The 12 Best Sling Bags for Men, Tested by Style and Gear Editors

ProsDesigned with water-repellent nylon fabricMultiple ways to carryTwo-way zipperLooks great with sweats or casual fitsConsCan't store a water bottleWe gave 20 different sling bags a test run, but Lululemon’s offering takes the cake. The Everywhere Belt Bag is all about making things easier for the man on the go. For starters, you can throw it over your shoulder or wear it around your waist like a fanny pack for when you're on the trail or at an outdoor concert (or any other time you want to be hands-free). The main pouch features a double two-way zipper that opens 3/4 of the way, letting you see and reach everything inside without having to dig around blindly. Another bonus: There’s a smaller pocket tucked into the back with a single zipper, which makes it ideal for hiding cash, cards, and other small valuables.Thanks to the water-resistant nylon exterior, anything stowed away will remain dry, in the event it starts pouring rain. Our favorite part, however, is the strap that we found to be one of the most comfortable ones that we’ve tested. As for the colorway, you can choose from a bunch of neutral tones, but our fashion team recommends going with the eucalyptus hue—you’re bound to be the center of attention.While it can’t store a water bottle, we love how effortlessly our gadgets and snacks fit inside. Not to mention, it has so much versatility in regard to style. You can wear it with your best sweatsuit or casual fit and look fly for the day’s festivities.Read More: Best Fanny Packs for MenCapacity2 litersMaterialNylon fabricProsAffordableAble to store your iPad mini, iPhone, power band, etc.Reversible shoulder strapComes with water bottle holderConsNot as water-resistant as othersThis Amazon best-seller is spot-on for your next adventure. It’s really got organization in spades with mesh pockets on two sides for bottles or umbrellas, a small front zipper pocket for smaller devices, and a big space inside that’s designed like a backpack. It’s smartly compartmentalized into smaller sections for anything from keys, passports, snacks, and other bits and bobs. During a camping trip, we made use of the main pocket inside, which is big enough to store your phone and tablet, a feature that we deemed essential in a travel sling bag.You can even enjoy your music on your commute as the convenient opening on the front provides easy access to your earphones. It comes in every color imaginable, but the teal blue and reflective details will help you stand out and offer nighttime visibility. And unlike others in this guide, this one comes with a water bottle holder, so you stay hydrated on the move.Read More: Best Backpacks for MenCapacity6 litersMaterials100% polyesterAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsVery ruggedTons of storage (10 pockets)Recycled fabricDual quick-release bucklesConsHeavier (6-liter is 12.2 oz and 9-liter is 14.1 oz)While we still feel it works great for the city, this ruggedly built sling is perfect for outdoor adventurists. Firstly, it’s offered in two different sizes with a 6- or 9-liter size, ensuring that if you need a little extra space, you can spend an extra $10 to upgrade. Even in the smaller size, you can easily fit a water bottle plus all of your other gear like earbuds, sunglasses, phone, EDC essentials, protein bar, plus more thanks to the expandable gusset.One of the cool features of this bag that you won’t find on others is that it comes with sturdy quick-release buckles on both sides, making it ideal no matter which shoulder you toss it around. It offers various storage compartments, 10 to be exact, even with a soft-lined pouch that is great for your phone or sunglasses, helping to avoid scratching while on the move—plus, the padded back and bottom helps to protect everything else. Its water resistance and six-year warranty make it the perfect outdoor bag.Capacity6 or 9 litersMaterialsBaida nylonProsSuper light and easy to carryComes with bike light attachment loopUnique colorblock designConsNot ideal if you have a lot to packAs one of the smaller sling bags in our guide, the Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack has substantial storage where it matters most. We found that its capacity is perfect for shorter trips and daily errands, and the straps are a piece of cake to adjust (though there are quite a few straps). Whenever we don’t need a huge backpack and want to pack light, this little guy is a star.In our experience, we’ve worn it on the waist and across the body. One tester was able to utilize the bike light attachment loop for a nighttime ride to increase visibility. And with a solid amount of space and interior organization for a phone, cardholder, and other odds and