Soft, classic, and luxury are what most often describe leather products. Over the years, leather handbags have evolved and expanded to a more versatile range of carry-on bags. Especially when it comes to women’s fashion and accessories. Leather is now a highly sought-after material, even faux leather, for items such as diaper bags and office satchel bags.
Whether you are looking for something to carry your personal items on a daily basis, to the office, gym, traveling adventures, or even on hiking expeditions, you will no doubt appreciate the versatility and durability of leather backpacks for women.
There is a huge range of different leather backpacks for women on the market, from a backpack purse to a mini backpack style; whether you prefer genuine leather or want a more vegan approach, like a faux leather backpack. Regardless, you will definitely find something to suit your taste and style!
Our Genuine Leather Top Pick!
Coolcy Hot Style Leather Backpack
This high-quality leather backpack offers a feel and quality that simply cannot be matched by synthetic products.
Our Faux Leather Top Pick!
Coofit Black Leather Backpack
Originally designed as a sleek laptop backpack, it is a perfect option for the fashionista student.
The Best Overall
The Coolfit Leather Backpack has the advantage of being simple, almost classical in its style which will ensure it remains fashionable for years to come. This is a versatile and extremely useful faux leather backpack. Its size and functionality extend to a diaper bag, student bag, office bag, or just a casual day backpack for traveling or day-to-day activities; making this one of the best and most elegant leather backpacks for women.
Best Value For Money
The Scarleton Chic Casual Leather Backpack is big enough to carry everything you need. It’s versatile in that you can carry it as a backpack or use it as a classic handbag during the event! This backpack offers, style, practicality, and versatility at a very affordable price! Its quality and durability add to this backpack’s incredible value for money.
Best Budget Option
The Chrysansmile Shoulder Sling Leather Backpack is made from genuine cowhide leather; softness luxury and quality are the first things that come to mind when you hold this bag. The leather is smooth and glossy, as well as scratch-resistant! Impressive when you consider its affordable price!
Best Versatility
The Heshe Women’s Leather Backpack is a favorite amongst lovers of minimalist designs! Ageless, due to its elegant design, durability, and genuine leather material, while also being extremely versatile in how it can be worn. Perfect for any occasion and activity!
It is fair to say that the backpack is now replacing the briefcase and other professional bags as well. A well-designed leather backpack can look as good as any briefcase, but is infinitely more practical; especially if you need to slip through crowds on the subway or cycle through the traffic.
There are many factors that should be considered; these are discussed in more detail in the definitive and ultimate guide to purchasing leather backpacks for women.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the best leather backpacks for women currently available; you are certain to find something that takes your fancy amongst this selection!
The 5 Best Leather Backpacks for Women:
1. Coolcy Hot Style Leather Backpack
This high-quality leather backpack for women offers a feel and quality that simply cannot be matched by synthetic products. It is exceptionally soft to the touch but extremely durable. If you’re planning on traveling, then this bag would be a great option as a carry-on or something to take with you on sight-seeing expeditions.
There is one anti-theft zipped pocket on the rear of the backpack, perfect for securing your valuables. Inside you will find two pockets; one designed for your cell phone and the other with a zip to keep your essentials in place. Alongside the main pocket, you will also find an exterior front zipped pocket.
All the zips are gold, which adds to the look of the bag; it does not draw attention away from the simplistic yet chic lines. The backpack is capable of holding an A4 pad, an 11″ laptop, or a tablet. It will still give you enough room for the other necessary items that you might wish to take with you.
This is perhaps one of the most versatile options on leather backpacks for women. It can be carried with its small carry handle as a standard handbag or slipped onto your shoulders. It is exceptionally comfortable, and spacious enough to deal with most items, including your regular school items. Alongside this, it has received a range of positive reviews that highlight how well the bag has lasted, even after a year of regular use.
The leather used for this backpack is of the highest quality. It adds to the bag’s richness, as well as the durability and longevity of the bag. Even though the backpack might be on the bit pricier side, it is definitely worth the investment and money.
There are backpacks that focus on practicality and then there are those which scream “fashion statement”. The Coolcy Hot Style genuine leather backpack is the latter and proud of this fact.
2. Heshe Women’s Leather Backpack
Heshe has a wide range of bags on offer. They specialize in creating quality bags in an array of colors. Not all of them are made from genuine leather, but Heshe leather backpacks for women are made from the finest quality cowhide.
This functional backpack can easily double as a handbag. The carry loop is 2.2″ in diameter and will slip over your wrist to create the effect of a casual day bag.
