Carry On

Your bag can be a pain in the neck — and back and shoulders for that matter, but it doesn’t have to be. When it comes to baggage, variety is the spice of health: Mix up your styles to alleviate repetitive strain. Ready to go bag shopping? Read on for the latest in style and comfort.

- Ingrie Williams

THE TOTE

This structured shape is a beloved go-to, and an effortless plus one for any outfit. As the roomiest of handbags, a classic tote also provides a sense of being prepared for anything because it takes everything thrown in it, from wallet to water bottle.

IN GOOD STANDING

Loaded up and slung over one shoulder, it’s easy to see how a tote bag can do your body a disservice. Size matters when it comes to finding one that’ll be kind. “The smaller, the better, because you’re going to put less stuff in it,” says Dr. Debbie Wright, owner of Bayview Chiropractic in Courtenay, B.C., and second vice-chair with the Canadian Chiropractic Association Board. Taking a cue from adult backpack guidelines, carrying a bag that’s 10 percent of your body weight is ideal. Wider straps (better at dispersing weight) are an important detail, as is a comfortable fit between bag and body. “You want to make sure it’s the right length to hit you at the part of your body where you can tuck it away,” she says, “but you really want to try and switch shoulders periodically — every block or two, or every ten minutes. I tell patients the next posture is the best posture. The more that you can switch it up — and change the stresses on your body — the better it is going to be able to adapt,” says Dr. Wright.

THE TOP-HANDLE