Suede backpacks are having a major moment right now. These trendy, soft bags are popping up everywhere from high fashion runways to busy college campuses. Suede brings a touch of luxury and elegance to a classic backpack silhouette. It’s also a durable, versatile material that can stand up to daily use.
Backpacks are a convenient choice for carrying all of your daily essentials. They keep your hands free and distribute weight evenly across your shoulders. For students and professionals alike, backpacks are a staple for transporting laptops, books, and other gear.
Suede is formed from the underside of animal hides, usually cows, goats or lambs. It’s separated from the top grain layer to create a soft, velvety napped finish. Suede has an attractive matte texture that almost seems to change color in different lighting. It’s cozy yet sophisticated.
When shopping for suede backpacks, pay attention to aspects like size, compartments, straps, closures, and hardware. Look for design features that make organization intuitive and access effortless throughout the day. Premium details like padding and stitching elevate the quality. With proper care, a suede backpack can become a beloved companion for years to come.
Let’s dive into the top 5 suede backpacks on the market right now. We’ll cover pros, cons and ideal uses to help you discover your perfect match!
Top 5 Suede Backpacks
Backpack 1: The Everyday Commuter
The Eastpak Oval Suede Backpack is a handsome, understated pack ready to accompany you anywhere. This compact bag is crafted from soft cow suede in a contemporary oval silhouette. The main compartment has enough room for essentials like a 15-inch laptop, notebook, wallet and smartphone. An interior sleeve safely holds and protects your tech.
An accordion front pouch provides quick-access storage for pens, chargers, snacks and other small items. Two zippered pockets on the front give you more dedicated spaces to organize by category. Padded shoulder straps and a foam back panel deliver premium comfort and support, even when loaded down. This backpack keeps your basics securely stowed for the commute, campus or office.
Pros:
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Comfortable shoulder straps
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Smaller size not ideal for bulky items
Ideal For: Students, commuters and professionals seeking an everyday suede backpack. The compact storage and chestnut brown color make it a stylish companion.
Backpack 2: The Spacious & Stylish
When you need room for a weekend getaway or overnight trip, reach for The Cambridge Satchel Suede Backpack. This fashionable backpack provides ample space for clothing, shoes, tech and toiletries without bulk. Soft cow suede leather comes in classic colors like black, navy and tan as well as bolder pops of color.
The main compartment features a drawstring closure and cinch-top for easy access. A zippered front pouch safely stashes small valuables in its own compartment. Flat shoulder straps extend down over the back panel to stabilize heavier loads. Durable top-stitching and brass hardware give the Cambridge Satchel backpack vintage character.
Pros:
- Roomy main compartment
- Padded and adjustable shoulder straps
- Classic yet fashionable style
Cons:
- Limited interior organization
Ideal For: Fashionistas seeking a roomy, chic suede backpack for travel or weekends. It’s stylish enough for work or nights out after swapping out your daily essentials.
Backpack 3: The Rugged & Durable
Hit the trails and streets with the Marto Distressed Suede Backpack, constructed from full-grain suede to stand up to heavy daily use. The soft, pebbled cowhide leather develops a unique patina over time. Shoulder straps extend down the back panel for stability and feature a wide banded design.
This backpack is trimmed with high-quality solid brass hardware including buckles, grommets and snaps. YKK zippers securely close the main compartment and two handy exterior pockets. Inside, you’ll find a drawstring closure, laptop sleeve and ample space for gear, water bottles, and clothing layers.
Pros:
- Water-resistant suede exterior
- Reinforced stitching at stress points
- Secure strap buckles and sturdy YKK zippers
- Plenty of storage between exterior and interior
Cons:
- Heavy weight even when empty
- Expensive compared to other backpacks
Ideal For: The rugged design and weather-resistant material make this an ideal choice for frequent travelers and outdoor adventurers needing something durable. The vintage military styling looks great on city streets.
Backpack 4: The Sleek & Minimalist
For a lightweight pack with urban sophistication, check out the Frye Logan Suede Backpack. Crafted from supple antiqued suede, this streamlined silhouette has a slim but surprisingly spacious main compartment. The interior includes a padded laptop sleeve that fits most 15-inch models.
Clever hidden pockets at the sides give you quick access to phones, sunglasses and other essentials. Front magnetic closures secure the slimline exterior pockets. Flat shoulder straps keep the profile slim when worn on your back. With a fold-over top and drawstring closure, the Logan backpack keeps belongings secure from crowds.
Pros:
- Slim, lightweight profile
- Several anti-theft hidden pockets
- Laptop sleeve fits 15-inch models
- Sophisticated style works for school or office
Cons:
- Lacks structure to hold very bulky items
Ideal For: Minimalists and professionals seeking a slim, luxe backpack that doesn’t skimp on storage. The Frye design transitions seamlessly from campus or office commutes to nights out.
Backpack 5: The Convertible Backpack-Purse
Why choose between a backpack or purse when the Bleiker Avenue Convertible Suede Backpack serves double-duty? This fashion-forward silhouette features a unique adjustable strap system. Wear it traditionally as a backpack or cinch the straps into custom lengths to carry as a handbag.
Soft pebbled suede canvas comes in an array of rich jewel-toned colors. The main compartment features drawstring and magnetic snap closures up top. Interior pockets keep your laptop, tablet and e-reader secure. Two roomy exterior zip pockets are ideal for bulkier items, while slip pockets stash smaller essentials.
Pros:
- Innovative adjustable straps convert to purse
- Interior and exterior pockets for organization
- Sleek structure with elegant details
Cons:
- Smaller capacity than larger backpacks
- Light suede prone to staining
Ideal For: Fashionable professionals seeking a 2-in-1 backpack with stylish versatility. The customize straps give you grab-and-go convenience along with backpack benefits.