The quality of the product is apparent in the hand-stitched leather, the silver accessories, and the dark brown polyester interior. All the stitching is color-coordinated to ensure it is virtually invisible. This Heshe leather backpack for women has a zip across the top which is hidden by the leather flap. The flap fastens down with a magnet and has an audible clicking sound when you close it. This ensures your personal belongings are safe.
Inside the backpack, you will find one large pocket and one zippered pocket. There is also a pocket which appears invisible, only you will know that it is there. Alongside this, there is a slot for your cell phone and one for your credit card; allowing you to keep everything safe and organized.
On the outside of the backpack, you will find just one anti-theft pocket; this is located on the rear and is closed with a zip.
Adding to this bag’s versatility, the straps are designed to be interchanged. You can remove the backpack straps or add a shoulder strap instead. This means you have a backpack, messenger bag, shoulder bag, hobo, or even a sling bag; all in one go!
Each of the straps is made from leather, except for the one side having a nylon coating. This ensures they are comfortable and durable. They can, of course, be adjusted to your preference depending on your size and how you prefer to carry your bag.
In terms of storage space, this backpack can accommodate most laptops, 13″ and under. Of course, this means tablets will also easily fit in; making this an extremely practical option as well as a stylish one.
As with all genuine leather products the initial smell will fade within a few days.
This bags is a favorite amongst lovers of minimalist designs! Ageless, due to its elegant design, durability, and genuine leather material, while also being extremely versatile in how it can be worn. Perfect for any occasion and activity!
3. Bostanten Women’s Leather Backpack
This beautiful leather bag from Bostanten is perfect for the on-the-go traveler! Sleek and simple design, this backpack packs a punch! Providing a lot more storage space than first glance would let you believe!
The backpack is crafted from genuine leather and comes complete with gold accent trimmings. With regards to storage capacity, it is spacious enough to carry everything you need; whether at school, in the office, or simply out for the day rambling.
The interior of the bag is also handcrafted and stitched; it is made from high-quality fabric and is split into a large compartment with two slip pockets. In addition, there is a zipper pocket to keep smaller, loose items safe and secure. Furthermore, the backpack will comfortably handle a 12-inch tablet or a small laptop!
The outside of the bag has two pockets with zips; one on each side. These are discreet, yet stylish; enhancing the look and feel of your bag. As with many other backpacks, the straps are adjustable and you can use the carry handle, depending on the occasion and how you prefer to carry your bag.
As a genuine leather product, it will have a leather aroma. This will disappear within a couple of weeks and much sooner if you hang it in the open air.
This bag looks like a conventional handbag but has the size and flexibility to be so much more! The fact that it feels incredibly soft and is anti-scratch will simply help your backpack to look as good in a year as it did the day it arrived.
4. Bostanten Fashion Leather Backpack
Bostanten is manufacturers of quality leather products, ranging from leather backpacks for women to wallets and man bags. Every item is handcrafted and made to a high standard. They are extremely fashion-conscious and this show’s in their designs, and approach to business.
The Bostanten women leather backpack is no different. Every bag looks fantastic and balances the look of a contemporary handbag with a high-end backpack perfectly.
This beautiful, high-quality product is made from full-grain leather. Emphasizing the luxurious and classy feel, the backpack is supplied with light gold hardware. These have been treated with antioxygenic compounds to ensure their appearance does not deteriorate over time.
The leather backpack has a zip two-thirds of the way up the front, which transforms the look from a conventional backpack to a custom handbag. It also has a convenient shoulder strap which can be removed for when you want to carry it as a conventional handbag!
There is a second pocket in the same manner on the rear of this leather backpack for women; making it an exceptionally versatile and spacious backpack. However, it will not accommodate an A4 folder although a 10-inch tablet will comfortably slip inside it.
You will note that the interior of the backpack is made from high-quality material and is split into one large pocket with two slip pockets. Designed to securely carry cell phones and a zip pocket for your keys or other valuable items.
This product is handmade; every person who works on the production line is trained to create high-quality leather bags for women. This is why the quality is so high and what makes it the perfect accessory for your business meetings. This backpack is not intended to be used as a student bag.
This leather backpack’s simple, yet classic design ensures it will appeal to women from all generations.
It is worth noting that there are copies of this product n the market; you should only purchase them directly from Bostanten or where they are shown as Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA).
Providing you are not looking for a bag to fit your laptop in, this could be the best one for your needs. Of course, it is also one of the more expensive but sometimes the additional funds are worth it in exchange for the longevity and durability of the product.
