Best black work briefcase for men under 500 2026 smart picks

Best black work briefcase for men under 500 sits in that sweet spot where sharp office style meets real daily function. A bag in this range shouldn’t feel flimsy, shiny in the wrong way, or too bulky for a train seat. It needs to carry a laptop, charger, papers, wallet, keys, and a few odds and ends without looking like a stuffed lunch sack. Good design earns its keep quietly.

Black leather briefcases still carry a certain polish, but not every black bag feels the same in real life. Smooth leather can look refined, yet it may show scratches faster than pebbled leather. Nylon blends can feel lighter and more weather-friendly, though they sometimes lose that boardroom-ready edge. So the smarter buy depends on how much structure, weight, and upkeep feels reasonable day after day.

Work briefcase storage matters more than it seems at first glance. A padded laptop sleeve keeps the tech from knocking against metal zippers or notebooks. Separate pockets help stop the usual desk-drawer chaos from following you everywhere. Still, too many compartments can turn a bag into a scavenger hunt, and nobody wants to dig for a badge while standing at a security gate.

Comfort deserves more attention than most product pages give it. A briefcase may look handsome on a chair, but the handle shape and shoulder strap decide whether it feels annoying by Friday. Rolled leather handles usually feel better in hand, while a wide strap helps during longer walks. A heavy all-leather build can look richer, though it may wear you down on packed commute days.

Under 500 dollars, the trick is avoiding both cheap shortcuts and overpriced branding fluff. Solid stitching, clean edging, smooth zippers, and a stable base tell you more than a glossy product photo. A good black briefcase should stand upright, open without fighting back, and keep its shape after months of being shoved under desks. That’s the difference between looking organized and constantly wrestling with your own bag.

Professional style works best when it doesn’t scream for attention. Matte black hardware feels modern, while brass or silver hardware can lean more classic. A slim profile fits suits, chinos, wool coats, and simple office layers without clashing. The bag should add a little confidence, not act like a costume piece.

Daily practicality also means accepting a few tradeoffs. A very slim briefcase won’t handle gym clothes or bulky lunch containers. A larger one may carry everything, but it can look oversized in smaller offices or client meetings. The better choice usually lands in the middle, with enough room for essentials and enough restraint to stay clean and intentional.

Rainsmore Laptop Messenger Bag

Crammed mornings with a laptop, charger, and documents demand a bag that won’t fight back. The Rainsmore Laptop Messenger Bag slips into routines without fuss, giving immediate access to essentials while maintaining a clean professional look. Its roomy structure quietly handles a 15.6-inch laptop and daily work clutter, making the hectic shuffle between meetings less of a scramble.

Rainsmore Laptop Messenger Bag

The dedicated padded laptop compartment is a standout, preventing scratches and absorbing bumps during daily commutes. Lining the interior are zipper pockets for passports, wallets, and phones, creating order from potential chaos. The bag balances protection and accessibility, letting devices stay snug while still at arm’s reach.

Premium PU leather gives a refined finish without tipping the scales in weight, combining style with function. Corrosion-resistant metal hardware and smooth zippers add a tactile quality that enhances the overall experience. The nylon lining further cushions devices and keeps the interior from rubbing against sharper edges of electronics.

The front wide-open compartment is versatile, featuring three slip pockets, four card slots, and dual pen holders. Magnetic pockets hold items you need on the move. This organizational system eliminates the digging and frustration typical of everyday briefcases, letting folders, magazines, and notebooks find their home instantly.

Flexible Carrying Options

Adjustable shoulder straps ranging from 28 to 50 inches make carrying the bag intuitive and ergonomic. Users can sling it over the shoulder, carry it as a classic satchel, or hold it by hand as a traditional briefcase. The integrated luggage strap easily slides over a suitcase handle, smoothing transitions during business trips.

The versatile design adapts seamlessly to travel, office, or client settings. Even longer days with multiple locations are less stressful when the bag sits comfortably across the body or rests securely by your side. Detachable straps add modularity, letting you choose comfort or sleek presentation depending on the situation.

From a practical angle, the bag's structure resists sagging and keeps documents flat. Even overstuffed files don’t warp the shape, preserving both professional presentation and internal organization. The balance of flexibility and rigidity ensures it works for a wide range of scenarios without compromising aesthetics.

