Sometimes you just need your hands to do things, you know? Enter the best crossbody bags for men, the sleekest way to store your valuables (phone, keys, wallet, etc.) while freeing up your digits to do whatever they please.
What makes a crossbody bag different from—and, we’d argue, slightly better than—a fanny pack or a tote? Unlike either of those, the crossbody derives its endless functionality from an adjustable strap that can be tailored to your length of choice and slipped on any which way you please—over the shoulder, across the chest, back, or neck. And despite its deceptively compact profile, the right one will shelter your sundry tchotchkes, doohickeys, and thingamajigs without weighing you down.
The Best Crossbody Bags for Men, According to GQ
If you’re looking for something with a little more panache, a sleek crossbody sling or a shoulder bag crafted from smooth, full-grain leather will get you from point A to point B in uncompromising style. If, say, you’ve already got a host of outdoor activities planned and need something that can handle a little roughing up, a messenger bag made from water-resistant, ripstop nylon might be the move—especially when said bag comes kitted out with a spacious main compartment to stash your most important gear (plus a decently-sized water bottle), along with a series of strategically placed zipper pockets to make sure nothing goes tumbling down a rocky void.
What we’re trying to say is: hands-free, easy access is the bare minimum your go-to carry-all should offer. If it’s not, which is why you’re reading this, it’s time to upgrade. Below, we rounded up 14 of the best crossbody bags for men, so you can finally say goodbye to silently panicking about where you last placed your AirPods (hint: they’re in the front pocket).
The Best Budget Crossbody Bag
Uniqlo’s absurdly viral nylon crossbody still tops the list when it comes to stylish, multi-purpose bags that overdeliver on carrying capacity. Big enough to fit your phone and keys (and a water bottle when you’re feeling thirsty), this lil’ water-repellent nylon number is a quintessential spring staple that won’t break the bank.
The Best Small Crossbody Bag
Don’t want to leave your phone unattended in a gym cubby—let alone on a still-sweaty treadmill last wiped down a week ago? Lululemon’s belt bag, crafted from a water-resistant polyester decked out with pockets and a handy 2-way zipper, offers a mercifully simple solution. It’s not the buzziest pick on this list, but it’ll get the job done with the legging juggernaut’s signature attention to on-the-go performance.
The Best Designer Crossbody Bag
Look, there’s nothing wrong with a nylon bag in a discreet shade of greige. But if you’re looking to accessorize with a little more Elordi flair, Bottega Veneta’s pristine leather cassette bag will keep your valuables close—and heads on a swivel. Is it basically a bite-sized purse? Yes, it’s basically a bit-sized purse. That’s what makes it so good.
The Best Crossbody Bag from a Bag Specialist
Your first introduction to Baggu was probably through the brand’s peppy reusable totes, but to no surprise, the buzzy bag-making gurus hawk a mean crossbody, too. Featuring a roomy interior with a zippered pocket on the outside (and an additional pocket on the inside), this no-frills riff can comfortably house your wallet, keys, and camera—and come out in the washing machine looking no worse for it.
The Best Scandalously Affordable Leather Crossbody Bag
Consider this your friendly reminder that you don’t have to drop a bag to secure a great one. Thanks to a whole lot of new juice in the menswear department, Madewell continues to churn out stylish wardrobe upgrades at prices that justify doubling up. This pure leather crossbody is no different—spacious enough to store the essentials, sleek enough to pass muster at the office, it’s proof that, when employed correctly, a little premium cowhide goes a long way.
The Best Crossbody Bag-Backpack Hybrid
Naturally, the outdoor experts at Patagonia know how to equip you for expeditions of any nature. Luxuriating in Mother Nature’s bounty requires a little bit of prep, so make sure you have the Atom sling’s 8 liters of water-repellent storage close at hand.
The Best Crossbody Bag for Travel
You know that awful pit in your stomach you get when you’re waiting to go through security and can’t find your passport? Here’s you solution: Porter-Yoshida & Co.’s sturdy-but-sleek travel bag, which boasts just enough space to store your ID, lip balm, and a pack of Juicy Fruit to help with the barotrauma.
Plus 6 More Sleek Bags Worth Your Torso Space
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