Fjallraven’s bestselling backpack gets a major sustainability makeover.
Walk into any Fjallraven store, and you’re sure to see it: one wall, a motley color-splashed collection of the iconic, square-shaped Kanken backpacks. Part tote bag, part commuter pack, the Kanken has become the most iconic product from Fjallraven.
So much so, in fact, the Swedish outdoor gear manufacturer even calls it “an ambassador for the Fjallraven brand.” Originally launched in the late ’70s, the Kanken has consistently been well-received among consumers worldwide — from 2010 to 2017, Fjallraven saw sales of the Kanken increase tenfold.
And while Fjallraven has added new colors and materials, artist collabs, and charitable initiatives over the decades to keep the Kanken line fresh, 2021 will see the most sustainable Kanken to date. Launching this fall, Fjallraven introduces the Tree-Kanken, a backpack made from a new, 100% plant-based fabric called Pine Weave.
“In creating Pine Weave … we have comprehensively improved and modified the process involved — from fiber to yarn to weave to fabric and coating — creating a fabric that lives up to the high standards that are expected from all Fjallraven products,” the brand said.
What’s more, the Tree-Kanken uses Pine Weave derived from Forest Stewardship Council-certified sustainable forests. This certification ensures the Pine Weave is fully traceable and doesn’t come from trees that grow naturally in virgin forests.
In addition, Fjallraven uses Bluesign-certified dyes. Paired with the Pine Weave’s production process, it results in 65% less water, 40% less energy, and 50% fewer chemicals used to make the Tree-Kanken.
Fjallraven ‘Tree-Kanken’ Backpack
With the exception of the zippers and straps, all the fabric on the Tree-Kanken are plant-based. But the specs — the design and details that made the Kanken so popular — largely remain the same.
The Tree-Kanken’s 16L capacity opens up via the large U-pocket Kanken fans are used to. This time, Fjallraven replaces the accessory kangaroo-style pocket with a large vertical zipper to access a flat front pocket.
Meanwhile, the straps wrap underneath, so you can tighten down a yoga mat or puffy on the outside. And daisy chains run along the face, perfect for attaching a bike lock, light, keys, or other accessories.
The Fjallraven Tree-Kanken launches this fall at $115 MSRP. This eco-friendly pack will roll out in four muted colors: yellow, green, blue, and black.
