Back to school Rains backpacks

The backpack, a flagship item from Rains

Rains was born in 2012 in Aarhus, a city in Jutland where rain is common for much of the year. Its founders, who trained at a Danish design school, wanted to apply Scandinavian minimalist aesthetics to urban life. Their backpacks use the same fabric as their rain jackets, with a matte finish, in solid colours and muted tones that go with everything. Their neat shape, free of obvious logos, has made it a classic for students who get around on foot, by public transport, or by bike.

Rolltop, flap or zip: how the bag stays waterproof

The fabric of Rains bags is a polyester coated with polyurethane, waterproof without a cover, and its seams are welded to stop water from getting in. The weak point remains the opening, point of all bags. The rolltop closure rolls over itself and then clips on the sides: the more you roll it, the better it protects, and it expands on busy days. The flap bag covers the opening with a piece of fabric, and the zipped models use closures that are protected against showers.

Laptop, folders and bike: choosing the right size

Most Rains backpacks feature a padded compartment for laptops, accommodating up to about fifteen inches in the larger sizes: the accepted screen size is listed on each product page. For a high school student, a bag of about twenty litres fits folders, pencil case, and water bottle; mini sizes are suitable for lighter days. When cycling, a bag fitted against the back, with straps tightened and chest strap fastened if the model has one, remains stable in turns and does not unbalance the rider.

Other bag brands

The other brands in the selection, Eastpak, Herschel, Sandqvist, adidas Originals, Reebok, Urban Classics, are gathered on the backpack page for the new school year.

Maintaining a Rains bag from one school year to the next

The coated fabric is easy to clean: a damp sponge and a bit of mild soap will remove ink or mud stains, without a hard brush that could mark the surface, then the bag should be dried open, in the air. The washing machine and tumble dryer should be avoided: heat and friction can crack the coating. To ensure it lasts for several years, avoid leaving it tightly folded or near a radiator, and don’t overload it to the point where you can’t roll the closure anymore.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Rains bag suitable for college?

Yes, for students who carry few textbooks: its volume is moderate and its back is less padded than a traditional school bag. For a very loaded middle school student, a model with a chest strap distributes the weight better across the shoulders.

Are Rains backpacks unisex?

Yes, their shapes and colours are designed for everyone, without a men’s or women’s version. The only difference is the size: mini models suit smaller builds, while larger sizes are for students carrying a laptop.

Can a Rains bag withstand heavy rain?

Its coated fabric and welded seams stop water, and the rolled or covered closure protects the opening. In heavy prolonged rain, make sure to tighten the rolltop and avoid placing the bag in a puddle.

How can I prevent smells in a waterproof bag?

A coated fabric retains moisture inside: empty the bag after a rainy day and let it dry wide open. Never leave a leaking water bottle or wet sports gear at the bottom of the bag.

What colour of Rains bag should I choose for the new school year?

Black, grey, and muted tones go well with all outfits and show fewer marks from daily use. Lighter shades are easier to spot on a bike at the end of the day, but do require more frequent cleaning with a sponge.