For most men, minimalism has been the norm for quite some time. This is why sling bags for men are getting a lot of attention. They not only sit comfortably across your back, but they are also easily accessible and often come with plenty of nifty zipped compartments. This is why the change to stylish and comfortable sling bags is made by many students, travelers and hikers.
Instead of being bulkier like a traditional backpack, sling bags are designed to be shorter, and the one strap nature makes it easy to sling the bag from back to front for accessibility. In addition, most sling bags offer the durability, waterproof protection, and organizational compartments from a standard backpack that you enjoy. Even though at today’s time, there are also popular bags for men such as messenger bags, briefcases, fanny packs, and stylish backpacks.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 8 hrs of research
Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag – Best Value
Why is it better?
- Lightweight
- Rain and snow proof
- Has shoulder strap pouch great anything you need easily accessible (phone, money, tickets)
- Front pouch to keep smaller items like pens, wallet, notepads separate and organized
5.11 Rush Moab Tactical Sling Bag – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- Molle at the bottom of the sling strap
- Easy to change from right hand to left hand carry
- Strap clip attaches to either side so you can wear it left or right
- Full double zip down compartments
Best Sling Bags for Men – Overview
The best sling bags are those that rest snug and hang around one’s shoulders with ease, making for easier movement while on the go and having quick access to the necessities. Today, we are looking at the 10 best sling bags for men. And if you are still unable to make up your mind, we advise you to refer to the buyer’s guide below, which may help give you the answer you are looking for.
Sling Bags for Men Reviews
1. Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag – Best Value
The Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag is a lightweight and compact sling bag for men with an adjustable strap. A cost-effective and attractive option all made of water-resistant, hard-wearing nylon fabric in a selection of contemporary colors. It comes with breathable mesh fabric for optimum comfort.
On the chest strap itself, there is also a very handy additional pocket, suitable to protect your cell phone safely and discreetly. Easy to take on and off, the bag features a robust, easy-release buckle plus a flexible swivel clip that allows you to change the shoulder strap direction from left to right according to your personal preference. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best edc sling bags.
Key Features:
- Flexible strap to switch from left to right
- Water-resistant nylon
- Multiple compartments
- Mesh pad on the back and strap
- Shoulder strap pocket ideal for a cell phone
Specifications:
- Brand: Waterfly
- Capacity: 10L
- Dimensions: 14.2″ H x 7.9″ W x 3.1″ D
- Weight: 0.45 lbs
- Lightweight
- Rain and snow proof
- Has shoulder strap pouch great anything you need easily accessible (phone, money, tickets)
- Front pouch to keep smaller items like pens, wallet, notepads separate and organized
- The side pocket is quite tight so it may be hard to fit a standard size water bottle
2. OutdoorMaster Sling Bag
Spacious internally but with a lightweight and fashionable look, the OutdoorMaster Sling Bag is extremely practical and has plenty of space for your daily essentials. Whether you’re a commuter who travels back and forth to work, an avid hiker, or a student who travels every day through the campus, this sleek, modern-looking bag will have your back.
There are plenty of internal pockets and compartments to store your valuables, including a discreet anti-theft pocket, ideal for your cell phone or wallet and keys. The shoulder strap is also multi-directional so there’s no wrong way to carry it, whether you’re left-handed or right-handed. This 12L crossbody sling bag, made of water-resistant nylon and reversible soft padded strap defines style and practicality.
Key Features:
- Lightweight crossbody design
- Hidden anti-theft pocket and water bottle holder
- Reversible shoulder strap direction with soft padding
- Accommodates left and right-handed carriers
Specifications:
- Brand: OutdoorMaster
- Capacity: 12L
- Dimensions: 17.7″ H x 11.8″ W x 4″ D
- Weight: 1 lbs
- Made from durable material, thicker and more rugged than “windbreaker” weight material
- Contents are easy to reach in two large pockets and two smaller pockets, all with smooth sliding zippers
- Wide, padded shoulder strap with swivel snap at bottom prevents tangling
- Webbed bottle pouch has a sturdy collar, drawstring and sturdy bottom to hold the bottle securely
- The pocket on the shoulder strap is very small to fit a phone or wallet
3. NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag
In terms of functionality, style, practicality, you can definitely trust the NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag. Featuring an ergonomic design, this pack is more comfortable to tote around than a cumbersome backpack that can strain your body. And when it comes to compact storage, it can’t be beaten! This sling bag has certainly been designed with your comfort in mind
A fully lined main compartment for clothes, books, camera, medical/first aid supplies, shoes, & more, as well as a pocket that can fit a small tablet, iPad or laptop up to 12. It even includes RFID blocking, so you can safely store your personal data. It is also water-resistant, which is a very practical feature plus has the added safety feature of a reflective material strip so it offers additional visibility, particularly when, for example, you are cycling. You may also be interested in some of the best canvas backpacks from our list, so check them out.