Premium Materials And Build

Waterproof PU leather guards against rain and accidental spills, maintaining the bag’s vintage-inspired appeal. Corrosion-resistant hardware ensures durability while complementing the bag’s style. Soft nylon interior cushions tech and accessories against scratches, blending protection with a soft touch.

The smooth zipper action enhances accessibility without sacrificing security. Long-lasting stitching and reinforced seams maintain shape and resist daily wear. It’s a bag designed for the rigors of commuting, business travel, and office life without drawing attention for the wrong reasons.

Even subtle aesthetic choices, like matte finish and minimal branding, maintain a professional tone. This allows the bag to pair naturally with business suits or casual office wear, enhancing perceived organization and attention to detail.

Pros And Strengths

 

• Spacious and organized compartments keep tech, documents, and small items instantly accessible.
• Padded laptop section ensures security for up to 15.6-inch laptops.
• Waterproof PU leather and corrosion-resistant hardware deliver durability and style.
• Flexible carrying options adapt to shoulder, satchel, or briefcase styles.
• Integrated luggage strap simplifies travel and hands-free mobility.

 

Cons And Limitations

 

• PU leather may show scratches more easily than full-grain leather over time.
• The structured size, while roomy, could feel bulky for lighter commutes or minimalists.
• Magnetic pockets are convenient but might be slightly less secure for heavier valuables.
• Shoulder strap padding is modest; long walks with heavy loads can create shoulder fatigue.
• Limited color options restrict personalization beyond classic black tones.

 

One example worth noting is best mens travel messenger bag for those seeking similar durability and organizational features in a travel-focused format.

Vankean Laptop Briefcase

Morning commutes often feel like a juggling act between electronics, files, and personal items. The Vankean Laptop Briefcase offers a sturdy, water-repellent canvas build that keeps everything neatly in place. Its thoughtful layout absorbs the chaos of daily travel, while a 17.3-inch laptop still sits comfortably without crowding smaller items.

Vankean Laptop Briefcase

High-quality canvas poly fabric forms the backbone of this bag, offering durability without unnecessary weight. Water-repellent properties prevent minor spills and light rain from seeping in. At 2.88 pounds, the briefcase feels manageable even when fully packed.

The main compartment opens wide, allowing easy access to a laptop, iPad, power bank, and A4 files. Integrated RFID pockets protect sensitive data, shielding credit cards and passports from electronic skimming. This feature gives added peace of mind without complicating the organization.

Functional front pockets and waterproof zippers enhance practicality. You can stash smaller items for quick reach without opening the main compartment. Smooth zippers and reinforced stitching ensure longevity, even under repeated stress.

Comfort And Portability

Removable padded shoulder straps and sturdy PU handles allow multiple carrying options. Switching between a shoulder bag, hand-carry, or trolley attachment is simple. Comfort remains consistent on longer walks or during congested commutes.

The integrated luggage strap securely attaches the bag to rolling suitcases. Travel days become less stressful as you avoid awkward balancing acts between the briefcase and other luggage. Its lightweight design further reduces strain while commuting or navigating airports.

Ergonomic design distributes weight evenly across the shoulders and back. Even fully loaded, the structure maintains balance and prevents sagging. This makes the bag suitable for daily office use, client meetings, or short business trips.

Organization And Utility

Multiple compartments offer order and accessibility. Slip pockets, card slots, and pen holders ensure that every item has its place. This minimizes time spent searching for essentials during high-pressure scenarios.

The spacious main compartment accommodates laptops, files, and personal items simultaneously. RFID pockets are positioned strategically for quick access while keeping security intact. The balance of large compartments with smaller slots enhances usability for busy routines.

Expandable design adds flexibility without compromising structure. The bag expands for bulkier items while remaining sleek enough for everyday office settings. This allows you to carry more without the bag looking oversized or unwieldy.

Pros And Highlights

 

• Water-repellent canvas fabric ensures protection against light rain and spills.
• Multi-functional compartments provide organized storage for laptops and accessories.
• Comfortable shoulder straps and PU handles support long-duration carrying.
• RFID-protected pockets secure sensitive cards and IDs.
• Luggage strap integration simplifies travel and trolley attachment.

