A guide to Kanken backpacks (August 2023)
Backpacks have been a popular accessory for carrying things around for many years. Kanken backpacks are a popular choice for people who want a durable and stylish backpack that can handle a variety of situations. Kanken backpacks were first introduced in the 1970s by a Swedish company named Fjallraven. Since then, these backpacks have become a popular choice for hikers, students, and travelers all over the world. In this blog post, we will discuss the features and benefits of Kanken backpacks.
Introduction to Kanken backpacks
Kanken backpacks are a popular choice for students, travelers, and everyday commuters. They are known for their durable construction, comfortable design, and stylish looks. Kanken backpacks are made from a water-resistant fabric called Vinylon F, which can withstand wear and tear. They also have padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel to help keep you comfortable even when carrying a heavy load. Kanken backpacks come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Durability and Design
One of the most noticeable things about Kanken backpacks is their unique design. These backpacks have a rectangular shape with straight lines and come in a variety of bright colors. They are made from a durable and water-resistant material called Vinylon F, which makes them perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The backpacks also feature padded straps, which make them comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Versatility
Kanken backpacks are not only durable and stylish but also versatile. They come in a range of sizes, from mini to large, making them suitable for a variety of purposes. The mini Kanken backpacks are perfect for children or as a small daypack, while the larger backpacks can hold more gear and are suitable for longer trips. Additionally, Kanken backpacks have a spacious main compartment and several smaller pockets, making them ideal for carrying laptops, books, and other essentials.
Sustainability
In addition to being stylish and durable, Kanken backpacks are also sustainable. Fjallraven, the company that produces Kanken backpacks, is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. They use organic cotton and recycled polyester in their backpacks, and they also have a program that allows customers to recycle their old Kanken backpacks.
Kanken Backpack Size Guide
| Model | Dimensions (H x W x D) | Volume | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 27 x 38 x 13 cm | 16 liters | 380 grams |
| Laptop 15″ | 38 x 27 x 13 cm | 17 liters | 400 grams |
| Laptop 17″ | 41 x 27 x 13 cm | 20 liters | 420 grams |
| Mini | 25 x 32 x 10 cm | 7 liters | 300 grams |
| Re-Kanken | 29 x 38 x 13 cm | 17 liters | 400 grams |
| Re-Kanken Mini | 27 x 32 x 10 cm | 10 liters | 320 grams |
| No. 2 | 44 x 29 x 13 cm | 23 liters | 540 grams |
| Foldable | 25 x 44 x 10 cm | 13 liters | 350 grams |
Please note that in above Kanken size guide, these are the dimensions of the backpacks when they are fully expanded. The backpacks can be compressed to a smaller size when not in use.
History of Kanken backpacks
Kanken backpacks have become increasingly popular over the years. Their unique design and durability make them a go-to choice for many individuals. But, where did these backpacks come from? Let’s take a look at the history of Kanken backpacks and how they came to be.
Fjallraven’s Creation
Kanken backpacks were first created by Fjallraven, a Swedish outdoor equipment company, in 1978. The idea behind the backpacks was to provide a durable and practical solution for children to carry their school supplies. The creator, Ake Nordin, was inspired by his own experience as a child having to carry a heavy backpack to school every day. He wanted to create a backpack that was comfortable, lightweight, and could evenly distribute the weight of the contents inside.
The Name and Design
The name “Kanken” comes from the Swedish words “Kan” which means “box” and “Ken” which means “carry”. The design of the backpack is also inspired by the Swedish outdoors. The rectangular shape of the backpack is reminiscent of a box, and the straps are designed to resemble the harnesses used by Swedish hunters to carry their prey.
Popularity and Expansion
Kanken backpacks quickly gained popularity in Sweden and soon became a staple among schoolchildren. However, it wasn’t until the 2000s that the backpacks started gaining international recognition. The backpacks were featured in fashion magazines and worn by celebrities, making them a trendy accessory. Fjallraven has since expanded their line of backpacks to include different sizes, colors, and materials, making them suitable for a variety of activities and lifestyles.
Celebrities wearing Fjallraven Kanken is in style these days.
Features of Kanken Backpacks
As a traveler, I always strive to find the perfect backpack that suits both my fashion sense and my practical needs. And that’s how I stumbled upon Kanken backpacks. These backpacks have become a trendy accessory among men and womene qually who are always on the go. In the next paragraph, I’ll be discussing the features of Kanken backpacks that make them stand out from the rest.
Best Fjallraven backpack color is black. It is a classic color that goes with everything. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a backpack that will hide dirt and stains.
Spacious and Durable
One of the most prominent features of Kanken backpacks is their spaciousness and durability. These backpacks are made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. They come in different sizes, ranging from mini to classic and big. The mini size is perfect for carrying your essentials, while the classic and big sizes are suitable for longer trips. The backpacks also have a spacious main compartment that can hold everything you need, from clothes to snacks and even your laptop.
