There are tons of backpacks in the market that come in different capacities, sizes, and styles that will fit any purpose. You may think that it’s time for an upgrade when it comes to your backpacks, and a leather backpack is a way to go. You would need to find yourself a leather backpack that is stylish and durable that can be great for regular use.
Choosing a leather backpack that is best for you can be challenging. You don’t have to worry because, in this article, I have listed all of the best leather backpacks that you can get in the market that will fit any budget that you may have. I will also talk about the different factors you need to consider when buying a leather backpack. Lastly, I will also talk about how you can take care of your leather backpacks.
Leather Backpacks Under $200
There’s no need for leather backpacks to be expensive. You can buy beautiful leather backpacks at a budget-friendly price that will match any outfit of the day that you have. The following will list the backpacks that are under $200.
RedMaus Vegan Leather Backpack
The RedMaus Vegan Leather Backpack is made with high-quality vegan leather. It is soft and lightweight but also durable at the same time. This leather backpack provides a rustic and distressed look when worn. It has one interior and exterior zipper pocket, while the straps are adjustable for your comfort.
This backpack is great for men as well as women and available in two sizes which are small (17 x 27 x 30 cm) and large (20 x 30 x 36 cm). It is also available in different colors, including Brown, Dark Brown, Black, Blue, Beige, Green, Purple, Red, and Burgundy. The cost of the RedMaus Vegan Leather Backpack is $82.49. Check their Etsy page – Redmaus.
GQ x Steve Madden “Matthew” Leather Backpack
GQ and Steve Madden are two known brands that have collaborated to create a quality leather backpack without breaking your bank accounts. This leather backpack is available only in black and is made with leather as well as nylon. It is available in medium size, which measures 11 1/4” W x 16” H x 6 1/4” D.
It has a two-way zip closure, a top carry handle, and adjustable shoulder straps for your comfort. There’s also an exterior zip pocket for easy access to your belongings. It has smart leather construction that elevates a compact backpack designed for your everyday use.
The cost of the GQ x Steve Madden “Matthew” Leather Backpack is $112.
Nordstrom Convertible Diaper Leather Backpack: Perfect for Moms
The Nordstrom Convertible Diaper Leather Backpack is perfect for the moms out there. When you are looking for the perfect diaper bag, it should have excellent organization and compartments that hold everything for your little one’s needs as well as your own.
When it comes to this Nordstrom Convertible Diaper Leather Backpack, you have different options on how you can wear it on your back. You can wear it as a backpack or a crossbody bag. It is a stylish pick that doesn’t look like your regular diaper bag. This leather backpack has a front zippered pocket and two side pockets for easy access to the items that you need.
This diaper leather backpack measures 15 1/2″H x 13″W x 7″ D, and its interior capacity is extra large. The convertible strap can drop from 13 to 24 inches, and the entire bag weighs 2.60 pounds. It has a top zip closure with a magnetic snap flap, easy to carry handle, and is made with vegan leather.
Now, there’s one downside to this bag since there are some reviews where others had durability issues. Aside from that, the Nordstrom Convertible Diaper Leather Backpack costs $169.99.
The Transport Rucksack: The Best Leather Backpack for Women
The Transport Rucksack is made with high-quality vegan leather. It can be worn in different ways, depending on what your style is for the day. You can sling it over one arm without any worry, carry it by the handle, or wear it over both your shoulders as a backpack. It is definitely a sleek backpack that you can wear every day.
The leather feels ruggedly cool, soft, and sturdy. It has an easy drawstring opening for you to throw all the essentials you need in your backpack. The Transport Rucksack also has a slender collar-tab closure for you to keep your belongings safe at all times. It has plentiful pockets, which help you keep organized and great to find whatever you need in a snap of a finger.
The Transport Rucksack is perfect for everyday use and the best leather backpack for women that hit the under $200 mark. It has an exterior flap pocket, interior zip, and smartphone pockets. It is made with the highest quality of leather and has a beautiful, sophisticated design.
