Introduction
Fjallraven. The name itself conjures images of Swedish landscapes, robust outdoor gear, and a commitment to sustainable practices. While widely recognized for their iconic Kanken backpacks, the brand’s foray into specialized laptop backpacks has been met with considerable interest. For students navigating bustling campuses and professionals traversing urban jungles, a reliable and stylish laptop backpack is an essential companion. The Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack aims to be just that. But does it live up to the Fjallraven reputation? In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack, exploring whether it’s a worthy investment for your valuable tech and everyday essentials. We know how important a quality laptop bag is and that fjallraven makes great bags for laptops.
Overview of the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack
The Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is immediately recognizable thanks to its understated yet distinctive Scandinavian design. Characterized by clean lines, a boxy silhouette, and the signature Arctic fox logo, this backpack exudes a sense of timeless functionality. Unlike some overtly technical backpacks, the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack blends seamlessly into both professional and casual settings.
The backpack is crafted primarily from Fjallraven’s renowned G-One Thousand HeavyDuty Eco S material. This blend of recycled polyester and organic cotton offers a unique combination of durability and environmental consciousness. The fabric feels substantial to the touch, promising resistance to the rigors of daily use. It’s available in a range of colors, from classic black and navy to more vibrant options like deep turquoise and ochre, catering to diverse personal styles.
Regarding its key features, the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is designed with organization and protection in mind. Its dimensions are optimized to comfortably accommodate a laptop up to seventeen inches in size, with a dedicated, padded compartment to cradle your device securely. The main compartment provides ample space for books, documents, or clothing, while a smaller front pocket offers convenient access to frequently used items like keys, wallets, and phones. Side pockets are also included, though they are relatively shallow and best suited for small water bottles or accessories.
Carrying comfort is paramount. The backpack features padded shoulder straps designed for even weight distribution, minimizing strain even when fully loaded. A top carrying handle provides an alternative carrying option for short distances. The G-One Thousand material, while durable, is not inherently waterproof. However, it can be treated with Greenland Wax to enhance its water resistance, making it suitable for light rain and splashes.
In-Depth Review: Pros and Cons
Let’s get into the meat of the review: what are the real advantages and disadvantages of choosing the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack?
The Upsides
Exceptional Durability: The G-One Thousand HeavyDuty Eco S material truly lives up to its name. It’s incredibly resistant to abrasions, tears, and general wear and tear. This backpack is built to withstand the daily grind, whether you’re navigating crowded city streets or venturing on weekend hikes. The reinforced bottom further adds to its robust construction, protecting the contents from impact and moisture. This is a backpack you can rely on for years to come.
Superior Laptop Protection: The dedicated laptop compartment is a standout feature. The generous padding effectively shields your laptop from bumps and jolts during transit. The compartment is designed to keep the laptop snug, preventing it from shifting around inside the bag. This level of protection provides peace of mind, knowing your valuable device is well-guarded.
Comfortable Carry: Despite its relatively structured design, the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack offers a surprisingly comfortable carrying experience. The padded shoulder straps are contoured to fit the natural curvature of the shoulders, distributing weight evenly. While the back panel isn’t heavily ventilated, it offers adequate breathability for most everyday situations.
Smart Organization: The backpack’s various compartments contribute to efficient organization. The main compartment is spacious enough to accommodate books, notebooks, or even a change of clothes. The front pocket is ideal for storing smaller essentials, while the side pockets offer quick access to water bottles or other accessories.
Timeless Style: Fjallraven’s design aesthetic is undeniably appealing. The minimalist silhouette, coupled with the iconic logo, exudes a sense of understated elegance. The backpack’s versatility allows it to seamlessly transition from the classroom to the boardroom, making it a stylish choice for a wide range of users.
Effective Water Resistance: While not fully waterproof, the G-One Thousand material provides a decent level of water resistance, especially when treated with Greenland Wax. The fabric repels light rain and splashes, protecting the contents from minor moisture exposure. In our tests, the backpack withstood simulated light rain for a significant period before any water penetration was observed.
The Downsides
Premium Price Point: Fjallraven backpacks generally command a higher price compared to many other brands. The Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is no exception. This investment may be a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers.
Weight Considerations: While the G-One Thousand material is durable, it also contributes to the backpack’s overall weight. When empty, the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is noticeably heavier than some of its competitors. This extra weight can become a factor, especially when carrying heavy loads for extended periods.
Feature Limitations: Compared to some more technically advanced backpacks, the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack offers a relatively basic set of features. It lacks a sternum strap or hip belt, which would enhance stability and weight distribution during more strenuous activities. It also lacks dedicated water bottle holders, forcing users to rely on the shallow side pockets.
Maintenance Matters: Maintaining the water resistance of the G-One Thousand material requires periodic application of Greenland Wax. This process can be time-consuming and may require some initial learning. Failure to re-wax the fabric can compromise its water-repellent properties over time.
Who is This Backpack For?
The Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is well-suited for a variety of users, particularly those who value durability, style, and laptop protection.
Target Audience
This backpack is an excellent choice for students navigating campus life. The spacious main compartment can easily accommodate textbooks and notebooks, while the dedicated laptop compartment safeguards valuable electronics. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use, and its stylish design makes it a fashionable accessory.
The Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is also a great option for professionals who need a reliable and stylish way to carry their laptops and other work essentials. Its understated design makes it appropriate for office environments, and its durable construction ensures it can withstand the demands of daily commutes and business travel.
The backpack’s versatile design makes it suitable for travel as well. It can serve as a daypack for exploring new cities or as a carry-on bag for flights. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of travel, and its organized compartments make it easy to keep your belongings in order.
Use Cases
This backpack shines in everyday carry scenarios. It seamlessly integrates into daily routines, whether you’re heading to class, the office, or a coffee shop. Its practical design and comfortable carry make it an ideal companion for daily commutes, whether you’re taking public transportation or cycling to work. The Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack can also handle light outdoor activities, such as hiking or picnics in the park, though it’s not designed for more demanding outdoor adventures.
Alternatives to Consider
While the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is a solid choice, several alternatives offer similar features and benefits.
The Timbuktu Authority Pack boasts a more technical design, with a dedicated laptop compartment, multiple organizational pockets, and a comfortable suspension system. It’s a great option for users who prioritize functionality and versatility.
The North Face Borealis is a popular choice for students and professionals alike. It offers a spacious main compartment, a padded laptop compartment, and a comfortable suspension system. It’s a durable and reliable option at a more accessible price point.
The Herschel Supply Co. Pop Quiz is a stylish and affordable option for users who want a fashionable laptop backpack. It features a padded laptop compartment, a front pocket organizer, and a classic design.
Conclusion
The Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack is a well-crafted and stylish backpack that offers excellent laptop protection and durability. Its G-One Thousand material is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, and its comfortable carrying design makes it a pleasure to wear. While it may be more expensive than some alternatives and lacks some advanced features, its timeless design and exceptional quality make it a worthwhile investment for students, professionals, and travelers alike.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack comes down to individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability, style, and laptop protection, this backpack is an excellent choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget or need a backpack with more technical features, you may want to consider some of the alternatives mentioned above.
We encourage you to share your own experiences with the Fjallraven Laptop Seventeen Inch Backpack in the comments below. Do you have any questions about this review? We’re happy to help!