-
Wole Femi Asaolu
- Updated: February 26, 2023
- 6 Comments
When deciding on the best black leather backpacks, factors like fit, water-resistance, and durability all come into play.
Not to mention the perfect style, which is very important for all top-rated black leather backpacks.
It doesn’t help either that there are so many options to choose from.
To make your choice a bit easier, I have carefully picked out 15 awesome black leather backpacks that check all the boxes I mentioned earlier, while satisfying varying needs.
This review outlines each pack’s unique features, design, and less than savory details.
In addition, be sure to check out my buying guide below if you want extra tips on how to get the best high-quality black leather backpacks and make the right decision.
With style and functionality at the forefront, you’ll be spoilt for choice with these 15 high-quality black leather backpacks in 2023.
Enjoy.
Table of Contents
15 Black Leather Backpacks of 2023
Here’s a quick list of the best black leather backpacks, with the in-depth reviews of each below.
- Best overall black leather backpack: Leatherology Parker Backpack
- Best premium: Michael Kors Raven Leather Backpack
- Most versatile: Alpha 3 Leather Brief Pack
- Best convertible: Elliah Convertible Backpack
- Best small black leather backpack: Micheal Kor Rhea Mini Leather Backpack
- Black leather backpack for photographers: ONA’s Monterey Backpack
- Best black leather backpack for the office: Knomo Beaux Leather Laptop Backpack
- Best black leather backpack for Women: Cuyana Leather Backpack
- Black leather backpack for men: WP Standard Roll Top Leather Backpack
- Best Faux Black Leather Backpack: LXY Vegan Leather Backpack
- Minimalist Black Leather Backpack: ISM The Backpack
- Best Budget black leather backpack: Nevenka Leather Backpack
- Best EDC black leather backpack: CLUCI Backpack Purse
- Black leather backpack for travel: Piel Leather Checkpoint Friendly Backpack
- Most durable black leather backpack: Saddle Back Front Pocket backpack
Best overall: Leatherology Parker Backpack
Summary: The Parker backpack’s classic design and organization make it a go-to bag.
There’s no denying the functionality and quality stunning craftsmanship of the Leatherology Parker pack.
Clean and minimalist, this is an absolutely gorgeous piece of carry made from the finest full-grain leather.
And as expected, it boasts of a decent amount of internal storage — including a dedicated laptop pouch.
In detail, there are two large compartments, a front exterior pocket, and two side pockets to other small personal items.
What’s more?
With its distinctive black Onyx leather color that goes with anything, you can’t go wrong.
For carrying comfort, it features a top carry handle and easily adjustable shoulder straps.
Apart from being a cute and functional EDC, it is also great for frequent flyers, which makes it one of the best black leather backpacks.
What we also love
Now for the fun part: monogramming personalization at an affordable rate.
What’s not great
For a $300 bag, it only has a one-year limited warranty.
Best premium: Michael Kors Raven Leather Backpack
Summary: The Raven leather backpack is both elegant and versatile
Laid-back yet luxe, the Raven leather backpack from Michael Kors is loved for its superb quality and classic style.
Spotting a premium pebbled leather design with a decorative gold logo charm, and a classic old-school aesthetic, this bag is sure to complement every of your style or outfit.
The best part about this baby is how it manages to be roomy, without being bulky.
The polyester lined interior features a center compartment with 4 slip pockets to help organize your bits on busy days.
It also has a back pocket on the exterior where you can safely stow away your smaller valuables.
And you can carry the Raven by its straps or grab handle, whichever suits the mood.
Plus the shoulder straps are adjustable to allow for a customized fit while its handy snap closure gives you easy access to the content of the bag.
What we also love
Cute, functional, and versatile, the Raven makes for a daily carry, as well as a handy night-out purse that fits all your evening essentials.
What’s more?
You get to pick up this bestselling bag in three colors, with gold/silver detailing.
What’s not great
The Raven leather backpack comes with a high price tag, but the craftsmanship makes it worth every penny.
Most versatile: Alpha 3 Leather Brief Pack
Summary: The Alpha 3 Pack is a sleek and functional carry for work, travel, and more.