You can mix and match your outfit of the day with the Transport Rucksack leather backpack. Rest assured that this leather backpack will match your chosen outfit, from the perfect dress to the classic denim and tee. The Transport Rucksack makes you feel free, like you’ve worn and loved them for years.
The Transport Rucksack cost $179.50.
Leather Backpacks Under $500
If you are in the mid margin when it comes to buying the perfect leather backpack, this is the section for you. Here’s some of the leather backpack that is available under the $500 mark.
ISM The Backpack: Best Leather Backpack for Men
ISM The Backpack is the best leather backpack for men to use. You are getting the same luxury product, but it is three to five times cheaper. ISM The Backpack is made with the highest grade of full-grain leather and waterproof nylon. This backpack has an outstanding balance of casual and professional.
It has a modern, sleek design, and it is great for those who love minimalist designs. This bag provides excellent organization and compartmentalization. It has a pass-through flap which makes it super easy to keep your phone charging and easy accessibility. Though it does say ISM The Backpack is excellent for men; it is also great for women.
ISM The Backpack has easy laptop access that can keep your laptop safe and easily accessible. If you want to spend some time in a coffee shop with your laptop, this is the best backpack to bring.
Now, there are some downsides when it comes to this backpack. The external back pocket is not easily accessible, and a side pocket could have been better. Also, the backpack is pretty rigid and doesn’t have much give when overfilled. Lastly, there is a lack of color options because black is only available, and it’s not made with 100% natural fibers.
ISM The Backpack is available in two sizes which are small (15” H x 11” W x 4” D) and large (17” H x 12” W x 5” D). The small size can fit a 13-inch laptop, and the large size can fit a 15-inch laptop. This leather backpack costs $225.
Leatherology Parker Backpack: Best Leather Backpack for Women
The best leather backpack for women is the Leatherology Parker Backpack. It is made with soft leather, which makes the bag comfortable to use. It is spacious inside and can easily fit a water bottle and change of clothes. It also keeps your tech separate from everything else that you have in your bag.
If you are a frequent flyer, this is the best backpack for you since it can easily fit under the airline seat. You can also add a personalized monogram for an extra price but not expensive. It has a front exterior zipped compartment and two large zippered main compartments. This leather backpack is made with the highest quality of full-grain leather.
It has slim zipped laptop pockets that can fit up to 15-inch laptops. Aside from the front exterior pockets, it also has two exterior side pockets, which are great for keeping your keys and chargers. There are two interior open pockets with one small zip pocket. The Leatherology Parker Backpack measures 18″H x 13.8″W x 8″D. It also has adjustable shoulder straps 31 inches long at the longest settings.
Now, the downside to this backpack is there are more durable options. The soft leather is beautiful but not as durable as other leather backpacks. Also, there’s no warranty when you purchase the Leatherology Parker Backpack. Don’t get me wrong, it is still a quality backpack, and the leather grain is variable in look.
The Leatherology Parker Backpack is available in different colors: Black Onyx, Cognac, Brown, Ginger, Taupe, Navy, and Charcoal. This leather backpack costs $330.
ONA’s Monterey Backpack
The ONA’s Monterey Backpack is the perfect size for carry-on luggage. Just like Leatherology, it can easily slip under the seat of the plane. There is plenty of room for your tech storages, and each compartment has its own access point. It has an air mesh back panel and is great when you want to take some cameras to a humid climate or if you hate being sweaty.
This leather backpack has a double closing system that includes a zipper and buckle for the ultimate security of your belongings. It is handcrafted and made with premium waxed canvas and leather. You can store up to five lenses in your backpack and have an adjustable height for personal items. There’s a specific laptop compartment that fits 12-inch and 13-inch laptops.
TheONA’s Monterey Backpack has a lifetime warranty and costs $365.