Key Features:
- Lots of practical storage and compartments
- Can be worn a number of ways
- Ergonomically designed with comfort padding
- Made of durable, water-resistant polyester canvas
Specifications:
- Brand: NeatPack
- Dimensions: 18.5″ H x 12.5″ W x 4″ D
- Weight: 0.95 lbs
- Lots of useful pockets
- Small pocket in the very front large enough for any phone
- A hidden zippered pocket that sits against the user’s back and is large enough for a passport and large wallet
- Middle pocket, a larger chamber with three smaller pockets inside: One with a zipper, With a hook for your keys
- Not suitable when carrying a lot of heavy items
4. Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Bag
The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Bag is a military tactically inspired sling bag for men. It comes in a variety of camouflage-inspired colors that will allow you to blend with your surroundings. Made from sturdy and durable 600 D Polyester, it has lots of molle webbing throughout and lots of pockets and handy attachments. There is also a hidden snap closure on the back panel which holds a pocket that makes a great anti-theft deterrent.
The sling bag is equipped with an ambidextrous strap so whether you are a leftie, rightie or just like to mix and match. A concealed-carry sleeve on the back panel of the bag easily and comfortably houses a pistol. The main compartment of the bag is large enough to fit the most popular tablets. The three storage compartments are large enough to tote a first aid kit, binoculars, ammunition, or many survival essentials. Internal and external pockets contain admin dividers and organizers.
Key Features:
- Adjustable ambidextrous strap for over the shoulder carry
- Snap closure concealed carry pocket on the back panel
- Rugged 600 Denier Polyester construction with PVC lining
- 4 convenient compartments for storage
Specifications:
- Brand: Red Rock Outdoor Gear
- Capacity: 9L
- Dimensions: 12″ H x 8″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 1.6 lbs
- Good use of sectioned storage space
- The main strap is comfortable & padded
- The pack has plenty of MOLLE on the front and sides of the pack
- High-quality material, does not rip off easily
- Not waterproof
5. Leaper Retro Messenger Sling Bag
The Leaper Retro Messenger Sling Bag looks and feels like a real vintage. It comes with contrasting PU leather decoration in a wide range of very traditional colorways. Surely this one was built for the man. The Retro canvas shoulder backpack is the finest quality with a classic messenger bag theme. This stylish bag combines modern style with high-quality accents, careful construction, and durable hardware to create a timeless but modern style anyone can appreciate.
It’s not the biggest sling bag around, but it’s compact, stylish, durable and can be securely attached to the top flap via two buckles. There is enough space internally for a slim laptop and plenty of internal zippered pockets and flaps. While it’s built to wear in the sling style over your shoulder, there’s also a comfortable carry handle. The strap is adjustable and ultra-comfortable across your back and chest. It can act as a single-shoulder bag/sling bag, or a cross-body bag for use.
Key Features:
- Messenger style bag constructed from durable washed canvas
- Large enough to fit a slim laptop
- Use the carry handle or the shoulder strap
- Buckles on the top flap open and close easily
Specifications:
- Brand: Leaper
- Dimensions: 13.6″ H x 10.2″ W x 4.4″ D
- Weight: 1.78 lbs
- Fits an incredible amount of stuff inside
- Comfortable strap, can be swung around to the front for easy-access of items, easily adjustable
- Metal ring towards the bottom of the pack was nice for keychains
- Plenty of internal pockets
- Side mesh pocket is a little too small
6. Nicgid Sling Bag
The Nicgid Sling Bag is a spacious, functional and durable sling bag that is made by high-quality water-resistant nylon material. It has a multi main compartment with many size pockets that can fit your various supplies and stationeries. The shoulder strap can be switched to either side using the D rings located at the bottom of either corner, and it feels comfortable whether worn on the front, back, or crossbody. This bag could definitely come in handy for day trips to theme parks, to take to the gym, the pool, or when biking or hiking.