Need a reliable bag to take everywhere you go?
This popular Compact Brief Pack may very well do the trick.
This compact carry will fit your needs quite nicely, be it as a daily carry, or as a place to stow your overnight essentials for travels.
It has a large main compartment in which you’ll find a padded laptop pocket, a padded tablet pocket, a removable file organizer zippered area, and even pockets for small items like keys, your phone, etc.
Outside the bag are two side water bottle pockets, with one being water-resistant.
And it goes without saying, the Alpha 3 Compact is very durable.
It is made with ultra-durable leather material and is praised for its long-lasting quality.
The inclusion of a luggage sleeve at the back, leather top handle, and Tumi tracer to avoid loss is a nice touch.
On top of all that, it has a sleek aesthetic that should go perfectly in most settings, whether you’re using this backpack for carting around work files or just out exploring with friends.
What we also love
You also get to personalize this pack.
At an additional cost, the luggage tag, monogram patch, handle wrap, and zipper pull ties can be what you want them to be.
What’s not great
A major complaint is that this bag is relatively heavy, even before you’ve filled it up with items.
One customer said that this Compact Brief Pack doesn’t stand still but falls forward when set down. What you can do is arrange the content of the bag with even weight so the bag doesn’t fall over.
Best convertible: Elliah Convertible Backpack
Summary: The Elliah convertible backpack is a handy small bag for daily use.
If you’re looking for a black leather backpack purse that’s understated enough to go with any daytime look, the Elliah convertible backpack is just what you need.
This backpack is made with faux leather material and adorned with gold hardware that allows you to pair it with any outfit, regardless of the occasion.
Best of all, the bag is functional too.
It features a zipper compartment and multiple pockets, including two internal slip pockets and a back pocket on the exterior which will provide the ultimate safety to your valuables.
The straps are also soft and comfortable for carrying comfort.
On top of everything, you can use it for going shopping, dates, trips, and other occasions.
What we also love
You can carry it three different ways — as a top handle bag, a shoulder bag, and as a backpack!
What’s not great
A few complaints have it that the magnet to close the flap of the backpack gets weakened with time, and since that’s the only top covering, contents will spill out when you’re on the go.
Best small leather backpack: Michael Kors Rhea Backpack
Summary: The Rhea backpack is a stylish mini carry with just enough room for your very essentials.
The Rhea pack is a cute and small black leather backpack from Micheal Kor with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and timeless design.
Equipped with soft venus leather and rust-proof zippers – it is built to last a lifetime and not just a few seasons.
The Rhea pack is perfect for daytime activities that don’t require hefty equipment.
It has two compartments, including a padded iPad pocket, a front pocket, with a key fob that makes it easier than ever to stay organized.
Use it for the office, or running errands– no matter what the occasion is, you will come to appreciate its original look.
Your load won’t feel heavy as the backpack has adjustable shoulder straps for comfy carry.
What we also love
The Rhea bag is impressively versatile. You can also wear it as a crossbody or shoulder bag.
What’s not great
The price tag is steep.
Best for photographers: ONA’s Monterey Backpack
Summary: A sturdy tech bag for your camera, laptop, tablet, and other accessories.
If you want a camera leather backpack that doubles as a flexible EDC carry, you’ll like the ONA’s Monterey backpack.
The layout features a removable camera cube that is large enough to house a full DSLR kit while providing the needed protection for your photography equipment.
There’s also a protective laptop sleeve that fits a 13-inch device.
I like that this compartment is well padded and is very hidden away, such that no one would know what you are carrying.
The build quality of the Ona backpack is top-notch.
Made of premium waxed canvas and leather as accents, you’re looking at a bag that is designed to look worn and only gets better with time.
I like that the backpack is very comfortable to carry.
It comes with a padded mesh back panel, breathable shoulder straps, and a fully padded leather base for added security.
Whatever your adventure, you’ll be traveling in comfort and style.
What we also love
You can remove the dividers to fit regular items, and use the backpack as an everyday carry backpack.
