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[Mitsuho]

Yes, it's a purse.

Masculinity / femininity of the purse is primarily encoded in the width of the strap.
Styles vary by location but styles with gaudy secondary features such as a Minaudiere will always trend toward feminine while other features such as grommets will trend masculine.

 

[xxracerxx]

I saw someone with one of these and it looked pretty cool irl

I don't call it a purse except to make fun of people when I can tell they're sensitive about it. Also, the first pic in OP... that thing is bigger than the kid is

Looks like that was designed by Rob Liefeld.

 

[Row]

messenger bags look far more professional, that's a big plus in many settings

 

[Devil Theory]

Yes, it's a purse. You're now eschewing toward high maintenance.

Masculinity / femininity of the purse is primarily encoded in the width of the strap.
Styles vary by location but styles with gaudy secondary features such as Minaudiere will always trend toward feminine while other features such as grommets will trend masculine.

This doesn't make any sense in essence of what you're comparing. You also used the wrong word.

 

[Mitsuho]

This doesn't make any sense in essence of what you're comparing. You also used the wrong word.

Thanks. skewing. I intended to convey the sense that the more stuff one requires to have on hand the more they would possible require externally to be ready, comfortable, and prepared - perhaps maintaining a degree which others would find tedious.

Edit: On further reflection on your comment I think I see what you mean. While skew may encode a sudden change, say quickly transitioning from a purse to a purse-less state, the high-maintenance-ness of a person would perhaps remain a relatively fixed quality.

 

[neojubei]

I own a messenger bag myself:

What brand is that?

 

[Seanspeed]

A messenger bag is way more practical than a backpack. A backpack is easier to steal from and takes longer for the actual user to get things out of. Completely illogical how when worn it's easier for someone other than the user to take things out of it.

Like I said, I dont think most people are in situations where you need to pull things out of it all the time while still standing around. Its mainly used for transport.

As far as stealing from it, if its easier to grab things out of, its easier to steal from. That argument doesn't work.

I accept it might be more practical in certain situations. I doubt most people wear em for that reason, though.

 

[dojokun]

What brand is that?

It's handmade by a Belgian designer named Veronica Vartic. I got it from her etsy store:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/35661232/unisex-leather-messenger-bag-the-hunter

There's also her website www.veronicavartic.com

 

[mollipen]

I'm not really a fan of guys using backpacks. I mean, for camping/hiking/etc. that's fine, school is fine, and I wouldn't make fun of any guy who uses a backpack or anything. But, one you're out of school, I don't think it's a good look for guys. Messenger bags, on the other hand, look good on guys.

 

[dojokun]

Like I said, I dont think most people are in situations where you need to pull things out of it all the time while still standing around. Its mainly used for transport.

As far as stealing from it, if its easier to grab things out of, its easier to steal from. That argument doesn't work.

I accept it might be more practical in certain situations. I doubt most people wear em for that reason, though.

The messenger bag is harder to steal from because it's hanging by your hip (in your sight) compared to the backpack which is behind you (out of your sight).

 

[GavinGT]

The messenger bag is harder to steal from because it's hanging by your hip (in your sight) compared to the backpack which is behind you (out of your sight).

Except it's easier to grab a messenger bag and run.

 

[xxracerxx]

The messenger bag is harder to steal from because it's hanging by your hip (in your sight) compared to the backpack which is behind you (out of your sight).

That isn't true at all, plenty (like mine) are slung over my shoulder and rests on my back.

To the WIKI!!

Messenger Bag - Slung over back

Satchel - Hangs at hip (what you are talking about)

 

[dojokun]

Except it's easier to grab a messenger bag and run.

Doesn't seem that way to me. It would be yanked on your neck.

That isn't true at all, plenty (like mine) are slung over my shoulder and rests on my back.

Then in those cases it would be equal in terms of how easy it is to steal from. In others, harder to steal from a messenger bag.

 

[Auron_Kale]

Except it's easier to grab a messenger bag and run.

I wear the strap of my messenger bag across my chest so it'd actually be harder to grab and run really.

But for those that wear it on their shoulder, then yes, it'd be easier to grab versus a backpack.

 

[Seanspeed]

The messenger bag is harder to steal from because it's hanging by your hip (in your sight) compared to the backpack which is behind you (out of your sight).

Does that happen a lot?

Ok, well there's pros/cons in terms of the stealing thing on both sides. And like Gavin said, you cant well rip a backpack from somebody.

I'm gonna have to say this isn't an argument.

 

[Natetan]

Really?

