in the early 1950s, backpacks were simply bags that you carried on your back. a 14-year boy from northern sweden was not satisfied with this solution for carrying his equipment and took matters into his own hands.
the story behind fjällräven began in 1950 when åke nordin, a 14-year-old boy from örnsköldsvik in northern sweden, was about to go for a trek in the mountains. åke, who spent more time outdoors than indoors, did not like the backpacks that were available at that time. they always ended up like small, uncomfortable, pear-shaped bags down around his rear so he decided to take matters into his own hands and built his own. during his debut trek with his new backpack he met some sami people who were very curious about the square backpack. after trying it on, they asked åke if he could make a few for them and bring them up next time he passed by. this request marked the start of a production line in the basement of a house in the small town of örnsköldsvik. the basic principles for the design of the traditional backpack were formed.
straight backs are happy backs. the kånken was launched in 1978 to spare the backs of school children. back problems had begun to appear in increasingly younger age groups and shoulder bags were popular. the kånken offered many simple, clear functions and the idea of using a backpack at school quickly spread, as did the kånken. it is just as popular today, and an excellent choice for school, outings or biking to work. the kånken is made out of durable, lightweight vinylon f (the functional fabric that has made kånken daypacks seemingly immortal for the last 25 years). the large main compartment with a large opening makes it easy to put in/take out items. two side pockets and a zippered pocket in the front. handle at the top, narrow, supple shoulder straps, sitting pad in the pocket in the back and logo that doubles as a reflector.
this is easily one of our most excited new lines to introduce to victoria this spring, and the bags' arrival this weekend marks the official start to spring 2010 outdoor treking season for us at still life. matt & jordan stopped by the new fjällräven storefront/shoeroom in new york this past january and began dreaming of a future still life swedish hills excursion where the fjällräven team could outfit us head to toe in the best outdoor gear we've ever seen.
come check out fjällräven at still life and get outside.