What’s not so great
Side Pockets are somewhat pointless. Not expandable to fit a big bottle.
Also, there’s no luxury of overpacking this backpack. The zippers simply won’t close once the backpack is loaded out.
Best for the office: Knomo Beaux Leather Laptop Backpack
Summary: The Knomo Beaux Backpack keeps contents in your bag organized while maintaining a chic and compact silhouette.
Want a professional and compact bag for the office?
The Beaux leather backpack comes swooping in as a functional and smart carry with room for your tech, documents and other work supplies.
Luxe and slimline, it is made with the finest full-grain quality leather, so you know quality is assured.
It also has a spacious main compartment, RFID-protected pocket, and simple interior organization, for keeping organized on the go.
To seal the deal, it features a water-repellent exterior, a shockproof 14” laptop sleeve, and a and pass-through on the back to slide onto a rolling suitcase.
What we also love
Designed for life on the go, it’s comfortable to wear courtesy of a padded back and S-shaped straps.
What’s more?
It stays slim even when fully packed and is stylish to boot!
What’s not so great
While it’ll keep your belonging dry during some light rain, it won’t do much in heavier downpours.
For Women: Cuyana Leather Backpack
Summary: The Cuyana backpack is small, sturdy, and beautiful.
The Cuyana backpack is made of high-quality heavyweight leather that is LWG Gold certified.
Fashionable and sustainably made, it boasts of a sleek exterior design that feels ready for anything.
It can comfortably accommodate a 13″ laptop leaving enough space for a change of cloth, 2-3 books, a water bottle, a small umbrella, and even a change of clothes.
In addition, it is secured with hidden magnetic snap closures and features two exterior pockets for your need-to-reach-quickly items.
What’s more?
As one of the best black leather backpacks, it is the type to suit your style, no matter the occasion.
Plus, It’s ideal as the go-to for work, school, or day trips.
What we also love
You can carry this bag as a backpack or as a shoulder bag.
What’s not great
It’s great, but only if you can afford to splurge a little.
For men: WP Standard Roll Top Leather Backpack
Summary: A timeless choice for the urbane gentleman.
The WP Standard Roll Top Leather Backpack vintage appeal and sleek aesthetic are exactly what make it the ideal option for the best black leathers for men.
It’s made from high-quality, durable full-grain leather and lined with cotton, which gives it this rugged good look in a tough carry.
It’s even prepared to keep your belongings dry in damp weather conditions, thanks to its 100% water-resistant rolltop closure and exterior.
This is a rucksack you can certainly take to the office — and then out on a trip immediately after the workday.
You can fit a laptop, iPad, and a paperback along side multiple notebooks and planners and even overstuff the thing on long flights.
The straps are handy enough to hold your jacket. All you have to do is fill it up and roll down as far as you need.
At under $400, it’s a steal given its quality and construction — plus, the standout looks of the Rolltop Rucksack are nearly worth the price in and of itself.
What we also love
The backpack is covered by a limited lifetime warranty, which is always nice.
What’s not great
It could do with more pockets for better organization.
Best faux leather: LXY Vegan Leather Backpack
Summary: An eco-friendly and affordable black leather backpack.
If you want a more sustainable and eye-catching option to real leather, the LXY Vegan Leather pack might just be the bag for you.
The faux leather material used is an ethical and sustainable fashion choice that requires low maintenance and will last you a very long time.
Also, this pack will neatly organize and keep your items safe.
It’s spacious enough to hold a 14-inch laptop, books, plus several other items in the roomy main compartment. A front pocket holds your go-to items while two hidden pockets help you safely stash your valuables like wallet, phone, etc.
Need more space?
The bag features a hidden button that allows you to expand the storage space or adjust it for a slimmer build.
Even better, this vegan pack is cheap!
Retailing for less than $40, its sleek design looks far more expensive than its price tag.
What we also love
A top carry handle and easily adjustable shoulder straps make it easy to bring with you everywhere you go.
What’s not great
Some customer reviews indicate that the bag’s snap closure can break at any time.
Best Minimalist: ISM The Backpack
Summary: The ISM Backpack is a super stylish and sleek bag that will fit your EDC and much more.