Good construction and lightweight, this sling bag features an ergonomically designed padded strap and breathable mesh that helps with sweat. It has an external pocket on the left side made with elasticized mesh and expands to secure various size water bottles and a compact umbrella. There is also a hidden anti-theft pocket keeps your valuables safe. Don’t forget to also check our guide on some cool backpacks for men.
Key Features:
- Water-resistant nylon material
- Side mesh pocket for water bottle/folding umbrella
- 2 front pockets under the flap for your phone and other accessories
- Adjustable straps to switch from left to right
Specifications:
- Brand: Nicgid
- Dimensions: 11.8″ H x 8.3″ W x 3.9″ D
- Weight: 0.84 lbs
- Lots of zippered pockets are great for keeping things organized
- Hanging hook makes doing so easy
- Strap clip attaches to either side so you can wear it left or right
- Headphone cable pass-through is perfect for hanging a pair of sunglasses
- No carrying handle on top
7. 5.11 Rush Moab Tactical Sling Bag – Premium Pick
The 5.11 Rush Moab Tactical Sling Bag is a fully customizable tactical bag with an adjustable cushioned shoulder strap made of water-resistant sturdy, lightweight 1050D nylon. It’s fully adjustable and has plenty of padding and ventilation to keep you comfortably supported. This Military sling bag is loaded with coms pockets at the shoulder, covert tactic pocket at the rear, and a secondary double zip pocket.
This MOLLE ready sling bag also has multiple interior admin and stash pockets and features a hydration pocket with a pass-through port. A sturdy grip handle and comfortable compression straps make this made ideal for an operational bug out bag as well. If you wondered what MOAB means, that’s Mobile Operation Attachment Bag. Rugged, durable and sturdy, it’s a hard-working bag that’s going to have your back. Our guide to the best small tactical backpacks offers more great products like this.
Key Features:
- Part of the rush series of tactical gear packs
- Extensive modular add-on storage capabilities
- Built-in hydration system
- Made of water-resistant nylon
Specifications:
- Brand: 5.11
- Dimensions: 18.2″ H x 9″ W x 5.2″ D
- Weight: 2.6 lbs
- Molle at the bottom of the sling strap
- Easy to change from right hand to left hand carry
- Strap clip attaches to either side so you can wear it left or right
- Full double zip down compartments
- Bag not intended to carry laptop or similar device without its own protection
8. WeeDee Leather Sling Bag for Men
The WeeDee Leather Sling Bag for Men is made of high-quality full-grain leather which is soft, durable and water-resistant. Sleek and elegant mercerized fabric lining protect the items very well. This chest bag is a mini backpack, but it is a great size to take to a day trip or shopping. The bag can be either carried with the D ring or adjustable shoulder strap. Given the materials and construction, this bag is surprisingly lightweight and very durable. If you’re looking for a day pack or a shoulder bag, this is it!
The accent stitching feels well put together and tight. It is real cowhide leather, not PU leather. The fittings are all metal. The inside of the pack is made with solid nylon. The port for headphones is a solid little grommet inside. The shoulder strap is great, leather all the way across the top a surface. Additionally, the leather is plenty soft, while retaining enough rigidity to accomplish its functions. Be sure to also check out our list of leather messenger bags for men for more great items like this.
Key Features:
- Fabric lining
- Metal frame fittings
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- 3-way bag, you could wear it as a chest bag/shoulder bag/crossbody bag
Specifications:
- Brand: WeeDee
- Dimensions: 11.8″ H x 5.9″ W x 3.2″ D
- Weight: 1.12 lbs
- Quality leather
- Excellent Zippers
- Strap is designed to blend with the bag as a whole
- Given the materials and construction, this bag is surprisingly lightweight and very durable
- Designed for left-handed people. It sits on the left shoulder and lies on the right hip, making it awkward to manage for a right-handed user
9. KAKA Sling Bag for Men
The KAKA Sling Bag for Men is the perfect everyday companion for those needing to carry a lot of items. This sling bag is made of high-quality polyester Oxford cloth. It is waterproof, anti-scratch and anti-theft. It is suitable for the everyday commuter, hikers, and students. It also has a comfortable padded back made from breathable mesh. The first outermost pocket fits for your keys, ID cards, business cards, lighters, and other items. Perfect for when you need to quickly take out and use items.
The shoulder strap has a mobile phone bag and an earphone slot, allowing you to listen to music gracefully while walking. There is a hole under the mobile phone pocket that can be used to carry sunglasses. It also comes with a built-in USB cable charging port so you can easily charge your phone. The straps at the back are also reversible so whether your a leftie or a rightie, this sling bag will work for you.
