Leather Sports Bags
Nothing holds up to the forces of nature quite like leather does. With synthetic materials becoming commonplace it is increasingly more difficult to find a sturdy leather bag for the rough world of team sports. While leather sports bags may seem to be a thing of the past they are still around and just as vital for today’s athlete.
Whether you’re using your leather bag to haul around your sports equipment or sweaty clothes there are certain aspects that make certain bags stand out more than others. U-shaped zippered openings allow for easier access and vision of all of your items in the bag. Side pockets allow for easier access of smaller items, while additional inside pockets add more storage for items you may not need as quickly or as often. A bag that comes with padded and adjustable straps makes carrying all your equipment and clothing more pleasant.
The type of leather used in a bag can make all the difference in the world. Heavier grained baseball glove leather is far more rugged and sturdy than basic cowhide leather. Napa leather tends to be much softer and suppler than basic cowhide. Top grain or full grain leather is very strong with its own patina as it is used more. There are bags made of full grain leather that are tumbled to create softer leather. Double stitching to reinforce the seams can keep your bag in the game for years to come.
Most leather sports bags are referred to as totes or duffel bags. They can include shoulder straps, single or double, backpacks, or have extending handles and utilize wheels. The key to finding the right bag is to determine what your needs are. Hauling heavy sports accessories and smelly shoes or clothes might make you lean in a different direction than if you are in need of a lot of storage for small items or not carrying heavy items.
These bags can net you a higher price than their synthetic cousins, however, the benefits of leather tend to outweigh the cost. Expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $350 (U.S.) for a good bag that will work for you for years to come.
Reflecting on what worked well for athletes and coaches of the past shows that leather has not gone the way of the dinosaur, in fact, it is remerging as the long lost favorite. With a wide variety of accessories, options and colors, leather is here to stay for a long time.