Bergans of Norway
The birth of the modern backpack
Comfortable backpacks in every size and variation are a given today. At the start of the 20th century, however, things looked very different. Frustrated by the discomfort of the load-carrying sacks of the time, Ole F. Bergan – then a bicycle manufacturer, hunter and nature lover – developed a far more comfortable concept. As he often had to haul heavy loads across difficult terrain himself, he built his own carrying frame.
And so, in 1908 the first „backpack“ was born. At first it consisted of a simple wooden frame combined with an attached sack. Improvements soon followed, however, such as a lighter metal frame that could be adjusted in shape and height to fit the individual. By carrying it close to the body, the weight was distributed across different parts of the body. This relief was not only used by Roald Amundsen on his famous expeditions – to this day, this patented concept can still be found in backpacks.
Always well equipped – for over 100 years
Since the company was founded in 1908, Bergans quickly expanded its range. Alongside outdoor equipment such as tents, sleeping bags and canoes, the company is also highly innovative when it comes to outdoor clothing for both winter and summer.
100 years later, Bergans of Norway is one of the leading brands in the production of functional clothing and outdoor equipment. Experience gained through polar expeditions in collaboration with renowned polar explorers and adventurers, together with a deep knowledge of nature, repeatedly leads Bergans to new developments.
Some of the products from back then still exist today and are continually being improved – a testament to the high quality of the products. In doing so, Bergans always relies on a mix of functionality and fashion. As early as the 1980s, a first fashion series for leisure use was developed.
Long live the product!
So that our nature remains just as beautiful for future generations, Bergans commits to certain sustainability standards, true to the guiding principle „Long Live The Product". The idea behind it: a product should stay in use for as long as possible – across the entire journey, from development through manufacturing and transport to daily use and, if it ever becomes necessary, to repair or recycling.
When it comes to materials, Bergans – as a bluesign® system partner – relies on certified fabrics. A great example is Ecodear®: a polyester with a plant-based content that is obtained from molasses – a by-product of the sugar industry that is thus given a second life.
The brand also pays close attention to down. According to its own information, only material that occurs as a by-product of the food industry is used – live plucking and force-feeding are ruled out, and the down is certified to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS). And what has once provided warmth need not be thrown away: through the Re:Down process, Bergans collects used down and returns it to the cycle.
On top of that comes a commitment reaching beyond its own product world – together with organisations such as the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA), Bergans supports concrete nature and environmental conservation projects – read more here.
(Photos: Bergans)
