Product test
The Deuter Race Exp Air has the courage to leave a gap
by Vanessa Kim
A backpack for the office and everyday life? This Fjällräven model does it all
8.10.2024
Translation: Veronica Bielawski
Finding a functional and pretty backpack for everyday use is no easy feat. Hot tip: if you’re currently on the lookout, it’s worth taking a look at this version of the Fjällräven Kånken.
Until a year or two ago, I would never have imagined that I’d be diving into the world of backpacks. Why, you ask? Because I associate backpacks primarily with two groups of people: hiking aficionados and schoolchildren. As for me, I feel like a schoolgirl the second I strap on a backpack. I can practically see the matching lunch bag and pencil case.
That’s why I’ve been sporting shoulder bags in my everyday life and when going to the office. Some are more functional, others less, but I use them to carry my laptop, charging cable, a lunchbox (sporadically), my phone, a bunch of keys, etc. Unfortunately, I’m plagued with the straps cutting painfully into my shoulder under the weight or slipping off.
Enter: the Fjällräven Kånken for adults
I’ve always considered the Kånken from the Swedish brand Fjällräven to be the epitome of a colourful children’s backpack. But I didn’t let that stop me from browsing through all the different versions of it in my search for the right rucksack. After all, the Kånken is nice and handy without any unnecessarily bells and whistles, and it has a padded laptop compartment.
A small selection of Kånken backpacks quickly ended up on my watch list. Specifically, versions where the logo isn’t (childishly) thrust into the limelight in classic red and white, but remains modestly tone-on-tone in the background – grown-up versions, if you will.
And I found it! I found a respectable «I’m not going camping or to primary school» Kånken! It’s all black on the outside, from the carry handle to the logo, and is made from recycled polyester, organic cotton and leather, which makes it look so elegant.
With that, my search for the ideal everyday backpack has come to an end. Maybe you’ll also like the office-ready version of the Kånken No. 2 – or perhaps you’ve got a recommendation of your own up your sleeve. If so, the comments section’s yours!
In a nutshell
The Kånken No. 2 from Fjällräven is perfect for everyday life and the office
If you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing backpack that doesn’t scream backpacker or schoolchild yet offers enough space for your laptop and the like, the monochrome Kånken No. 2 with premium leather details might be the perfect fit for you. And the good news is you can still take it on an outdoor adventure without qualms.
Pro
- Simple, high-quality design
- Well made and robust
- Various compartments for plenty of storage space
- Padded laptop compartment
Contra
- No padding on the shoulder straps
Header image: Laura Scholz
Laura Scholz
Senior Editor
Laura.Scholz@digitecgalaxus.chAlways in the mood for good hits, great trips and clinking drinks.
