Like the 1980s action hero of the same name, the Arnold is the best in the business. Unlike its namesake, it's also notable for its lightweight build and understated style. Constructed in tough recycled polyester with a TPU coating, this streamlined roll-top rucksack boasts incredible waterproof performance, whether you're cycling into work through a downpour or paddle boarding out in the bay on a weekend. With a capacity of up to 32 litres, it's a roomy day pack for longer hikes, but if you don't need all that space then the side compression straps and roll-top design make it easy to trim down. And unlike so many other more minimalist rucksacks, the Arnie is seriously comfortable – with a padded mesh back panel, padded shoulder straps and an adjustable sternum strap. Equally suited to weekend adventures and weekday office use, it's got a compartment for a 16" laptop and reflective details for safety. As the great man once said, ‘Arnold is numero uno'.
Fusing the style and creative energy of the Stockholm archipelago with the hard-bitten adventure of the Scandinavian mountains, Sandqvist's beautiful packs are as Swedish as cinnamon buns and that funny cod roe in squeezy tubes.
Founded in 2004 by three childhood mates living in Stockholm, the idea was to create bags that weren't tied to a single environment. Razor-sharp minimalist design to look stylish in the city, teamed with technical features and fabrics to perform in the backcountry. We could all do with less stuff in our lives, and Sandqvist's versatile packs will take you from fika in Södermalm to a red-painted summer cabin in the forest – all while looking just about as Grammable as it gets.
These are bags designed to do more with less – and that carries through into the materials and manufacture too. The durable polyester and nylon fabrics are 100% recycled from post-consumer or industrial waste, and supply chains are regularly audited for working conditions and environmental impact. The leather is a by-product of high-welfare Scandinavian meat and dairy herds, processed by independently certified tanneries – and in some cases they also produce vegan versions of their packs.
Speaking as inveterate Scandophiles, we reckon Sandqvist’s packs are everything gear should be. Sustainable, functional, versatile, and seriously good-looking.
