The Latest Trend That's Packing A Punch And Will Keep You Fit
Most of us cringe at the thought of walking around with them, they remind us of those all too geeky school days, the heavy library books, the chafing Nylon and for the small percentage of people that do use them, it’s generally just for the gym and is accompanied by envious stares and exasperated groans from onlookers (i.e giving the death stare to the “look at me bouncing around looking all beautiful post workout” people that like to wear their trademarked gym bags like a badge of honour).
So hearing that the ye’ old faithful Rucksack is back in fashion may naturally lead you to belt out screams of horror or have visions of adults bounding the high-streets looking more ‘Back-2-Skool’ than Retro-Cool, but fear not fellow fashionistas, this is one trend worth holding on to. Whether you are getting ready for a holiday, gap year, preparing for University or simply want to look fantastic sporting this seasons boldest comeback, the Rucksack is packing an almighty punch in the fashion stakes and guess what? It’s good for your health too.
Rucksacks Are Back!
Check out these star finds for inspiration.
The Filson Rucksack
The Filson Rucksack
Favoured by acting royalty Maggie Gyllenhaal. Well if it’s good enough for Maggie…
The Coitman Backpack – Jack Wills
Preppy university outfitters, JW are spot on with this sporty canvas/leather number. We especially love their uniform patriotism.
The Topshop Small Leather Rucksack
Rucksacks don’t get much cuter then Topshop’s 100% leather mini, it’s a bitsized beauty
SS10 Burberry Rucksack
Okay so it is slightly older season, but we love it any way. Kudos to Burberry for being hot off the mark with this soft canvas bag
ASOS Floral Rucksack
There is nothing like a bit of floral to brighten up these unpredictable weather conditions. This ASOS rucksack is A Class
AND FOR THE BOYS?
We’re loving this canvas leather look rucksack from ASOS for boys and we might just pinch it for ourselves
**SAY NO TO NYLON**
We’re not saying that all Nylon rucksacks are bad, but unless Urkel is the look you are going for, we recommend the uber combo' of Canvas and Leather.
SAVE YOUR BACK AND YOUR POCKET: 5 REASONS TO SWAP YOUR TOTE FOR YOUR RUCKSACK
Two straps are better than one: Evening out the weight of your bag on to your back and both shoulders prevents the horrid aches and muscle knotting, as your abdominal muscles help balance the body and the weight and you are not pulling down on one shoulder like you would from carrying the weight on one arm*
It helps prevent arthritis: Carrying a heavy bag in your hand puts a massive strain on your wrist and carrying it on the lower arm puts strain on your elbow joint, both can cause arthritis over a period of time
You will be safer on the road: Wearing a backpack whilst cycling is much safer than having a bag in the bicycle basket
You will be saving money: The balanced weight distribution means that equal amounts of weight will be on each strap which means that it takes longer for the straps to wear out and you wont have to replace it as often; unlike traditional handbags, totes, shoulder bags et al that have one or two small straps that take the whole weight of the bag.
A rucksack is STILL cheaper than most handbags and better quality. A standard canvas rucksack is, on average, the same price or less than a standard Polyurethane handbag of the same size.
*Be sure to have your rucksack/backpack properly fitted or test it out before you purchase it to make sure it is the right size for you. You should also never overfill rucksacks and make them too heavy.
For expert advice on how to wear bags in order to keep your back healthy please visit: Backpainexpert.co.uk
Words By Rahsian Parris
