Whether you’re looking for the perfect bag to haul your laptop and a few books to school, or a work bag that can fit your computer, tablet, and phone plus a few files, a sturdy messenger is an excellent choice. These top men’s messenger bags combine durability, affordability, and waterproof protection with a range of handy pockets for easy organization.

A rugged messenger bag that fits over your shoulder is a great alternative to a backpack, and the best ones can hold just as much (and more) than traditional briefcases. They typically have a padded laptop sleeve for your device and plenty of other pockets for accessories, including cords and water bottles. Many have lockable zippers and other security features to protect your gear. They’re also available in a variety of colors and fabrics, with some even offering the option to add a monogram.

While style is not a metric that we’ve explicitly used in our review, there’s no denying that the most popular messenger bags tend to look good. Buffalo Jackson’s Roosevelt bag has a professional-looking, polished aesthetic, with full-grain water buffalo leather and stylish antique brass hardware. It’s a little more pricey than our other top picks, but the sturdy construction and high-quality materials make it worth the investment.

For a more casual and laid-back look, NutSac’s Jones 13 bag offers a classic vintage vibe, with its waxed canvas material that looks pre-loved from Day One. The bag is durable and sturdy, with a roomy 24 liter capacity and multiple organizational pockets. Its shoulder strap has a unique seatbelt buckle closure that makes it easy to adjust. The leather will soften over time and can be oiled for extra waterproof protection.

If you need a work bag for heavy loads, we recommend the Chrome Citizen, which is designed to meet the needs of bike messengers. It’s the most spacious bag in our review, with a roomy main compartment and two additional pockets for organization. The bag has a waterproof floating tarp liner suspended above the bottom seams, which keeps moisture from reaching your belongings inside. It’s also a great choice for traveling, with a removable rear panel that easily slides over rolling luggage.

Several of the top-performing models are built from tough, weatherproof nylon fabric. We especially like the Mission Workshop Khyte, which is crafted from super-durable HT500 double-coated textile and stitched with ultra-rugged A&E Permacore thread. It’s the toughest bag we tested, and it comes in a wide variety of colors, so you can find one that matches your personal style. Other great options for work or school include the Buran III, the Kadet Sling, and the Monty. Each is very easy to use, with minimal and straightforward designs that eliminate over-designed features that can get in the way of daily commutes. The Buran III has a special, padded laptop sleeve for carrying devices up to 15.6 inches, and the Kadet Sling and Monty offer a similar sleeve for devices up to 11 inches.