The ISM backpack impresses with its minimalist design and head-turning aesthetics.
If you’re big on looks and quality, this sleek pack is a good representative of best black leather backpacks.
Made from first-rate grain leather and water-resistant nylon with lovely leather trim details, you know you’ll get the bang for your buck.
Plus, it is lightweight.
Designed for a seamless transition from work to exploring the world with friends, it spots a separate tech compartment, the main compartment with pockets, and a front pocket for easy access to your items.
The addition of a protective 16-inch laptop, AguaGuard YKK zippers, breathable back panel and a luggage sleeve makes the backpack functional to daily use.
What’s we also love
Also, it comes in two sizes (17.2L and 10.8L), has a discreet side flap to charge your electronic on the go, and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
What’s not great
It doesn’t come with any external water bottle pocket.
Best Budget: Nevenka Leather Backpack
Summary: The Nevenka Backpack is a well-made black leather backpack you can definitely afford!
Because quality black leather backpacks do not have to be outrageously expensive, the Nevenka Backpack Purse sweeps in with a very sweet deal.
You get this clean-cut style and well-rated backpack for under $25!
Made of quality PU leather – a synthetic material that looks and feels like leather– it is touted by thousands of users to be able to withstand the demands of daily use.
Thanks to the golden zippers, the bag looks elegant and will get you multiple compliments.
I promise.
Despite being minimal, the Nevenka pack will comfortably hold your essentials, like a phone, notebook, folding umbrella, tablet, card or card bag, and more.
What we also love
Inside, there is a divider to break the bag up for easy organization and a front pocket for your go-to items.
What’s not great
Some users don’t fancy the pocket right across the middle of the bag because it makes gets in the way of you getting items from the bag.
Best EDC: CLUCI Backpack Purse
Summary: A cute and practical black leather backpack that is super handy for everyday activities.
The Cluci backpack purse is one of the best black leather backpacks because it is very versatile.
It is a cleverly designed bag that is affordable, has plenty of storage, and can be used for different purposes.
Lightweight and water-resistant, the pack is made of high-quality soft PU leather, with metal accessories and fabric lining.
This bag’s got decent storage capacity.
There is room and pockets for all of your must-haves—including laptops, water bottles, books, and umbrellas.
Tons of users have praised how easy it is to use for different purposes. From traveling to being a diaper bag or commuting to the office, it is a super handy everyday bag.
At under $38, this elegant bag is a real steal!
And the best part?
This pack spots an anti-theft design. The main zipper closure is located at the back to make it inaccessible to intruders. to deter sneaking fingers.
What we also love
I like that you can choose to carry it as a backpack or a shoulder bag, thanks to the detachable shoulder strap.
The padded shoulder straps take care of your upper back muscles so you won’t feel stressed when carrying it for hours.
What’s not great
This backpack can’t stand upright it is not fully packed! Also, there are complaints about defective zippers.
Best for travel: Piel Leather Checkpoint Friendly Urban Backpack
Summary: A sophisticated leather backpack for business or short trips.
The Piel Leather pack is a strong contender on the best black leather backpacks for travel thanks to its roomy capacity, easy organization, and incredible quality.
Crafted with full-grain genuine Colombian leather, it feels like it will hold up to common travel abuse.
If you tend to travel with your tech, you’re in for a treat.
The design of this backpack is so TSA-friendly you won’t need to take your laptop out of the backpack when passing security.
It features tech carry features such as a 15.6″ laptop compartment, separate tablet sleeve, and tons of organizers for things like cables, power banks, and headphones.
The front organizer does a great job at storing smaller items that need quick access.
The air-mesh back panel together with the mesh backpack straps provides you with the ultimate comfort that lasts all day long.
The padded grab handles also make it super easy to grab the backpack from overhead compartments.
What we also love
The pass-through panel provides you with the opportunity to attach your backpack to your suitcase.
What’s not great
The backpack is more useful for professionals who need to embark on short trips, and nothing more.
