The Best Briefcases for Men
We all love our reusable New Yorker totes and Hershel backpacks, but there comes a time when you're carrying more than just an old laptop, that book you never read, and a Clif bar. Whether you need to lock up a work computer and sensitive documents, or you're just craving the luxurious look (and feel) of full-grain leather, we've scoured the market for the best of the best. The options we've included here include a few of our favorites. These run the gamut from hard-sided, durable attaché cases to a backpack, briefcase and satchel all in one. Rest assured that whatever you choose from this list will have a form just as sophisticated as its function.
Samsonite Bonded Leather Attaché Case
A Bond That Won't Break
The well-known luggage brand makes a strong statement with this briefcase for big boys. Measuring nearly 18 inches in width, the black attaché can easily fit the largest laptops on the market, along with full-size legal documents and other important belongings. The bonded leather exterior is polished and durable, while the lined interior is padded enough for delicate tablets and other tech gadgets. You also won’t have to worry about uninvited eyes peering into your case, thanks to the dual black nickel combination locks. Once you pick up the padded handle of this case, you won’t want to put it back down.
Pros:
- Exterior can expand an additional inch
- Expandable 3-tier, 4-file folder on the inside
- Attached bottom legs for stability and durability
Cons:
- Leather requires treatment to make it fully water-resistant
RoadPro Aluminum Briefcase
Medal-Worthy
For those who prefer the high-tech sheen of metal over the more relaxed look of leather, RoadPro has you covered. The silver aluminum exterior of this briefcase is complemented by a lined interior, complete with compartments aplenty. It can comfortably house your laptop, folders, and notebooks, and you get the benefit of setting your own combination locks — no one gets in or out without your permission. It may look heavy, but the light, durable aluminum construction makes it the perfect weight to carry all day without breaking a sweat.
Pros:
- Aluminum exterior won’t scratch as easily as leather
- Lined interior has organizational pockets
- Dual combination locks for strong security
Cons:
- No expandable features because of rigid construction
Solo New York Grand Central Attaché Case
Man's Best Companion
Part of feeling confident in your job is looking the part, and this attaché from Solo New York will help you fit right in with any professional workplace. The classic black construction has a hard-side exterior and a spacious interior with organizational pockets that keep laptops, newspapers and documents safely in place. Set your own dual combination lock to ensure that your business stays inside the briefcase. It also comes with four metal feet on the bottom to avoid scuffs from constant contact with the ground.
Pros:
- Classic black hard-side exterior
- Sturdy, ergonomically designed handle
- Guaranteed to be free of defects for 5 years
Cons:
- Interior organizational pocket has limited expansion
- Exterior construction material is not listed
KPL Leather Briefcase
Soft and Secure
While not as matter-of-fact and bold as the black briefcases on our list, this briefcase from KPL captures the hearts of the vintage, full-grain leather lovers in all of us. It measures at a roomy 18 inches wide, meaning there’s ample space for a laptop or large tablet in the main compartment, and additional room for books, documents, and keys in the other pockets. The backside features a zipper pocket for easy access, or for storing the removable satchel strap when not in use. You’ll have the envy of everyone when you carry this soft-sided case into your next meeting.
Pros:
- Handcrafted, sun-tanned, full-grain leather
- Bag gets softer — not less durable — with use
- Removable, adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying
Cons:
- No combination locking capability, only a hidden push-lock
CoolBELL Convertible Briefcase
A Very Happy Medium
Sometimes you want a backpack, but other times, you want a briefcase. We get it, and so does CoolBELL. With that in mind, they’ve created a hybrid messenger bag/satchel style for when you’re really indecisive. The waterproof, polyester-blend interior is spacious enough for a laptop, a notebook or two, and clothes for the weekend, making this the perfect briefcase for men who abide by the “work hard, play hard” motto. The backside even features a luggage strap, allowing you to secure it to your roller bag. Don’t worry about all the extra straps either — the backpack and briefcase handles can be hidden when not in use.
Pros:
- Roomy enough to fit everything needed for work and play
- Real leather carrying straps and durable zippers
- Zippers feature lock rings for added security
Cons:
- Less professional aesthetic
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to worry about TSA’s lock restrictions when buying a briefcase?
No, unless you intend to transport your briefcase as checked luggage, which is the only time the TSA may want to open your luggage outside of your presence. If you plan to bring your briefcase as a carry-on, they may ask you to unlock it to look inside, but you won’t have to worry about them destroying your built-in combination lock.
Is “full-grain” leather worth investing in?
If you’re looking to keep your briefcase around for a long time, yes. Full-grain leather is the most water-resistant kind of leather, and it also develops an aesthetically pleasing “patina,” the glossy sheen that appears when leather is properly used and aged. Lower-quality leather briefcases will do the job, but don’t expect to be giving them to your grandkids 40 years down the line.
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