The Hermès Haut à Courroies, or HAC for short, is often mistaken for an oversized Birkin, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, the HAC came first. It’s the original design that inspired the now-iconic Birkin.
In today’s world of luxury handbags, the HAC stands out as a rare blend of rich history and modern design. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, someone who prefers understated luxury, or just starting your Hermès journey, the HAC is a piece worth knowing.
Hermès Haut à Courroies History
The Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) is actually the brand’s very first bag, created way back in 1892. It was made for equestrians to carry their saddles and riding boots in style.
The name “Haut à Courroies” means “high belt” in French, referring to the straps that close the top of the bag.
It has a big, trapezoidal shape and features like the classic straps, the Touret fastening, and the signature padlock and clochette. It’s no surprise that the HAC is often seen as the bigger Birkin.
But let’s be clear – the HAC isn’t a larger version of the Birkin. It’s the original design that inspired it.
Hermès HAC Evolution and Sizes
As Birkin gained popularity, Hermès started to make smaller HACs. The original Birkins were 35 and 40cm, but the first small HACs were 32cm.
By the 2000s, the HAC (often referred to as the HAC Birkin) came in even smaller sizes like 28 and 35cm.
Over the years, Hermès has kept it interesting with limited edition HACs. Most of these special editions are 40cm or 50cm, but you can also find some in larger sizes like 45cm, 55cm, and 60cm.
That said, the most classic and widely recognized size remains the 40cm. It retains the signature bold silhouette of the HAC without feeling too bulky, making it a go-to for many men as a stylish work or short-trip companion.
The 50cm and 55cm sizes lean more toward travel or weekend bag territory. These roomier versions easily accommodate a laptop, a change of clothes, and other essentials. With their exaggerated proportions, they offer a striking visual impact.
The 60cm HAC is the closest in size to the original equestrian tack bag. Now extremely rare, it’s mostly found in the vintage collector market. Due to its large volume and weight, it’s not the most practical for everyday use, but it’s a prized piece among serious collectors and Hermès enthusiasts.
Hermès also reimagined the HAC with the HAC à Dos – a compact crossbody. This new version comes in two sizes: PM and GM. With its more casual structure and youthful appeal, the HAC à Dos has become a favorite among younger urban users and fashion-forward Hermès fans.
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Hermès HAC Materials
The charm of the HAC Birkin bag isn’t just about its classic silhouette, it’s also in the wide range of leathers Hermès uses. Each material gives the bag a different look, feel, and vibe.
The most common leather you’ll see on the HAC is Togo calfskin. It has a natural, grainy texture and feels soft yet structured, not too stiff. Togo is also scratch-resistant and holds its shape well, which is especially important for a larger bag like the HAC.
If you’re drawn to leather with more “character” and life, Barénia is a must-consider option. This smooth, vegetable-tanned leather has a raw, natural feel and develops a rich patina over time. It’s full of vintage charm and personality.
In contrast, Volupto leather is much rarer. It’s a soft, delicate leather often used in limited-edition pieces from the men’s line, like the HAC Rock. Volupto is lightweight and has a subtle, understated luxury to it.
Another popular and practical leather is Clémence calfskin. It’s softer than Togo and has a larger grain, which gives the bag a more relaxed, slouchy look. A HAC made with Clémence feels effortless and laid-back, with a natural sense of casual luxury.
If you prefer a clean, structured look, Epsom leather is a great choice. It’s more rigid, lightweight, and holds its shape well. It really shines on smaller HAC sizes, where it brings out sharp lines and a crisp silhouette. It’s perfect for those who love a sleek, city-inspired style.
You’ll also find mixed-material HACs, like canvas with leather, or wool with leather.
For collectors and custom lovers, the real showstoppers are the exotic leathers. The luxurious crocodile skins, ostrich leather with its distinctive dotted pattern.
Hermès HAC Colors
The color of a HAC often defines the first impression it gives. Whether you love timeless classics or bold statement shades, there’s a HAC color to match your style.