Most durable: Saddle Back Front Pocket Leather backpack
Summary: The Saddle leather backpack is a very durable pack that you can trust to survive even the apocalypse.
The Saddle leather backpack is a real classic.
This thing has garnered a lot of respect over the years and it’s easy to see why.
Made from the strongest and very water-resistant full-grain leather, this backpack is tough, practical, and shows a lot of real attention to quality and comfort.
It is ready for whatever crazy mission you throw at it.
And that’s actually one of the things that makes the bag a great option for the best black leather backpacks– no matter what you put it through, it will come out unscathed.
You’ll also notice that the bottom of the bag is double stitched.
On top of that, the backpack is spacious with a soft sleeve to hold your laptop, three exterior pockets and a hidden back pocket for easy access, and metal D-rings to attach your Tripods, blankets, etc.
What we also love
Comfortable and durable, this bag is a timeless fashion design that will last you for a very long time to come.
And it’s covered by a 100 years warranty, so you have nothing to worry about!
What’s not great
It’s heavy even when empty.
Types of Leather
When choosing the best black leather backpacks to invest in, you must know what type to go for.
There are four common types of leather, namely; full-grain leather, top grain leather, genuine leather, and vegan leather.
Full-grain leather
This is the best quality and most natural type of leather.
Full-grain leather is a natural leather gotten directly from the animal and made into a backpack. It is also the most expensive. This is because it is 100% pure leather, without any form of chemical processing.
Top Grain leather
Top grain leather is the top layer of the hide of an animal and is of premium quality. However, it goes through chemical processing and finishes, which is why it’s cheaper than full-grain leather.
Blemishes are worked on to make the leather look perfect with a super finish to it.
Top grain leather is the choice for you if you’re looking for a smooth, blemish-free pure leather.
Genuine leather
The least expensive and least quality leather on the list.
Genuine leather is the result of what’s left after the full grain and top grain leathers have been extracted from the hide of the animal.
They use chemicals on genuine leather so as to make it look similar to the other two.
Faux leather
Faux leather is quite similar to top grain leather, only that it is not made from real animal skin.
It is also called synthetic or vegan leather because no animal is the harm in the process of using the leather to make the backpack.
Faux (PU) and vegan leather won’t last as long as the natural leader of course, but it is a great compromise if your personal principle doesn’t condone the use of animal products because of fashion.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Black Leather backpacks
Durability
Leather backpacks are usually very durable bags that are resistant to wear and tear over the years.
Like a fine wine, quality black leather backpacks get better with age and remain strong enough to carry all your gear without breaking.
This is why you want to ensure that you go for a high-quality black leather backpack with the highest of standard and positive reviews from actual users.
Otherwise, you could be left with an expensive backpack with little or no value for your money.
The balance between price and quality
Leather backpacks are expensive.
However, this doesn’t always mean they have to cost an arm and leg. If you cannot afford full-grain leather, you can go for a faux leather backpack or genuine black leather backpacks that are also very durable and very well made.
Capacity
The capacity of black leather backpacks is an important factor to look out for.
It’s possible that you will carry your backpack as an everyday carry all day and leather backpacks are known to be heavy. So go for a capacity you can comfortably haul about.
Purpose
Black leather backpacks can be used for different purposes.
When you’re choosing a bag, consider what you will be using the bag for.
For instance, if you will be traveling with the bag, make sure to choose one that is properly sized to fit on an airplane, or at least is travel-friendly.
Extra Features
The best black leather backpacks should have features such as a padded laptop sleeve, easy access pockets, etc., that can make your life easier.
As with any backpack, ensure you look for features that best suits your need.
FAQs
Are leather backpacks good?
Considering the fact that they are usually expensive, you may wonder, are leather backpacks worth it?
Leather is a very strong and natural material often regarded as the best material for bags due to its strength, durability, and timeless style. Black leather backpacks tend to have this very polished texture and expensive-looking finish.
There is, of course, the point that a leather backpack can last a lifetime when used under optimal condition.
So, the simple answer is yes, black leather backpacks are good because they look good, and will last.
Are leather backpacks good for travel?
