Official Review: The NFL's Purse Ban

There's no doubt about it - NFL games are risky places. Thousands of people, loud noise and lots of things coming in and out makes safety a big concern. Last week, the NFL announced a new policy to enhance stadium security and expedite fan entry into games, leaving female fans with a bad taste in their mouths.

The NFL has banned "purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, seat cushions, luggage of any kind, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size." Instead, these are your options:

Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and don't exceed 12”x6”x12”

One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)

Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bags

So basically, the public is limited to clear tote bags, wristlets or Ziploc bags to hold their personal belongings. Needless to say, there has been a severe backlash from NFL fans, especially women, regarding the new policy. This decision was clearly made by men without consulting a woman because it makes absolutely no sense to treat a football game like checked baggage at the airport. It's reasonable to ask flyers to accommodate liquids in a small, plastic bag, but if you have to deal with kids, health issues, inclimate weather or a myriad of other things, it's totally unreasonable to confine stadium patrons to such limited space.

With the season still months away, the rule could change, but for now, female fans can prepare for game day with these NFL compliant bags:

New York Giants NFL Wristlet Purse

Green Bay Packers NFL Clear Tote Bag Purse

Dallas Cowboys NFL Fabric Phone ID Case

Washington Redskins NFL Game Day Traveler Purse

Indianapolis Colts NFL Game Day

Purse Plus with Touch Screen

New Orleans Saints NFL Game Day

ID Wallet with Touch Screen

TSR's Official Review: Bad call by the NFL. Fans pay good money to see a professional football game, so listen to them and compromise on a policy that protects their safety with reasonable consideration for their needs. In addition, if you're going to implement this drastic change, be sure to offer fans some attractive new bag options that clearly state they're game day compliant (I'm talking to you, NFLShop.com).

What do you think of the NFL's new purse policy? Do you agree with TSR's call?

XO,

The Style Ref