Design Deep Dive #2: The Athos Work Travel Laptop Backpack

Beyond the Basics: Redefining the Classic Backpack for the Modern Professional

Tired of backpacks that too casual or too loud? Or that "black hole" that swallows your items, never to be found? How about peeling, fading and fraying materials that do not last? We are here to solve that.

In 2017, the humble backpack experienced a resurgence. But amidst the sea of canvas and nylon, a glaring truth emerged: the classic backpack, while undeniably practical, often fell short in delivering the sophistication and refinement demanded by the modern individual. We saw a gap, not just in design, but in the very essence of what a backpack could be. It could be more than just a sack for carrying things; it could be a statement, a companion, a testament to quality and thoughtful design.

This realisation sparked a mission: to elevate the classic backpack, to bridge the divide between practicality and style, durability and elegance. We set out to create a stylish, functional, and practical backpack that seamlessly integrated into the lives of professionals, travellers, and anyone who valued both form and function.

The Problem: A Backpack for Every Need, But None for the Discerning

The market was saturated with options, yet few catered to the nuanced needs of the modern individual. We identified four key gaps:

1. Aesthetics: Existing backpacks often leaned too heavily into casual, student-oriented designs or succumbed to the ostentatious display of logos and monograms. The desire for a refined backpack, one that conveyed sophistication without sacrificing practicality, was palpable. Many sought a designer backpack that spoke to their elevated sense of style.
2. Materials: The durability and aging of materials were a significant concern. Many backpacks were constructed from materials that quickly deteriorated, failing to withstand the rigours of daily use and travel. The need for a durable backpack that aged gracefully, like a fine leather piece, was evident. They wanted a premium backpack that reflected their investment.
3. Functionality: The organisation of essentials, particularly laptops and travel necessities, was often an afterthought. Many backpacks lacked dedicated compartments and features that streamlined the daily commute and international journeys. A practical backpack with intelligent organisation was a necessity.
4. The "Special Touch": Beyond the basic requirements, there was a yearning for something more, a unique element that set the backpack apart, a story, a connection. A touch of luxury without being ostentatious.

Our Solution: A Refined Classic, Reimagined

We embarked on a design journey, drawing inspiration from the timeless silhouettes of iconic backpacks, from the everyday JanSport to the luxurious Louis Vuitton. Our aim was to capture the essence of familiarity while infusing it with a sense of refined elegance. We wanted to create a backpack that was suitable for both men and women.

Athos Laptop Backpack - For Men and Women

The Look: A Symphony of Simplicity and Sophistication

The design centred around a single, spacious main compartment with a subtly curved top opening and a more defined, boxy front pocket. We prioritised minimalism, employing fewer material pieces and joining points to achieve a clean, sophisticated aesthetic.

• Curved Top: The top of the backpack was thoughtfully curved, creating a seamless zipper track and reinforced with premium leather for added durability and a touch of luxury.
• Boxy Front Pocket: The front pocket was designed with rounded corners, minimising bulk and enhancing its visual appeal. The pocket was stitched from within the bag, further contributing to its sleek profile.
• N-Shaped Opening: The front pocket featured an innovative N-shaped zipper opening, offering improved access and visibility to its contents.

The Materials: A Testament to Quality and Durability

We recognised that the foundation of a truly exceptional backpack lay in the quality of its materials.

• Full Grain Leather: We opted for full grain leather, renowned for its unparalleled durability and its ability to develop a rich patina over time. It's the strongest, most resilient part of the hide, ensuring that the backpack withstands the test of time, aging beautifully like fine wine. For a leather backpack that gets better with time, this was a must. This is a truly premium material.

• Lightweight Nylon: Understanding the need for a lighter option, we introduced a nylon version that was both lightweight and water-resistant. This version was meticulously reinforced with full grain leather at stress points, maintaining the backpack's structural integrity and adding a touch of refined elegance. A quality and durable option.

• Herringbone Cotton Nylon Twill Lining: The interior of the backpack was lined with a luxurious beige herringbone cotton nylon twill, providing a striking visual contrast to the main material and enhancing the visibility of items within. This meticulous detail, often overlooked by other brands, speaks to our commitment to quality.

• YKK Excella Zippers: We selected YKK Excella zippers, the gold standard in the industry, renowned for their smooth, long-lasting performance. These zippers, favoured by global luxury brands, ensure effortless access and lasting reliability.

• EVA Foam Enhanced Straps: The backpack straps were constructed from densely woven webbing, enhanced with EVA foam for exceptional comfort and resilience. These straps provide optimal support, even when the backpack is fully loaded.

The Functionality: Designed for the Modern Professional and Traveller

We aimed to create a functional backpack that seamlessly integrated into the lives of professionals and travellers.

• Dedicated Laptop Compartment: A dedicated laptop compartment, capable of accommodating up to 14-inch laptops, was incorporated into the design, facilitating easy access and streamlining security checks at airports.

• Luggage Slot: A luggage slot was added to the back of the backpack, allowing for effortless pairing with rolling suitcases, reducing back strain and enhancing mobility.

• Secure Back Pocket: A discreet back pocket with magnetic closure was designed to hold passports and wallets, providing secure yet easily accessible storage. An anti-theft hidden detachable pouch for coins and cards was added for extra security.

• Internal Organisation: The main compartment featured a zippered slot for secure storage of smaller items, such as name cards, SD cards, and AirTags. An easy-access slot was also included at the front of the main compartment.

• Front Compartment Organisation: The front compartment was designed as a "utility belt" for quick access to essential items, featuring three small slots and two pen slots. The N-shaped zipper opening provided enhanced visibility and access to the compartment's contents.

The Story: A Hidden Detachable Pouch, A Symbol of Unity

Inspired by the timeless tale of the Three Musketeers, we incorporated a hidden detachable pouch, engraved with the iconic quote "All for one, one for all." 

This pouch, reminiscent of a musketeer's sword, serves as a symbol of unity and camaraderie, adding a unique touch to the backpack. A touch of luxury and personality.

The Result: A Sophisticated Timeless Backpack Packed With Useful Work & Travel Features

Our journey to redefine the classic backpack was driven by a commitment to quality, functionality, and timeless design. We sought to create a stylish, functional, and practical backpack that seamlessly integrated into the lives of the modern individual, whether they were navigating the urban jungle or exploring the world. By prioritising premium materials, intelligent organisation, and thoughtful details, we believe we have achieved our goal. This is more than just a backpack; it's a statement, a companion, a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful design, a designer piece for both men and women.

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Let us know in the comments below if we missed anything you'd like to see in future. We believe perfection is a process.