We’ve all been one half of the one-strap or two-strap debate. Whatever side of the fence you’re waving a flag from, that particular debate has been put to bed due to new innovations in the backpack world. Add in the need for most men to own different backpacks for trips to the office and outdoor adventures – and we now have a solution to multiple problems. What we’re going on about are sling backpacks.
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Sling backpacks are what happens when Jeff Bezos meets Bear Grylls. They are like a regular backpack, but they only have one strap – which more often than not runs across the wearer’s body to sit securely. These cross-body backpack designs let you maintain your urban street cred on daily commutes to the office. They offer plenty of room for papers, devices and more. But sling bags also have an adventurous side as their cross-body straps make them more stable and are convenient for activities such as cycling, hiking and even running.
The Men’s Gear team have been digging deeper into the world of sling backpacks this week. We’ve been hunting down the best sling backpacks by taking note of stylish guys dashing across town and looking for features that will come in handy on camping trips. Our research has resulted in 31 great finds. Why not 30 you ask? We don’t sacrifice quality gear men should know about for nice titles. So, are you ready to sling your old worn backpack for a new more-stylish sling backpack for men? You might be once you’ve browsed our buyer guide.
We’ll kick things off with this leather sling backpack that is designed to last. The top-grain cowhide leather is strong and easy to maintain, while the zippers are made from zinc to withstand the elements and guard against rust. The strap is also a durable inclusion which is made with a thick canvas that will not wear easily and can be adjusted to your body frame effortlessly.
One of the coolest aspects of this sling backpack is that it has an earphone or cord access. This is a small hole that feeds your cords out of the bag, while keeping them and your bag’s contents secure. Look cool and listen to your favorite playlist as you commute with this extraordinary sling bag. Its functionality is only matched by its awesome aesthetics which boast an embossed pattern for added style.
The second sling backpack we want you to know about comes from a brand you probably certainly do know about. Under Armour are slinging their hat in the ring with their one-strap design. This model is predominantly made from water-tight polyester but complemented with robust nylon accents. When you do choose this bag, you also get a choice of colors between an artillery green and a cool black and silver design.
Inside this sling backpack you will find a laptop sleeve. And this sleeve is not only soft-lined to keep your valuable device safe and secure. It’s also one of the biggest laptop sleeves you’ll find on these compact products. In fact, it will hold a laptop or tablet up to 15 inches in length. Another great feature on this sling backpack is that it has easy-access zipper pockets, so your valuables are always at arm’s reach. Not to forget to mention that these pockets are also waterproof to keep your valuables dry.
Finding these compact sling backpacks with a dedicated space for a laptop comes few and far between, but we have managed to dig out another spectacular option. MOSISO are guilty of creating an awesome sling backpack made from strong polyester and durable zippers. The strap is made to be exceptionally breathable and won’t leave any sweaty prints on your work shirt in the summer. The strap is also adjustable between 18 and 36 inches so every man may get involved with this stylish product.
This model has been made with two mesh water bottle holders. Not only are these placed in the prime location for easy access – but they are also they store even the larger bottles to keep you hydrated all day long. There are many other compartments to keep electrical items, keys and your smartphone secure. This sling backpack comes in many colors and a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. If you’re a student or a businessman, this bag may be for you.
The Unigear Sling Backpack for men may be on your radar if you want a versatile and everyday backpack without the need for a laptop sleeve. This model has crafted a way of combining multiple storage options with lightweight convenience. It includes a main compartment which is secured by a trustworthy zipper. There is also a second large compartment and multiple smaller pockets to keep ID cards, spare change and pens you accidentally took from the office.
Like some of the sling bags on the market, this model’s strap is situated in a way so you can wear the backpack over one shoulder in the orthodox fashion. Alternatively, you can choose to place the strap across your body to give you more freedom. To round off a cool backpack for men, Unigear will even supply their creation with a lifetime warranty. To learn more about this awesome sling bag simply hit the button below.
