Skip to main content

Looking for a durable tool bag? Here are the best types

Carrying tools to a job site or just for projects around the house? The right tool bag can make all the difference. There are all kinds of different materials and designs, so it can be tough to choose the right one.

The right tool bag is durable, gives you organization options, and follows your own design preferences. If you aren’t sure what type of tool bag to use, we’ve got you covered. No matter what you need from your tool bag, we can find the best tool bags for you. Let’s take a look.

Recommended Videos

Canvas bags

Before you skip this section because your only experience with canvas is cheap grocery sacs, take a second to trust us. These aren’t just any canvas bags. Tool bags use a durable form of canvas that’s water-resistant and resists both tears and rips. 

Durable canvas is a suitable option because it’s soft and flexible, yet tough enough to hold heavy things. Specially coated canvas, similar to durable canvas tents, protects from the elements.

The style of canvas bags varies. Many have vinyl bottoms for extra durability, and the straps have reinforced seams to withstand the weight. The zipper must be heavy-duty so that it doesn’t snag.

tool bag
Shutter Baby photo/Shutterstock

A wide-mouth option with a reinforced metal framing helps keep the bag open, giving you more accessible sights on your tools. Look for plenty of pockets and organization sections to help you keep track of tools, both large and small.

Canvas bags are suitable for people who don’t want a lot of fuss with their bags but prefer the flexibility of a soft shell. They’re also great because some of them go straight into the wash, refreshing their exterior and getting rid of marks and wear.

If you have a lot of delicate tools, canvas may not offer enough protection. Also, if you’re the type who wants your tools to stay put in their slots, this may not be the best choice.

Leather bags

Leather, like canvas, offers some flexibility. Leather bags age beautifully, giving your tool bag a strong uniqueness the more you use it. Leather should be moderately weather-resistant, and it’s often a breathable option.

Leather for tool bags is reinforced, tear and puncture-resistant, and reinforced, especially on the bottom. Seaming must be strengthened as well to help ensure straps stay put and that the base is strong enough to handle a bit of weight.

One of the best things about leather is how unique it is visually. Where canvas is a casual option, leather is an upgraded soft material perfect for specialized tools. Wide-mouth choices give you better visualization while the bag is open, and a durable zipper is a must to avoid snagging.

Some leather bags have an extra layer of vinyl on the bottom to make them waterproof and stainproof. Leather is easy to clean with a gentle damp cloth, but you won’t be able to toss them in the wash the way you would with canvas.

One downside to leather is that it’s sometimes expensive without offering molded organization slots or the protection of hardshell cases. However, for small collections of specialized tools, leather is an excellent option.

tool bag
Halfpoint Images/Getty Images

Hardshell cases

While not precisely a “bag,” a hardshell case offers a specialized storage option for delicate tools. It also provides better organization if you have a ton of smaller tools, such as screwdriver bits.

Hardshell cases are some of the most durable options, allowing you to protect your tools in an extreme job site and providing an automatic organization through molded slots. They also seal completely, are very weather-resistant, and easy to clean just by wiping it down.

The downside to hardshell cases is that they aren’t very flexible, and sometimes they’re heavy. They may not slide under a seat or sit right where you need them to. And with a simple handle, you won’t be able to sling them over your arm to use both hands for something else.

However, for organization fanatics, they’re beautifully efficient. And if you worry about stains, moisture, or oil, the hard exterior is much easier to keep clean and looking great. Plus, they’re tear- and puncture-resistant and often affordable.

If you’re looking to invest in new tools and a case, a hardshell is often a good choice because the tool set matches the case itself. Beginners may want to go this route.

Polyester bags

Lightweight options or secondary bags are often made with simple polyester fabric. It’s moderately durable, but most importantly, the material is lightweight. They are useful if you need something temporary or you want to pull out specific tools for a job without taking everything with you.

Also, for a budget option, polyester offers reliable material. Look for reinforced seaming and a durable zipper to make the bag more convenient. And while polyester may not be the most long-lasting, the material is an affordable alternative to more-expensive options.

Polyester is best to use as a backup bag or for an affordable alternative to something like leather. It’ll give you a place to put everything you need. They’re also easy to clean and maintain, and won’t have you carrying a bunch of weight on the job site.

Choosing the right tool bag for you

Choose a tool bag that gives you proper storage and balances what you want to spend. Specialized tools may be better off in something more durable than polyester, but for a bag with quick functionality, polyester is a good option. Look at details like seaming and zippers to make the bag worth it.

With hardshell cases, you’ll get the organization of your dreams, and leather will age beautifully. Consider what you want from your bag and how long you plan to keep it, and the best tool bags will keep you happy and your tools close by.

The best 3D printer filaments of 2024
Happy cheerful nice woman standing at the table and smiling while being in a great mood

A great 3D printout starts with the right filament. Each type of filament has its own unique properties, including strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, and ease of printing. They also come in different colors and diameters to suit different printing needs and preferences, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for when making a selection.

We reviewed the best 3D printer filaments of 2024 to help you find options made from quality materials, while also helping you ensure compatibility with your specific printer. The PLA 3D filament from 3DFilaments is our top choice because it's made of high-quality polylactic acid and provides a smooth experience free of clogs, bubbles, and tangles.
The best 3D printer filaments
3DFilaments 3D printer filament - Best overall

Read more
The best MagSafe rings of 2024
Young woman using the mobile phone while drinking coffee or tea at home

MagSafe rings are designed to make charging your phone, tablet, and other small electronics easier and faster. Not only that, but they can also help protect your device from damage caused by frayed or tangled cables. The innovative design features a magnetic connection that easily attaches your phone to various surfaces, including cars, tables, and even bags. The ring even doubles as a kickstand, so you can easily watch videos and take pictures without holding your phone.

In this post, we’ll review the best MagSafe rings of 2024, so you can pick the perfect one for your needs. We’ll discuss the different features available and what to look for when choosing the right ring for your needs. Our list starts with our top pick—the ESR MagSafe sticker. Its strong, compatible, and user-friendly design can instantly upgrade your smartphone.
The best MagSafe rings
ESR MagSafe ring - Best overall

Read more
GearIT Cat6 Outdoor Ethernet Cable Review
Male Caucasian IT technician in server room

The GearIT Cat6 outdoor ethernet cable spans 100ft and is specially designed to provide a reliable and high-speed connection for outdoor networking needs. In this post, we’ll evaluate its performance, durability, and overall value, to help you decide if this is the right Ethernet cable for your specific requirements.

With the ability to withstand extreme conditions, increase speed, and ensure a stable and interference-free internet connection, this rugged cable is ideal for connecting all your devices in both business and home networks. Read on as we unravel the features and benefits of this impressive piece of technology.
GearIT Cat6 Outdoor Ethernet Cable

Read more