 

Cons And Limitations

 

• Canvas material can crease under heavy load and may require maintenance.
• Larger dimensions might be cumbersome in tight spaces or crowded offices.
• Water-repellent is effective for light moisture but not heavy rain.
• Fewer color options limit personalization beyond classic black.
• Shoulder padding is moderate, potentially causing fatigue on long commutes.

 

In real-world usage, a relevant reference is best duffel bag for checked luggage for similar travel-friendly durability and organizational flexibility.

Taygeer Laptop Bag 15.6 Inch

Busy workdays have a funny way of exposing weak bags. One loose pocket, one awkward zipper, or one cramped compartment can turn a simple commute into a minor headache. That's where the best black work briefcase for men under 500 category becomes interesting, and the Taygeer Laptop Bag 15.6 Inch enters the conversation with a practical, organization-focused design that aims to simplify daily carry without adding unnecessary bulk.

Taygeer Laptop Bag

Organization sits at the center of this briefcase's appeal. Taygeer designed the bag with multiple external pouches, pencil holders, document sections, and accessory compartments that help separate cables, notebooks, chargers, and small office essentials. Instead of piling everything into one large cavity, the layout encourages a more structured approach to carrying gear.

The front storage area proves especially useful during hectic workdays. Documents, binders, power cords, and a wireless mouse can remain accessible without forcing you to unzip the primary laptop compartment. That seemingly simple detail often saves time when moving between meetings or working remotely from different locations.

Another practical touch comes from the back invisible zipper pocket. Valuables such as wallets, passports, and important documents stay hidden from casual view. For commuters navigating crowded transit stations or busy airports, this placement adds an extra layer of convenience.

Rather than chasing flashy styling, the bag leans into a professional appearance. The understated black exterior blends naturally with office attire, business casual outfits, and travel wardrobes alike.

Storage Capacity And Laptop Protection

A laptop compartment can make or break a work briefcase. Taygeer includes a foam-padded laptop sleeve designed to fit most 15.6-inch laptops. The dedicated space helps reduce movement inside the bag while creating a buffer between the computer and other carried items.

The dimensions of 15.74 inches by 2.8 inches by 11.8 inches create a profile that feels compact enough for everyday office use. It doesn't attempt to become an oversized travel bag, which actually works in its favor. The shape remains manageable in conference rooms, shared workspaces, and under airplane seats.

Storage isn't limited to technology. Notebooks, folders, contracts, and presentation materials all fit comfortably inside the main compartment. That flexibility helps the bag transition from daily office use to occasional business travel without requiring a second carry solution.

Compartment separation also reduces wear on electronics. Pens, chargers, keys, and other accessories are less likely to bump directly against the laptop, helping maintain a cleaner and safer interior environment.

Materials And Everyday Durability

Water-resistant synthetic nylon polyester gives the briefcase a practical advantage during unpredictable weather. Light rain, accidental splashes, and damp commuting conditions become less stressful because moisture is less likely to reach the contents immediately.

The combination of metal zippers and resistant metal hooks contributes to the bag's durability. Hardware often becomes the first failure point in heavily used briefcases, so reinforced attachment points are always welcome.

From a reviewer’s perspective, the material choice makes sense for a work-focused bag in this category. Genuine leather certainly offers a different aesthetic, but nylon polyester tends to be lighter and requires less maintenance. That tradeoff may appeal to people carrying their bag five days a week.

Scratches and everyday scuffs generally become less noticeable on textured synthetic fabric than on smooth leather surfaces. As a result, the bag maintains a cleaner appearance through regular use.

Travel And Commuting Experience

Frequent travelers often appreciate small design details more than major features. Taygeer's pass-through luggage strap falls squarely into that category. The bag slides onto rolling luggage handles, reducing shoulder strain while navigating airports or hotels.

The feature sounds ordinary on paper, yet it changes how the bag behaves during longer trips. Carrying a laptop, documents, and travel essentials becomes less tiring when the briefcase rides securely on top of a suitcase.

Dual wrapped handles provide another comfortable carrying option. The grip feels more substantial than basic webbing handles, making short carries around office buildings or parking lots easier on the hands.

In some cases, a related reference can be found in best duffel bag for african safari where travel-focused carrying solutions are discussed from a different perspective.

Comfort And Flexibility

The detachable shoulder strap increases versatility. Some days call for traditional hand-carry presentation, while other situations benefit from keeping both hands free. Switching between configurations takes only a moment.