5. Chrysansmile Shoulder Sling Leather Backpack
This high-end, genuine leather backpack is perfect for those who don’t want a too dressy type bag. With its unisex appearance, it’s a good option for those who prioritize practicality and functionality above looks and fashion statements.
Made from genuine cowhide leather; softness luxury and quality are the first things that come to mind when you hold this bag. The leather is smooth and glossy, as well as scratch-resistant! Impressive when you consider it’s the affordable price!
The main storage is a medium-sized zippered compartment with smaller pouches on the inside, for easy and secure organization. Each zipper has a leather pull fastened on it, creating an easy and soft grip. On the front of the backpack, you will also find a smaller bag, also zippered. Located at the back of the backpack, an anti-theft zip pocket is also available.
A great thing about this backpack is its flexibility. It can be converted and worn as a chest pack and shoulder bag, messenger bag, and travel bag! The satchel strap is fully adjustable and can fit people with regular and plus-size body types.
When it comes to the care of this backpack, take care to clean it with a cloth and cold water, so as not to damage the leather and diminish its quality.
This bag is absolutely ideal for a variety of purposes! Due to its modern design, unisex appearance, quality, and durability, as well as spaciousness it’s perfect for most occasions and activities. Take it with you on hiking or camping trips, travel or vacation trips, casual day-to-day outings, or even use it as an unconventional diaper bag!
Types of Genuine Leather
Leatherworking has been around for many, many years. This old craft holds lots of tradition and history. When buying leather products, it’s good to know what you are paying for, especially with so many synthetic leather alternatives available.
Cows have pretty thick skin. Generally, the skink is too thick to be used for everyday leather products, such as bags. Therefore, it is usually cut down to thinner layers which will be more useful for the intended purpose.
Cowhide leather is made of 2 main integrated layers, namely the corium and the grain.
Collagen fibers found in the corium are thinner and more flexible. Corium becomes thicker as it ages, which is why calf skins are thinner, smoother, and softer than the hides of adult animals.
As you move up toward the grain, the fibers become more tightly packed and sturdy, resulting in a tighter and thicker feel.
Full Grain Leather
This is the top layer of the hide. The fibers are smaller and more dense, making this layer the most durable and strongest. Full grain leather forms a patina over time and therefore holds on to its natural characteristics as it ages.
Top Grain Leather
The top layer is removed or sanded down, and a finish is applied to the outside to remove any imperfections left behind. This diminishes the strength and durability of the finished leather a bit, but gives it a more uniform finish. Unlike full grain leather, top grain leather does not form a patina, therefore the leather starts showing sings of ageing over time.
Genuine Leather
This is not an actual grade of leather. Genuine leather actually has an artificial surface applied to give it a more natural appearance. The loose fibers found in this section are bonded together by glue or other chemicals in order to give it a more leather-like appearance.
The 5 Best Faux Leather Backpacks for Women:
1. Coofit Black Leather Backpack
Originally designed as a sleek laptop backpack, it is a perfect option for the fashionista student. Able to comfortably accommodate size A4 documents, an 11” laptop, and other associated items such as chargers and your cell phone. The spaciousness of this bag will surprise you!
This backpack is well designed with a zipper top; replacing the original drawstring style. It is fair to say this is a valuable upgrade; zippers tend to assure you that your possessions are safe while it is possible for items to fall out of a drawstring backpack.
An additional zip front pocket and two open-ended side pockets ensure that you can carry extra necessities safely and securely. Located at the back of the bag, you will also find an anti-theft zipper bag, discreetly hidden to protect your most valuable possessions.
Opening the magnet flap, you will find another pocket, deep to the bottom of the bag. This, along with the main storage compartment will offer organized storage. There is also one small pocket located on the inside, which would hold small items such as coins.
Part of what makes this bag look so elegant is the fact that the logo has been printed, instead of sewn into it. This emphasizes the quality of the product.
It should be noted that this product is handcrafted. This can affect the exact measurements inside by as much as 1 inch but this is a small price to pay for the quality workmanship you will be receiving.
This faux leather backpack’s hardware is of the highest quality. Hints of golden buckles and clips only add to the overall sleek aesthetic of the bag. The backpack also has a top handle if you want to give your shoulders a rest and carry the bag in your hand.
It also has the advantage of being simple, almost classical in its style which will ensure it remains fashionable for years to come. This is a versatile and extremely useful faux leather backpack. Its functionality extends to a diaper bag, student bag, office bag, or just a casual day backpack for traveling or day-to-day activities.
