How to choose a doctor's bag (Dulles) | Check points to compare mouth frame, weight, and PC storage

A rounded contour and a mouth that closes properly. The appeal of a doctor's bag is that the shape itself used to carry work tools adds to the impression of your outfit.

However, the item that attracts you in the photo may not necessarily be suitable for your daily commute. When you think about your daily activities, whether you open it at your desk, take out your wallet while standing, or how many documents you carry with you each day, you will have a clear idea of where you should look.

Here, when considering frame-type bags, also known as Dulles bags, we will explain how they compare in terms of shape, weight, and storage. While valuing the good atmosphere, let's also check the conditions for continued use.

Points to check when in doubt
things to check Points to see
mouth frame See opened photos and opening/closing instructions
storage Compare PCs, cases, and documents in actual size
weight Imagine the travel time and how to carry it.

The background of Dulles bags and the reason for looking at the opening frame

Ginza Tanizawa introduces that Koshichi Tanizawa invented the Dulles bag, inspired by the bags of John F. Dulles, who came to Japan in 1951. According to the company's explanation, it has a frame-shaped opening that widens, and is also known as a bag carried by doctors and lawyers. [1]

This is the company's description of Dulles bags in Japan, and does not mean that doctor's bags around the world were born that year. When choosing a product, it is important not to judge the structure based on the name alone, but also to look at photos of the product in its open state.

There is a difference between opening wide and being easy to take out at any time.

For those who like to open their mouth and look inside while sitting on a desk or table, the shape of the opening is the reason to choose it. On the other hand, on the train or in front of the cash register, where you support your bag and what operations you use to open and close it will affect its usability.

  • How much space do you need around you when you open your mouth?
  • Can you comfortably operate the fasteners and take out the luggage?
  • Can you separate your wallet and commuter pass into an outside pocket?
  • Is it possible to arrange the opening to prevent documents or cloth from getting caught when closing it?

It cannot be said uniformly that ``a mouth frame type can be operated with one hand'' or ``it will definitely stand on its own.'' The condition will vary depending on the shape of the bottom and the contents, so please check the required functions for each product.

Choose from the actual size of your belongings instead of S/M/L

Size names have standards for each product. Don't just say "M" means this size, "L" means it's suitable for business trips, etc., but instead look at the dimensions and storage instructions together.

The first things you'll want to organize are your regular PC, case, document files, charger, wallet, drinks, etc. Even if it looks like it will fit, if the thickness overlaps, it will be difficult to close the mouth, so think about the combination you will use every day.

Check the external dimensions, entrance, and PC storage area separately.

Even if the main unit is wide enough, it cannot be stored without passing through the opening frame or the inner partition. Even if the information says "14-inch compatible", it does not guarantee that all 14-inch PCs and cases will be compatible, so please check the length, width, and thickness of the device.

It's one thing to have a partition for your PC, and it's another thing to have confirmed protection against drops. If you plan to use a protective case, it will be easier to choose if you inquire before purchasing whether it will fit including the case.

When considering weight, consider the amount of time you walk and how you carry it.

As much as you are drawn to the presence of the metal fittings and leather, don't overlook the weight of an empty bag. For example, cowmono's genuine leather doctor's bag, introduced in the second half, weighs 1.9 kg. Select this assuming that you have added your PC and documents. [2]

The permissible weight is different for those who carry something from their car to work for a short time and those who walk for a long time commuting with many transfers. Even models that can be carried over the shoulder do not necessarily make the luggage itself lighter, so you should also compare the width and length of the strap, and the shape of the handle.

Check the operability of fasteners and locks.

A lock-like face gives a classic impression, but security performance cannot be judged by appearance alone. Check how to manage keys and numbers, how to open and close them, and who to contact in case of loss or breakdown, and avoid thinking that ``just because it has a lock, you can safely leave it with valuables inside.''

Don't decide the hardness or care just by the name of the leather.

Do you like the shiny, smooth surface, or do you like the texture of the leather with shades? First, describe your preferences and compare not only the main body but also the finish of the handle and corners using product photos.

