Why We Chose It: Practical, natural wax finish, recycled fabrics, PFC-free
Duffle bags have been a staple of expeditions over land and sea for decades. Tough, practical and virtually indestructible, they were designed as the ultimate kitbag. More recently, they have been co-opted as versatile everyday sports and travel bags, for toting to the gym or packing for a weekend away.
German brand Jack Wolfskin’s take on this classic style is the Traveltopia Duffle 45. It’s a little lighter than expedition-grade duffle bags, sacrificing outright toughness for lower overall weight, while adding useful additional features.
With two detachable shoulder straps, the bag can either be carried as a shoulder bag or as a backpack. The padded and reinforced base protects the bag’s contents from impact damage. The main compartment has five internal pockets and is equipped with a long zip to provide quick and easy access. But best of all, it’s made from recycled fabrics with a PFC-free finish that uses a synthetic, solvent-free wax to provide water repellence.
What Is The Traveltopia Duffle 45 Best Suited To?
The focus here is on casual travel use. Its 45-litre capacity is better suited to short breaks and weekends away rather than expeditions to the back of beyond. But since you can carry it as a backpack or a shoulder bag, it’ll do double duty as a sports or gym bag too.
Eco Credentials
Jack Wolfskin’s Traveltopia 45 is made from 100% recycled polyester. The product is also bluesign approved, meaning that harmful substances have been eliminated right from the beginning of the manufacturing process, and all resources involved in its manufacture have been used responsibly – leading to a reduced impact on people and on the environment.