Comfortable and Stylish
Another impressive feature of Kanken backpacks is their comfort and style. These backpacks are designed with padded shoulder straps that make them comfortable to wear for extended periods. The backpacks also feature a sturdy handle that allows you to carry them like a handbag. Kanken backpacks come in a variety of colors to match your style, from classic black to vibrant pink and green. They are suitable for any occasion, from hiking to school and even work.
Eco-Friendly
Finally, Kanken backpacks are eco-friendly. These backpacks are made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester and organic cotton. Kanken backpacks are designed to last for years, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The backpacks are also easy to clean, reducing the need for harsh chemicals that can harm the environment.
Fjallraven backpack size guide – Some Facts
- They offer 3 main backpack sizes: 20-30 liters, 30-40 liters, and 40+ liters
- 20-30L bags are good for day trips with light essentials. Examples are the Fjällräven Greenland Top 20 and Fjällräven Vardag 25.
- 30-40L bags allow you to carry more gear for longer day trips or overnights. Some options are the Fjällräven High Coast and Abisko.
- 40+L bags are their largest backpacks, built for multi-day excursions and heavy loads. The Fjällräven Singi and Kajka models fit this range.
- For torso length, measure from the base of your neck to your hipbone. Their backpacks come in XXS (14.5″), XS (16.5″), S (18.5″), M (20.5″), L (23″), and XL (25.5″).
- Choose a hipbelt size – they offer everything from XS (23″ waist) up to XL (46″+ waist). Measure around your hips at the widest point.
Top 5 Kanken backpacks
Kanken Classic Backpack
Are you looking for a backpack that is stylish, durable, and eco-friendly? If so, you might want to check out the Kanken Classic backpack from Fjallraven. This backpack has been around since 1978 and has become a popular choice for students, travelers, and adventurers. Here are some reasons why you should consider getting a Kanken Classic backpack:
- It is made of Vinylon F, a synthetic fabric that is water-resistant and dirt-repellent. This means you don’t have to worry about your belongings getting wet or stained when you’re out and about.
- It has a spacious main compartment that can fit up to 13 liters of stuff. You can also use the front pocket and the side pockets for smaller items like your phone, keys, or water bottle.
- It has a removable seat pad that you can use as a cushion when you need to sit down on a hard surface. You can also store it inside the back pocket to add some extra padding for your back.
- It has adjustable shoulder straps and a top handle that make it easy to carry and hang. You can also attach accessories like a chest strap or a rain cover for extra comfort and protection.
- It comes in a variety of colors and patterns that suit different tastes and personalities. You can choose from classic colors like black, navy, or red, or go for something more fun like pink, yellow, or rainbow.
- It is affordable and long-lasting. You can get a Kanken Classic backpack for around $80, which is a reasonable price for such a high-quality product. Plus, you can expect it to last for years with proper care and maintenance.
As you can see, the Kanken Classic backpack is more than just a backpack. It is a statement of style, functionality, and sustainability. If you’re interested in getting one for yourself or as a gift for someone else, you can order it online from the official Fjallraven website or from authorized retailers. You won’t regret it!
Kanken Laptop Backpack
The Kanken Laptop backpack is not only stylish and durable, but also very practical and comfortable. Here are some reasons why I love it so much:
- It has a separate padded compartment for your laptop which protects your device from bumps and scratches, and also makes it easy to access when you need it. It comes in three sizes: 13 inches, 15 inches and 17 inches.
- It has a spacious main compartment that can hold all your essentials, such as books, clothes, snacks, water bottle, etc. The zipper goes all the way down, so you can open it like a suitcase and see everything inside.
- It has two side pockets and a front pocket for smaller items, such as your phone, keys, wallet, sunglasses, etc. The front pocket also has a small zippered pocket inside for extra security.
- It is made of durable and water-resistant Vinylon F fabric, which can withstand rain and snow. The fabric also has a natural sheen that gives it a nice look.
- It has adjustable shoulder straps and a top handle for easy carrying. The shoulder straps are padded and ergonomic, which makes them comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The top handle is also useful for hanging the backpack on hooks or racks.
- It comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can choose the one that suits your personality and style. You can also customize it with patches, pins, stickers, etc. to make it more unique.
As you can see, the Kanken Laptop backpack is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile backpack for school, work, travel, or everyday use. It is lightweight, spacious, functional, and fashionable. I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a new backpack. You can find it online or in stores for around $120 USD. Trust me, it’s worth every penny!
Kanken Mini Backpack
The Kanken Mini backpack is a small and stylish backpack that is perfect for everyday use. Here are some reasons why I love it:
- It’s lightweight and durable. The Kanken Mini backpack is made of Vinylon F, a synthetic fabric that is water-resistant and hard-wearing. It weighs only 220 grams and can hold up to 7 liters of stuff.
- It’s comfortable and adjustable. The Kanken Mini backpack has two top handles and two shoulder straps that can be adjusted to fit different sizes. It also has a removable foam pad in the back that provides cushioning and support.
- It’s versatile and functional. The Kanken Mini backpack has a main compartment with a large opening that makes it easy to pack and unpack. It also has a front zippered pocket and two side pockets for smaller items. You can use it as a backpack, a handbag, or a crossbody bag depending on your preference.