Even with the same cowhide, the impression of the bag changes depending on the combination of thickness, finish, lining, core material, etc. Rather than ranking materials based on their names, such as ``This one is definitely more durable'' or ``This one requires no maintenance,'' we use the specifications of the completed bag as a basis for making decisions.

If you want to enjoy a well-worn look, there is no need to intentionally add scratches or moisture. I would like to separately look at changes that can be seen during regular use and damages that need to be addressed, such as loose metal fittings or tears in the leather.

Comparing two product numbers with different shapes as leather bags for work

Do you choose the appearance of a doctor's bag or choose a tote with pockets that are easy to use? Here, we will introduce two product numbers so that you can compare them with other types of the same work tool before deciding to buy the Dulles type.

Genuine leather doctor's bag

cowmono genuine leather doctor's bag

Product description is 40 x 14 x 27.5 cm, weight 1.9 kg. This model has a genuine cowhide leather body, a hard handle, a dial lock, a storage compartment for a PC, and a pocket for small items, and can also be carried with an attached shoulder strap. [2]

There is a guide for 14 inches, but please check the dimensions of the device you are storing, including the case. This is a bag that you should consider if you like the calm design of the mouth and want to socialize, including the opening and closing procedure.

See opening, inside, and specifications →

crazy horse leather Tote bag_O

cowmono crazy horse leather tote bag O

Product description is 40 x 10 x 29 cm. This model has an open pocket on the front, a zipper pocket on the back, and an inner PC layer, so you can think about how to use it depending on where you put small items. Also features a removable shoulder strap [3]

I didn't introduce this as a doctor's bag, but chose it as another form of leather bag for work. Compare the shades of leather and pocket placement to find the one that matches your usual clothes and belongings.

See outside pocket/inside/specifications →

Dimensions and weight are shown on the product page and are not our own actual measurements. This is not a comparative test of the security performance, load capacity, and storage device protection performance of both products.

cowmono is a select shop that selects products based on leather, construction, and design that is easy to use over time. For the price background,Why we can achieve low pricesPlease also see

First-time care and frequently asked questions

Rather than applying lots of oil before using, check the material and instruction manual first. Nippon Leather Market provides care instructions based not only on the type of leather, but also on the construction of the product. When using care agents, please check the target material and test in an inconspicuous place. [4] [5]

Can I choose between a doctor's bag and a Dulles bag just by name?

The name alone does not tell you the opening, fasteners, and storage structure. We recommend using the name as a starting point for searching for candidates, and checking the actual specifications and photos of the product when it is opened.

If the bag is freestanding, can I place it on the floor?

The ease with which it can stand on its own depends on the shape of the bottom and how you put things in it. Don't make a decision based solely on the presence or absence of studs on the bottom; check to see if you can place it in a stable manner, avoiding wet floors or dirty areas.

If the mouth frame is difficult to close, can I push it in?

First, check to make sure that no luggage or cloth is caught in the bag or that it is not packed too tightly. If it still gets stuck after emptying, please report the condition to the store where you purchased it before bending the fittings or using lubricant.

Are leather bags only for suits?

It doesn't have to be limited to suits. Use the roundness, the presence of metal fittings, and the color of the leather as clues, and think about pairing it with your jacket or everyday clothes. The selection criteria for long-term use are both that it matches your outfit and that you can comfortably carry your luggage.

Reference source/annotation

  1. Ginza Tanizawa “Dulles Bag”:Refer to the background in Japan and the explanation of the mouth frame type introduced by the company. This document does not indicate the manufacturer or history of cowmono products.
  2. cowmono genuine leather doctor's bag product page:See specifications for dimensions, weight, storage, and how to hold.
  3. cowmono tote bag O product page:See dimensions, storage, and strap specifications.
  4. Japan Tanners Association/Japan Leather City “Care for leather products”:Refer to the concept of care depending on the material and construction.
  5. Coronil Precautions for use:See material suitability and pre-use test.

Author information

Author name: Yama (Cowmono Owner)

Self-introduction: Engaged in sales and marketing for more than a quarter at domestic and overseas apparel companies. He has a deep knowledge of fashion, sports, outdoor activities, and subculture.

Instagram@cowmono_official