Meet the passionate team behind Australia's trusted shoulder bag resource
ShoulderBag.com.au was born from a simple frustration that many Australians share: finding reliable, honest information about shoulder bags without wading through endless sponsored content and biased reviews. Founded in 2021 by a group of dedicated bag enthusiasts based in Melbourne, we set out to create the resource we wished existed when we were searching for our own perfect bags.
Our founding team includes professionals who have spent years working in the leather goods industry, fashion retail, and outdoor adventure gear sectors. We understand the nuances that separate a mediocre bag from an exceptional one—from the quality of stitching and hardware to the thoughtfulness of pocket placement and strap ergonomics. We've tested bags on daily commutes through Sydney's bustling CBD, on hiking trails in Tasmania's wilderness, and on international flights where every gram and every inch of organisation matters.
What started as a passion project has grown into Australia's most comprehensive shoulder bag resource. We've personally tested over 200 bags across every category—crossbody slings, professional messenger bags, tech-friendly laptop carriers, and fashion-forward designer pieces. Each bag goes through our rigorous evaluation process, where we assess everything from water resistance and zipper quality to long-term comfort during extended wear.
We believe that everyone deserves to find a shoulder bag that perfectly suits their lifestyle without breaking the bank on unsuitable purchases. Our mission is to provide Australians with honest, thoroughly researched guides and reviews that cut through marketing hype. We focus on practical considerations like how a bag performs in Australian weather conditions, whether it suits our unique commuting patterns, and how it holds up to the demands of our active outdoor culture.
Unlike many review sites, we don't accept free products in exchange for positive reviews. When we recommend a bag, it's because we genuinely believe it offers excellent value and quality for Australian consumers. We're transparent about our affiliate relationships—when you purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This support helps us continue testing new products and maintaining our comprehensive guides.
Our team brings together diverse expertise in materials science, ergonomics, fashion design, and practical everyday use. We understand terms like full-grain versus top-grain leather, the difference between ripstop nylon and ballistic nylon, and why YKK zippers often outlast cheaper alternatives. We can explain the benefits of load-bearing strap designs and why certain compartment layouts work better for specific use cases.
We're constantly updating our knowledge by attending industry trade shows, connecting with manufacturers, and staying current with emerging materials and technologies. From RFID-blocking pockets to sustainable recycled fabrics, we track innovations that matter to Australian consumers.
Founder & Lead Reviewer
Former leather goods buyer with 12 years of industry experience. James has personally tested over 150 messenger and laptop bags and specialises in professional carry solutions.
Materials Specialist
With a background in textile engineering, Sarah evaluates bag materials for durability, weather resistance, and sustainability. She leads our long-term wear testing program.
Travel & Adventure Expert
A frequent traveller and outdoor enthusiast, Marcus tests bags in real-world conditions from airport security lines to hiking trails. He's our go-to expert for travel and crossbody bags.