2. Scarleton Chic Casual Leather Backpack
Scarleton specializes in creating fashionable and practical bags. They are based in Los Angeles which helps to ensure they are fully aware of all the latest fashion developments and this shows in the range of leather products; including the Scarleton Chic casual backpack.
As its name suggests, it is designed for those who need to carry stuff but want to look chic while doing so. It is important to note straight away that this is designed with fashion in mind; you will not be able to fit an A4 binder or a laptop inside this backpack, however, your tablet will fit in comfortably!
This backpack is more than just stylish, it is aware of the current trend for organic products and is manufactured from synthetic vegan leather. You can comfortably use it even if you do not usually purchase leather materials on principle! The synthetic vegan leather has the look and feels of real leather; it is soft and supple; allowing you to enjoy all the positives of leather without the guilt or controversy.
The inside of the bag is made from cotton canvas and is hard-wearing, which will help your bag to last as long as you want it. There have been a few comments regarding the smell of the leather. It is distinctive and takes a long time to dissipate.
The bag has a zipper on top, keeping your items safe and an interior pocket designed to take your cell phone; preventing anyone from discreetly removing it from your possession. In addition, the bag has a zipper pocket on the side; although it should be noted this is not a large pocket! You will also find pockets on the front and back of the backpack, both with zips to ensure items do not fall out. All the zippers are gold to add to the look and feel of this stylish and sleek backpack.
Although this backpack is relatively small, the number of pockets included in its design makes it a very useful day-to-day bag.
Although it is designed to look and function like a backpack, it is possible to adjust the shoulder straps and have it appear more like a traditional handbag. This will allow you to attend any occasion in comfort.
Altogether, this bag is big enough to carry everything you need. It’s versatile in that you can carry it as a backpack or use it as a classic handbag during the event! This backpack offers, style, practicality, and versatility at a very affordable price! Its quality and durability add to this backpack’s incredible value for money.
3. Copi Quilted Leather Backpack
If you are looking for something that looks a little more like a backpack but still manages to retain the charm of a women’s bag then this may be just what you are looking for!
The backpack looks stunning in ivory but is also available in black, beige, gold, light gray, and pink. It is designed with a plain bottom third separated from the rest of the bag by a zipper. The top two-thirds have a crisscross pattern which gives it an authentic feminine feel as well as providing a distinctive look. Your bag will stand out in the crowd!
The bag is created in Korea, where Copi is becoming an established and respected brand. It is made from artificial leather which is surprisingly soft. The inner lining is constructed from nylon and stitched carefully into place to provide high quality and durable finish. It is stripped to help provide a distinctive and lasting effect that looks good when you open it.
There is one reasonably sized interior pocket which could take your iPad or another tablet approximately 10 inches in size. You will also find an outside pocket with a zip closure which is designed for your cell phone, wallet, or a small number of personal items.
It will not take a full-size laptop but is comfortable with virtually any tablet. Equally, you will not get an A4 binder in it; this is not one to take to school. If you choose to purchase this item you will quickly realize that it is very well put together. As with most backpacks, the straps are also adjustable.
As the backpack is handmade to order. This actually adds to the charm and authenticity of the bag, although it may not help if you need it in a hurry!
This is essentially a large purse, which is much easier to carry as you can secure it to you back and move swiftly and safely through any crowd. This makes it perfect for these short travel trips where the bare essentials are enough. Equally, it is stylish enough to take out on a date and still look like a fashionista.
The only negative point about this backpack is the thinness of the straps; you may not wish to trust anything heavy and valuable to it.
4. Wink Kangaroo Leather Backpack
Wink Kangaroo’s business mission is to protect the short tail kangaroo; referred to as one of the happiest animals on the planet due to its sweet smile. Unfortunately, this animal is close to extinction. Wink Kangaroo is dedicated to helping these kangaroos by raising awareness of their plight. Even some of their profits will go to helping these animals
One product that is worthy of the top ten leather backpacks for women is the Wink Kangaroo Faux Leather Backpack. It is described as a ladies travel bag and is built to stand up to the rigors of traveling.
Each backpack has a zippered main pocket with 5 interior pockets. Two of these are also zippered. Furthermore, you’ll find the main storage compartment and the other two are slip pockets; these can be left empty to increase the available space in your backpack.
Made from soft high-quality PU leather, it is hard to tell this synthetic material apart from genuine leather! The metalwork is all gold-colored, adding to the chicness of the backpack. The inner lining is made from durable polyester. It looks really good while providing a quality and durable finish.
A useful additional feature is the ability to change the length of the straps; they can be varied between 21″ and 37″. You will also note that the side zippers can be opened on the backpack to create additional space inside for your belongings.
