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Knowing where to turn is half the battle for the perfect backpack. The USA is home to some of the world’s most renowned backpack manufacturers, each with a unique design, functionality, and sustainability approach. Whether you’re a business looking to collaborate on a custom project or a consumer searching for the perfect pack, this guide will introduce you to the 15 top players in the American backpack industry.
Curious about what sets them apart? Read on for the scoop.
Table of Contents
A list is just the beginning. The essence of a great backpack lies in its details—the craft, the material, the mission. Stick with us to uncover the stories behind these brands, their flagship products, and why they might be the makers of your next favorite backpack.
Jansport
- Established: 1967
- Known For: Iconic student backpacks
- Main Products: SuperBreak series, Right Pack, and Hatchet for urban explorers
- Target Customer Base: Students and young adults
- Strengths: Durable materials, classic designs, and a lifetime warranty
Jansport is synonymous with school backpacks in the USA, offering a blend of durability, comfort, and style that has endured for decades. Their products cater to a broad audience, from schoolchildren to college students, with designs emphasizing functionality and ergonomic support.
MYSTERY RANCH
- Notable For: High-quality, mission-oriented packs
- Main Products: 2 Day Assault Pack, The Urban Assault, and the Firefighter series
- Target Customer Base: Military, firefighting, hunting, and outdoor enthusiasts
- Strengths: Custom-fit systems, exceptional durability, and innovative designs
MYSTERY RANCH backpacks are built on a heritage of function, comfort, quality, and durability. Known for their use in military and tactical environments, they also offer solutions for everyday carry, hiking, and hunting, focusing on superior load carriage and easy access.
Jack Wolfskin
- Founded: 1981
- Known For: Outdoor clothing and equipment
- Main Products: Perfect Day, Moab Jam, and Kingston daypacks for hiking and travel
- Target Customer Base: Outdoor adventurers and urban travelers
- Strengths: Sustainable materials, weatherproofing, and innovative back systems for comfort
Jack Wolfskin is a leading functional outdoor equipment, clothing, and footwear provider. With a commitment to sustainability, their backpacks are designed for comfort and durability, catering to a wide range of outdoor activities.
Deuter
- Notable For: A pioneer in backpacks for hiking, alpine, and biking
- Main Products: Aircontact Lite, Speed Lite, and the Race series for cyclists
- Target Customer Base: Hikers, mountaineers, and cyclists
- Strengths: Aircomfort back systems, lightweight construction, and eco-friendly production
Deuter is one of the world’s oldest backpack brands, focusing on innovation, quality, and environmental stewardship. Their backpacks are designed for comfort and functionality, supporting a range of outdoor sports and activities.
Mountainsmith
- Celebrated: 40th anniversary in 2019
- Known For: Durable outdoor gear
- Main Products: The Day lumbar pack, the Scream series of ultralight backpacks, and the Approach series for multi-day hikes
- Target Customer Base: Hikers, photographers, and travelers
- Strengths: Durability, comfort, and an emphasis on utility
Mountainsmith has been a leader in outdoor gear for over four decades, specializing in backpacks that withstand the rigors of adventure. Their commitment to quality and functionality makes them a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
Matein
- Notable For: Innovative and functional backpacks
- Main Products: Travel Laptop Backpacks, Business Anti Theft Slim Durable Laptops, Backpacks with USB Charging Port
- Target Customer Base: Students, professionals, and travelers
- Strengths: Smart designs with modern needs in mind, such as integrated USB charging ports and anti-theft features
Matein focuses on creating backpacks that are not only stylish but also packed with features to address the needs of modern life. Their products are geared towards tech-savvy consumers looking for convenience and security.
Bag Manufacturer USA
- Specializes In: A broad range of high-quality luggage products
- Main Products: Custom backpacks, sports bags, and travel bags
- Target Customer Base: B2B clients, including brands and companies looking for OEM/ODM services
- Strengths: Versatility in production, custom design capabilities, and a commitment to quality
Bag Manufacturer USA is a go-to for businesses seeking custom bag solutions. With a focus on quality and client-specific design, they offer extensive options for customization, catering to a diverse range of needs and industries.
Last Us Bag Co
- Based In: Washington State
- Known For: Small batch production with a focus on quality and durability
- Main Products: Heavy-duty tool bags, utility bags, and custom solutions
- Target Customer Base: Tradespeople, adventurers, and anyone in need of rugged, reliable bags
- Strengths: Made in the USA quality, durability, and custom production capabilities
Last Us Bag Co specializes in crafting durable bags designed to meet the demanding needs of tradespeople and adventurers. Every product’s commitment to quality and functionality ensures reliability in the most challenging conditions.