ends, our editors have also tucked it under a thin coat when we’re in a tight spot. Plus, the unique color-blocked design earns it some extra style points.Capacity2 litersMaterials400D 100% recycled nylonAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsElevated and stylish choiceHigh quality full-grain leatherAges beautifullyHolds a good amountConsExpensiveExtra cost for personalizationStraps are shorter than othersIf you’re looking for a more elevated sling, then you’ll definitely want to grab this leather Blake Belt Bag from Leatherology. We recommend opting for the standard-size model, as it holds about 5 liters, but it also comes in slim and mini models. You can choose from 10 colors, including three in smooth full-grain, six in pebbled full-grain, a black croc leather, and a groovy fairway green color (very reminiscent of The Masters’ signature color).The adjustable strap is quite versatile, with the options of wearing it as a traditional crossbody bag, hanging off one shoulder, or around the waist, though, as it’s a unisex model, the strap may be just a touch too short for some guys. That said, it can hold a good amount of gear with its main zippered compartment, which comes with four interior card slots and a decent-sized interior mesh pocket that is also zippered. While some note that the zippers are a little stiff, over time they do tend to wear in and work much easier. Plus, for an additional fee, you can personalize it to truly make it one of a kind.Capacity5 litersMaterialsFull-grain leatherProsFront cargo pocket with flap closureSuper affordableComfortable after hours of walkingMade with antique brass finish hardwareConsNot big enough for a tablet or water bottleEddie Bauer’s Mini Crossbody Bag proves that you don’t have to spend big to get a reliable everyday carry. Made from nylon, this compact bag punches above its weight when it comes to utility. During testing, we found the slightly 0.8L capacity to be just right. It’s big enough to fit your phone, wallet, keys, and a chapstick, but small enough to stay light and nimble when you’re clocking your daily step count goal. I love the front cargo pocket that has a flap closure. It kept essentials like subway cards or AirPods secure but easy to access when we were on the go.Yeah, it’s too small to carry a tablet or water bottle, but it comes in clutch for light carry days and quick errands. One tester wore it on a weekend trip and appreciated how easy it was to sling over a jacket without ever feeling bulky. The strap adjusts smoothly and stays comfortable during hours of walking, and after a few days of use, the bag still looked good as new.Capacity1.2 litersMaterialsNylonAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsResembles a backpackPadded sleeve Zip pocket on strap fits phoneReflective accents for nighttime visibilityMassive capacityConsMight be too big to wear for hours of hikingThe North Face’s Base Camp Voyager Sling is basically a mini backpack in disguise that’s built to take a beating. This thing held up through packed subways, bike rides, and overhead bin shoves without a single scuff. The shell’s made from abrasion-resistant polyester fabric, the same ultra-tough material as the brand’s duffels, which are designed for actual expeditions, so your daily commute? No sweat.There’s a padded sleeve that snugly fits a tablet, reflective accents for low-light visibility (great for late-night rides), and a thick, padded shoulder strap that’s actually comfortable to wear all day. Bonus: There’s a zip pocket on the strap that perfectly fits your phone, so no more digging around at crosswalks.We also loved how the design leans more toward a backpack than a bag. It’s minimalist, structured, and doesn’t flop around when you’re on the move. Whether you’re weaving through downtown foot traffic or navigating an airport terminal, this is the kind of sling that keeps up, and doesn’t look out of place when you stop for a coffee.Capacity11 litersMaterials 300D recycled polyesterProsDurable, water-resistant buildSatin twill weaveTons of storageHeavy duty zippersReigning Champ’s crossbody bag is reliable for outdoor gear because it combines smart construction and water-resistant materials. This resilient twill bag is the practical choice to go anywhere, and though it may look compact, there’s plenty of space and interior pockets to keep your stuff organized without looking overloaded. I even wore this during a rainy evening commute, and everything inside, from my phone to loose bills, stayed bone dry.The adjustable webbing strap is quite comfortable, even if you plan on wearing it all day long. With it, you get two main zippered pockets, plus an internal zippered pocket, and you even get a small front-facing zippered pocket for quick