Modern men on the move need a backpack that accommodates their urban lifestyle. This sling backpack made by Kingsons does just that and comes in three sleek color options to choose from. You can even get this model made with a port to charge your smartphone.
The bag is made with durable polyester and nylon that repels water and is resistant to tears. The back section of the bag is made to encourage airflow and prevent you from getting a sweaty back on a summer’s day. Along the lining of this model, you will also notice patches. These patches are reflective stripes so you stay safe when traveling with this sling backpack in low light conditions.
One of the innovative inclusions on this backpack is that the rear compartment’s zipper can be hidden so the compartment is not visible to the naked eye. Thus, preventing pickpockets from targeting you as you weave the urban pedestrian traffic. You know it’s a fantastic sling backpack for men when we only just get a chance to mention its laptop sleeve. It has one of them too! What color would you get? We’ll go grey.
Next up on our search for the best sling bags for men is this model though up by the clever people at DPark. The backpack is made from water-resistant canvas and includes a PU leather handle in case you choose to carry the bag instead of opting for the cross-body strap. The strap is one of the highlights of this model. It not only has extra padding for enhanced comfort, but it also reverses to make this bag the perfect accessory for righties and lefties.
This backpack includes multiple compartments. It has a main compartment to keep your larger items. Along with multiple side pockets and internal stretch pockets for your other bits and pieces. It will even accommodate books and small devices such as tablets and iPads. The zipper is one of the most reliable on the market and promises not to catch or break easily. Find out more about this bag by hitting the button right below.
Although color options such as green coffee may have you scratching your head, the actual designs and aesthetics of the Y&R Direct Sling Backpack is something to get excited about. It’s made from water-resistant nylon and a protective polyester lining that you can count on. In terms of compartments, you also get plenty of storage options. This bag will keep your tablet, camera, smartphone, university books and any other accessory secure, making it ideal for students and working professionals. Other features worth mentioning include a breathable mesh on the back area, a padded ergonomic strap and the inclusion of a one-year warranty.
This is one of the most affordable bags for men on our list and the reason why we’re featuring it as the budget option. Guess how much it costs? Close – but hit the button below to reveal its actual low price and other features!
Look great and travel conveniently with this awesome sling backpack for men made by Maladen. Take it to work or take it on your weekend trips cycling and hiking. Don’t worry, that beer you had with lunch did not hit you harder than you think and you’re not seeing double. This model does look a lot similar to the previous sling backpack we featured. But there are some key differences.
The anti-scratch materials used within this model makes it perfect for outdoor use. Maladen had some complaints about their design back in 2016 and have responded to their critics by enhancing their creation. The strap is now packed with extra padding for optimal support and incorporates breathable mesh to prevent those mid-back sweat patches from appearing. Prepping for a weekend in the great outdoors? Take this great sling backpack with you and experience style and convenience rolled into one.
If you don’t mind having a smaller and more compact design than some of the others we’re featuring, then you may want to give some serious consideration for this cheap sling backpack for men. Tinyat is the creator behind this phenomenal sleek design that comes available in either a black or two different shades of gray.
The main body of the backpack is made from anti-scratch and water-resistant polyester. The strap can be adjusted in length and by position for a personal fit and to match your preferences. This affordable model even has an earphone cable hole just like the premium options out there. Say yes to looking cool and say yes to heightened convenience for any inner city or country adventure. Want to learn more? That’s too easy. Just hit the button below to head to a seller of this in-demand sling backpack.
Another sling backpack that was deemed a great buy by the Men’s Gear researchers was this model from Gemeer. They have made their sling bag into a teardrop design, which you’ll come to realize isn’t so uncommon. One aspect of their design which is a little less common is that that the strap is made from multiple pieces of rope. Using rope eases the tension on your shoulder and makes for an overall more comfortable experience.
