Many of us will have had a backpack as a trusty companion throughout secondary school. It carried our books, kept our lunch safe and acted as a fantastic impromptu goalpost for a break time game of football. While you may not have to shuffle all your stuff from maths class to the food technology room anymore, don’t overlook how beneficial it can be to keep a backpack, especially a leather backpack, in your accessory arsenal.
But are
leather backpacks in style right now? Absolutely. Leather backpacks remain popular because they combine timeless design with practicality. While fashion trends come and go, a well-made leather backpack works across casual, professional and travel settings, making it one of the most versatile bag styles available today.
Why is leather a great choice for a backpack?
When it comes to choosing the perfect backpack, there are countless materials to consider, but one stands out for its exceptional qualities: leather. Leather backpacks combine style, durability, and usability, making them a top choice.
Functionality
Leather backpacks are incredibly functional. Leather is naturally strong and can handle a significant amount of weight without tearing or stretching. This makes leather backpacks perfect for carrying books, laptops, and other essentials.
Plus, they often come with multiple compartments and pockets, helping you stay organised on the go. Whether you're heading to work, have a busy day of running errands, or are about to embark on a hike, a leather backpack can handle it all with ease.
Longevity
One of the biggest advantages of leather bags is their longevity. This is one of the main reasons leather backpacks continue to be popular despite changing trends.
Unlike synthetic materials that can wear out quickly, leather is known for its durability. A well-made leather backpack can last for decades with proper care. Their durability means that you can invest in one long-lasting leather bag knowing that it will withstand daily wear and tear and remain robust and relevant regardless of the season or current style trends.
Leather also develops a beautiful natural patina over time, which not only adds to its charm but also tells the story of everywhere it’s been with you.
Visual appeal
Let’s be honest: leather just looks good. There’s an ageless elegance to leather that few materials can match. Whether you’re going for a rugged, vintage look or something sleek and modern, there’s a leather backpack to suit your style.
The rich texture and natural variations in the leather make each piece unique. Leather backpacks also come in a variety of colours and finishes, so you can find the perfect one to match your personal aesthetic.
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to backpacks, and leather excels in this area as well. Over time, leather moulds to your body, making it more comfortable the more you use it.
Having two straps as opposed to one also means the weight of whatever you’re carrying is distributed more evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.
The breathability of leather also means your backpack won’t get overly hot or sticky, even during long days of wear. So, you can carry your essentials comfortably, no matter where the day takes you.
Value for money
We understand that a high-quality, ethically conscious bag is an investment with a higher initial cost but leather backpacks are worth it.
When you consider that a leather backpack can last a lifetime when looked after, its price soon becomes great value compared to purchasing a new polyester bag every few years because they quickly become scruffy and threadbare.
Types of leather backpacks
Part of what makes leather backpacks so versatile is the many different styles they come in. Their various sizes, shapes and features mean that there’s a type of leather backpack to suit every individual and situation.
There is no one leather backpack that offers the best combination of style and functionality as such an accolade is unique to you. However, if you’re searching for inspiration, the following leather packs are great examples that marry substance with sophistication:
Daypack
This is the standard type of backpack that many will think of. It is a small, lightweight backpack designed for short trips or daily use, perfect for carrying essentials like water bottles, snacks, and personal items. It typically has a curved zipped top and a small front pocket.
Ziptop backpack
A ziptop backpack features a top opening secured with a zipper, providing easy access and secure closure. They can vary in size but generally, are ideal for everyday activities, commuting or an overnight trip.
For people who want a backpack that feels smart enough for the office but practical enough for everyday use, the ziptop style is often the most versatile option.
Billy Tannery has a 20-litre ziptop backpack available in strong goat leather and deer leather suede. It has wide shoulder straps as well as two bridle leather handles that easily transform them into carry bags. It features padding in the back panel for comfort, an external slip pocket, a large main compartment and a padded laptop sleeve.
Rolltop backpack
You can think of the rolltop backpack as the ziptop’s bigger cousin. Billy Tannery’s leather rolltop backpack is our signature bag. It features a flexible top that rolls down and secures with a leather and brass buckle strap, allowing you to adjust the capacity from 20 to 26 litres. Inside, there are two interior pockets and a padded laptop compartment, all lined with UK-sourced quality cotton.
The expandable design makes rolltop backpacks particularly popular with commuters and travellers who need flexibility throughout the day.
Drawstring backpack
A drawstring backpack closes with a simple pull of the strings, making it lightweight and easy to use, perfect for gym gear or casual outings. They can be rectangular and relatively flat, much like the bags children use for PE kits but can also be more pouch-like or rigid in structure.
How to style a leather backpack
Leather backpacks don’t have to be confined to casual looks – they are a great accessory to add to any outfit – you just need to match them with the rest of what you’re wearing.
For everyday
For an effortless everyday outfit, pair your leather backpack with jeans, a T-shirt, and trainers. This combination will keep you comfortable but ooze style as you check off your to-do list or meet friends.
For the office
A sleek leather ziptop backpack in brown or black will work wonderfully with any professional attire. With your laptop, notebook and other work essentials inside, you can wear it on your back during your morning commute and then carry it by the top handles when moving about your workplace.
For travelling
When travelling, a leather backpack adds ease and elegance to your ensemble as you’ll fit everything you need for a weekend away inside. Combine it with comfortable travel clothes like a cosy jumper, relaxed cargo trousers, and boots. Find out more about luxury travel backpacks.
For adventures
For outdoor exploration, a leather backpack is a great choice as it can withstand the elements and add a rugged charm while securely holding your gear for the journey ahead. Pair it with functional attire like hiking boots, waterproof trousers, and a moisture-wicking shirt. Don’t forget to pack a rain mac!
Are leather backpacks worth it?
A leather backpack typically costs more upfront than a synthetic alternative, but it can offer significantly better long-term value. High-quality leather develops character over time, can often be repaired if needed and is designed to last for years rather than seasons. For many people, that durability makes a leather backpack a worthwhile investment.
Who are leather backpacks best for?
Leather backpacks are particularly well suited to commuters, frequent travellers and anyone looking for a bag that can transition between different settings. They offer enough structure for professional environments while remaining practical for weekends away and everyday use.
If you are looking for additional bag styles and other timeless accessories, browse our full range of leather products.
