£74.95 £84.95
There's something to be said for a tote that actually has its act together. Herschel's Heritage Tote is one of those bags that looks straightforward until you start using it, then you realise they've thought through all the annoying bits - dedicated laptop sleeve that's padded and fleece-lined, twin water bottle pockets on the sides, trolley sleeve on the back for sliding over your suitcase handle when you're moving through airports. The zippered main compartment means your stuff stays put rather than spilling out when you lean over to grab something, and the reinforced padded base stops it collapsing into a heap when you set it down. It's the sort of bag that ends up doing everything from work commute, weekend market trips to overnighters where you can't be bothered with a proper travel bag.
What makes a classic? The good folks at Herschel think it’s hard work, boundless creativity, and designing products that stand the test of time. Which is exactly what the brand has been doing ever since 2009: building packs and travel accessories that hold up to a lifetime of adventure – all while being as kind to the environment as possible.
To properly stand the test of time, Herschel also believes that you need deep roots, however. And there are few Canadian brands out there with roots as deep as Herschel’s. Take the brand’s name, for example. This pays homage to a small 30-person hamlet way out on the Prairies where three generations of the founders’ family farmed the land. 5 hours dead east of Calgary, the story of this region is about as raw as it gets – and now its history informs every decision the brand makes. Or take the design of every pack Herschel produces. The communities, oceans and mountains that surround their new home in Vancouver, British Columbia inspire every facet of their end products. All to honour the brand’s unique history – in a uniquely Canadian way.