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If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I’m already a fan of the Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag. I picked up the original in sheepskin leather when it first launched, and it quickly became one of my favorite travel bags. It’s one of those designs that just works. It’s sleek, versatile, and filled with thoughtful details.

So when Lo & Sons came out with a nylon version, I was instantly curious. Would it feel as luxe? Would it still have that same clever, multi-functional design I loved? Naturally, I had to get my hands on it to find out.

Ivory Aoyama Nylon and Leather Bag — LEFT: Aoyama Nylon RIGHT: Aoyama Leather

Similarities: What Stayed the Same

At first glance, the nylon and leather Aoyama bags look nearly identical. The size and shape are the same, along with the modular straps. But my personal favorite is that vertical exterior pocket.

Aoyama bag with adjustable straps — Aoyama Adjustable Straps

That zipper might seem like a small thing, but it’s a total game-changer when you’re on the go. It gives you quick access to your essentials (like my phone) without having to dig through your bag.

Bag with vertical side zipper — Favorite Feature: Vertical Side Zipper

And just like the original, you can wear it four different ways: crossbody, shoulder, sling, or handheld. That versatility is what made me fall in love with this bag in the first place.

Differences: Nylon vs. Leather

Now for the big question: what’s actually different?

The Material

The sheepskin leather version feels buttery soft and instantly elevates any outfit. It has that beautiful drape and texture that gives off a more polished, city-chic look. I’ve been using mine for over a year and a half, and the leather has held up well.

Lo and Sons Aoyama in leather — Aoyama in Sheepskin Leather

The new nylon version is a tad bit more casual, but in the best way. It’s ideal for travel days or when I know I’ll be tossing it around a lot. It’s made from fine weave premium nylon that is water-resistant and scratch resistant. The nylon feels durable yet still refined, and it’s easier to keep clean if you happen to set it down on less-than-perfect surfaces (airport floors, I see you 👀).

Aoyama Nylon bag on a table — Aoyama Bag in Nylon

The Price

There is definitely a noticeable price difference between the two bags. It’s no surprise that the leather option costs significantly more, so if you’re looking to save a little money without sacrificing style, I don’t think you can go wrong with the nylon version.

The signature fine weave premium nylon has a really sleek, high-end look that stands out. Lo and Sons even suggests thinking of it like “Prada nylon.” While I don’t personally own a Prada bag, I do know that comparison means the nylon doesn’t look cheap.

Which One Should You Get?

It really depends on your lifestyle:

Choose leather if you want something sleek and dressy. Perfect for dinners, meetings, or when you want to feel put-together. If you love that timeless, elevated vibe, this sheepskin leather is the perfect choice.

Rainbow Row in Charleston SC — Going out to dinner in Charleston, SC

Wearing a white blazer — At a Wine Bar in Charleston, SC

Choose nylon if you’re after an everyday travel companion that won’t slow you down. If you’re the type who wants something low-maintenance and weather-friendly, go for nylon.

Personally, I love having both. The leather Aoyama feels like my “city” bag, while the nylon one for my travels. Especially when I’m hopping on trains or running through airports.

Aoyama Nylon Bag in Ivory — Shopping with my Pups in pasadena, CA

Train station platform in Japan — Getting on the Shinkansen in Tokyo, Japan

Final Thoughts

I don’t know how common it is for brands to do this, but I thought it was pretty awesome that Lo & Sons actually took action and designed a bag specifically based on requests from their customers. It shows they really listen and care about what their buyers want.

They took one of their best designs and enhanced it by making it more durable, all while maintaining the same smart structure and exceptional quality that made it so popular in the first place.

Holding the Nylon and Leather Aoyama Bag — Holding the Aoyama Leather on the right and Aoyama Nylon on the left

If you’ve been torn between the two, hopefully this helps you decide which one fits your vibe best. Or maybe you’ll end up like me and realize…you kind of need both.

When Lo & Sons launched the Aoyama, it sold out in a flash. But have no fear, a restock is in the works. We recommend joining their waitlist to be the first to hear when it's back!