Finding the perfect gym/work/man bag

The phenomenon that is the man bag has now become an accepted part of the mainstream. But men have quickly realised one problem with the man bag: it doesn’t fit their gym, work and leisure gear at the same time. Never fear, here are some solutions…

It’s a serious situation for men. Modern working men have to carry more than just cash and a credit card these days. There is the work gear such as a laptop, iPad, smartphone and all that other stuff that keeps you connected to the office. Then there is your sports kit for that healthy stop at the local gymnasium before or after work (perhaps during lunch?) and finally there is the kit that keeps you sane on the long commute home – the PS Vita, Nintendo 3DS, copy of Men’s Style, Smith Journal, GQ or The Australian and a few other bits and pieces for good measure. Problem is that the man bag certainly won’t carry all of that stuff. So what’s the solution? A stylish bag that has equal parts man bag style with pockets for leisure kit and plenty of space for extra clothes and perhaps joggers as well. Here are a few that we would recommend hit the spot for overall usefulness.

ASOS Suedette Canoe Pack

“Canoe backpack by ASOS. Constructed in a durable cotton canvas. Featuring a rectangular main, a fold over front with contrast leather look trims and pin buckle strap fastenings, a contrast suede-style base, a grab handle to the top and fully adjustable shoulder straps.”

Price: $56.77

ASOS Olson Backpack

“Backpack by ASOS. Constructed in durable cotton canvas with leather look trims. Featuring a flap top, a concealed drawstring fastening, an adjustable strap with a pin buckle closure, brass-tone metal rivet detailing, open pockets to the lower front, a woven grab handle and twin padded adjustable back straps.”

Price:$40.55

Country Road Leather Weekender

“Super stylish dark leather bag that is easy to carry and will hold everything you need. Leather exterior with cotton lining to keep your belongings protected.”

Price: $399

Ben Sherman Iconic Barrel Bag

“Holdall bag by Ben Sherman. Featuring a barrel shaped leather look main, double zip through fastening to the top, twin grab handles with contrast stripe trim design, and a detachable contrast stripe shoulder strap with fob ring fastening. ”

Price: $81.10

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Top Image: Flickr user lamont_cranston

Damian Francis

Damian Francis has previously edited Australian T3 and F1 Racing magazine and wrote for GQ Australia and Men’s Health. Unlike Nick and Trev, he has no kids, no mortgage and no wife, but lives happily on Sydney’s North Shore with his girlfriend.