These 10 backpacks will bring class to your commute
Whether you’re after a rough-and-ready canvas commuter, or an elegant leather option, these are the best backpacks for 2022…
Words: Jonathan Wells
Shut your briefcase; because backpacks are in the midst of a menswear moment. In a high-fashion flurry of zips and straps, the once-derided sign of the clueless commuter has been reinvented into something both practical and stylish. And, with designers from Ralph Lauren to Tod’s getting in on the action, we’ve rounded up ten of the best below.
In materials from luxurious leather to durable canvas, the options are many. Some suede designs put the ‘napped’ in ‘knapsack’, and others — such as a particularly impressive reflective innovation from Chapman — offer savvy safety features stitched right into the finely-crafted fabric. So snap shut your attaché, hang up your satchel and buy a backpack. You’ll thank us later.
Bennett Winch ‘The Backpack’
A strong, sand-coloured start, this heavy-duty backpack from bastion of British luggage, Bennett Winch, is a truly versatile bit of zip-up kit. As refined as it is rugged, the slimmed-down silhouette has a surprisingly roomy interior — with a padded laptop pocket and detachable waterproof compartment perfect for grooming products or gym gear.
Chapman ‘Innovative Cycling Backpack’
If you call your product ‘innovative’, you’d better back up those big claims with some seriously nifty design touches. Thankfully, Chapman delivers; this ergonomic roll-top backpack not only has a briefcase handle, but also buckle-adjustable straps and a high quality perforated leather construction, through which pin-sharp dots of reflective material will keep you safe while you cycle.
Aspinal of London 'Reporter' Backpack
A new season update from Aspinal of London, this ‘Reporter’ backpack is as handy when slung around the shoulders of men-about-town as it is roving journalists. Handcrafted from the finest full-grain leather, it benefits from a semi-structured design and the rakish flap-over closure conceals an easily-accessible leather drawstring opening.
Smythson ‘Panama’ Backpack
In the British stationer’s iconic cross-grain ‘Panama’ leather, this navy blue backpack is all about the details. Whether it’s the edge dye, the tonal stitching or the handsome brass zips, there’s not a style touch skimped on across the entire design. With room for a laptop, two internal compartments and a zip patch pocket, it’s a textured take on the traditional.
Patagonia ‘Arbor’ Roll-Top Pack
From the opulent to the outdoorsy. Sustainably-charged eco-brand Patagonia have offered up a tip-top roll-top backpack in the ‘Arbor’. With a capacity of 30 litres, quick side-access to a 15-inch laptop sleep and a handy side ‘stash’ pocket for smaller items, it’s an endlessly practical piece of luggage — even if it doesn’t have the luxury credentials of some other options.
Dunhill ‘Lock’ Backpack
Back to the big-ticket backpacks, this new arrival from British heritage brand Dunhill is fitted with a statement brass lock inspired by a vintage attaché case discovered in the company’s archives. Aside from this attention-grabbing hardware, it also boasts detachable shoulder straps, a flap closure and a zipped pocket inside its slick black leather body.
Bleu de Chauffe Full-Grain Leather Backpack
This French brand — the workshop of which is based in the department of Aveyron — is named after the ever-tough, ever-rough workers jacket. And this full-grain leather backpack follows in the classic Gallic garment’s rugged footsteps. Cut from locally tanned leather and perfectly sized to hold most laptops, it’s an understated, simply-designed and utterly sophisticated choice.
Montblanc ‘Sartorial’ Cross-Grain Backpack
Sartorial by both name and nature, this bold blue backpack from Montblanc is the business. Boardroom-ready and comfortable enough for even the longest commute, it’s been crafted in Germany from extra-durable cross-grain leather and has three separate compartments available to you — including one padded options perfect for a large tablet or small laptop.
Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Canvas Backpack
Leather may be the perfect mid-point between luxury and longevity, but a canvas backpack — much like Bennett Winch’s British offering above — makes for an equally reliable, but more affordable bet. From the US, Ralph Lauren’s khaki cotton canvas design is trimmed with vachetta leather and fitted with a handy top handle.
Tod’s ‘Timeless’ Backpack in Leather
Trust Tod’s to do things properly. Named the ‘Timeless’, this design is the elegant epitome of everything a luxury backpack should be. Its black leather base is protected by metal feet, it features a handy front pocket and the Italian brand’s ever-recognisable ’T’ logo sits pretty on the backpack’s front.
Want more bags? Here’s which Cambridge Satchel Co. product is right for you…
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Further reading
This is the one piece of luggage every modern professional should own
From vision to masterpiece: Charting the personalised journey of a bespoke Swaine creation