Just because the manufacturers have gone with a teardrop shape, this sling backpack doesn’t sacrifice compartments. In fact, the Gemeer Sling backpack For Men has a main compartment and two easy-access pockets guarded by reliable zippers. This is without forgetting about the mesh water bottle holder. We believe this model is suitable for the avid hiker and outdoor adventurer. Got the family tent already? Now you just need cool outdoor gear like this backpack!
We don’t just feature cool tactical tops and tactical accessories made for men in the heat of battle on Men’s Gear. We also feature tactical sling backpacks that are rough and ready for your own outdoor pursuit. This particular model comes in a sandy tan color or a black. As you would expect on such a reliable and functional backpack, this Reebow creation does offer MOLLE webbing to attach your frequent essentials – as well as an array of pockets and compartments. You can even add a laptop, handguns or a two-liter hydration bag to this design with ease.
This sling backpack is made to last the test of time and is made from strong nylon that is then double stitched and rounded off with heavy-duty zips. One of the nice finishing touches to the aesthetics of this sling bag is that it has a US flag incorporated onto the back of the product. Serious hikers, happy campers and men of war rejoice that the robust Reebow Tactical Sling Backpack is on your side!
Not every man likes a dark purple sling backpack, but those that take no issue with Pine’s color choice will really like this highly-functional design. The main compartment has a zipper that spans the whole top area of the bag and is then supported by two other easy-access compartments – both with a zipper. What makes it even more functional is that the strap can be adjusted to fit your body size and it can even be arranged to sit in different ways.
When it comes to materials, the Pine Sling Backpack doesn’t let you down either. The predominant part of the design is made with water-resistant and tough nylon. But it also boasts some accents made with PU leather for added strength and easy maintenance. The back panel will prevent your back sweating and revealing sweat patches once you take off your backpack in the office. Other cool features found on this product include a USB port and it even has a pocket with RFID blocking. For those unaware, RFID technology prevents criminals from using electronic readers to access your personal details in your wallet.
Another nylon construction that oozes quality and functionality is this sling backpack made by the guys and gals at Nicgid. It’s made from high-quality nylon that is both resistant to water and tear resistant. However, just because it’s a solid construction you can trust, it doesn’t mean that it’s heavy. In fact, this is one of the lightest sling bags on the market. This bag comes with a choice of six color options, many of which are influenced by the armed services.
It offers many practical storage solutions with a number of different sized pockets and compartments. Most of the pockets are easily accessible which make this model perfect for outdoor adventures when you need a pen knife, a compass or your camera. Another convenient factor on this model is that the strap doesn’t just adjust to cater to different sizes. It can also be tailored to switch from a one-strap shoulder backpack to a cross-body backpack. If you’re part of the one-strap club or want to try a new innovative type of backpack that is made to last – choose this one!
Many of the designs we’ve shown you so far are much narrower than an original backpack. This is natural considering they have one strap fewer. However, Vanlison has managed to create a sling backpack without making it overly narrow. They’ve done this by making the top of the strap much wider than other designs, which simultaneously adds more durability and strength to the overall backpack. It also makes it suitable for the lefties and righties among our readership.
The wider design means you can carry your tablet, books and feed headphone wires through the bag. You can even add two water bottles! Perfect for students and the working man? You can choose to purchase this sling backpack in six different colors. All of them are dark and musty colors which will look in place in your office or up a mountain. Your payment is also protected with a lifetime guarantee! Click below to see the other five colors for yourself.
Briefcase meets a sling backpack in our next feature. This MyGreen bag comes in many different cool colors from a stylish black to an appealing coffee. You can also choose to get this model with two straps if you decide a sling backpack isn’t for you.
This is one of the most sophisticated designs because the combination of durable washed canvas pairs well with leather accents such as buckles, zipper tags and other aspects. We certainly recommend this bag for office workers wanting to turn heads on the commute to work.
The bag is as efficient and functional as it is aesthetically awesome. It includes multiple compartments for your books, documents and even your laptop. The strap is reinforced and can be switched to either side to cater to left-handed or right-handed people. Another phenomenal feature is an accessible water bottle holder for all day H2o.
