Alpkit are taking things back to basics with their new range of no-frills heritage-inspired backpacks which have been designed and built in the UK.
The new Brevent, Tyrol and Pelmo use a tough 330 denier cotton canvas that’s been treated with wax for water resistance. Don’t expect much in the way of features though, these packs have been designed with simplicity and durability in mind.
Alpkit claim each design is aimed towards single-day hillwalking trips, but they have a clear nod toward day-to-day use in the city with their built-in laptop sleeves, clean design and no-fuss approach.
“Sometimes it pays to look back and see what has worked over the years,” say Alpkit on their website. “Wax cotton was used as a performance outdoor fabric for years… and it’s still used today by those in extremes of weather day in and day out.”
The Packs
Ranging from 18-22 litres, the Brevent 22 and Tyrol 20 styles both use a top loading design with a lid and drawstring collar, giving a little flexibility on how much you can pack. Their waxed canvas will offer a degree of water resistance but not full waterproof protection.
The smaller Pelmo 18 is also made from waxed canvas, but features a more basic zip opening design that looks like it could be tricky to pack anything beyond the essentials for UK hillwalking trips.