There is a misconception that leather backpacks are heavy.
That is not true. A backpack made with quality leather is light because of the process of tanning that leather material goes through before getting transformed into a backpack.
Aside from being very durable and incredibly stylish, leather backpacks come with just enough pockets to help you with the organization of your items. There is also the fact that you won’t want to worry about your backpack breaking down after just two or three trips.
so, leather backpacks are tough enough to withstand the demands of travel to the point of being used by two generations
How long do leather backpacks last?
Another frequently asked question is ‘how long do genuine leather backpacks last’?
Well, it depends on the type and quality of the leather backpack you go for and on how well you take care of it.
For instance, 100% full-grain leather high-quality backpacks can last up to 30-40 years, or even decades, especially if you take reasonable care of them.
It is therefore not surprising to see some black leather backpacks with a lifetime warranty.
However, the same cannot be said for cheap leathers.
Does genuine leather last long?
Genuine leather hides tend to have a short lifespan when compared to full-grain leather backpacks.
This is because genuine leather is buffed, and a finishing coat is added to create an even look. But generally, genuine leather backpacks can last long when used with reasonable care.
Are leather backpacks stylish?
Black leather backpacks are not only known to carry your essential belongings around but are also incredibly stylish.
They feature a timeless appearance that does not go out of style.
Be it for work, school, or traveling, leather backpacks have this sophisticated appeal that somehow manages to balances style and practicality.
Bottom Line
So, there we have it – 15 best black leather backpacks that are worth your money.
I have carefully selected these black leather backpacks that cater to various preferences and tastes.
I hope this list helps you to decide on the bag that suits your needs.
Over to you, let me know in the comments if you agree with my picks or have any recommendations for the best black leather backpacks.
This article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These backpacks have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.
6 thoughts on “Top 15 Black Leather Backpacks That Are Too Cool To Resist”
I enjoyed this review of black backpacks, and in particular like the vegan leather backpack. I always try to buy non-leather goods and this is not only affordable but looks good as well. The spacious laptop compartment is very handy and great for commuting to the office. The hidden button is an excellent feature. It’s also handy to be able to expand space if needed. Thanks for sharing:)
Hi Wole, Great review lots of work you put in here. I think this would be a very good guide for someone looking to purchase a black leather backpack. I use to sell a couple of items like this a few years back. I know there is definitely demand. I do think for me personally my pick would be the ISM backpack. I like especially that it can hold a laptop so would be ideal for me when I’m travelling. However, I do wonder about these leather backpacks definitely seem a lot more durable but they also seem like they could be heavy which could be problematic if you are travelling abroad and need to keep the weight down.
Hey Alex,
Thank you for your comment, and yes, black leather backpacks are truly in demand. They are super durable, stylish and you simply can’t go wrong with a sleek black bag.
Right there, you have pointed out the major argument against leather backpacks. But even though they are usually heavier than backpacks made with other materials like polyester, they are however not too heavy that you cannot travel with a leather backpack.
A backpack made with quality leather is light because of the process of tanning that leather material goes through before getting transformed into a backpack. And there is also the fact that you won’t want to worry about your backpack breaking down after just two or three trips.
I hope this has addressed your concerned.
Cheers,
Femi.
Great article with a lot of research conducted. I do get the whole “save the animal” faux leather movement but I must confess that if I am looking to buy I do like to invest in quality that will not only look great, but will last for a long duration of time.
I would have to settle for the 100% full-grain leather high-quality backpacks that can last for decades.
Hey Femi,
Great article! There’s no doubt about it – black leather is the benchmark in style also durability of leather is great, waterproof, long lasting etc.
Personally I like a very practical back pack with lots of compartments, so the Alpha 3 Leather Brief Pack appealed to me most. The only cons for me are that it is heavy and quite pricey. But having seen it, its time to start saving up!
Thanks for the ideas.
Femi, thanks for this article, I love backpacks and this roundup of leather backpacks was really needed!
I am more oriented towards faux leather in principle and I find that the LXY Vegan Leather Backpack is just the type of backpack for me, it is very beautiful also on an aesthetic level!