Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
When you’re heading out for the weekend but don’t want to bring a roller suitcase there is no better substitute than a duffel. Any why not one in leather? They’re large enough for all your essentials, look fantastic, and only get better with age. While duffels aren’t the right choice for every trip, you’ll certainly find yourself wishing they were once you read through this list.
1) Filson: Leather Duffel Bag
Filson is well known for their tin cloth bags, but that doesn’t mean their Leather Duffel Bag is any less fantastic. Made with waterproof leather tanned by Wickett & Craig, this duffel features bridle leather trim, three interior pockets, and solid brass hardware.
This made in the USA bag has a 43 liter capacity making it suitable for both extended weekend trips and those lighter week-long journeys.
Available for $1,295 from Filson.
2) Joshu+Vela: Small Leather Duffel
Joshu+Vela’s Small Leather Duffel is styled off of traditional gym duffel bags, but it’s more than suitable for a weekend getaway if you know how to pack light.
Made in San Francisco from top quality leather, this bag features a nylon lining, Riri zipper, and copper rivets. These bags are finished with bridle leather straps, ensuring both durability and patina potential.
Available for $548 from Joshu+Vela.
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3) Copper River Bags: Leather Duffel
Copper River Bags is known for producing incredibly durable bags at very reasonable prices, and their Leather Duffel is no different. This 20″ made in the USA bag is large enough for your favorite week-long getaway, and watching the leather patina with each use will certainly encourage you to take more and more trips.
Made from full grain leather and UV protected thread this bag isn’t going to breakdown anytime soon.
Available for $365 from Copper River Bags.
4) Hook & Albert: Leather Garment Duffel
If you prefer duffels to suitcases but need to bring a suit or sport coat, then Hook & Albert’s Leather Garment Duffel is the obvious choice. Despite being styled like a traditional duffel, this bag has a secret: the ability to unfold in order to store formal wear without unnecessary wrinkles.
In addition, this bag features two exteriors pockets and an interior pocket for a pair of dress shoes, ensuring you’ll have everything you need.
Available for $640 from Hook & Albert.
5) Killspencer: Duffel
Killspencer’s Duffel is another great option if you’re looking for a weekend duffel bag. With RiRi zippers, bull leather accents, and nylon lining, this made in the USA bag is attractive, durable, and will only get better with every successive use.
In addition to the main interior pockets, this bag also features fire retardant interior pocket to keep your most important possessions safe.
Available for $600 from Killspencer.
Plus One – Leffot: Kreis Shell Cordovan Duffel
Leffot’s Kreis Shell Cordovan Duffel is as much art as it function. Made from Horween shell cordovan this duffel is truly something special. It features a large primary compartment and zippered interior pocket, and given its size this bag is perfect for your favorite weekend getaway.
Despite how special this bag is, you’ll likely find yourself looking for more and more excuses to use it—just make sure you give it the care and attention it deserves to ensure it is with you for a long, long time.
Available for $5,500 from Leffot.
