The origins of JanSport date back to 1967, when Murray Pletz, an industrial design student, developed one of the first adjustable aluminium backpack frames. His innovative design won a competition sponsored by the Alcoa Company.

Pletz asked his girlfriend, Jan Lewis, an accomplished seamstress, to sew a backpack that would fit his new frame. He promised that if the business became successful, he would name the company after her. The backpack proved popular, and Pletz kept his promise, giving rise to the name JanSport. Along with outdoor enthusiast Skip Yowell, the three friends officially launched the company.2

Originally, JanSport focused on mountaineering and hiking backpacks. In the early 1970s, students at the University of Washington began using JanSport hiking daypacks to carry textbooks instead of holding books by hand. Recognising this trend, JanSport redesigned its products specifically for students.

This shift led to the creation of one of the company’s most iconic products:

• SuperBreak Backpack

The lightweight nylon backpack became one of the best-selling school backpacks in America and helped establish JanSport as a household name.2

In 1986, JanSport became part of VF Corporation, one of the world’s largest apparel and footwear companies. Under VF Corporation, JanSport expanded globally while maintaining its identity as a backpack-focused brand.1

JanSport manufactures a wide variety of bags, including:

School backpacks

• SuperBreak
• SuperBreak Plus
• Big Student
• Right Pack
• Cross Town
• Cool Student

Laptop backpacks

• Laptop sleeves
• Business backpacks
• Tech-friendly backpacks

Travel bags

• Duffel bags
• Weekender bags
• Carry-on backpacks

Outdoor gear

• Hiking backpacks
• Daypacks
• Hydration-compatible packs

Accessories

• Lunch bags
• Pencil cases
• Waist packs
• Crossbody bags
• Tote bags

JanSport focuses on several core principles:

• Durability
• Simplicity
• Comfortable carrying
• Functional storage
• Everyday usability
• Timeless design

Its products often feature:

• Large main compartments
• Front utility pockets
• Water bottle pockets
• Padded shoulder straps
• Laptop sleeves
• Durable zippers
• High-quality nylon or recycled materials3

One of JanSport’s defining features is its long-standing lifetime warranty on many backpacks. The company states that it will repair or replace eligible products if they fail due to manufacturing defects or normal use covered under the warranty, reinforcing its reputation for durability. Warranty terms can vary by region.2

In recent years, JanSport has increased its focus on sustainability by:

• Using recycled materials in selected products
• Reducing environmental impact in manufacturing
• Incorporating recycled zipper tape and other components
• Continuing efforts to improve product longevity and responsible sourcing3

JanSport supports programmes centred on:

• Community engagement
• Sustainability
• Mental health awareness, including its #LightenTheLoad initiative aimed at connecting young people with mental health resources3

Some of JanSport’s best-known products include:

• SuperBreak – the classic lightweight school backpack.
• Right Pack – recognisable by its suede leather bottom.
• Big Student – larger-capacity backpack with multiple compartments.
• Cool Student – designed with laptop storage and organisation features.
• Cross Town – a streamlined everyday backpack.

JanSport is widely recognised for:

• High durability
• Comfortable designs
• Classic styling
• Strong warranty support
• Popularity among students
• Long-lasting products that often remain in use for many years

The brand has become closely associated with school and campus life, especially in North America, while also maintaining roots in outdoor recreation.1

From a small outdoor startup inspired by an award-winning backpack frame, JanSport has evolved into one of the world’s most recognisable backpack brands. Its blend of practical design, durable construction, and iconic models like the SuperBreak has made it a staple for students, travellers, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts for more than five decades.2

1. JanSport
2. History | Jansport Philippines
3. About Us – JanSport US