access when you need it. Though it only comes in one color, there’s really not a more versatile accessory color than black, anyway. And it looks darn good with a slight pop of white in its logo.Capacity5 litersMaterials100% nylon twillAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsThree sizes and seven colorsSolid option for creativesPadded and comfyGreat for city and adventureConsNot totally weatherproofWearing around the waist is challenging for someWe love a bag that comes in more than one size, and the Everyday Sling from Peak Design comes in three different sizes: 3-, 6-, and 10-liter options, making it one of the most versatile choices available. Not only that, but it’s also available in seven different colors, ensuring that whatever your taste is, there is definitely a pick for you. Another thing that we really like about this bag is the ability to loosen (or tighten) the quick-adjuster and padded straps while still wearing it.While this bag is designed with creatives in mind to be able to hold all of your tech, like cameras, laptops (depending on size choice), lenses, rangefinders, and more (thanks to its comfy and padded design) it can still be a great option to use hiking or biking with its weatherproof design and 400D shell construction. While it is resistant to the elements, some reviewers do mention to be cautious with heavier rainfall, though the majority note it can handle most situations.Capacity3, 6, or 10 litersMaterials400D double poly-coated DWR nylonProsPerfect city sling bagPretty durableLightweightConsLacks large volume capacityStrap can irritate after long hours of useTraveling around the city, either to and from work, running errands, or just heading to the local coffee shop means finding a bag that’s just big enough to hold the essentials, yet one that’s not gonna weigh you down. Aer’s City Sling 2 is the perfect sized bag for city activities and commuting. It weighs under a pound and holds 2.5 liters, which means you can still get all of your EDC gear in there with ease.Even though it’s lightweight, it’s darn tough with its 700D Cordura nylon design and aircraft-grade aluminum tension locks, which means you don’t sacrifice durability. It has a quick-access front pocket for things like keychains, while its back zippered pocket is better for valuables like passports or wallets, with ample room in its main zippered compartment, too. Plus, its strap hides away thanks to its magnetic fastener, converting it into a mobile dopp kit in a pinch. While the strap is tough, it may be a little rough on the shoulder after a day of wear.Capacity2.5 litersMaterials700D Cordura nylonAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowOakley’s Extractor Sling is basically a backpack in disguise, making it perfect for work commutes. It has the capacity to serve as one with several compartments and pockets to transport goods like your hand cream, portable charger, and office laptop. We found this sling bag specifically useful for when we want to pack more without overdoing it.You can even fit your gym shorts and workout shirts inside to hit a quick session once you’re off the clock. Plus, the back panel is equipped with air channels to help deliver more breathability and comfort while you’re on the move. Although the downside is that it is heavier than others we’ve tested, it’s got the volume you need to load it all in.Capacity23LMaterials600D polyesterWith four climbing ropes braided together for the strap, Kavu’s sling bag is created with a durable, yet completely unique design. And of course, you can adjust it to your comfort level. It’s produced with a blend of 600D polyester and cotton canvas, so the fabric can resist water, feels soft and ultimately, built to last. In total, there are three pockets—two ideally for your keys/phone and one zippered in the rear for smaller valuables. Even though aesthetics are what earned its placement on this list, we found the colorblock gear should be paired with a simple outfit like a white t-shirt and blue jeans.Capacity10LMaterials600D polyester, cotton canvasJeff Turbett is a fitness and wellness writer who's based in Miami, FL. His work has been featured in The Manual and FightCamp. As the Style and Reviews Editor for Men's Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.Ryan Brower is the Senior Gear and Reviews Editor at Men’s Health, where he tests the best products in outdoor gear, tech, running shoes, and more. He has written about the outdoors for nearly two decades and was previously the Managing Editor, Content Performance at Gear Patrol. He holds a B.A. in Sport Management and is a Certified Beer Server, having previously covered the craft beer industry. Ryan currently lives on the water in New Jersey with his wife and their dog.