Yes really, people give me crap for it all the time, especially when I leave Japan. Messenger bags are fine I think overseas, but people always point it out with a smirk.

I had a bailey works messenger bag for about 10 years. Was a great bag, but it started wearing out and getting smelly.

 

[Lucario]

Yes really, people give me crap for it all the time, especially when I leave Japan.

I had a bailey works messenger bag for about 10 years. Was a great bag, but it started wearing out and getting smelly.

I don't think that's what Fire was referring to.

 

[Fou-Lu]

I hate when people post pictures to bags without a link, come on guys. I am in the market for a new one after all.

 

[aphasias]

I carry a messenger bag but I could not tell you what makes it different from a women's purse, besides of course the items a man would carry with him versus what a woman would carry.
So yes, it is a purse for men.

 

[Natetan]

I don't think that's what Fire was referring to.

I think people are confusing my sarcasm. All the Americans at my company loaf around with giant backpacks. Because any other form of bag is considered feminine to them. I think they look,as others said, like their still in college.

 

[Zaraki_Kenpachi]

Does that happen a lot?

Ok, well there's pros/cons in terms of the stealing thing on both sides. And like Gavin said, you cant well rip a backpack from somebody.

I'm gonna have to say this isn't an argument.

Uh, do you not realize that stealing doesn't mean they need the whole bag? Do you think pickpockets have to steal your pants off of you? It's a lot easier to have someone behind you take something out of your backpack without you noticing than the alternative.

 

[Korey]

I hate when people post pictures to bags without a link, come on guys. I am in the market for a new one after all.

http://www.amazon.com/Handbags-Accessories-Clothing/b?ie=UTF8&node=15743631

 

[Amagon]

I'm actually looking to purchase a Medium Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag to replace my backpack but definitely don't want to pay the retail price on their site. I also have the Mirror's Edge bag in my closet. Hasn't been touch ever since I got it.

 

[Auron_Kale]

I hate when people post pictures to bags without a link, come on guys. I am in the market for a new one after all.

Hmm? The Barbour bag I posted was mine, but here's what it looks like:

Wax Leather Tarras

 

[xxracerxx]

Let's learn the proper terms for this stuff, shall we?

Messenger Bag
A messenger bag (also called a courier bag) is a type of sack, usually made out of some kind of cloth (natural or synthetic), that is worn over one shoulder with a strap that winds around the chest resting the bag on the lower back. Messenger bags are often used by bicycle messengers, though they are now also an urban fashion icon. Some types of messenger bags are called carryalls.

Example:

Satchel
A satchel is a bag, often with a strap. The strap is often worn so that it diagonally crosses the body, with the bag hanging on the opposite hip, rather than hanging directly down from the shoulder. They are traditionally used for carrying books.

The main difference between a satchel and a briefcase is that a satchel is soft-sided. Also, satchels often have straps while briefcases usually don't.

Example:

 

[Zaraki_Kenpachi]

Racer, if you're going to get mad about terms then you should get mad at the company's that sell them. When you type messenger bag into amazon or other places you get what you're calling a satchel.

 

[dojokun]

What makes it different from a purse, IMO, is the same thing that makes a man's coat different from a woman's coat, a man's pants different from a woman's pants, a man's watch different from a woman's watch: style. That's why you also have unisex messenger bags.

 

[Chinner]

i personally like messenger bags they r cool.

 

[xxracerxx]

Racer, if you're going to get mad about terms then you should get mad at the company's that sell them. When you type messenger bag into amazon or other places you get what you're calling a satchel.

I am not mad at all, just wanted to post what I just learned from Wikipedia while looking up messenger bags.

 

[dojokun]

Does that happen a lot?

Ok, well there's pros/cons in terms of the stealing thing on both sides. And like Gavin said, you cant well rip a backpack from somebody.

I'm gonna have to say this isn't an argument.

I don't have statistics but I'm under the impression that pickpocketing happens more often than ripping a bag and running away. Pickpocketing happens to anyone, really. Ripping off a bag and running typically happens to people who look like they can be taken advantage of. Just my impression from various anecdotes.

 

[whatsinaname]

[mg]http://www.balsum.com/fashion-retro-washed-canvas-messenger-bag-for-men-13423-color13.jpg[/img]


So I need something to carry around my laptop and other items. I've been looking at a lot of messenger bags on Amazon. I've only seen a few that I would actually consider wearing. Otherwise, it seems that the majority of messenger bags either look really dumb or rather feminine (imo). *Note: Not actually considering the above picture's bag, just wanted to clarify in case people didn't know what they were.