Leather Backpacks Under $1,000
There’s nothing more than a beautiful leather backpack to complete your outfit of the day. The following will talk about the leather backpacks that are available for under $1,000.
Anya Hindmarch: Eyes Leather-Trimmed Shell Backpack
The Anya Hindmarch has playful eyes made from textured leather with matching zip pull and trims. It is made with a durable black shell accessory that has every room you need for your change of clothes or electronic devices. You can carry it with the adjustable padded straps or top handle. The handle can go up to 2.7 inches and can go with any outfit that you may have.
The Anya Hindmarch leather backpack measures 6.2” D x 10.5” W x 15.6” H and weighs two pounds. Instead of getting a plain black backpack, you can spice up your outfit of the day with a character one. The Anya Hindmarch costs $550.
Longchamp: Veau Foulonné Backpack
The Veau Foulonné leather backpack offers an elegant and casual silhouette. The iconic Longchamp line makes it. This backpack provides a practical model on account of its size and has adjustable straps that can adjust to your comfortability. It is supple yet robust and discreet yet easily identifiable.
The line’s model provides a timeless classic that is perfect for your daily style. This leather backpack is made with cowhide and has a signature drummed grain and refined sensual texture. It provides a rational style and comes in a wide range of colors. These colors are Navy, Beige, Sapphire, Caramel, Black, and Red.
The Veau Foulonné leather backpack measures 14.6” D x 11.4” W x 3.9” H inches. The lining is made with polyester, and this is not the ordinary middle school Longchamp bag that you are used to. It is way better and can match any outfit of the day that you may have. The Longchamp Veau Foulonné costs $630.
Great Leather Backpack for the Hefty Budget
If you have money to splurge, this is the correct category for you. The following will list leather backpacks that are above $1,000.
Prada: Medium Nylon Backpack
As we all know, Prada is known to provide quality leather bags and provides an enduring charm. You can wear it with everything aesthetic and offer the durability you need when it comes to leather bags. The Prada Medium Nylon Backpack has dual buckle-flap pockets that allow easy access to your phone, passport, or any items that you may have.
This leather backpack is made with calfskin leather which emphasizes the luxury of this leather backpack. It is a great must-have piece to add to your bag collection. The drawstring closure has a snap-tab flap and exterior flap pockets that provide great access to your belongings. The Prada Medium Nylon Backpack is made in Italy and is one of the best designer bags.
The Prada medium Nylon Backpack costs $1,200.
Gucci 1955 Horsebit Backpack
The Gucci 1955 Horsebit Backpack is inspired by the archival details found throughout the known Gucci Horsebit 1955 line. It offers a contemporary mix of original elements and provides a modern spirit. It is made with GG Supreme canvas and leather with brown leather trim.
The drawstring and flap closure provides a silhouette design that is completed with adjustable leather straps. The front zippered pouch highlights the double ring bar design that this leather backpack offers. It has gold-tone hardware and cotton linen, making it the perfect backpack for you to use daily.
It has a front and back zipper pocket with an interior zipper as well as two phone pockets, making it great for organization. It has a top handle that can drop up to 12cm and a flap closure with a leather strap and buckle.
The Gucci 1955 Horsebit Backpack measures W27cm x H35cm x D16.5cm and 176cm tall. This leather backpack is made in Italy; rest assured that it is made with excellent quality, and it makes a significant investment to have in your collection. The cost for this bag is $2,016.
How to Choose the Best Leather Backpacks for You
Finding the perfect leather backpack can be daunting because of all the choices that you have in the leather goods market. You would need to consider many factors such as size, style, function, and price. Aside from that, you also need to consider the colors and finishes of the leather backpack.
The following will discuss the different factors that you need to consider when buying your own leather backpacks.
The Functionality of the Leather Backpack
The first thing that you need to consider is the functionality of the leather backpack. You need to make sure that it offers a handy storage solution. Now, you should consider the overall size and check the additional features like detachable shoulder straps, side pockets, inner compartments, or adjustable buckles.