Noir
As the most classic and versatile color, Noir is simply flawless on the HAC. Paired with gold hardware, it feels powerful and commanding; with silver hardware, it’s sleek and understated. It’s a perfect choice for men, especially for work or formal settings.
Gold
Gold is one of Hermès’s most iconic, signature colors. This shade works beautifully for both men and women, especially for those who love a vintage French vibe and appreciate the patina and character that come with time and use.
Bleu Nuit
A deep, understated shade of blue that almost looks black from a distance, but reveals a subtle blue tone under the light. Bleu Nuit is one of the few HAC colors that balance both formality and artistic flair. It’s perfect for urban style and evening occasions, offering a refined yet creative touch.
Chocolate
Richer than gold, warmer than black, Chocolate is a sophisticated, intellectual shade of brown. Understated but full of depth, it doesn’t try to steal the spotlight, yet always looks refined. A hidden gem among the classics.
Biscuit
A soft, neutral shade somewhere between light khaki and creamy beige, perfect for spring and summer. Biscuit is often seen on smaller HAC sizes or canvas-and-leather combos. Light, airy, and gentle, it’s a highly recommended choice for women opting for the HAC 28 or 32.
Bleu Thalassa
A cool, striking blue-green inspired by the Mediterranean Sea. With subtle green undertones, Bleu Thalassa stands out beautifully. It’s perfect for those who want a unique, personality-filled color with an artistic edge.
And if you’re ready to break away from the norm, Hermès color-blocked HACs (often combining different materials) are a bold choice. Eye-catching and full of personality, they’re perfect for photos, on-camera moments, and turning heads in street style.
Must-Have Hermès Haut à Courroies Styles
Hermès’ HAC bags come in so many great options, and some are too good to miss. Here are a few that have caught attention over time.
HAC à Poches
The HAC à Poches refines the utilitarian style. Made from Togo calfskin, it has two front pockets with leather straps and metal hooks.
Connect the Dots HAC
Unveiled at the Hermès Men’s Winter 2025 runway, this modern version skips the flap and sangles, with an embossed pattern that mimics the flap’s shape. Tiny numbers create a “connect the dots” effect.
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HAC en Selle
Inspired by Hermès’ equestrian heritage, this one features bold geometric appliqué shapes like saddle elements. Made with a mix of leathers like Togo and Barénia, it’s a nod to the brand’s craftsmanship and classic style.
HAC Coup de Soleil
This one has a sun-kissed vibe with a gradient color pattern. The name “Coup de Soleil” means “sunburn,” reflecting the warm, contrasting shades on the bag.
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HAC Multipockets
Introduced in Fall/Winter 2023, the HAC Multipockets takes utilitarian style to the next level. Made from Togo leather, it has two front pockets with Touret fastenings and a “bag-on-a-bag” design with a larger pocket secured by sangles.
HAC Rock
Introduced in Men’s Fall/Winter 2022, the HAC Rock has a rock ‘n’ roll vibe. Made from Volupto leather, palladium hardware, diagonal zip pocket, and Chaîne d’ancre.
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Hermès HAC vs. Birkin
Although the Hermès HAC and Birkin look alike, there are some differences.
One thing that sets the HAC bag apart from the Birkin is the hardware.
Most HACs have square-tipped spindle and tubular pontets, though some of the older HAC 32s from the late ’90s and early 2000s could be a little different.
When it comes to size, the HAC is bigger and has a tall shape. So if you need more space for work or travel, the HAC is always a good option.
Finally, popularity: while both bags are prestigious, the Birkin is definitely more popular and is seen as the ultimate luxury symbol. The HAC is still super high-end, but it doesn’t have quite the same level of fame.
The HAC is more low-key and appeals to a niche audience. It’s especially loved by collectors and those who really know Hermès. Owning a HAC often shows a deeper level of appreciation for the brand’s craftsmanship and history.
Birkin vs HAC
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Hermès Haut à Courroies Price
Many people assume that because the Hermès HAC isn’t as popular as the Birkin, it must be more affordable. But that’s not true. The HAC’s price is often just as high, and sometimes even more expensive and harder to get than a Birkin.
