Nearly as important as the technology that goes inside your laptop is the protective case that goes around it. It’s a given that the right case will feature lots of padding, sturdy straps and plenty of pockets – but what about style?

Leather Laptop Cases – Best of Both Worlds

Leather laptop cases offer a stylish and durable way to protect your technological investment without sacrificing appearance.  Years ago laptop cases were mostly bulky, black nylon messenger bags designed with practicality in mind.

Nowadays, laptops are much more abundant in daily life and people want bags that have as much visual appeal as functional purpose. Manufacturers have responded by turning to the timeless style – and well-known durability – of leather. The result is leather laptop cases with as much variety and personality as you.

For a departure from standard black, try a toasty brown. Maker Aaron Irvin includes chocolate and burnt sienna models that crackle with color but are still conservative enough for an office.  To push the envelope why not depart from the standard messenger bag shape altogether? Leatherbay’s leather laptop backpack is a funky, two-strap bag that redefines the laptop case altogether, while freeing up your arms.

Leatherbay from leatherbay.com

Leather laptop cases are especially versatile when it comes to women’s designs; the material lends itself easily to bags that look more like high-fashion purses than leather laptop cases. You can check out McKlein for a wide variety of ice cream-hued, buckled shoulder bags that are so cute, you may want to carry them without your laptop!

Mcklein USA

If money’s no object, then you’re in luck. Lots of high-end designers have gotten into the laptop case arena with pricey leather models. Kenneth Cole’s Rio Leather Laptop Port has an elegant briefcase feel that gives the user a polished look; Burberry departs from its signature plaid with an ultra-thin black model with a side zip panel and a $950 price tag.

Burberry at gentlemansgadgets.com

There are plenty of pros when it comes to leather laptop cases. For one, leather is known to be long-lasting and tough, not likely to tear or rip like cotton or other materials. But leather laptop cases can be costly, and a bit harder to find than your standard nylon sack.

Here are some other things to consider when shopping for leather laptop cases:

• Pick the right type of leather. The softest leather, termed lambskin, is great for higher-end leather wear, but not so good for a laptop bag. Look for cowhide, it’s heavier and tough-wearing
• Leather can scuff and look ragged if not cared for properly. Consider investing in leather cleaner to keep your laptop case looking great
• Try a specialty store. Stores that specialize in leather items will likely have a better variety of laptop cases and other accessories
• Like a good leather coat, a leather laptop case can last for a long time. Think hard before picking something that is too trendy
• Invest in good leather. Quality hide should flex easily and not be too stiff. And of course, give it the sniff test – if it smells like chemicals, it’s not the best leather

But if it has that distinct woodsy, sweet smell, you’ll know you’ve struck gold! Happy Shopping!

About the Author:

Leo Alvin Alexander is an online writer/blogger currently working as an online marketing specialist for an NY-based fashion company.