PU-padded shoulder support helps distribute weight more evenly during commutes. While no laptop bag feels weightless once loaded with electronics and paperwork, the padding softens pressure points that can develop during longer walks.

A practical aspect of the design is its ability to adapt to different environments. It works in corporate offices, university settings, coworking spaces, and business travel scenarios without appearing out of place.

The bag avoids excessive decorative elements, allowing function to take priority. That restraint contributes to its professional appearance and broad usability.

Strengths And Tradeoffs

Strengths become clear after examining the overall design. Excellent compartment organization, dedicated laptop protection, water-resistant materials, comfortable carrying options, and travel-friendly features all contribute to a well-rounded briefcase experience.

The storage layout deserves special recognition because it addresses a common frustration. Searching through tangled chargers, pens, and documents wastes time. Taygeer’s compartment system minimizes that annoyance through purposeful separation.

Tradeoffs exist as well. Users who prefer genuine leather aesthetics may find synthetic materials less luxurious. The slim 2.8-inch depth also prioritizes portability over maximum carrying capacity, which could limit those carrying bulky equipment.

Another consideration involves the structured organization itself. People who prefer one large open compartment may view the numerous pockets as unnecessary, while organization-focused users will likely see them as one of the bag's strongest features.

Masa Kawa Black Leather Briefcase

Overflowing backpacks and sagging messenger bags often send the wrong signal in professional settings. A polished briefcase can tidy up that picture instantly, but only if it balances appearance with real-world practicality. The best black work briefcase for men under 500 category is crowded with options that look good in photos yet struggle with daily demands. The Masa Kawa Black Leather Briefcase takes a different route, focusing on genuine calfskin leather, structured organization, and the ability to carry more than most traditional business bags.

Masa Kawa Leather Briefcase

Real calfskin leather immediately separates this briefcase from many synthetic competitors. The coated black finish serves a practical purpose beyond aesthetics because it helps prevent color transfer onto lighter clothing. That small detail matters more than it first appears, especially for anyone wearing light-colored shirts, jackets, or trousers throughout the workweek.

The stitching feels intentional rather than decorative. Every seam contributes to the bag's structure, while the heavy-duty hardware reinforces areas that typically experience the most wear. Daily opening, closing, lifting, and carrying can gradually expose weaknesses in lesser bags, yet the overall construction here suggests durability was a priority from the beginning.

YKK plastic zippers further strengthen that impression. Smooth zipper operation isn't something most people think about until it becomes a problem. A zipper that catches repeatedly can turn a simple task into a daily annoyance, so dependable hardware adds noticeable value over time.

Visually, the briefcase lands in a sweet spot between traditional and contemporary. The leather delivers a classic business appearance, while the clean black finish avoids looking overly formal or outdated.

Storage Capacity That Goes Beyond Basics

Many briefcases claim to be spacious, yet their interiors often tell a different story. Masa Kawa approaches storage with a more ambitious layout. The bag includes two main compartments, dedicated card slots, pen holders, phone pouches, and multiple organizational sections that help separate work essentials instead of piling them together.

The standout feature is its ability to accommodate large laptops. A padded sleeve supports devices measuring between 16.5 and 17 inches, while the main compartment can fit laptops up to 17.3 inches. That's a significant advantage for professionals who rely on larger workstations rather than compact ultrabooks.

Space doesn't stop with electronics. A4 documents, notebooks, conference materials, tablets, and even a change of clothes can fit inside without creating a cluttered interior. During overnight business trips, that flexibility can eliminate the need for carrying an additional bag.

Organizational efficiency becomes apparent through the smaller details. Six card slots, multiple pouches, pen holders, and an interior zipper pocket create dedicated locations for frequently used items. Less searching means less frustration during busy schedules.

Daily Work Experience

Structured briefcases often struggle with stability, collapsing when placed on the floor or desk. Masa Kawa takes a different approach because the bag can stand on its own. That characteristic might seem minor at first glance, yet it improves everyday usability in meeting rooms, offices, and waiting areas.

Walking into a conference room with a bag that remains upright creates a cleaner, more organized impression. More importantly, documents and electronics remain positioned properly rather than sliding into a pile at the bottom.

The front magnetic pocket provides fast access to frequently used items. Business cards, mobile phones, and travel documents remain within reach without opening the primary compartments. Those seconds saved throughout the day gradually add up.