Alternatively, I might just get another (larger) Swiss Army backpack:


[im]http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/Staples/s0149039_sc7?$splssku$[/img]


but I'm definitely open to any other recommendations. Thoughts?

You just have to go with something that looks good with what you usually wear. I mostly wear button downs and chinos to work, so I have something in leather and in a tan colour. A backpack is not going to work very well with that. And you would be surprised how many people notice what you are carrying.


This is what I have right now, but the handle just broke.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/78062142/diaz-small-leather-portfolio-laptop-bag

This is another one that I think looks pretty good.

http://www.tedbaker-london.com/store/mens/leather-satchel-XB49-XA2M-SKOLDAY-30.html
Thinking of getting this next.

I also find that messenger bags are much more convenient when I am in public transit or go out somewhere after work.

 

[alphaNoid]

Kind of, but not really. I mean they look like man purses but I can't judge. I bring my day pack with me everywhere. Matter of fact I just loaded it up with some gear and am heading to AZ within the hour.

I dont think there is anything wrong with having a bag to carry excess things in. Style is up to the owner.

 

[LuCkymoON]

That isn't true at all, plenty (like mine) are slung over my shoulder and rests on my back.

To the WIKI!!

Messenger Bag - Slung over back

Satchel - Hangs at hip (what you are talking about)

And of course neither of those look like a handbag, which is traditionally known as a purse.

 

[Chinner]

Personally, if I see a grown man walking around wearing a backpack like he's still in school, I strongly question his character. Any professional I've ever worked with in the real world carries a Messenger. What the hell else is there for your laptop? I'm not putting my MBP in some thin backpack sideways.

i'd love to get a nice leather satchel bag like this, but they're so expensive

 

[dojokun]

i'd love to get a nice leather satchel bag like this, but they're so expensive

If you search etsy.com you'll find a whole range of them, from cheap to expensive. Of course, the cheapest ones are still more expensive than the cheapest backpacks, but you can get a feel of your choices.

 

[Metalmarc]

if you want a manbag be my guest, it's not for me i'd rather a backpack, maybe i'll look like a schoolboy but eh whatever,

You guys, buy what you want to buy, it is fine in this day and age people are more accepting

 

[LuCkymoON]

i'd love to get a nice leather satchel bag like this, but they're so expensive

The Saddleback Leather bags are worth it imo.

 

[shira]

Personally, if I see a grown man walking around wearing a backpack like he's still in school, I strongly question his character. Any professional I've ever worked with in the real world carries a Messenger. What the hell else is there for your laptop? I'm not putting my MBP in some thin backpack sideways.

Not good to carry those, fucks up your shoulders if there is any significant weight at all.

And who the fuck cares what style of bag you have?
Oh shit he has a backpack; he must be a total unprofessional douche because all my cool friends have messengers.
Do you judge people on their car and shoes too.

 

[King_Moc]

Ah, the manbag. Yeah, i like those. Oldschool shoulder bags make me look like an Austrian tourist. No offence to the Austrians.

 

[Auron_Kale]

Well, then here are my actual messenger bags (according to the Wiki definition):

(Taken with my really crappy old cell phone)

 

[Seanspeed]

I don't have statistics but I'm under the impression that pickpocketing happens more often than ripping a bag and running away. Pickpocketing happens to anyone, really. Ripping off a bag and running typically happens to people who look like they can be taken advantage of. Just my impression from various anecdotes.

Yea, fair enough. I dont live in a big city where pickpocketing is an issue, I guess.

Still say there'd be pros/cons to it from that aspect, though. While not on your person, it'd certainly be very easy to grab something from it if its out of your sight for even a minute.

And dont get me wrong, I'm not ragging on messenger bags. I think they're alright. But I would defend that they are ultimately less practical in most situations and wearing them is a fashion choice rather than a utilitarian one. Not saying thats wrong either, though.

I'd also agree with those saying its more of a 'grown up' look. Like, if your job or lifestyle or whatever entails wearing business attire, then a backpack would look a little silly and a suitcase is perhaps getting a little outdated fashion-wise, so a messenger bag is perfect.

It also depends on you and how you carry yourself, like most things in fashion. I can wear a backpack and not look like some 'high-schooler', I think. I'm sure plenty of people cant.

 

[Zaraki_Kenpachi]

Not good to carry those, fucks up your shoulders if there is any significant weight at all.

