic’s own team of artisans get the leather, they hand cut and stitch each component of the bag. Every bag is hand stitched using the traditional double stitch method employed by saddle makers to produce an iron tough bond. The hardware is United States sourced stainless steel or nickel, all of which has proved to be sturdy and durable.

Function

The Fairview is nice and roomy, at 16″ x 10 ½” x 4 ¼”. It fits my laptop and other items well and has ample room for my books, magazines and papers from work. I would like to see a zippered section where I could store smaller things like change, cords etc. It would also be great if one of the inside pockets fit an actual tablet. I find myself putting it in a bigger pocket and I worry about it getting messed up. But none of these minor issues would have me going back to a cheap nylon messenger bag.

The 1 ½ “ strap is adjustable from 40 1/2″ to 54 1/2″ and includes a leather shoulder pad. The strap and its hardware both feel very sturdy and have performed with no issues. The carry handle is well sized and shaped, and provides a nice alternate carry method. You just need to ensure the main flap is secured in order to carry it with the handle.

Aesthetic

From the White Buffalo Republic website: “All of our bags are made of full grain, high quality, natural veg tanned leather. While each bag will fit the standardize size specifications noted in the description, not every bag will be exactly like the model shown in the picture. Your bag will be unique. Some bags come with brand marks, evidence of insect bites, or a myriad of other marks or scars that add character. (If you find yourself bored in a board meeting, you can let your mind ponder how that scar got there.)” The bag we received has an awesome brand mark right on the front of the bag, which definitely makes it a one of a kind piece. And, it’s something people notice, comment about, and overwhelmingly appreciate.

My Fairview Messenger is in the color “Antique Brown,” but it also comes in a natural veg-tan color. The Antique Brown color has a beautiful, rich coloring right out of the box, and only continues to darken and develop a gorgeous patina. The double strap, dark coloring, and squared edges really give it that western, rugged flair.

Conclusion

I think close to 20 people commented on my bag within the month I had it…and the comments continue to come wherever I carry it. Some of them have pulled me aside while walking into or out of our office. “Nice bag, man!” is what I hear a lot. And I do love the bag. I love that is sturdy. There isn’t anything about this bag that looks or feels like it is going to fall apart.

At $279.99, the White Buffalo Republic Fairview Messenger Bag is closer to the lower end of the price spectrum, but the quality easily matches bags in the $400+ range. This bag is sturdy, attractive, and quality, perfect for the “modern adventurer.” It definitely qualifies as an excellent purchase for the price. In addition to the Fairview Messenger, White Buffalo Republic has several other messenger and briefcase designs in their arsenal. Be sure to check all of them out.

April 23, 2015December 19, 2017

Floto Imports Messenger Brief Review – $399

Floto Imports and BestLeather have the epitome of the perfect BestLeather relationship. We have reviewed numerous Floto Imports products, they advertise on our website, and we enjoy every second of this mutually beneficial partnership. So when we received yet another bag from Floto Imports, we were extremely thrilled.

When BestLeather initially received this bag, I didn’t see it right away. Many others saw it, held it, “smelt” it, and inspected it before I even had a chance. However, when the bag was shown to me, I immediately fell for it. It’s rich brown leather, stunning brass hardware, and aesthetically pleasing streamlined appearance were enough to make me want to fight for the bag and the chance to review it.

About

Floto Imports was established in 2003 and is based in Brooklyn, NY. All of their products are manufactured in Italy with the philosophy, “older is better”. While many companies like to innovate and use new technology to construct their leather goods, Floto’s goal is “to refine old world craft methods to produce pieces that are superior to mass-produced luggage.” Read what the company is all about here. Each and every one of their bags we have reviewed live up to this mission.

Construction

The Floto Imports Messenger Brief features their Saddle Brown Italian calfskin leather. The leather’s refreshing burgundy tint and heavy-duty stitching contrast nicely with the precision Swiss made Amiet lock and brass hardware used throughout the Messenger Brief. The detachable, adjustable shoulder strap lets you convert this bag from a slung over the shoulder messenger bag to a business brief. The messenger is 12″ high x 4″ wide x 15.5″ long. It is the perfect size for a 13” to 15” laptop.

The only issue with the Messenger Brief’s construction is its thin detachable shoulder strap. The rest of the bag is sturdy and well made, but the strap is just a little lacking. Floto has already addressed this issue, and you have the option of upgrading to their heavy duty Grande Strap if you require a little extra support and strength.

Function

Opening up the front cover, the inside has two 12” deep compartments. The front compartment consists of penholders, cardholders, and a cell phone sleeve. The second compartment is for your laptop or schoolbooks. Two zippered compartments on the front and back exterior provide much more space for essential items. I fit my 13” MacBook Air, a spiral notebook, a skinny folder, 3 pens, and a pocketknife, all with plenty of room for more.

