When it comes to choosing a backpack, the design, aesthetics, and functionality often steal the spotlight. However, one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, aspects of backpack quality is the material it's made from. The materials used in a backpack influence not only its durability but also its comfort, functionality, environmental impact, and overall user experience. Whether you're a student, a commuter, or a traveller, understanding the importance of materials can help you make an informed choice when selecting a backpack that fits your needs.
RPET, or recycled polyethylene terephthalate, is a sustainable material made from recycled plastic bottles. At Kapten and Son, using RPET in our backpacks is a key part of our commitment to reducing environmental impact. By repurposing waste, RPET not only helps conserve resources but also reduces landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
The abbreviation rPET stands for recycled polyethylene terephthalate, a material made from old plastic bottles. While the plastic itself is originally derived from oil, a non-renewable resource with a polluting extraction process, using recycled plastic bottles means that no new plastic is processed, making it much more resource-efficient. rPET is particularly robust and durable. On average, 20.5 plastic bottles are recycled to produce one backpack (based on 2021 data).
PU Polyurethane (PU) is a robust, wear- and water-resistant plastic material, making it ideal for our durable backpacks. Compared to coarser textiles, PU absorbs less dirt and is easy to clean. However, PU is derived from oil, a non-renewable resource. Unlike PVC and PFC, which are highly harmful due to dioxin and toxic chlorine used in their production, PU has a relatively lower environmental impact.
Honeycomb ripstop rPET coated with thick TPU on the surface is perfect for your backpacks, combining the durability of ripstop fabric with enhanced protection from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The honeycomb structure increases tear resistance, helping prevent damage from occurring and stopping it from spreading. The rPET base increases sustainability by utilizing recycled materials, while the TPU coating adds superior resistance to wear and moisture, making the material highly durable and easy to maintain. This combination provides a lightweight yet rugged material, ideal for ensuring your backpack withstands daily use and harsh conditions.
Honeycomb ripstop rPET is perfect for creating durable and lightweight backpacks. The honeycomb structure reinforces the fabric, offering excellent tear and puncture resistance, helping prevent damage and stopping it from spreading. This material is ideal for users seeking a strong, lightweight backpack that remains durable, making it perfect for both urban and outdoor adventures.
Coated 900D rPET is a high-denier, heavy-duty material that offers excellent durability, making it perfect for backpacks that need to withstand rough conditions. The "900D" thickness ensures strength and resilience against wear and tear, while the coating provides added protection against water, helping to keep the contents of the backpack dry. This material delivers the rugged performance required for long-lasting, high-quality backpacks.