The balance between structure and accessibility feels well considered. The bag offers substantial storage while still maintaining a streamlined professional profile.

Travel-Friendly Features

Business travel introduces challenges that everyday commuting rarely exposes. Carrying a laptop bag through airports, train stations, and hotels becomes noticeably easier when thoughtful travel features are included. The integrated luggage sleeve addresses exactly that need.

Sliding the briefcase over a rolling suitcase handle reduces strain on the shoulders and arms. Instead of managing multiple pieces of luggage independently, the bag becomes part of a single travel system. Long terminal walks suddenly feel less exhausting.

The detachable shoulder strap expands carrying options further. Different situations call for different approaches. Sometimes a hand-carried briefcase feels appropriate, while other occasions favor crossbody convenience.

Adjustable strap length ranging from approximately 37 to 63 inches also improves comfort across varying body types. A proper fit can make a surprising difference during extended travel days.

Versatility Across Multiple Roles

Some bags excel in one environment and struggle everywhere else. Masa Kawa avoids that limitation through a versatile design that adapts to different situations. It functions as a formal business briefcase, shoulder bag, crossbody messenger, laptop carrier, or travel companion without feeling awkward in any of those roles.

Professional offices benefit from the structured appearance and genuine leather construction. Educational settings appreciate the spacious compartments and document organization. Travel scenarios leverage the luggage sleeve and generous capacity.

Role flexibility becomes particularly valuable for people whose schedules shift frequently between meetings, commuting, and travel. Instead of switching bags based on the occasion, one solution can handle multiple responsibilities.

A related packing perspective appears in how to pack bras in suitcase, where travel organization is discussed from a completely different angle but still highlights the importance of efficient luggage management.

Strengths And Considerations

Strengths begin with the genuine calfskin leather construction and continue through the thoughtful organizational layout. Large laptop compatibility, abundant storage, sturdy hardware, and travel-friendly features combine into a briefcase that serves both office and travel environments effectively.

The ability to carry two laptops or a laptop alongside extensive paperwork creates meaningful flexibility. Professionals handling multiple devices or substantial documentation will likely appreciate that extra capacity.

Considerations exist as well. At approximately 3.3 pounds before loading gear, the bag starts heavier than many nylon alternatives. Once filled with electronics, documents, and accessories, the overall carry weight can become noticeable during long days.

The structured leather build also prioritizes durability and appearance over ultralight portability. For those seeking the lightest possible briefcase, synthetic options may feel easier to carry. For buyers prioritizing genuine leather presence, organization, and storage capacity, that tradeoff may feel entirely reasonable.

Ytonet Expandable Laptop Briefcase

Some work bags look tidy until the day gets real. A charger gets tossed in, a folder bends at the corner, and suddenly the whole bag feels like a junk drawer with handles. The Ytonet Expandable Laptop Briefcase makes sense in the best black work briefcase for men under 500 category because it focuses on space, laptop protection, and travel convenience without pretending to be a luxury leather showpiece.

Ytonet Expandable Laptop Briefcase

The first thing that gives this bag personality is its expandable zipper design. Its standard depth starts at 6 inches, then expands to 7.7 inches when the day demands extra room. That added space matters when a workday turns into an overnight trip, or when files, tech accessories, and a light layer all need to ride along.

The overall size measures 17.3 by 13.6 by 6 inches before expansion, so this isn't a tiny minimalist sleeve. It has the proportions of a practical work bag built for people who carry more than just a laptop. Still, the black profile keeps it clean enough for office settings, business travel, and everyday commuting.

Four compartments give the bag a more deliberate layout than a basic messenger case. The main tech compartment handles laptops up to 17 inches, while the front pockets sort daily items like cables, notebooks, pens, and smaller accessories. A back pocket gives wallets, phones, or other valuables a more discreet place to sit.

That separation saves time in small but useful ways. Nobody enjoys opening a bag at a security line and pulling out three wrong items before grabbing a passport or phone. With this setup, the bag nudges everything into a place, which is half the battle on messy travel days.

Laptop Protection And Work Gear Storage

The fully padded laptop section uses thick EVA foam to help cushion a notebook computer during commutes and business trips. That matters because bumps rarely announce themselves. A chair leg, a car floor, or an overhead bin can knock around a bag faster than expected.