Of course, the most important factor that you need to consider is the security of the leather backpack you are planning to purchase. The leather backpack features are crucial, especially when you plan to bring your laptops along with you. When you have cameras to bring, the backpack’s functionality is the most important factor that you need to consider.
The Size of Your Leather Backpack
Finding the perfect size of a leather backpack would depend on its intent, uses, and personal preferences. Now, you need a spacious enough backpack to act as an overnight bag or a piece of hand luggage when you need to travel. For those who like to travel light, smaller leather backpacks are the best way to go. You would need to find a backpack that will keep your possessions and carry them at a minimum.
One of the best ways for you to determine the best size is to check the dimensions of the leather backpack. All of the leather backpacks I’ve mentioned above have their dimensions included. Making sure that you get a clear understanding of the size of the leather backpack you please before going out and buying your own.
A good example of things to consider is if you are bringing a laptop along on your travels. You need to get a backpack that can fit the size of your laptop.
The Price of Your Leather Backpack
The price of your leather backpack is a given factor that you need to consider. Leather is one of the world’s most sought-after textiles worldwide, and they always command premium prices. The quality, finish, and size are the factors that determine the cost of any leather backpack or other products.
Making sure that you check the quality of leather that’s used in the backpacks you prefer is essential. Remember, the cheaper the price, it might not be as durable as the pricier one you have in mind.
The Style of Your Leather Backpack
Style is one of the things that you need to consider if you want to match your bags with your outfit. It is also a factor that is a personal choice. There are leather backpacks that are more traditional than others, more classic, and more fashion-forward which are all great at completing your everyday style.
Leather backpacks in the market offer a wide range of styles that you can choose from. You need to make sure that you get a style that focuses on timeless, elegance, and rugged sophistication.
The Strength of Your Leather Backpack
Strength is probably the most important factor that you need to consider when choosing your leather backpack. You need to make sure your leather backpack is designed to withhold any items that you may have. You also need to ensure that it can last for years even with regular use, as well as stand up to everyday wear and tear.
The leather handle should also be durable. It is best to consider the strength, especially with those leather backpacks that have detachable shoulder straps. Handles should be durable and hard-wearing.
The Longevity of Your Leather Backpack
Now, you want your leather backpack to last for years. You will be safe in knowing that your leather backpack will last for years to come, even when you use it regularly. Of course, over time, the suppleness of the leather will have a worn look. However, it can be a good thing because it will provide an inimitable vintage look to your bag that never goes out of style.
In the following section of this article, I will talk about how you can take care of your leather backpack, such as the proper way of cleaning it.
Taking Care of Your Leather Backpacks
Leather is a material that needs looking after from time to time. Before you start cleaning your leather backpack, you need to make sure that you empty the backpack’s contents. Once that’s done, you must dust your leather backpack with a vacuum. If you don’t prefer to use a vacuum, you can just shake the bag instead.
Now, when you plan to use a vacuum, you need to make sure that it has a HEPA filter. The HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter can trap small particles that you can’t see. If you see any stains, use any stain cleaning products so they won’t hurt the quality of your leather backpacks.
Lastly, when you are drying your leather backpack, make sure not to use a tumble dryer. The best way to dry your leather backpack is to lay it inside out and wait. Also, make sure to avoid exposing it to the sun for too long since it can damage the leather material.
Other Tips and Tricks on Cleaning Leather Backpacks
Here are some other tips and tricks on how you can clean your leather backpacks to ensure that you will get the best out of them.
Leather is Naturally Durable and Resilient
Today, leather backpacks are treated to ensure they can withstand daily use with no constraint. The main principle is to make sure your leather backpack is ready to face everyday life without you having to take special precautions.
Now, bags are not as exposed as other leather products such as shoes. The dust and temperature differences and ambient humidity can affect the flexibility and overall appearance of the leather material. Again this would depend on your lifestyle and how you use your leather backpack.
