For the purists, nothing else other than a briefcase should be brought into the boardroom. Such people expect you to pull out your Macbook Pro and not a gym jacket. But in between presentations and getting back home you may have to squeeze in that quick workout. That’s the reality. We’ll show you 2 bags that will help you pull it off.
NICO by Braun Buffel
As described by Braun itself, the NICO is ‘designed to make every journey, commute and errand feel like a first-class experience’. It does. When I took mine ‘on the road’ I received compliments from the reception and a colleague who noticed it immediately by letting out a “Wow, that looks amazing” compliment. (Note: this bag was a personal purchase so it immediately banished any remnant of Buyer’s Remorse in me). As the week wore on, it just got better.
The big plus is the front magnetic pocket which is discrete but closes magnetically. This allows for quick reach into it for a set of keys or your employee tag (or anything you need frequently). No need to zip and un-zip awkwardly.
The Nylon trimmed Nappa leather exudes class. The structured interior has a padded tech sleeve and pockets for keeping your essentials organized. The only down-side is that I occasionally felt that the shoulder strap buckles would somehow damage the weaving on my pure cotton shirts. It made me want to take by bag off gingerly, in case this did happen. But only the plus side, it just made look a bit more considered and graceful as I took it off.
If you’re on a budget and you want the most versatile option to get you through the day, you need the Nico instead of the briefcases that we reviewed here. However, if budget isn’t an option then just get both. You’ll have something fit for each occasion.
Essential Specs
Crafted in Nylon trimmed Nappa
Nickel hardware in satin finish
Zip Opening
Adjustable shoulder straps
385mm (L) x 290mm (H) x 60mm (W)
Our Ratings
Functionality: 4 out of 5
Value For Price: 5 out of 5
Boardroom Appeal: 5 out of 5
Buffalo Leather Back-pack by Brunello Cucinelli
We’re huge fans for Brunello Cucinelli. Period. This man is a genius of our times, not because he has immense style but he’s the main proponent for Humanistic Capitalism, where the corporate values are based on humane values like Respect, Dignity and Honesty. We feel that’s what most corporations need these days but we’re digressing.
This back-pack appears more rugged and is definitely designed for those with a more adventurous spirit. The buffalo full-grain leather material is thick enough to withstand a few knocks and smells great. As is the case with all his products, a Cucinelli bag is expertly-crafted and artisanal in it’s own right.
Functionally, this bag was roomy and had enough pockets to keep your essentials well-managed.
Essential Specs
Flap fastens with magnetic snaps and drawstring
Adjustable shoulder straps
Outside zipper pocket
Side pockets with flap
Water-resistant fabric lining
Internal compartment with zipper
Strap on back for attaching to trolley handle
All metal parts are Nickel-free
360mm (L) x 450mm (H) x 220mm (W)
Our Ratings
Functionality: 5 out of 5
Value For Price: 5 out of 5
Boardroom Appeal: 4 out of 5