Fjällräven's Kånken Computer Bag
I've long envied Dwell's Associate Art Director Brendan Callahan for a host of reasons, not least of which is his very cool rugged-cum-modern Fjällräven Kånken knapsack. They weren't available in the US until just recently; his hailed from Amsterdam. I dug its 70s outdoorsy vibe, coupled with that fine Swedish commitment to stripping away the unecessary frills and flames that so horribly mar the majority of outdoor gear. But now I've gotten my hands on a Kånken of my own (in yer eye, Callahan) one of a new line meant to handle laptops as easily as dayhikes.
The Kånken has been a staple with Swedish schoolchildren for decades, and with it's recent entry into the American market, perhaps its headed for the same fate here. I love that the discreet laptop sleeve stays mostly hidden from view and gives the bag structure as well. The knapsack also comes with a foam seat pad, for when the Nordic (or perhaps Nebraskan) ground is wet or cold. I ported my laptop home last night and back again this morning. Easy as pie.
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It’s a rugged Swedish import with a boxy take on the classic backpack. When you’re ready to hit the trails, release the Kånken!
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Marina Computer Bag
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Loft Bag
Full-size pocket for folders, zippered back and front pockets, removable padded shoulder strap, pockets for cell phone, documents, and cables.
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Hi Aaron Well, it took us some time to get over the big pond. Glad you enjoy the bag, we always get a smile on our face when our old but timeless schoolbag gets some attention. So why not offer some advice in return... Next time you head to work I suggest you pack a small thermos in the side pocket, find a green spot and take a break on the seat pad. Just chill for a while. Thats when the best ideas come up. Could that be the secret behind Callahans work? Greetings from a Snow filled Sweden. Jerry - Fjällräven
The purple laptop Kanken is absolutely amazing - we have the 15" and are eagerly awaiting the 17"!!
Jerry, that sounds like a very fine idea indeed. A thermos and a little stop in the park sounds perfect!
I've had 3 Kånkens over the years, all obtained in Sweden. I used them for my daily trip to and from 30 Rockefeller Plaza in NYC, for general use around town and for some light hikes. A friend of mine who worked in international banking also used a Kånken as an every day commuting bag. It's a handy, practical backpack. The handles make it easy to carry on public transit (you can switch from toting it over your back to carrying it like a bag) and the internal foam seat pad also serves to pad your back. My last one wore out a couple of years ago (the vinylon fabric does eventually wear with heavy use and you might want to consider making a liner for the bottom half, to make it last much longer). At least that's a thought. Nice to see that this practical, simple Swedish product is now available in the U.S.! Greetings from the New York City metro area!
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