The 13 Best Backpack Brands for Men, According to Style Editors

Minimal aesthetic, maximum performance—that’s the design standard when it comes to Troubadour’s bags and accessories. Take the Aero Backpack, a bestselling item and an all-time favorite of ours. Sure, its streamlined exterior is one thing to love, but the interior is really where it shines. Our Deputy Commerce Editor Christian Gollayan uses this backpack for his office commutes. “It fits my laptop, workout gear, and sweaty shoes,” Gollayan says. “It stores everything I need, and also doubles as my travel backpack.” Aside from its impressive capacity, the fabric is also lightweight, waterproof and scratch-resistant.

Away is known for its sleek carry-on luggage. Much like its premium suitcases, the brand’s assortment of backpacks merge both form and function. They’re equipped with convenient features like a trolley sleeve, interior and exterior pockets, and laptop compartments. Another notable design spec: water-resistant shells that will keep your backpack dry during rainy commutes.

The Denmark-based rainwear lifestyle brand makes waterproof designs that spans apparel, bags and other accessories. From roll-top styles to cargo rucksacks, Rains offers various silhouettes and sizes of backpacks that can weather any storm. And if you find one like this version, you’ll be able fasten it to your chest during a bike ride for a secure fit.

Bellroy launched with the intention to make your journey smoother as you move around throughout the day. In doing so, the Australian label designed backpacks with padded shoulder straps for extra comfort and several compartments for easy organization. The Classic Backpack is no exception. Whether you’re heading into the office or going away for the weekend, there’s a style that will meet your needs.

Dagne Dover may be seen all over Instagram, but unlike other Instagram-famous brands, this one lives up to the hype. The brand’s cluster of backpacks includes the popular Neoprene Collection, which is derived from recycled plastic water bottles. Speaking of which, the Dakota style provide tons of storage with a separate shoe bag, zip pouch and an air mesh laptop sleeve.

Tumi’s products are designed to make your local and international adventures easier with convenient features and a little added security. The Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack is no different. It’s made with modular accessories, padded compartments for a laptop or tablet, and weather-resistant fabric. Plus, you receive a complimentary tracer in case it gets lost or stolen while in transit.

Believe it or not, Timbuk2 has been around for 35 years. That said, the San-Francisco-based bag manufacturer is an expert at making backpacks that will last for years to come. Take the Clark Commuter Backpack, a doubled roll-top style perfect for bikers and nine-to-fivers. Features includes a laptop sleeve, a water-resistant shell and a removable zip-away rainfly to keep the elements at bay. What’s also neat: you can customize your very own backpack any way you want.

Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast that enjoys hitting the slopes or a nature lover who prefers to take the beaten path, Osprey has your back—literally. The brand’s assortment of backpacks runs the gamut of gear haulers and travel packs, which are designed with breathable hip-belts and minimal weight to make your adventure more comfortable. This option comes with an external toiletry pocket, so you can get through TSA quicker.

The Hong Kong-founded brand is famed for its backpacks that have simple designs and practical features. Enter the Vista Waterproof Backpack option. There’s a strapped laptop compartment, a waterproof external pocket for damp gym clothes, a suitcase sleeve, key holders and so much more. In other words, everyone from the frequent flyer to the fitness enthusiast can make use of it.

Thule has been on the map for more than 80 years, developing products to simplify your daily adventures and activities. Under this mission, the Sweden brand has created backpacks that are super durable, water-resistant, and padded with thick fabric to keep items like your laptop safe and secure. Most bags in its assortment are best for hiking, photography and travel. There’s also even hydration backpacks available, so you never run out of H2O as you’re on the bike or the trail.

Day Owl may have provide an option that is reminiscent of your classic school bookbag, but rest assured, it’s a new and improved modern version. The American brand offers one style that comes in two sizes and muted tone colors. It also has a spill-resistant bottle pocket and a back panel to fit your laptop.

If you need extra space and then some, Briggs & Riley has plenty to offer with an army full of expandable backpacks. This is especially true for the brand’s Medium Cargo version. It’s constructed with a three-section design and a variety of pockets that are strategically placed. Not to mention, the piece can take a beating since it’s made with ballistic nylon outer fabric and durable YKK zippers, which are both abrasion-resistant.

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