Leather Maintenance is Simple
Leather maintenance should remain occasional, and it should be done by feeding your leather backpack with fluid and oily solutions. With this technique, you can preserve the leather backpack’s qualities and avoid it from cracking or stiffening over time. It is also the first protection that you have against particular stains.
Massaging the leather regularly without pressing with a soft cotton cloth is a great way to maintain your leather backpack. You can also gently wipe the leather with a soft, dry, and a clean cotton cloth to remove excess grease. It will also remove any surface dust and maintain good skin suppleness.
Make sure to do this at least once a month or twice a year. Avoid using wax and greats with high-density texture because it can be difficult to spread. It can also cause undesirable excess thickness that can clog the leather’s pores and can damage its breathability.
New Bags Are Unstable for the First Few Days
What you need to know about leather is that it is unstable for the first few days you buy it. Some models of leather could rub off on clothes by repeated rubbing. Now, leather bags don’t stabilize well, which means they are sensitive. The perfect test to see if the leather rubs off is to wipe your new leather backpack with light absorbent paper.
You can even use a tiny tint residue on the paper and make sure to apply moisturizing milk to remove the unstable layer on your new leather backpack.
Prevent Wear and Tear in the Future
Now, under normal conditions, leather backpacks don’t usually accumulate exposure to sunlight, humidity, dust, or excess fat. Doing some interventions per year is sufficient to protect it from any external aggression. Make sure to protect your bag from repeated friction against walls, floors, and other surfaces.
When doing this, it can protect your leather backpack from rapid wear and tear. Lastly, make sure not to overload your leather backpack since this is the leading cause of accelerated wear and tear.
Regular Maintenance to Keep Up With Appearance
Leather is almost the same as human skin, and it needs regular maintenance to keep up with appearance. Applying moisturizing milk to your leather backpack is one way to prevent any wear and tear. You can apply specialized products such as fluid and oil to moisturize the leather. Do this at least once a month with a dry and soft cloth so you can enhance the appearance of your leather backpack.
You can also apply waterproofing spray if you are concerned that your backpack will fade on your clothes. Lastly, you can re-dye the skin of your leather bag with specialized products that are a form of balm or cream.
Different Types of Cleaning for Leather Backpacks
When it comes to leather backpacks, there are different types of cleaning products that you can use. Oily firm or waterproofing spray is excellent prevention to wear and tear. It limits the extreme penetration of stains into the pores of the leather skin. It also prevents the pigmentation in leather from fading.
Doing follow-up maintenance is a great method to avoid any stains from forming in your leather. Ensure that you don’t use any cleaning products containing detergents as they can ruin the leather.
When you are cleaning light stains, make sure to use a cloth with a highly diluted soap solution. You can use Marseille soap or leather soap, and make sure to apply them in a circular motion without any aggressiveness. You can also use a soft brush for the most grained leather materials.
When using these types of products, you need to make sure to use small quantities and always dilute them with water.
Cleaning Leather Stains Require Delicacy and Promptness
As we all know, leather surfaces are sensitive, which is why it is best to apply products carefully and moderately. When cleaning stains, you should add about 10 to 15 percent of warm water to the cleaning product that you are using.
Before applying the cleaning product to your leather backpack, make sure to test it first on a discrete area to avoid any further damage to it. You can use a cotton swab for precise action and always wipe the treated surface with a soft, damp cloth. You can also apply wax or cream to revive the hue and nourish the leather’s skin.
When you see stains, make sure that you act quickly before it penetrates the leather. Also, when necessary, you need to provide a color renovator or leather wax to revive the color of your leather backpack.
Conclusion
Leather backpacks are the best way to upgrade your style. It can match any style or outfit that you may have. With the right maintenance and cleaning practices, you can make sure that your leather backpacks will last for years. You need to consider the different factors such as size, style, functionality, and strength are crucial. With the leather backpacks I’ve listed above, I hope that you found the perfect one for you!
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