How to Choose the Right Suede Backpack
With so many gorgeous suede backpacks available, it can be tricky to select just one. Keep the following tips in mind while shopping around:
- Consider your intended use – Are you a student who’ll be lugging heavy books? A commuter needing space for a laptop and folders? Or a frequent flyer who needs maximum storage for weekend trips? Match the backpack capacity and features to your lifestyle.
- Evaluate size and capacity – Even if you’ll use it lightly at first, go bigger if you can. You never know when you’ll need extra space. Measure your laptop, notebooks and essentials to determine ideal dimensions.
- Look for organization features – Interior and exterior pockets make it easier to locate gear quickly. Laptop sleeves, dividers and zippered pouches keep contents securely stowed and weighted properly.
- Assess straps and backing – Padded straps prevent dig-in discomfort, even when carrying heavy loads. Look for adjustable fits and breathable mesh backing to keep you cool. Sternum and waist straps add stability.
- Consider suede durability – Suede is reasonably durable for daily use but requires more frequent cleaning. Reinforced stress points, sturdy stitching and protective sprays help prolong its life.
- Choose your style – From classic solid neutrals to bold colorful patterns, suede backpacks now come in diverse styles. Select a look that fits your personality.
- Set a budget – Quality suede generally falls on the expensive end. Determine what you can reasonably afford, but don’t sacrifice utility to save money.
- Read reviews – Get insight from other customers before clicking purchase. This helps identify potential issues like small capacities or lack of padding.
- Inspect in person if possible – Order online only if you can return in-store after assessing the capacity, pocket layout, comfort and overall quality.
- Care for the suede properly – Keep suede looking lush by brushing frequently, applying protective sprays and cleaning with specialized products as needed. Improper care can quickly damage suede.
Taking the time to find your perfect suede backpack pays off with years of stylish, carefree use. Follow these tips and soon you’ll have a trusty companion for all of life’s adventures.
FAQs About Suede Backpacks
Q: Is suede durable enough for daily use as a backpack?
A: With proper care and treatment, suede can be quite durable and withstand daily backpack use. Look for styles with reinforced stitching at stress points and sturdy, high-quality hardware. Suede tends to show scuffs and stains more easily than leather. Be diligent about cleaning, conditioning and protecting the material to maintain its beauty over years of wear.
Q: What’s the best way to clean a suede backpack?
A: Start by gently brushing dirt and debris from the material with a suede brush or microfiber cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a specialized suede shampoo and soft bristle brush to work it into stains or heavy soil. Always let suede dry thoroughly between applications. Minimize moisture exposure by cleaning small sections at a time instead of drenching the entire bag.
Test suede cleaners and protectants in an inconspicuous area first, since they can alter the color and texture. Take extra care around seams and decorative trim. For serious stains or water damage, consult a professional suede or leather cleaner.
Q: Should I treat my suede backpack with any kind of waterproofing spray?
A: Suede protector sprays can be useful for preventing moisture damage and stains, as suede is naturally porous. The sprays contain polymers that adhere to each fiber and repel water. Look for products specifically formulated for use on suede, and avoid silicone or wax based treatments.
Always test the spray on a hidden corner or interior seam first. Reapply as directed after cleaning or once water starts penetrating the suede again. This provides extra protection without altering the appearance and feel if applied properly.
Q: How can I repair scuffs, scrapes or stains on my suede backpack?
A: For surface scuffs, use a suede brush or fine grit sandpaper to buff them out. Be gentle and brush in all directions. For deeper gouges, scrape off any debris and apply thin superglue along the cut, allowing it to absorb in. Lightly buff the area once dry.
For small stains, dab the spot with a suede eraser, brush or sandpaper. Avoid excessive friction. For oil or grease stains, sprinkle cornmeal or talcum powder on the area to absorb the spill, then brush clean.
For any repair method, always test on an inconspicuous spot first and follow up with suede protector spray. If you can’t remove a stain through these methods, take the backpack to a professional cleaner.
Q: How should I store my suede backpack when I’m not using it?
A: To maintain the shape and structure, fill the backpack with tissue paper or other padding and close it. Store it elevated on a shelf or hook if possible, avoiding direct floor contact. Keep suede away from heat, humidity and light which can damage it over time.
Rather than hanging suede, place it in breathable cotton storage bags, unbleached muslin or archival cardboard boxes. Never use plastic bags or wrap that trap moisture. Keeping your suede backpack properly stored preserves its beauty for many seasons.
Q: Are suede backpacks okay to send through airport security and x-ray machines?
A: Yes, suede bags pose no risk for airport x-ray machines, so they are safe to transport. To minimize exposure to the machines’ mechanics though, request a manual hand inspection instead. Have your bag easily accessible to remove laptops, liquids and other items into bins as needed.
If passing through the x-ray is unavoidable, keep the exposure time short. Avoid letting the suede sit unattended as it enters and exits the machines. The less contact with the interior workings, the better. Before and after scanning, do a quick condition check for any new scratches or damage.
Conclusion
Suede brings luxury, softness and versatility to standard backpacks. Whether you’re a student, commuter or world traveler, one of these top suede backpacks is ready to be your daily companion. We covered compact choices like the Eastpak Oval for everyday essentials, roomier picks like the Cambridge satchel for weekends away, and resilient options like the Marto Distressed pack for outdoor adventures.
The Frye Logan and Bleiker Avenue bags prove suede can also have a minimalist, sophisticated edge. With the right care and protection, suede backpacks rival leather and canvas bags for durability too. Just keep suede’s high-maintenance nature in mind as you shop around.
What suede backpack caught your eye today? Which features are most important to you – storage, style, padding, pockets? Share your thoughts below!