New brand on the block Bowhurst make handcrafted backpacks for “the brave and the bold”. I tested out their classic pack, £60, designed with explorers in mind.
City commuting: Bowhurst’s classic backpack is a delight to wear. Comfy padded straps sit well on your back, and myriad inside compartments keep your valuables safe. On the outside are some very nifty magnetic pockets, ideal for storing stuff on the go. Heading to the office? A zippable laptop sleeve keeps a macbook snug. I’ve taken my bag out in light showers and it’s withstood rain well, but as it isn’t fully waterproof a plastic rucksack cover might be a good idea for rainy cycles and hikes.
Outdoor weekends: Deceptively huge and tardis-like, the 20 litre classic pack has space for a weekend’s worth of clothes, spare shoes and myriad other bits and pieces (I’ve fitted in a climbing harness, stove, the works!). The backpack withstands being lugged about well, and the canvas is very tough. From an adorable illustrated map printed on the inside of the bag to lovely leather straps and Bowhurst’s signature logo, the bag’s thoughtful handcrafted design elements make it a joy to behold – your mates will want to steal it, too.
Verdict: The classic pack is less suitable for hardcore hikers but perfect for anyone on the hunt for a beautifully made, roomy rucksack that looks great in the city and works well for outdoor weekend exploring. If you want to lug your stuff about in style, Bowhurst’s bags are a great choice at a very pocket-friendly price. My cream bag does get dirty fast, though, so if you’re as muddy as me you might fancy the very nice darker grey version.