GEAR | Duluth Pack No. 51


There's a lot of heritage backpacks on the market currently, and I must say I really like most of them, but it's probably near impossible to out-heritage Duluth PackThe Duluth Pack's roots start with a French-Canadian named Camille Poirier, who made his way west to Duluth, Minnesota in 1870 with a little stock of leather and tools. Twelve years later Poirier filed for a patent on a new type of packsack—a canvas sack that closed with a buckled flap and had new-fangled shoulder straps. 

I checked out a friend's Duluth pack today and it had aged like a fine wine. The leather, buttery. The canvas, with that sturdy ruggedness and worn-in patina. Delicious. Duluth packs are still made in Duluth, Minnesota in the same way they've been making canoe packs for over 100 years. And they're guaranteed for life. Nothing more solid than that. The Duluth No. 51 Canoe Pack ($105) comes in fifteen colorways today (I'm eyeing that navy one), but unfortunately the price has gone up just a skosh from its original $3 price tag.

Thanks for the reminder Justin Woodwater!

Comments

Anonymous said…
Love this pack!!!
Gina said…
My biking/hiking/do-it-all bag - Minnesota represent! I have a few Duluth Packs and just FYI, the navy is particularly awesome for catching/showcasing dog hair.
Angelica Tynan said…
Seriously though, wax it. It gives it such a stunning patina. I get stopped all the time re: my Duluth pack. :^)
Aya said…
I have one and after two years of use it's finally STARTING to break in a bit. I love it. I think I'll have this pack for the rest of my days.
LPC said…
I LOVE mine. Love it. Here's my paean.
http://amidprivilege.com/2013/03/duluth-pack/. I kind of want a burgundy one too.
alisialynn said…
oooo I've been wanting one of these, thanks for re-inspiring me!!

Unknown said…
"Near impossible to out-heritage Duluth Pack" - YES! They are the OGs.

@Angelica Tynan great idea. We've been looking for waxed canvas bags but why not just wax it yourself, right?
Angelica Tynan said…
@Tradlands To say nothing of the, uh, intoxicating fragrance! #ihuffotterwax
Tonia said…
Ha! I've been waiting ages for Duluth Pack to be noticed outside of the Midwest/on fashion blogs. Their products are incredible and last forever (I know people who have inherited their great-grandparent's packs). It's a stand-up company, too. We used to live in Duluth, and my husband used to be the Marketing Manager there before starting his own consulting business, so I have the inside scoop as to how the business is run. They take care of their people and are very serious about making high-quality products. These are the types of companies you can feel really good about buying from! Thanks for sharing them, Lizzie!
Unknown said…
I was born and raised in Duluth, MN and Duluth Packs are a staple for anyone that frolics in the woods. Love this blog and honored that these packs were featured! They also make a "sportman's kit"--a travel dopp kit, or toiletry case, that is never far from my reach. I've had mine navy model since 9th grade...15 years, doesn't look worn. I met my boyfriend and he had the same one. Thanks, Lizzie!!
Anonymous said…
I love my Duluth Pack (I use a shell bag as a purse). Bonus that it reminds me of childhood canoe trips at summer camp.
Laura said…
Absolutely love my Duluth Pack. The company I work for ( www.DistrictGrain.com ) sells them and I became so obsessed I bought my own Wanderer Pack.

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