Key Features:
- External mobile phone bag and external USB charging port
- Waterproof and scratch-resistant oxford canvas
- Adjustable harness
- Comfortable padded back and strap
Specifications:
- Brand: KAKA
- Dimensions: 16.5″ H x 9″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 1.10 lbs
- It’s a decent sized bag, big enough for a lot of things
- Looks clean and sturdy
- It is a multiple sling/crossbody bag
- Has a hidden zip pocket and it has RFID technology
- No dedicated pen pockets
10. TravTac Stage II Sling Bag
The TravTac Stage II Sling Bag carries what you need on a daily basis without the unwanted bulk of a larger bag. This tactical shoulder pack is the perfect compact solution for organizing and carrying your gear. The small, versatile military-style design is heavy on utility. It can be used as a shoulder bag, chest pouch, back pouch or just as a hand-carry. A generous number of dividers, pockets and MOLLE compatible webbing give this one strap backpack endless configurations.
It has an adjustable and padded shoulder strap to provide all-day comfort. It is made from premium upgraded 900D fabric. In addition, it has highly reflective safety patches for night time Visibility. The patch is velcro backed making it removable for trail marking or rescue signaling. Lastly, it has a thickly padded back pocket that is well suited for your concealed carry.
Key Features:
- External mobile phone bag and external USB charging port
- Waterproof and scratch-resistant oxford canvas
- Adjustable harness
- Comfortable padded back and strap
Specifications:
- Brand: TravTac
- Capacity: 5.2L
- Dimensions: 10.2″ H x 8.3″ W x 4.3″ D
- Weight: 1.10 lbs
- Shoulder pad is adjustable and comfortable
- Very lightweight and molle compatable for a expanded versatility
- This bag is great for going very light on day trips
- Quality Material
- Limited pocket organization, most pockets are open concept
Buying Guide
Materials
You want to ensure that high-quality materials are used in the production when it comes to what the sling bag is made from. Whether you’re searching for a leather sling bag, nylon sling bag or a canvas sling bag, you need to be certain that the inner and outer lining won’t be easily susceptible to wear and tear.
Size
The typical sling backpack will carry your most personal belongings between 8-10L. Larger sling bags for men are best suited for hiking, business meetings, and overnight stays. On the other side, smaller, more lightweight sling bags are ideal for those who just need to hold a light load like runners and tourists.
Compartments
Depending on how organized you want to be. Compartments are good for storing your valuables in such a way that you can reach quickly and easily what you are searching for. Divisions also help to protect your items from the accumulation of scratch marks or scuffs from other objects.
Comfort
If your sling bag becomes your daily bag then comfort is key. For example, a bag with a soft padded strap should be placed as a priority. And if you can’t stand a sweaty back then choosing a bag with breathable fabric is ideal. Sling bags are designed to provide mobility while carrying, but this means that you are lacking some of the extra protection and support features typical backpacks provide such as waist belts and sternum straps
Adjustability
If you’re left-handed then we’re sure you’ll enjoy straps that can match your less traditional dominant side. Flexibility also results in adjustability. Maybe you want a bag that can fit on both your chest and back comfortably. Or you might want to adjust pocket sizes to stop your products from rolling around.
Frequently Ask Questions
What is a sling bag?
A sling bag features a single strap and is built to be robust, sturdy, easy to wear and a trendy and functional purchase if you buy the right one too. Typically carried across the body and you’ve got it, slung across a shoulder, it’s an effortless way to hold your regular needs. In design, typically compact and simple, and of common and unisex appeal.
Are sling bags good for travel?
Sling bags are perfect for traveling. If you are going on a long journey, it’s good to have your bulkier backpack as an option for use as an EDC on day trips. Although they don’t have enough room for the important overnight, they’re great for bringing anything you need for a day out.
Are sling bags comfortable?
As long as you don’t go too much on the bag’s weight, sling bags are all right for the back. There is a chance of inducing one-sided pressure if they are quite heavy. But that can be alleviated by flipping sides. The best and most natural way to wear a Sling Bag is with the strap flat to your chest and over your body. That means the bag’s weight will also be more fairly balanced with the hip and back to relieve some of the load.
Conclusion
When you don’t have to bring too much stuff with you, sling bags are a good alternative to traditional backpacks. Filling the void between style and practicality, you can always wear it on either side to keep your most prized belongings in easy reach.
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best sling bags for men as well as our guide on features to look for in a sling bag for men. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.