The ideal backpack is durable, comfortable, and features an attractive color and design. Backpacks are not only for students but for anyone needing to transport their items on their back, especially during travel.
Larger than a purse and smaller than a suitcase, the backpack has saved many from the cumbersome burden of purses and suitcases, allowing both hands to be free and the weight to be distributed evenly across the back.
So it comes as no surprise that durability, quality, cost, sustainability, and design are the most important factors in determining what makes a quality backpack.
Both Herschel and Fjällräven use durable, high-quality materials in their backpacks, and offer a wide range of backpacks for different purposes, such as school, travel, and hiking.
For this article, we will be looking at the durability of materials, longevity of products, and price of both Fjällräven and Herschel backpacks.
Quick Glance at Fjällräven
Founded in 1960 by Swedish entrepreneur Åke Nordin, Fjällräven produces outdoor gear, clothing, sleeping bags, backpacks, and accessories. Its products are used worldwide, particularly throughout Europe.
The iconic Fjällräven backpack, known for its minimalist design and wide range of colors, is popular throughout the world. According to Fjällräven’s official site, founder Åke Nordin was just 14 when he designed the signature backpack in an attempt to develop a more comfortable backpack than his current bulky one for a hiking trip in his native Sweden.
Nordin’s business took off when other hikers noticed the unique backpack and requested ones like it, leading to the successful Fjällräven company of today.
Materials & Manufacturing
Fjällräven is a brand that prides itself on environmental sustainability, which extends to all of its products, including backpacks. The wool, cotton, leather, and wood used in their backpacks are naturally and responsibly sourced, as well as the materials used to create their synthetic fabrics.
Fjällräven backpacks come in four different types:
- School backpacks
- Day packs
- Trekking packs
- Mountaineering backpacks
The patented material Fjällräven uses in most of their backpacks is Vinylon F, a synthetic fiber that is durable, resistant to damage and soiling, and easy to care for. Vinylon F is used mostly in their everyday Kånken backpacks, which are their lighter models for student and everyday use, and in some of their trekking and mountaineering models.
Fjällräven backpacks are waterproof and come coated with their trademarked Greenland wax. After some time, it’s natural for the original wax to wear down, so you can purchase Greenland wax to reapply to your Fjällräven backpack.
How Long Do Fjällräven Backpacks Last?
Fjällräven backpacks can reportedly last an average of 10 years and even longer if properly cared for, with mountaineering backpacks having an even longer lifespan.
Prices
The lighter student models of Fjällräven backpacks, known as the Kånken models, cost on average between $65 – $130. This is also the same price range for the day packs.
Trekking and mountaineering backpacks cost between $200 – $450.
Quick Glance at Herschel
The Herschel Supply Co. was founded in 2009 in Canada by brothers Jaime and Lyndon Cormack. Today, they’ve grown to be a successful company specializing in backs, backpacks, accessories, and luggage. Based out of Vancouver, British Columbia, Herschel sells their products worldwide.
Materials & Manufacturing
Herschel backpacks use mostly synthetic materials, along with cotton, nylon, and synthetic leather. They are generally water-resistant and are designed to keep your belongings dry in rainy weather and during most outdoor activities. The materials are durable and resistant to damage or soiling.
Their colorful, stylish designs mostly appeal to a younger crowd. While their products are affordable and come in a wide range of styles, they are designed more for school and travel as opposed to camping and mountaineering.
The types of Herschel backpacks are:
- Backpacks
- Duffle bags
- Tote bags
- Insulated backpacks
- Hard and soft shell luggage cases
How Long Do Herschel Backpacks Last?
The durability levels are similar, although it depends on the activities that the backpack is being used for.
Herschel backpacks don’t last as long as Fjällräven backpacks, lasting only between 2 – 5 years.
Price
Herschel backpacks are more affordable than Fjällräven models, costing between $50 – $100 depending on which Herschel backpack you choose.
Final Verdict – Herschel or Fjällräven?
If you spend a lot of time camping and hiking and need a durable, long-lasting backpack that can better withstand the elements, then the Fjällräven backpack is for you.
If you want an affordable, fashionable bag for school or travel with a wider range of colors and designs, Herschel is a better choice.
Arc’teryx is another popular brand you might want to consider if you’re looking for a Fjällräven comparison.