At Hermès boutiques, the most common HAC size is 40cm. Basic models made from Togo or Barénia leather usually start around $12,000 to $15,000 USD. Switch to exotic leathers like ostrich, Volupto, or the luxurious Niloticus crocodile, and prices quickly climb to $30,000–$45,000 USD or more.
On the resale market, HAC prices can vary widely:
A classic 40cm HAC in Togo leather with black and gold hardware typically sells between $18,000 and $25,000 USD.
Limited editions or special materials like Barénia, Volupto, or patchwork designs (such as the HAC Rock or HAC Multipockets) can reach $30,000 to $50,000 USD.
Rare exotic leathers like Porosus crocodile, especially in popular colors, often exceed $70,000 USD, with some listings on resale platforms hitting $100,000 to $110,000 USD.
Though not as widely hyped as the Birkin, the HAC’s larger leather usage, more complex structure, and lower production volume make it a favorite among serious collectors, adding to its exclusive appeal and collectible value.
Buy Your Hermès HAC at Perfecthbags
The HAC is a go-to bag for many Hermès lovers, especially men who are looking for a stylish and functional alternative to the usual briefcase or backpack.
And for those who like to travel in style, the larger HAC bags make the perfect weekend or travel companion.
If the Hermes HAC price tag is scaring you, but you still want the luxury and style of this bag, then Perfecthbags is the way to go.
Founded by an Expert Appraiser
Perfecthbags was established by Jennifer, a seasoned luxury goods expert who deeply understands Hermès’ craftsmanship and material selection.
With her expertise, every bag meets boutique-level quality, giving you peace of mind when you purchase.
Affordable Prices
Compared to the high premiums in the secondary market, Perfecthbags offers a much more reasonable price, so you can enjoy the luxury of Hermès without spending tens of thousands of dollars.
Customizable HAC Just for You
Popular colors and rare materials are often hard to find at Hermès boutiques, but with Perfecthbags, you can freely choose your preferred combinations without being limited by Hermès’ stock.
Perfecthbags offers customization services, allowing you to own a truly unique HAC bag.
Authentic Leather Sourcing
Perfecthbags sources the same premium leather as Hermès, ensuring that every bag matches the texture, sheen, grain, and feel of boutique-level quality.
Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, with hardware, plating, stitching, and edge finishing meeting Hermès’ high standards.
Masterful Craftsmanship
We commit to ensuring every bag follows the “original standards”, striving for perfection in every detail.
Our craftsmanship matches Hermès in every way—from leather selection to hardware polishing and stitching techniques, we maintain the highest standards to ensure each bag is almost flawless.
We use the same materials and techniques as Hermès to deliver a luxurious experience that’s indistinguishable from the original.
Global Shipping, Fast Delivery
Free global shipping, luxury delivered to your doorstep.
Each bag is handcrafted by our skilled artisans, with a production time of approximately 15-35 days to ensure every detail is perfect.
Once done, we use secure and reliable international logistics to ship your bag to you, so no matter where you are in the world, you can enjoy your bag easily.
Lifetime Care and Warranty
Perfecthbags offers lifetime maintenance and care service so your bag always stays in top condition for a lasting luxury experience.
Whether it’s daily care, cleaning, hardware repairs, or refurbishment, our professional team will provide top-quality service and keep your bag looking brand new.
Customer Reviews & Brand Trust
We are committed to delivering a top-tier shopping experience, and our customers’ feedback speaks for itself.
Perfecthbags has a good reputation with our customers, and you can read real buyer reviews and unboxing photos that compare our bags to the originals, giving you peace of mind about the quality.
Make the HAC your own signature piece
Love the HAC’s structure, presence, and craftsmanship, but don’t want to be held back by sky-high prices? Perfecthbags makes it easy for you to own your very own Hermès HAC.
No waiting. No compromises. Premium quality starts here.
Check Out How Perfecthbags Makes an Hermès HAC 40:
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