This is the sort of backpack you purchase for a specific trip, then discover that it’s super useful and can be used for basically any occasion and purpose! This backpack is a good-looking contemporary bag. Capable of carrying a large volume of goods. Perfect for the regular traveler or commuter.
5. Coofit Black Leather Backpack
As soon as you see the bag you will be able to appreciate its beauty, simplicity, yet versatile and contemporary design.
Made from PU synthetic leather and a durable polyester interior ensures it will last for a long time; even with regular daily use.
It is designed as a drawstring backpack, with a zipper compartment at the front. You will also find a second zipped pocket on the rear of the bag and side pockets which are designed to hold water bottles or similar items. Inside the bag, you will find a slide pocket that will hold a book or even a small laptop. You will also find a zipped pocket and an open one to help you store your valuables safely and securely.
It’s an ideal backpack for traveling, as well as a student backpack, or even just for daily commutes. The straps are designed to be long enough to ensure the bag can be comfortably carried by an adult, and they can also be adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit for students, no matter what size you are or what weight you are carrying.
Perhaps what is most surprising about this stylish looking backpack is the number of different products you can keep in it. It is large enough to ensure you can carry everything you need and have space to spare. For instance, a small laptop or tablet, cell phone, wallet, and hairbrush. You can even keep a light change of clothes and an umbrella, along with a refreshing drink!
One thing that is worth considering, and is often overlooked, is that when the bag is put down empty it will collapse into itself. While this does not affect its ability to function it will make it harder to maintain the chic look, just something noteworthy if this is important to you.
The majority of owners give this backpack a very favorable response, especially as there is so much storage space inside. Whether you are considering a trip, looking for something chic for school, or just hitting the office daily this could be just the leather backpack you need.
Types of Faux Leather
Faux leather is artificial, man-made leather. It is a good substitute for traditional leather as it has a very similar look and feels to it but without the negative and controversial association of animal cruelty and suffering.
A huge benefit of faux leather is that it can be manufactured in most colors and textures similar to real leather, and it is much easier to maintain. Whereas, real leather is a bit higher maintenance when it comes to cleaning and general care.
A good quality faux leather can be a better purchase than a bad grade genuine leather!
Faux leather is made by covering a fabric backing with a coat of bonded plastic. The coatings that are used vary in type and quality, giving rise to different kinds of fake leathers. This also plays a part in the look and feel of different kinds of faux leathers.
The two most popular and often used types of faux leather are Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Leather, and Polyurethane Leather (PU leather).
PVC Leather
A very popular, non-porous leather. It is considered to be the most dangerous of all faux leather types as it is made from toxins. It also releases toxins into the air, as it is used, or if it is burned. It is agreed that PU leather is a better alternative to PVC leather.
PU Leather
This is a much more sustainable alternative to PVC leather, and is also more porous and breathable, as well as softer, more flexible.
Quick Tips on How to Clean Your Leather Backpack
Faux Leather
As with genuine leather, faux leather shares many of the same physical characteristics. It can be soft, shiny, and smooth, and even suede-like. On the opposite side of this, some artificial leathers may dry out and crack easily, or may not be as sturdy.
Some faux leathers are machine washable, but most types are almost just as delicate as real leather and therefore, require certain ways of cleaning and maintaining them.
Mostly you’ll find instructions on labels, in the cases where there is no instruction, it’s best to clean it with a cleaner for genuine or synthetic leather. Especially if maintaining the product’s longevity and quality is important to you.
Below are a few tips you can follow in order to keep your faux leather backpack looking clean and well-maintained.
Genuine Leather
Cleaning your genuine leather products properly will help them to maintain their beauty and durability for many years to come. Luckily, it isn’t a complicated process!
As a general rule, leather should also not be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.
Conclusion
The humble backpack has come a long way. Modern-day backpacks have become more stylish, well-made, durable, and versatile and serve an array of purposes.
A well-maintained leather backpack will give you years of service and can become part of a collection giving you a bag and a backpack for every occasion. All you need to do to start is consider which backpack is most suited to your current needs and lifestyle.
You definitely cannot go wrong with adding either a faux, or genuine leather backpack to your life!
Our Genuine Leather Top Pick!
Coolcy Hot Style Leather Backpack
This high-quality leather backpack offers a feel and quality that simply cannot be matched by synthetic products.
Our Faux Leather Top Pick!
Coofit Black Leather Backpack
Originally designed as a sleek laptop backpack, it is a perfect option for the fashionista student.
