Herschel, the backpack from Vancouver

A family brand born in Western Canada

Herschel Supply was launched in 2009 in Vancouver, on Canada’s Pacific coast, by brothers Jamie and Lyndon Cormack. They chose the name of a village in the Prairies of Saskatchewan, where their family had settled and where three generations lived, to name it. The initial idea was to reinterpret old hiking and travel bags, with robust fabric, flaps, and leather-like straps, for urban use. The brand then expanded to include travel bags, luggage, and small accessories, all while keeping the same retro look and a palette of understated colours that are easy to wear every day.

Flap bag or zip bag: two ways to store

Herschel backpacks are divided into two main families. The flap models, secured with magnetic snap buckles, often hide a drawstring in the main compartment: the contents are better protected from rain and prying eyes, but you have to lift the flap each time you open it. The zippered models, without flaps, open with a single motion and suit those who frequently access their belongings, whether in class or during commutes. In both cases, the padded laptop sleeve is against the back, and a front pocket holds keys, headphones, and a charger to avoid rummaging through the main compartment.

Travel bags and accessories for commuting

For a weekend or a short flight, the travel bags Herschel follow the style of backpacks: sturdy fabric, contrasting straps, and lined interiors. Some have a side compartment for shoes, separating them from clean clothes, and a removable shoulder strap for hands-free convenience. Small accessories, such as toiletry bags, pouches, and wallets, complete the set and help organise the interior of the bag by purpose. Before flying, check the dimensions listed on the specifications: airlines limit the size of cabin luggage, and an overstuffed soft bag can exceed the allowed size at boarding.

Other lifestyle brands

Other brands of bags and accessories, Eastpak, Rains, The North Face, New Era, Urban Classics, adidas, Puma, New Balance, Veja, are gathered on the brands page.

New arrivals and good deals

The new arrivals showcase the latest releases, the promotions feature items at reduced prices, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and sent out within a day. The good deals, clearance, and sales round off the offer.

Frequently asked questions

How to clean a stain on a Herschel bag?

Deal with the stain quickly using a soft brush, cold water, and a drop of mild soap, dabbing rather than rubbing. Rinse with a damp sponge, then let the bag dry open in the air, never in a machine or tumble dryer.

What size of Herschel bag to choose?

A bag of about fifteen litres is enough for a laptop and a few items in the city. Between twenty and twenty-five litres, it accommodates a day’s worth of classes or a change of clothes; beyond that, it becomes a weekend bag.

Are Herschel bags waterproof?

Their fabric withstands light showers, and the flap models offer better protection for the opening. However, they are not waterproof: under heavy rain, place your laptop and documents in a closed pouch.

Is a Herschel backpack suitable for going to the gym?

Yes, for an outfit, a towel, and a water bottle, a model of about twenty litres is sufficient. Place wet items in a separate pouch on the way back to avoid dampening the lining or the rest of the contents.

How to maintain the shape of a canvas bag?

Don’t overload it to the point of straining the seams, and distribute the weight between the pockets. To store it, fill it lightly with paper or a folded garment, flap closed, so it doesn't sag.