Aesthetic

My favorite aspect of this bag is the way the leather feels. So far I have not felt or used a bag quite as soft as this. The leather’s color and build demonstrates class and bravura – yet its touch is supple, inviting, and easy to use everyday. I carried this bag frequently for the last few weeks of school and took it with me to the trade shows in Las Vegas. Every single time I took the bag somewhere, someone would comment on its beauty and attractiveness. It actually became a great marketing tool both for BestLeather and Floto Imports because I had the opportunity to explain the BestLeather review process, and how and where to get a bag like mine.

Over time this bag will develop a lovely patina. It has already shown excellent wear and tear just from a few months of semi-hard use. I am looking forward to watching it change as I consistently use it for years.

Conclusion

The Floto Imports Messenger Brief has impressed me again and again. I am extremely satisfied with this bag. The leather’s soft touch, unique color, and stunning looks were all enough to convince me to purchase another Floto Imports bag. This messenger brief is currently available on the Floto Imports website. If you care about functionality, style, and love Italian leather like I do, this is the bag for you.

July 1, 2014December 19, 2017

Hermann Oak Leather Company – About The Sierra Latigo Line of Leather

The Hermann Oak Leather Company was established in 1881 in order to handle the local harness trade and to supply the wagon trains of settlers traveling west along the Lewis and Clark trails. As the company grew, they began to supply the US military with various leather needs for both World Wars, and also began to establish a reputation for producing some of the finest vegetable tanned leathers available. Hermann Oak has become renowned for supplying world class vegetable tanned leather for not just the equine industry, but for consumer goods as well. To read more about Hermann Oak, you can read our previous article on them here. Hermann Oak agreed to send BestLeather.org four of their premium hides for us to do articles on. They sent us their Sierra Latigo, Harness and two English Bridle hides. We decided that the best way to showcase and learn of their leather was to make something from each hide. For this article, we will discuss what we made from their Sierra Latigo leather.

After unrolling the nearly nine foot long by three foot wide cowhide, we decided that Hermann Oak’s Latigo would be perfect for a messenger style bag. Hermann Oak’s leather is known for it’s stiffness, which is a hallmark of quality vegetable tanned leather. Another hallmark of vegetable tanned leather is durability. I have seen a number of bags and consumer goods that are decades old, still look great, and that still have plenty of life in them. Hermann Oak’s Latigo leather, and the bag we made from it, will surely outlast me and perhaps even my children. The style of messenger bag that we chose is well suited for stiff and durable leather, as it holds its shape well. The bag we made is approximately 16″ wide, by 12″ tall, by 6″ deep. For this bag, we also decided to add front pockets, two exterior side pockets, one for each side, and two interior side pockets, again one for each side.

WEIGHT

The Latigo that we were sent weighs in at seven to nine ounces. This is thick leather, especially for a consumer good, but everybody that has felt and hefted the bag has loved it. There is something strangely satisfying with a good that is slightly overbuilt. You can also get Hermann Oak’s Latigo in five to seven ounces, or nine to eleven ounces. As mentioned, Hermann Oak is known for its vegetable tanning process. Vegetable tanning is an age old process of tanning leather using natural tree barks and extracts, which involves multiple procedures, over a number of months. The end product is typically a stiffer leather, that is significantly more durable than the more common chrome tanned leather. Vegetable tanned leather will also patina over time, which simply means that the leather will absorb the oils from your skin and will darken and change color a bit as a result. Vegetable tanned leather also tends to look even better when worn. It is an excellent choice for consumer goods.

COLOR

The Latigo’s color is a deep burgundy, which is a beautiful darker color. Hermann Oak also sells their Latigo in a red, black, brown or yellow. The yellow Latigo is a drier product, while the other colors are waxed and hot stuffed, which allows for a cleaner, smoother edge when cut. The Latigo has a beautiful, lustrous appearance, without being “shiny”. It looks good and feels very smooth to the touch. We decided not to line the bag with any material because the “unfinished” side was smooth enough to not warrant a lining, but also because we like the look of the raw leather.

DRUM DYING

The majority of Hermann Oak’s leathers are not “struck through”, where the leather is kept in dye drum’s long enough for the dyes to penetrate to the center of the leather. This is a cost saving measure which Hermann Oak uses to keep its leather more affordable. This does not affect the durability or performance of the leather, just the appearance. The result is that the color on the exposed edges of the leather (a light brown) is different than the dyed color. Many of the consumer goods companies that use this leather will either hand paint or hand dye the edges to produce a more uniform look. For this particular bag, I did not mind the light brown appearance of the edges. It seemed to give the bag a bit more character and contrast to the dark burgundy color. In speaking with Shep Hermann, he indicated that they will do special orders where clients can specify that the dyes be struck through the leather with some additional cost. If that is a requisite that you have for your leather goods, it certainly is something that Hermann Oak can do.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

Hermann Oak’s Sierra Latigo leather is a beautiful result of traditional tanning and craftsmanship. It has a gorgeous finish, yet is stiff and extremely durable. Although we are not expert leather craftsman at BestLeather.org, the bag that was made from Hermann Oak’s Latigo is handsome, mostly due to high quality vegetable tanned leather. If you are a leather craftsman and have a need for high quality vegetable tanned leather for a variety of purposes, you will be extremely pleased with Hermann Oak leather.

See below for a quick snapshot from hide to bag.