Brothers Jamie and Lyndon Cormack founded Herschel Supply Co. in 2009. The brand derives its name from the small village of Herschel, Saskatchewan, where three generations of the Cormack family were raised. According to the founders, this town symbolises creativity, freedom, and exploration—values that continue to define the brand’s identity.1

While inspired by family roots in Saskatchewan, Herschel established its headquarters in Vancouver, British Columbia, a city renowned for its outdoor culture and design community.2 The company entered the market at a time when backpacks typically fell into two distinct categories: technical outdoor performance gear or luxury fashion items. Herschel positioned itself between these segments by offering stylish, functional products at accessible price points.

Herschel’s design philosophy focuses on balancing timeless aesthetics with practical utility. Core tenets include:

• Timeless design
• Everyday functionality
• Quality craftsmanship
• Simplicity
• Travel-inspired lifestyles

The brand promotes an ethos of “travel everywhere, travel often,” encouraging exploration in both daily routines and longer journeys.2

Herschel manufactures a diverse range of products across several key categories.

Backpacks

As the company’s signature category, backpacks are designed for students, commuters, travellers, and professionals. Notable models include:

• Little America Backpack
• Heritage Backpack
• Classic Backpack
• Retreat Backpack
• Pop Quiz Backpack
• Kaslo Backpack

Travel Collection

The travel line encompasses gear for short trips and extended journeys:

• Carry-on luggage
• Checked luggage
• Duffel bags
• Weekenders
• Packing cubes
• Travel organisers

Everyday Accessories

Herschel produces various accessories for daily use:

• Wallets
• Hip packs
• Tote bags
• Crossbody bags
• Laptop sleeves
• Pouches
• Passport holders

Apparel

In recent years, the brand has expanded into clothing and wearable accessories, including:

• Jackets
• Hoodies
• T-shirts
• Caps
• Beanies
• Socks

Herschel products are distinguished by several recognisable features that blend vintage mountaineering influences with contemporary urban style:

• Clean, minimalist appearance
• Classic silhouettes
• Neutral and seasonal colour palettes
• Signature striped interior liners (on many models)
• Woven Herschel logo patch
• Leather or rubber zipper pulls (depending on model)
• Dedicated laptop compartments
• Magnetic strap details on selected backpacks

Material selection varies by collection, with options including:

• Recycled polyester
• Ballistic nylon
• Ripstop fabrics
• Canvas
• Vegan leather details
• Water-resistant coatings
• Polycarbonate shells (for luggage)

As part of its sustainability efforts, the company has increasingly incorporated recycled materials into many product lines.2

Herschel has introduced initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact. These include greater use of recycled fabrics, more sustainable packaging, longer-lasting product design, and responsible sourcing practices. The company states that it continues working to reduce its environmental footprint while maintaining product durability.3

Most Herschel bags and accessories are covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. This warranty generally does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or accidental damage.4

Since its launch, Herschel has expanded into more than 90 countries through official retail stores, department stores, lifestyle boutiques, sporting goods retailers, online marketplaces, and regional distributors. Its products are particularly popular in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.3

Herschel has released limited-edition collections with numerous well-known brands and franchises, often reinterpreting classic bags and luggage with exclusive graphics, colours, and branding.2 Partners have included:

• LEGO®
• Coca-Cola
• Disney
• Hello Kitty
• NASA
• New Balance
• Thrasher
• Basquiat
• Heinz

Several collections remain among the brand’s flagship offerings:

• Little America Backpack
• Heritage Backpack
• Classic XL Backpack
• Retreat Backpack
• Pop Quiz Backpack
• Novel Duffel
• Heritage Hardshell Luggage
• Kaslo Backpack

Herschel primarily appeals to students, young professionals, travellers, urban commuters, creative professionals, and casual outdoor enthusiasts. The brand emphasises lifestyle versatility rather than highly specialised technical outdoor gear.

Strengths

Herschel is widely recognised for its distinctive minimalist design, comfortable everyday carry, broad product range, strong brand identity, and accessible premium pricing.

Common Criticisms

Some users note that durability may be lower compared to technical backpack brands designed for heavy-duty use. Additionally, certain fashion-focused designs are perceived to prioritise aesthetics over advanced organisational features. Community discussions reflect a mix of positive and critical experiences, with opinions varying significantly by product line and intended usage.5

Since its founding in 2009, Herschel Supply Co. has grown from a startup focused on backpacks into a globally recognised lifestyle brand. Its combination of classic design, everyday practicality, and travel-inspired branding has made it a prominent name in the backpacks and travel accessories market, with products used by students, commuters, and travellers around the world.3

1. About Us | Herschel Supply Co. Philippines
2. About Us – Herschel Supply Co. USA
3. About Us | Herschel Supply Co.
4. About | Herschel Supply Company
5. How I Built This: Herschel Supply Co