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Messenger bags are tough, and a great bag for work or play, but there's a lot of hype surrounding them too. Here are some tips for choosing a messenger bag that won't let you down.

First, consider getting a professional bag, even if you're not a pro. Why? Because pro bags are built to last. You'll have to pay a lot more for a professional messenger bag, but when you think about the conditions that the pro bags are built to withstand, you'll realize that you're getting a lot of toughness for your money. A pro bag will last you forever; a bag that only pretends to be used by professional messengers will start coming apart sooner or later - and wouldn't last a week under work conditions.

The original messenger bag is made by De Martini, a New York bag maker. For years De Martini was the only company that made messenger bags, and it's still a great choice.

Another New York contender is Manhattan Portage which started out copying De Martini's bags. They're a good choice too.

But my favorite messenger bag is made by PAC, a Canadian company. Next time you see a courier check out what bag he's using. Chances are good it's made by PAC.

If it's not it might be made by a local company. In many large cities there are small companies that make messenger bags, and these companies don't survive long if the local couriers don't find they're a good value. Ask around and you might find you can buy a hand-made messenger bag from a local manufacturer, for less than you'd pay for a name brand pro bag.

A professional messenger bag will last you forever, and never let you down.

Learn more about this author, David Riel.
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