Full-grain leather sling backpacks are not that common so when you do find one of these gems you should give it serious consideration. A slash-proof leather design also makes you less of a target to potential thieves. This particular model comes available in a black color with a cool eye graphic. However, if you want something less quirky and more formal you could always choose the characterful brown leather design instead.
The durable and easy-to-maintain leather may add style to your look, but the inside is all about practicality. This sling backpack is lined with elegant and soft fabric to protect your devices and other contents. There are multiple compartments so you can stay organized for college or for work and there is even an accessible back pocket to store your most frequented items. To round off a cool bag, the strap is made to be comfortable, light and it can be adjusted for your preferences. Discover more about one of the best sling bags on the market by tapping below.
The Aotian Sling Backpack is one of the most unique designs we have to show you. This is because the main buckle is placed sideways so the bag wraps around itself rather than folding down like orthodox designs. But its’ not just a clever design that you should get excited about when owning this incredible sling backpack. The materials it incorporates are also a big plus.
The main body of the bag is made with strong and water-resistant waxed canvas. The shoulder strap is made with cow leather and is even more durable but also exceptionally comfortable. Even the zippers are made to last the long haul and are of premium quality that will not rust or stick.
Inside the bag is just as impressive and houses many different compartments for organized storage. It can even fit a tablet or iPad up to 9.7 inches. Overall, this sling backpack mixes earthy outdoor aesthetics with a professional feel. To the mountains or to the city? No problem. Grab this backpack in one of four awesome colors and be on your way.
We showed you one tactical sling backpack earlier but here is another. 5.11 are no mugs when it comes to creating outstanding tactical quality and they’ve continued their high standards when crafting this top-notch sling bag for men.
It is made of high-quality 1050D nylon that is both strong and resistant to water. This nylon is then enhanced with the addition of MOLLE webbing, so you may easily attach your most-frequented items to these accessible points covering this outstanding bag. There is even a pocket on the shoulder part of the adjustable strap so you can retrieve your compass or something else effortlessly.
Other awesome features that you can’t miss before scrolling on or hitting the button below include a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, self-healing YKK zippers, compression straps – and even a hydration pouch. This is the perfect tactical sling backpack for any men who love an outdoor adventure. Be the alfa of your guys’ weekend in nature with this bag for men.
If you’re heading to the beach or need a second backpack for your backpacking adventure in the tropics, then this rope sling backpack will do the trick. KAVU have made this sling backpack. The backpack itself is made from durable and polyester and boasts numerous storage compartments. There are in fact two main compartments with an internal zipper pocket to store your valuables safely. This is not forgetting the two easy-access external compartments.
The signature aspect of their design is the rope strap. Each piece of rope is soft, durable and matches the overall colorful aesthetic of the bag. Fancy yourself as a funky rock climber, cyclist or an adventure junkie? Then hit the button below and take a further look at this groovy sling backpack for men. You won’t regret it.
Back from the weekend at the beach or a Sunday hiking and it’s time to get back down to business. You can do just that with this vintage sling backpack made of leather. It wouldn’t look out of place darting for the subway or resting on the back of a chair at a sun-drenched inner-city café.
The bag is made from cowhide leather which is both durable and super easy to clean. The functionality of the backpack boasts five pockets made for specific purposes from storing IDs to your tablet device. It comes in a choice of five different shades of charming and sophisticated brown colors that make it look sleek and professional. It’s the go-to choice for businessmen, interns and students who want a professional backpack for the weekday and a casual model for the weekend. So, which color would you choose? Browse them all by clicking the button below.
Water is a key aspect of this next sling backpack. This is because Waterfly has created a formidable bag that is water resistant, has a water bottle holder, and will also equip you to stay dry with an umbrella holder/pocket.
You can pick up this sling backpack in one of five cool colors. All of which will look great zooming around on the back of a cyclist or making their way up the side of the mountain. Just because this bag is perfect for outdoor activities doesn’t mean it isn’t ideal for everyday use as well. It even boasts seven compartments, so you can be organized and carry your gear conveniently. The water bottle holder is joined by many smaller pockets to keep keys, IDs or just some snacks at easy reach.
