Embrace the manbag.

Call it a messenger bag. A shoulder pack. A satchel. Whatever makes you feel comfortable. But above all else, call it practical. Why?

1) Free pockets. I absolutely despise carrying random crap in my pockets – keys, change, cell phone… the jagged masses either dig into your skin awkwardly or create comical protrusions from your thighs. Even if you only wear baggy jeans and nothing else, the extra sag from pocket weight is not a good look. Imagine wearing your denim, khakis, or shorts the way they are actually intentioned to look, without the ill-placed bulges.

2) The age of electronics. Even though all of our technological gadgets are getting smaller and smaller, they still take up space somewhere. Most people nowadays can be seen with a cell phone and mp3 device in tow, and this abundance of gadgetry alone makes having the manbag more okay than ever.

3) Versatility. Use it to store your electronic devices, your sunglasses, a bit of gum for your date later tonight, your spare change from lunch. You were thinking about going to the gym after work anyway. Why not pile in your sneakers and workout gear?

4) Style. The manbag is more casual than the briefcase, less laughable than the fanny pack, more convenient than the duffel bag, and is able to give it’s wearer a modern, trend-setting appeal. They come in a range of sizes accustomed to your needs and preferences, from hiking pack sizes to the male version of the clutch. Some are much more extreme in their statements than others, but there is a wide world of great, affordable and durable bags out there for the testosterone-infused. Some of my favorite discoveries are from Timbuk 2, Urban Outfitters, Manhattan Portage, and Diesel. And lastly…

5) Equality. Women have been holding the secret of the purse dear to them for years. It’s about time to adapt one of their most prized and sensible possessions for our demanding lifestyle needs.