The Kanken Backpack: A Stylish but Overpriced Option
I recently got my hands on the Kanken backpack for my daughter, and I ordered it through the online store.
I had heard great things about this backpack - people praised its quality, practicality, and universality.
I have to admit, I got caught up in the excitement and became enthusiastic about the purchase.
But now I'm sitting here, staring at it... and I'm shocked!
It's really simple, despite my love for minimalism. I'm not disputing that it's a cute backpack for the city, suited for people of all ages, with sturdy fabric, neat and reliable hardware, and an attractive color.
However, I have to admit, I was expecting more from a legendary brand.
The backpack is compact and stylish. But really, it's quite simple. My daughter even hung a keychain and a badge on it, and it looks way cooler now.
Description:
The Kanken backpack was designed back in 1978 to help prevent back problems in schoolchildren of all ages.
Thanks to its thoughtful design, it quickly gained popularity among kids and soon spread beyond its country of origin.
This backpack is perfect for hikes, school, or travel.
The material on this backpack is seriously durable and easy to clean - it's made from Vinylon F, which can handle dirt and water like a pro.
The main compartment has a super convenient YKK zipper that makes it easy to get in and out of the bag.
And on the front and sides, there are smaller pockets with zippers that are perfect for stashing your phone, headphones, or other small essentials for school.
The padded PE foam in the back pocket is a total game-changer - it's not just for preventing your stuff from digging into your back, but it's also super comfy to sit on when you're hanging out with friends in the park on a chilly day.
The backpack's carrying system is super simple and consists of two adjustable shoulder straps.
The logo on the front is reflective, which is a nice touch.
And, just in case you lose the bag, there's a label with the address inside.
Features:
The Kanken Classic features:
Activity: Outdoor
Maintenance: Clean with a soft brush and warm water
Family: Kanken
Weight: 300 g
Capacity: 16 l
Height: 38 cm
Width: 27 cm
Depth: 13 cm
Material: Vinylon-F
Additional material: 100% polypropylene
Gender: Unisex
On the front of the backpack, there's the Kanken logo featuring a fox head.
If this is the original, the logo should be reflective.
Up front, you'll find a zippered pocket that's perfect for stashing small items.
On the sides, there are two simple pockets - one of which my daughter uses to store her thermos, which is a bit of a squeeze to get in and out.
The handles are solid, well-attached, and pretty comfortable, but I think they're a bit too thin.
You can wear the backpack on your shoulders or carry it like a tote.
Inside the backpack has only one pocket, my daughter said it's meant for carrying a laptop.
Don't use the Kanken Classic to carry a laptop - this pocket is meant for folders, notebooks, tablets, not laptops, as it would put too much strain on the shoulder straps and buckles.
For laptop carrying, use the Kanken Laptop instead.
The backpack has a soft foam cushion inside, it's located in the back pocket at the back.
This cushion will keep your back comfortable and the backpack will hold its shape.
If needed, you can remove the cushion and use it as a seat somewhere outdoors.
I'm not sure how durable this feature is - will it withstand such use?
There are no other compartments or pockets in the backpack.
This surprised me, as I'm used to backpacks with multiple sections and pockets.
Inside the backpack, I found a passport holder where I can fill in my details: name, address, and contact info, just in case I lose the backpack.
I also found a booklet from Fjallraven inside the backpack.
The hardware on this backpack is top-notch, with the company's logo prominently displayed.
The logo is printed on the buttons - it's a fox's head
And on the inside of the buttons, there are some text
On the zippers, you'll find the logo on one side and some text on the other
Care and Maintenance Tips:
1. Don't put it in the washing machine - instead, hand wash it with warm water and a mild soap or cleaning solution.
After washing, hang the Kanken backpack in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
2. To get truly vibrant colors, the manufacturer's patented technology was used, so it's recommended to soak the backpack in warm water for 30-60 minutes before the first use.
3. It's not recommended to overfill the backpack, the standard Kanken has a 16-liter capacity, and although we don't have an official maximum weight limit, keep it within a few kilograms.
It's not recommended to use the Kanken Classic for carrying laptops, this pocket is suitable for folders, notebooks, tablets, but not laptops, as this would put too much strain on the shoulder straps and buckles.
For carrying laptops, it's better to use the Kanken Laptop.
4. If the buckle gets stuck, don't start tugging on it without lubricating it, use lip balm or a bit of oil to loosen the buckle.
5. Don't leave Kanken backpacks in direct sunlight. The backpack may fade. Kanken prefers shade or low sunlight levels.
It seems like there's no room for practicality here at all!!!
Only gentle hand washing, natural drying, not suitable for carrying laptops, the fabric will fade and discolor - I'm shocked!!!
A pricey branded backpack that requires care, like a cashmere sweater!
I looked up online, how the backpack looks like after some time: either filthy, beyond recognition or a misshapen, wrinkled mess after washing!!!
What about durability, then?
I bought a Columbia backpack for my daughter three years ago at the Sportmaster store.
It's been through a lot, I've stuffed it with heavy products 'to the brim' from time to time.
I wash it, tossing it in the washing machine.
It hasn't faded, torn, or lost its hardware, it's in excellent condition, and we can still take it out for a walk around the city with it, and it's much cheaper!
Conclusion:
A stylish compact backpack, overpriced. Not practical!
I'm taking away stars because the material fades on the sun, it's way too expensive, only gentle hand washing and air drying are recommended, and it's not designed to be carried in a laptop bag.
I wouldn't recommend buying this!
Thanks for making it to the end of my review - I hope it's been helpful
Pros:
Stylish and compact design
Durable and easy-to-clean material
Convenient YKK zipper
Reflective logo on the front
Soft foam cushion inside for back comfort
Passport holder for storing important documents
Booklet from Fjallraven inside the backpack
Top-notch hardware with the company's logo prominently displayed
Cons:
Overpriced
Not practical for carrying laptops
Requires gentle hand washing and air drying
Fabric may fade and discolor
Handles are a bit too thin
No other compartments or pockets in the backpack
Not suitable for heavy loads
I'm disappointed with the Kanken backpack. While it's stylish and compact, it's overpriced and not practical for everyday use. I wouldn't recommend buying this backpack, especially considering the price.
Rating: 2/5 stars
Recommendation: If you're looking for a stylish and compact backpack, consider other options that are more practical and affordable.
Thanks for reading!