- It’s stylish and colorful. The Kanken Mini backpack comes in a variety of colors and patterns that suit different tastes and personalities. You can choose from classic colors like black, navy, or red, or go for more vibrant ones like pink, yellow, or green. You can also mix and match different colors of the backpack and the straps to create your own unique look.
- The Kanken Mini backpack retails for around $70.
The Kanken Mini backpack is a great accessory for anyone who loves simplicity, functionality, and style. It’s ideal for school, work, travel, or leisure.
Kanken Re-Wool Backpack
The Kanken Re-Wool backpack from Fjallraven is not only stylish and durable, but also eco-friendly and comfortable. Here are some of the reasons why I love this backpack so much:
- It’s made from recycled wool. The Kanken Re-Wool backpack is part of Fjallraven’s Re-Wool collection, which uses recycled wool from old garments and textile waste to create new products. This reduces the environmental impact of wool production and gives new life to old materials.
- It has a spacious main compartment and a zippered front pocket. The backpack has a classic Kanken design, with a large main compartment that can fit a laptop, books, clothes, and other essentials. The front pocket is perfect for storing smaller items like keys, wallet, phone, etc. The backpack also has two side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas.
- It has adjustable shoulder straps and a seat pad. The backpack has padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted to fit different body sizes and preferences. The backpack also comes with a removable seat pad that can be used as a cushion when sitting on the ground or a bench. The seat pad is stored in the back pocket of the backpack, which also provides extra support for the back.
- It comes in various colors and patterns. The backpack is available in different colors and patterns, such as navy blue, forest green, red plaid, grey herringbone, etc. You can choose the one that suits your style and personality best. The backpack also has a reflective logo on the front for visibility in low-light conditions.
- It retails for around $85 on Amazon.
The Kanken Re-Wool backpack is a great choice for anyone who loves wool and wants a versatile and sustainable backpack. It’s suitable for school, work, travel, hiking, or any other occasion. It’s also easy to care for: just wipe it with a damp cloth or brush it gently with a soft brush.
Kanken Totepack
The Kanken Totepack is a versatile backpack that can also be used as a tote bag. It is designed for individuals who need a functional and stylish bag that can be used for various purposes. Here are some facts and properties about the Kanken Totepack:
- Material: The Kanken Totepack is made of durable G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S material that is both water-resistant and long-lasting.
- Capacity: The backpack has a capacity of 14 liters, making it a good option for carrying daily essentials or for use as a travel bag.
- Weight: The Kanken Totepack weighs approximately 550 grams, making it a lightweight option for those who prefer not to carry heavy bags.
- Design: The backpack features padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted to fit comfortably. It also has two grab handles that can be used to carry the bag as a tote. The bag also features a zippered main compartment, a front zippered pocket, and a padded compartment for a laptop up to 13 inches.
- Versatility: The Kanken Totepack can be used as a backpack or a tote bag, depending on the user’s preference. The adjustable shoulder straps can be easily removed and stowed away when not in use.
- Price: The Kanken Totepack retails for around $150, which is on the higher end for Kanken backpacks, but is reflective of its versatility and durable materials.
Overall, the Kanken Totepack is a great option for those who need a functional and versatile backpack that can also be used as a tote bag. Its durable materials and various features make it a good investment for daily use or for travel.
Pros and cons of Kanken backpacks
Pros of Kanken backpacks
- Durability: Kanken backpacks are made of high-quality materials that are designed to withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions.
- Functionality: Kanken backpacks feature spacious main compartments, front zippered pockets, and side pockets for carrying water bottles or other essentials.
- Style: Kanken backpacks are known for their stylish and minimalist design, making them a great choice for fashion-conscious individuals.
- Customizability: Kanken backpacks are available in a variety of colors and sizes, allowing for customization based on individual preferences and needs.
- Sustainability: Kanken backpacks are made with eco-friendly materials and are designed to last a long time, making them a more sustainable choice than other backpacks that need to be replaced frequently.
Cons of Kanken backpacks
- Price: Kanken backpacks can be more expensive than other backpack brands, especially for larger sizes or special edition designs.
- Limited features: While Kanken backpacks have a lot of functionality, they may not have all the features that some individuals may need, such as a built-in hydration system or multiple compartments for organization.
- Lack of padding: Some Kanken backpacks may not have sufficient padding on the back or straps, which could lead to discomfort during prolonged use or heavy loads.
- Limited load capacity: Kanken backpacks have a maximum load capacity of around 20-25 pounds, which may not be enough for individuals who need to carry heavier loads.
- No waist belt: Most Kanken backpacks do not have a waist belt, which could be a drawback for individuals who need extra support for their back or hips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kanken backpacks are a great choice for individuals who need a functional, stylish, and durable backpack. With a variety of colors and sizes to choose from, Kanken backpacks offer a level of customization that can meet the needs and preferences of many different individuals. While there are some drawbacks to Kanken backpacks, such as their price and limited load capacity, their overall functionality, sustainability, and minimalist design make them a popular and worthwhile investment for students, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a backpack for daily use or for your next adventure, a Kanken backpack is definitely worth considering.