The padding gives the laptop its own guarded zone rather than letting it press directly against files or loose accessories. For larger 17-inch devices, that extra layer feels especially practical. Bigger laptops tend to be heavier and less forgiving, so a dedicated protected compartment isn't just a nice detail.

Storage beyond the laptop compartment stays practical, not fussy. The front pockets make room for daily necessities, while the main area can handle larger work items. The structure works best for people who move between desks, meetings, classrooms, airports, and coffee shop tables with a rotating mix of gear.

Organization is the real selling point here, but there is a tradeoff. More compartments mean more structure, and structure works beautifully until someone wants one big open space for bulky items. This bag leans toward order, not loose-packing freedom.

Water-Resistant Polyester Build

The exterior uses water-resistant polyester fabric, which suits a daily work briefcase better than many people expect. Light rain, damp sidewalks, and quick dashes from the parking lot become less stressful. It isn't described as a fully waterproof dry bag, so heavy rain still calls for a bit of common sense.

Polyester also keeps the bag more practical than a delicate leather case for rougher routines. It can handle being placed under seats, beside desks, or against rolling luggage without requiring constant babying. That makes the briefcase feel more like a reliable work tool than a fragile accessory.

The black finish gives it a professional look without drawing attention to scuffs as quickly as lighter colors might. It pairs easily with business casual clothing, travel jackets, and office basics. Clean, simple, and not trying too hard.

Material choice does create a clear difference from leather briefcases. This bag won't deliver the same rich texture or boardroom polish as genuine leather. In return, it offers easier care, lower fuss, and a more forgiving surface for daily carry.

Business Travel Convenience

The luggage strap on the back is one of those details that feels small until the suitcase comes out. Sliding the briefcase over a rolling luggage handle keeps the load stable during airport walks or hotel check-ins. It also helps avoid the awkward shoulder slip that happens when a bag is packed to the brim.

Ytonet also notes that the bag can be placed under an airplane seat or overhead. That flexibility helps during travel, especially when overhead space gets tight or a laptop needs to stay nearby. The expandable design gives room when needed, while the basic shape still remains briefcase-friendly.

The detachable shoulder strap adds another layer of convenience. Carrying by the handle looks cleaner in formal settings, while the shoulder strap makes more sense during longer walks. Having both options keeps the bag from feeling locked into one routine.

Soft carry handles also matter during short trips from the car to the office or from a lobby to a meeting room. A sharp or narrow handle can make even a moderate load feel irritating. Softer handles help reduce that little daily annoyance.

Pros And Everyday Strengths

Expandable storage gives this briefcase its strongest practical advantage. The extra depth helps when the day refuses to stay simple, especially with documents, chargers, headphones, and travel items in the mix. It gives the bag more breathing room without forcing a full-size duffel into the workday.

The laptop protection is another clear strength. Thick EVA foam padding creates a safer space for larger laptops up to 17 inches. For work setups that depend on a bigger screen or heavier machine, that support feels more reassuring than a thin sleeve.

Multi-compartment organization keeps the bag from turning into a black hole. Two front pockets, a main tech section, and a back valuables pocket create a useful rhythm for everyday packing. The layout fits the way work items actually move, with quick-access pieces outside and expensive tech protected inside.

Travel features round out the appeal. The luggage strap, shoulder strap, and handle carry options let the briefcase shift between office days and business trips. In a related travel-planning angle, color choices for luggage show up in best color for away luggage as a useful reference for keeping travel gear practical and easy to manage.

Cons And Realistic Tradeoffs

Size is the first tradeoff worth mentioning. A briefcase built for a 17-inch laptop naturally takes up more room than a slim 15-inch case. In tight train seats, crowded elevators, or small office cubbies, that larger footprint may feel noticeable.

The expandable section is useful, but filling it completely can change how the bag carries. More depth means more capacity, and more capacity often means more weight on the shoulder. The padded strap helps, though it can't erase the physics of a heavily packed work bag.

Water resistance should also be understood realistically. The polyester fabric helps with moisture, but the description doesn't present the bag as storm-proof or submersible. Sensitive electronics still deserve extra caution during heavy rain.

The style leans practical rather than dressy. That works well for business travel, college use, outdoor activities, and daily office routines. For formal boardroom settings where genuine leather is expected, the polyester build may feel less refined than a calfskin or full-grain leather briefcase.