27 for daily use.
31 for carrying documents on your commute.
35 for travel.
The roles of the Hermès Bolide
are clearly defined by its size.
In this feature, we focus on the three popular sizes.
Find the perfect one for you!
What changes with the Bolide's size?
The "Bolide" is a bag born in 1923.
It is known as the first bag in the world to feature a zipper.
Inspired by the hoods of automobiles,
Hermès crafted it as a bag for travel at the time.
Its rounded zipper allows the bag to open wide,
giving you a clear view of everything inside from above.
What changes are the capacity
and the balance when carried on your shoulder.
Comparing the 27, 31, and 35
| Comparison Items | Bolide 27 | Bolide 31 | Bolide 35 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Height 19cm Width 26cm Depth 9cm |
Height 24cm Width 31cm Depth 12cm |
Height 25cm Width 35cm Depth 14cm |
| Capacity | Long wallet Smartphone Pouch |
Above + A4 documents Folding umbrella |
Above + Change of clothes PC |
| Shoulder Strap | Often handle only |
Includes ~90cm strap |
Includes ~87cm strap |
| Self-standing | High | High | Depends on content |
| Estimated Pre-owned Price Range |
Approx. 600k–1.1M JPY | Approx. 450k–800k JPY | Approx. 500k–650k JPY |
The price ranges are current as of September 2026
and vary based on material and production year.
Bolide 27
26cm wide, 9cm deep.
Just right for a long wallet, smartphone,
and a small pouch.
Because of the depth,
it holds more than it looks.
Most units come with handles only,
making it a size carried by hand.
Bolide 31
31cm wide, 12cm deep.
Holds A4 documents.
Comes with an approx. 90cm shoulder strap,
allowing you to carry it on your shoulder hands-free.
For daily commuting,
this is often the size people settle on.
Bolide 35
35cm wide, 14cm deep.
Large enough for an overnight trip.
If you don't pack much, the shape may sag,
so it looks best when filled properly.
Some units include a rain cover.
How to pack and store to prevent loss of shape
A weakness of the Bolide is its tendency to lose its shape
due to its round zipper.
Because the opening is so large,
the upper edges can sink inward when not full.
Here are three ways to prevent this.
First, pack from the bottom.
Placing heavy items at the bottom
keeps the gusset upright and maintains the shape.
Second, keep the zipper closed when not in use.
Leaving it open causes the top edges to spread.
Third, storage.
Stuff it with rolled paper or a small cushion,
and store it upright in its dust bag.
The material also makes a difference.
Epsom is firm and holds its shape well.
Taurillon Clemence softens with use.
Corner wear or cracks in the handle glazing—
pre-owned pieces bear these marks of history.
Rather than flaws,
they are a record of the time spent with the bag.
Bolide FAQ: Things to know before buying
Q. How do I choose between the 27 and 31?
Decide based on whether you need to carry A4 documents.
If not, the 27 is sufficient.
Q. Does the shoulder strap come with every size?
Not all units include one.
The 27 is often handle-only.
Be sure to check the accessories before purchasing.
Q. Does it stand on its own?
Yes, because the bottom is rectangular, it is generally self-standing.
However, the 35 may sag if it isn't full.
Q. What if the zipper feels heavy?
Do not force it.
Often, just cleaning debris from the elements will get it moving smoothly.
If it doesn't improve, seek a repair.
Q. Which material should I choose?
If you want to maintain the shape, choose Epsom.
If you prefer softness, go for Taurillon Clemence.
Q. How should I choose if I'm still undecided?
Lay your daily essentials out on a table.
The smallest size that holds those items is your answer.
There is no guarantee you will encounter the same piece
of the same year and color again.
Choose the one that you truly want to carry right now.
▶ Differences between Hermès Togo, Taurillon, and Epsom?
▶ Your first Hermès: What to choose? A guide to 6 classic models and popular colors
▶ Check out the Bolide collection
