When Fjallraven founder Ake Nordin first hatched his design for a backpack in 1978, he didn’t think it would become the icon it is today. The small, soft bookbag — actually an odd totebag that is not a rucksack like the ones Reese Witherspoon wears on the PCT — looked more suited to carrying a few books and snacks than a hefty load over long distances. But the kanken was designed to solve a serious problem: Back pain in Swedish school children caused by heavy loads lugged around. Nordin’s solution was a simple, soft bookbag with no frame and a removable foam pad to spread the load across the back. The kanken, named after the Swedish word for carrying (and also meaning “to carry”), was an instant hit.
It took a little longer to make its way over the Atlantic, but once it did, a wave of Kanken ART started as people personalised their bags and shared their travels online. In a way, the kanken became an extension of its owner, a part of their identity.
Besides being an iconic product, a kanken is also a sustainable one. The woven vinylon F material used in the early versions of the bag is hard-wearing and water-resistant, with no need for chemical treatment or synthetic fibers that swell when wet. The kanken’s square shape reduces fabric waste during production and its modest capacity encourages people to bring only the essentials.
The kanken has never gone out of fashion, but its story is very much still in the making. In this age of disposable culture, the kanken’s emphasis on efficiency and longevity feels more relevant than ever.
JanSport SuperBreak One Backpacks, Black - Durable, Lightweight Bookbag with 1 Main Compartment, Front Utility Pocket with Built-in Organizer - Premium Backpack
$39.46 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
EVANCARY Small Sling Bag for Women Men, Sling Backpack Chest Daypack Crossbody Backpack for Travel Sports Running Hiking
$9.55 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
INOXTO Running Hydration Vest Backpack,Lightweight Insulated Pack with 1.5L Water Bladder Bag Daypack for Hiking Trail Running Cycling Race Marathon for Women Men
$26.99 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
tomtoc Compact EDC Sling Bag, 4L Minimalist Chest Shoulder Backpack Crossbody Sling Bag for Men and Women, Water-resistant Lightweight Everyday Carry Casual Bag for Tactical, Travel, Work, Gym, Sport
$36.54 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
G4Free 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack Travel Hiking Daypack Foldable Backpack for Men Women
$13.99 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
higouta Mini Sling Bag for Men and Women, Small Crossbody Bag Trendy, Casual Waterproof Phone Chest Bag for Travel
$14.99 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
CLUCI Crossbody Bags for Women Cross Body Bag for Woman Sling Bag for Women Crossbody Bag Leather Sling Backpack Travel
$25.99 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Joy Walker Waterproof Backpack Rain Cover, 8000mm Waterproof Level, Upgraded Anti-Slip Cross Buckle Straps, Four Strengthened Layers for Hiking Camping Traveling
$9.99 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
AONIJIE Hydration Vest Pack Backpack 5L Marathoner Running Race Hydration
$33.99 (as of April 29, 2024 14:32 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)