And who the fuck cares what style of bag you have?
Oh shit he has a backpack; he must be a total unprofessional douche because all my cool friends have messengers.
Do you judge people on their car and shoes too.

Oh, please you judge people too so don't make it sound like it's crazy that he does. And if someone walked into my office with a backpack they would look weird as hell.

 

[Chinner]

If you search etsy.com you'll find a whole range of them, from cheap to expensive. Of course, the cheapest ones are still more expensive than the cheapest backpacks, but you can get a feel of your choices.

thanks bro, already seen some i like! my old messenger bag after 4 years of use is pretty much dead, so (when i have the cash) i might get a smart messenger bag and a casual one

 

[Devil Theory]

Not good to carry those, fucks up your shoulders if there is any significant weight at all.

And who the fuck cares what style of bag you have?
Oh shit he has a backpack; he must be a total unprofessional douche because all my cool friends have messengers.
Do you judge people on their car and shoes too.

Actually, yes, just like you do.

 

[dojokun]

Yea, fair enough. I dont live in a big city where pickpocketing is an issue, I guess.

Still say there'd be pros/cons to it from that aspect, though. While not on your person, it'd certainly be very easy to grab something from it if its out of your sight for even a minute.

And dont get me wrong, I'm not ragging on messenger bags. I think they're alright. But I would defend that they are ultimately less practical in most situations and wearing them is a fashion choice rather than a utilitarian one. Not saying thats wrong either, though.

I'd also agree with those saying its more of a 'grown up' look. Like, if your job or lifestyle or whatever entails wearing business attire, then a backpack would look a little silly and a suitcase is perhaps getting a little outdated fashion-wise, so a messenger bag is perfect.

It also depends on you and how you carry yourself, like most things in fashion. I can wear a backpack and not look like some 'high-schooler', I think. I'm sure plenty of people cant.

Well they certainly aren't to be worn while doing anything athletic, except for the biker-messenger style ones (I have a Chrome one myself for when I bike). Backpacks do give you better symmetry for shoulder movement so I prefer my backpack sometimes.

 

[Zaraki_Kenpachi]

Yea, fair enough. I dont live in a big city where pickpocketing is an issue, I guess.

Still say there'd be pros/cons to it from that aspect, though. While not on your person, it'd certainly be very easy to grab something from it if its out of your sight for even a minute.

And dont get me wrong, I'm not ragging on messenger bags. I think they're alright. But I would defend that they are ultimately less practical in most situations and wearing them is a fashion choice rather than a utilitarian one. Not saying thats wrong either, though.

I'd also agree with those saying its more of a 'grown up' look. Like, if your job or lifestyle or whatever entails wearing business attire, then a backpack would look a little silly and a suitcase is perhaps getting a little outdated fashion-wise, so a messenger bag is perfect.

It also depends on you and how you carry yourself, like most things in fashion. I can wear a backpack and not look like some 'high-schooler', I think. I'm sure plenty of people cant.

Well like any fashion there's certain times it's acceptable to wear certain things. Messenger bags can cover a much broader set of situations than a backpack.

 

[dojokun]

thanks bro, already seen some i like! my old messenger bag after 4 years of use is pretty much dead, so (when i have the cash) i might get a smart messenger bag and a casual one

Tell us which one you bought if you buy one. I have enough bags (messenger and backpacks alike) but I still like to look.

 

[Seanspeed]

Backpacks do give you better symmetry for shoulder movement so I prefer my backpack sometimes.

I remember back when I was in high school, it was a fad to wear your backpack slung over a single shoulder. I did it for a little while until I came to and realized it was far more comfortable to wear it like its meant to.

I dont think I've ever tried a messenger bag on across my back like the biker-style ones. Is it pretty comfortable like that?

 

[dojokun]

I remember back when I was in high school, it was a fad to wear your backpack slung over a single shoulder. I did it for a little while until I came to and realized it was far more comfortable to wear it like its meant to.

I dont think I've ever tried a messenger bag on across my back like the biker-style ones. Is it pretty comfortable like that?

The diagonal-across-the-back ones (like Chrome makes) are very comfortable. And when you want to get something, you just swing the bag around until the actual bag is under your arm (instead of on your back) and reach in. It's useful for when you are biking and need to get something. You just pull over to the side, stop the bike, and swing the bag over to reach into it.

 

[xxracerxx]

I dont think I've ever tried a messenger bag on across my back like the biker-style ones. Is it pretty comfortable like that?

I never notice it unless I have a lot of weight in there (think groceries, six-pack, gallon of milk, water) but once you get going you forget about it.