HYDESTYLE Venator Distressed Hunter Oiled Messenger Manbag - Bag with Zippers, Men's Leather Shoulder Vintage Bag, Durable Casual Messenger Bag Hand- Made Leather Business with Open Pocket

First off I'd like to say this is an excellently well made bag, I am a 50 odd year old male and this is the first 'man bag' I've ever bought. I needed a bag as I have a nerve problem with my leggs such that anything carried in my trouser pockets causes pain. I also wanted something sufficiently 'manly' that I felt comfortable carrying it. I also wanted one that was not too formal. I have a Hydestyle briefcase that is hyper formal for those power dressing moments for interviews etc, so I needed this for more casual moments, like just being out and about. I'm not fashion conscious but I do like quality, and this has that in oodles. The finnish on this bag has an almost shabby shique look to it that makes it look 'used' right out of the packaging, I think this is due to the oiled leather, don't let that put you off though, it's a great bag. I've looked at others on the highstreet, including a £300 bag by Bridge (italian hand made premier quality), and I can't honestly say this one would look out of place on their display - just change the label and I don't think anyone would notice. My partner (female) has been happy to be seen with me and has also attempted to steal it on several occasions (retribution will follow) so it has the 'unisex' stamp of approval as well.The lining is also good, will not rip easily I think. There is a small pocket for an old type phone (will not quite fit larger smart phones), and two other larger pockets in the main compartment (either of which will), one of them is zipped. The front small pocket is great for things you need quickely and the zipped outer pocket at the back will easily fit my (large) mobile phone and wallet - safely zipped away - with space for one or two other items. Though when the main compartment is full accessing this outer compartment at the back can be fiddly. There is, unfortunately no pen holder, that would have been handy I think.It does however have several problems.1) it will not comfortably fit a 10.1" tablet. There is a zip to the main compartment which will not close if a tablet with a cover is placed in the bag. I doubt that a surface 2 with a 10.6" screen in a case would fit at all, and some people need the case because it has a keyboard in it. You can get a 10.1" tablet inside, with case if you are happy not to fasten the zip, but that means it's no longer watertight, this is only likely to be an issue in heavy rain, but still...2) If the bag is very absolutely full the clasp will not fasten. However, I found that I could use a hole punch to add 2 extra holes for the clasp buckle to attach to the bag. This gives me about 2 inches extra to play with and solves the problem. You do have to be brave however to punch holes in your new £60 leather bag or you could get a leather worker to do this for you. I've added the extra holes with no problem - other than if I want to return the bag of course :(3) the shoulder strap is a little too short IMO. I'm 6'1" and quite broad accross the shoulders and, lets face it, I could do with loosing a few pounds (I'm not extremely over weight but...). The upshot is that when carried diagonally the strap is a little short, not by much - I'd say 4inches would do it (2 inches each way) but if you are a very tall chap, say 6'3" or more, then this could become an issue.I want to add however that I've still given this 4 stars, I think a few mods to the design would get the extra star no problem. I suspect it's mostly down to new technology moving on requiring slight mods to accessories. But It's still a great bag and it will get lot's of use. I am happy to recommend it other than as a tablet bag.

It doesn't hold much but that's why I got it: I was lugging to much stuff about. I love the way the zip makes the bag pretty much storm proof. It's really well made: solid stitching & robust metal parts. It's endured rain, hail, bashes & bumps so far & it looks even better than when it was new. I would have given 5 stars for a version 5cm larger in every dimension - the PERFECT bag. I would happily buy again from Hydestyle.

Excellent, roomy bag. plenty of pockets. Light. Lovely quality. would highly recommend.Good colour goes with most things. Secure clasp.

Excellent!!!! This bag is well made and it looks very expensive.I would strongly recommend it.