One of the best features of this design is that the back panel is made with extra padding for enhanced comfort. Yet, this same part of the backpack is designed to be extraordinarily breathable, making sure you never get back sweat patches during summer. We’d choose the blue one – how about you?
We will start our final ten sling bags by looking at the work of Kemy’s. These guys have created a sling backpack which can also be worn across the front of your chest as well. They also make it available in either a classic black color or a unique red shade.
The smooth nylon composition means this sling backpack is easy to keep clean as it is strong. The strap is adjustable and can be tailored to your body shape as well as preferences. One of the best features of this model is found amongst its storage compartments. It includes one stealth pocket that can easily go undetected. Use this compartment to keep your valuables away from lurking pickpockets. We recommend this sling backpack for everyday use whether you’re heading to class, the gym or on a hike.
Thank us later because we have another phenomenal leather sling backpack to show you. This model isn’t as gentlemanly as some of the other leather models, but it remains suitable for professional occasions and weekends city dwelling.
It comes in a range of darker colors and is adjustable to your dimensions. It can also be worn across your back or across your front like some of the previous models we’ve featured. The main larger storage compartment is coupled with a number of smaller and accessible pockets, secured with reliable zippers. One of the highlights is an earphone port to weave your earphones out of the bag for added convenience. Hit the button below to discover more.
One of the lighter and more slender designs that will appeal to a certain market like joggers and cyclists is the Vanlison bag. Weighing in at just over half a pound, this is not going to add much weight to your active lifestyle. You’ll still conquer the trails and the tracks with this incredible backpack for men.
The backpack is made with watertight nylon and the strap has been additionally padded to add more comfort to the wearer’s experience. Just because it is one of the smaller sling bags doesn’t mean it’s short of storage options. Don’t be deceived but be amazed at its six compartments plus an internal zip pocket for valuable items. The lake blue color edition caught our eye. Which one would you choose?
We’ve always got your back at Men’s Gear and so will this 7Senses design made from high-quality polyester. Being made from polyester means that this sling backpack doesn’t compromise on durability but it’s also easy to wipe clean and keep in excellent condition. The back panel is also breathable and designed to support your back. Similar support is applied to the padded strap, which also includes reflective stripes to keep you visible in low-light conditions. Bikers and cyclists are listening more intently now.
Water bottle pockets, smartphone pockets and even room for a laptop make this a stand-out option to most sling bag shoppers. It’s one of the largest and best models on our list. Think again before scrolling past our link to the top sellers!
We just showed you a great sling backpack for the cyclists in our readership. Now we have one for the fishermen among us. This is not just a sling backpack for fishing trips though. This is a tactical sling bag for fishing trips!
The prime nylon is water resistant and durable. Still, don’t try and fall in the lake though guys. Quality materials are also found in the product’s SBS full-length zippers and KAM buckle. So, what makes it great for fishing trips? We’re glad you asked.
This particular sling bag includes two rod belts, so you can store your rods securely. There is also ample storage to keep lures, fishing boxes, line, pliers and the other accessories and items in your life. There is even MOLLE webbing which gives the bag its tactical status. The final perk is that you get to choose from a host of military-inspired colors!
Closing in on the final sling backpacks brings us to the Kalevel Sling Bag. This is one of the cheapest sling backpacks we have in store for you, but you wouldn’t think it to look at its materials and features. Grey, coffee, black or army green are your color choices and each one is made with water-resistant cotton canvas.
But it’s not only color options that you get here. You also get a choice between dimensions to suit your needs. Just be aware that both sizes will accommodate a tablet and not a laptop. The strap remains adjustable and the space on offer is plentiful. You get to make the most of a roomy main compartment, two additional pockets with zippers – and an internal zip pocket for your valuables. Fashionable? Check. Functional? Check. Affordable? Triple check! Discover more about the Kalevel Sling Backpack for men by hitting the link right below.
