2017-2021
THE NO BACKPACK YEARS
Read why we took a production break from backpacks between 2017 and 2021. Learn about the collaboration and challenges that led to the creation of 'The Backpack'—a symbol of refined functionality.
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/mrcool_2000_x_1400_px.jpg?v=1713966549&width=2000)
This was at the beginning of 2015. As I (Catherine) waded through Stockholm's sea of sameness, it hit me – everyone was wearing one of two backpack brands. I realized we needed to offer something to shake up the streets – not in a tacky fashion way, but to find some middle ground between the teenagers backpack and the super serious business backpacks.I had not yet worn him down.
So, I pitched the idea of a unique, not-too-serious backpack to Niklas. He hadn't yet tired of my barrage of ideas and designed five different prototypes in vegan materials like canvas and nylon. I impulsively sent all five into production – including one with a gold logo that I’m still unsure about.
THE MOOD AT THE OFFICE
But as our ambitions grew, so did our clashes. Our tiny 10m2 studio became a battleground of creativity: me, the fast-moving hare, pushing hard; Niklas, the meticulous tortoise, urging patience. "Speed it up, Niklas!" I'd demand. "Craftsmanship takes time," he’d insist. Result? A no backpacks were produced from us between 2017-2021.
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/emoji_backpack_landingpage_200_1400.jpg?v=1713965830&width=2000)
Today
Somewhere around 2022 we managed to get out of our heads. Presenting 'The Backpack'. We took casual elegance and gave it a twist, blending it with reliability and function. Water-repellent material, a smart magnetic lid closure, a hidden pocket in the back. If you believe that shortcuts leads to nowhere this is the backpack for you.
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black.jpg?v=1714391680&width=2048)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black-2.jpg?v=1714391687&width=2048)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black-3.jpg?v=1714391695&width=2048)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black-4.jpg?v=1714391702&width=2048)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black-5.jpg?v=1714391710&width=2048)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black-6.jpg?v=1714391717&width=2048)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black-7.jpg?v=1714391724&width=1333)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/2_41b7927d-43bc-4ee6-8b43-2bd59e2724ae.png?v=1719407437&width=2048)
![The Backpack Black](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/The-Backpack-Black-8.jpg?v=1719407519&width=2048)
purposely engineered
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/aed6a3d8da9d834f453b82727d610c5e.jpg?v=1685517469)
P.E.T.A approved vegan leather
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/water_79b6240e-0406-4e63-b972-452a20f2189e.png?v=1702278068)
Water-Repellent Nylon
great
Materials
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/shoulder.png?v=1702278274)
Adjustable Detachable Straps
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/zipper_ff0180f5-9526-4267-a15b-3a3e19229693.png?v=1702278068)
Logo Engraved Zippers
fine
details
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/61ca53090e908148069de07bac1367ff.jpg?v=1685517645)
Customade Monogram Pattern
![](http://www.steeleborough.com/cdn/shop/files/monogram_interior_e3ce5c8e-e572-43b3-bde7-275434d697fc.png?v=1702278068)
Hexagon monogram interior