Bearse USA
- Established: 1921
- Focuses On: Military and outdoor tactical gear
- Main Products: Tactical backpacks, gear bags, and custom solutions for military and law enforcement
- Target Customer Base: Military, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts
- Strengths: High-quality materials, craftsmanship, and durability
Bearse USA is a venerable manufacturer of tactical and military gear with a century-long history of excellence. Their backpacks are designed for the highest level of performance, meeting the needs of professionals and outdoor adventurers alike.
BAGS USA MFG
- Since: 1985
- Offers: A wide range of custom bags for various applications
- Main Products: Backpacks, sports bags, and equipment bags
- Target Customer Base: Schools, teams, and organizations looking for custom bag solutions
- Strengths: Customization options, quality craftsmanship, and a diverse product range
BAGS USA MFG is known for its ability to provide custom bag solutions across various applications. With a focus on meeting the specific needs of their clients, they offer quality and versatility in every product.
Osprey
- Renowned For: High-quality adventure gear
- Main Products: Atmos/Aura AG series for backpacking, Talon/Tempest series for hiking, and Fairview/Farpoint series for travel
- Target Customer Base: Backpackers, hikers, and travelers
- Strengths: Innovative design, fit and comfort, and a commitment to sustainability
Osprey is dedicated to creating backpacks that blend comfort, function, and environmental stewardship. Their innovative designs cater to adventurers of all types, focusing on fit and sustainability.
The North Face
- Founded: 1966
- Known For: Outdoor apparel and gear with an emphasis on performance
- Main Products: Borealis and Recon backpacks, Base Camp series for travel
- Target Customer Base: Outdoor enthusiasts, climbers, and urban adventurers
- Strengths: Durability, ergonomic design, and the use of recycled materials
The North Face is a global outdoor gear leader known for its durable and high-performing backpacks. Their products are designed to support adventure in all forms, from city streets to mountain peaks.
Tumi
- Established: 1975
- Specializes In: High-end travel bags and business backpac
- Main Products: Alpha Bravo, Voyageur, and Arrivé series
- Target Customer Base: Business travelers and professionals
- Strengths: Premium materials, sophisticated design, and innovative features like the TUMI Tracer®
Tumi is the epitome of luxury in travel and business backpacks, offering products that combine sleek design with functional excellence. Their backpacks cater to the discerning traveler seeking durability and style.
Briggs & Riley
- Founded: 1993
- Offers: Premium travel bags and backpacks with innovative features
- Main Products: Kinzie Street, @Work, and Sympatico collections
- Target Customer Base: Business and leisure travelers
- Strengths: Lifetime warranty, intelligent design, and expansion technology
Briggs & Riley sets itself apart, focusing on innovation and customer satisfaction, backed by a lifetime warranty. Their backpacks are designed for travelers who value reliability and innovative packing features.
High Sierra
- Established: 1978
- Known For: Versatile backpacks for school, travel, and outdoor activities
- Main Products: Loop Backpack, Swerve Laptop Backpack, and Tactic Backpack
- Target Customer Base: Students, outdoor adventurers, and everyday users
- Strengths: Affordability, versatility, and features geared towards comfort and convenience
High Sierra offers a range of backpacks that cater to a broad audience, focusing on functionality and value. Their products are designed to support an active lifestyle, whether in the classroom, on the trail, or during travel.
Wrapping It Up
The journey to finding the perfect backpack manufacturer is as diverse as the American landscape—filled with stories of innovation, tradition, and craftsmanship. Whether your priority lies in sustainability, cutting-edge design, or enduring quality, this guide is your compass for navigating the vast world of backpack manufacturing in the USA.
How Can We Help?
At Coraggio, we understand that the essence of a great backpack extends beyond fabric and zippers—it’s about creating a companion ready for whatever life throws your way. With 15 years of experience, we pride ourselves on offering personalized customization, utilizing eco-friendly materials, and delivering on time, with a keen eye for quality and detail.
Whether you’re in the market for a partnership to bring your backpack vision to life or seeking premium OEM services, Coraggio is your ally in the quest for excellence. Let our expertise in design and manufacturing elevate your brand and products.
Ready to take the next step? Visit us at CoraggioBag.com or reach out at info@coraggiobag.com. Partner with us, and let’s craft backpacks that stand the test of time and adventure together.