The POSO Sling Backpack is a stylish creation and has a hint of the popular Herschel backpacks in it. The predominant part of the design is made from scratch-resistant and water-resistant nylon you can count on. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities as well as daily living.
The strap of this design is not padded, but POSO has cleverly padded the shoulder region of their sling backpack so they retain the comfort factor for the wearer. While we’re talking about the strap, also notice how it is adjustable in length and can be adapted to make the bag a shoulder backpack, a cross-body bag – or even a cross-chest model. It’s a versatile bag that can work for you. This sling bag comes available in four colors and comes with an attached 90-day satisfaction guarantee. Not happy with it for whatever reason? Sling it back and get your money back too!
The modern man needs a modern backpack and this sling bag is just that. Unlike many of the previous models which are water resistant, this bag is made from PU leather that is completely waterproof. The leather has been made into an ergonomic design to support your back, making it ideal for prolonged wear.
This sling backpack is one of the most spacious we’ve featured. It’s so big it includes a laptop sleeve and plenty of other compartments and pockets to keep your papers and college work organized. These storage options include an external pocket with a strong and smooth zipper. Use this pocket to keep the items you need frequently, whether it be a company ID or your car keys.
One of the special features on this backpack is the headphone and earphone port. Slip a powerbank inside the bag and charge your smartphone as you commute to work. Or, keep your smartphone in your sling backpack and feed your earphones to listen to your playlist anytime and anywhere. There are five different color options to choose from and some of them use a two-toned design that adds stylish contrast to the bag’s overall aesthetics.
The penultimate sling backpack on our buyer guide is something for the men that enjoy photography. This bag has been specifically made to carry cameras safely and securely. The inside of the compartments includes padded dividers, so you can store your DSLR cameras in a way that suit you. There is also a top compartment where you can store camera accessories such as zoom lenses and more.
Altura has put some serious thought into the functionality of their creation and recognized that many photographers need quick access to their camera and accessories. To cater to this quick rush to grab your camera and get the perfect snap, they enhanced their strap. They added extra padding into the strap so you can swivel it around and grab your camera without having to take it off. To give you purchasing power, the manufacturers are also supplying this sling backpack with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
The last chance to board the sling backpack train to Style Ville is the S-Zone Sling Bag. The majority of the backpack is made from durable canvas and includes some leather aspects to add to its aesthetics and durability.
You will find many different compartments inside ready to securely hold all your daily items. From smartphones and car keys to 14-inch laptops – everything is catered for here. It must be noted that the laptop sleeve has been filled with extra padding to prevent it from getting damaged during the rush hour commute.
They offer their design in either a stylish dark gray or a cool coffee color. Both will make you look great in the city or on a weekend adventure in nature with the family. Learn even more about this backpack for men by clicking the button just below.
That concludes our look into the best sling bags currently on the market. We had a lot to show you and your scrolling finger may be feeling a little tired right now. But if you found the best sling backpack for your needs – which we sure hope you did – then it was all worth it.
If you found many sling backpacks that caught your eye, then why not compare them by learning more about each model. Simply hit our links to the best sellers so compare features, prices and design options. We made sure our list included a variety of styles, functions and fit into different price brackets.
Despite these difference, we also made sure that our features came from reliable brands that are either household names like Under Armor or trusted manufacturers such as 7Senses, Waterfly, Kavu – and tactical gear manufacturers such as 5.11 and Reebow. If you choose any of the sling bags above, you can be assured of a smart purchase.
Lastly, thanks for dropping in with us at Men’s Gear for another look at cool products that are both stylish and functional. Modern men are flocking to our site all the time and we hope you’ll join us again on another buyer guide in the near future.
The Nike ISPA Metamorph Poncho consists of layers of water-resistant lightweight nylon, adjustable straps, and functional two-way zip closures and easily transforms into a tent and a carry bag.
