Herschel vs. Fjällräven: Which brand should you buy? [2026]

Herschel is known for its modern, vintage-inspired backpacks that prioritize style and affordability, making it a go-to for urban commuters and students. In contrast, Fjällräven is a Swedish outdoor brand that focuses on durability, sustainability, and timeless function, building its gear with rugged materials like their signature G-1000 fabric at a higher price point.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right backpack for your lifestyle.

Herschel: The Modern, Vintage-Inspired Staple

Founded in 2009, Herschel quickly became a dominant name in accessible, stylish bags. The brand blends a modern aesthetic with a touch of classic mountaineering nostalgia, resonating with a youthful, fashion-conscious audience. They are designed for daily life - from the college campus to the city office - offering practical features inside a trendy package.

• Product mix: A wide array of backpacks, duffels, tote bags, luggage, and accessories like wallets and hats. Their collections are best known for clean designs, bold colorways, and their signature striped fabric liner.
• Price point: Most of their popular backpacks range from $50 to $150. This accessible price point offers excellent value for a fashionable and functional daily-use bag.
• Quality: Herschel uses durable polyester, nylon, and canvas blends that hold up well to everyday wear and tear. While well-constructed for moderate use, they aren't designed for rugged outdoor expeditions.
• Style: The aesthetic is urban and trendy. With minimalist branding and a wide variety of colors and patterns, these bags are made to complement a casual wardrobe.
• Sizing/Fit: Herschel offers a broad selection of sizes and capacities. Most backpacks feature adjustable padded shoulder straps and multiple compartments for organization.

Herschel is the ideal choice for anyone prioritizing modern style and affordability for their everyday commute, school, or light travel needs.

Shop Herschel: herschel.ca

Fjällräven: The Durable, Sustainable Outdoor Icon

Fjällräven, meaning "Arctic Fox" in Swedish, has been making outdoor gear since 1960. They are leaders in sustainability and are universally recognized for their iconic Kånken backpack. The brand’s philosophy combines durability, functionality, and timeless Scandinavian design, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and eco-conscious shoppers who want gear that lasts a lifetime.

• Product mix: Beyond their famous backpacks, Fjällräven produces a full range of outdoor clothing, tents, and hiking accessories. Every product is built with performance and environmental responsibility in mind.
• Price point: Backpacks typically run from $80 to $250. The higher cost reflects an investment in premium, long-lasting, and sustainably sourced materials.
• Quality: Fjällräven's hallmark is its G-1000 fabric - a dense, waxed cotton/polyester blend that is incredibly tough, breathable, and water-resistant. The build quality, from zippers to stitching, is designed for decades of use.
• Style: The look is understated, functional, and classic. Featuring simple silhouettes, earthy tones, and the distinct circular fox logo, Fjällräven's gear has a timeless, utilitarian appeal.
• Sustainability: The company is built on a foundation of ethical production and environmentalism. They utilize recycled and organic materials, design for repairability to reduce waste, and are transparent about their supply chain.

Fjällräven is for those who need rugged, reliable gear for both outdoor adventures and daily life, and are willing to invest in a product with a strong ethical and sustainable backstory.

Shop Fjällräven: fjallraven.com

Herschel vs. Fjällräven Comparison

Price Comparison

Herschel is the clear winner on budget-friendliness. With most of its popular backpacks priced between $50 and $150, it offers fantastic style for the money, making it an easy choice for students or anyone needing a fashionable bag without a significant investment. You get a lot of design and trend-forward looks for an accessible price.

Fjällräven operates in a more premium category, with their best-selling Kånken starting around $80 and other backpacks reaching over $250. This cost reflects the brand's commitment to superior materials, sustainability, and longevity. A Fjällräven bag is an investment piece, designed to last many years and ultimately provide better long-term value for those who need a durable product.

Quality & Materials

The difference in materials is a core distinction between the two. Herschel uses industry-standard materials like polyester and nylon, similar to what you'd find in other lifestyle backpack brands. They are robust enough for daily commuting, carrying laptops, and weekend trips but may show wear more quickly with heavy, consistent use.

Fjällräven builds its bags for resilience. Their proprietary G-1000 fabric is a signature element that sets them apart. It's a tightly woven blend that can be waxed for increased water resistance and is known for its ability to withstand abrasion and harsh conditions. Fjällräven's focus is on creating gear that endures, making it suitable for both rough outdoor use and demanding daily urban life.

Style & Aesthetic

Herschel's appeal is rooted in contemporary, urban fashion. Their designs are clean, versatile, and often feature bold pops of color or modern patterns. It's the kind of backpack that complements a streetwear-inspired outfit and fits perfectly in a creative office or college classroom - a true fashion accessory.

Fjällräven exudes a utilitarian and timeless Scandinavian minimalism. Their backpacks, particularly the Kånken, are iconic for their simple, boxy shape and array of muted, outdoorsy colors. The aesthetic is less about following trends and more about classic, functional design that looks natural whether you're on a trail or a subway.

Fit & Sizing

Both brands offer a wide variety of sizes. Herschel's backpacks often include features like dedicated laptop sleeves and media pockets, with well-padded straps designed for the weight of books and electronics. Their fits are straightforward and comfortable for typical daily loads.

Fjällräven prioritizes ergonomics, even in their lifestyle bags. The Kånken was originally designed to prevent back problems in Swedish schoolchildren, featuring a simple, effective strap system. Their more technical packs include advanced adjustments and padding for comfort during long hikes or extended wear. They offer many of their popular models in multiple sizes (e.g., Kånken Mini, Classic), ensuring a proper fit for different body types and needs.

Sustainability & Ethics

This is where Fjällräven truly shines. Sustainability is embedded in the brand's DNA. They are committed to using recycled and organic materials, PFC-free water repellents, and ensuring ethical treatment of animals. Moreover, they design their products to be repaired rather than replaced, extending their lifecycle and reducing environmental impact.

Herschel has started to take steps toward incorporating more eco-friendly materials and practices. However, this is more of an emerging initiative rather than a core tenet of the brand. For consumers who prioritize environmental and ethical considerations above all else, Fjällräven is the definitive choice.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to your primary needs, budget, and personal style. Both brands make excellent products, but they are built for different shoppers.

Choose Herschel if:

• Your priority is a trendy, modern style that fits an urban lifestyle.
• You are on a budget and want a great-looking bag for school, work, or daily use.
• You need a practical backpack with features like laptop sleeves and organizational pockets.
• You enjoy having a wide variety of colors and patterns to express your personal style.

Choose Fjällräven if:

• You need a highly durable backpack that can handle outdoor use as well as city life.
• Sustainability and ethical manufacturing are important factors in your purchasing decisions.
• You admire a timeless, minimalist aesthetic over following seasonal trends.
• You are willing to invest more for a product that is built to last for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Herschel or Fjällräven cheaper?

Herschel is significantly cheaper. Their backpacks generally fall into the $50-$150 range, while Fjällräven's start around $80 and can go up to $250 or more for technical models.

Which brand is more durable?

Fjällräven is more durable. Its reliance on tough materials like G-1000 waxed fabric and reinforced construction makes it suitable for both rugged outdoor conditions and years of demanding daily use.

Is the Fjällräven Kånken worth it?

For most people, yes. While it carries a premium price, the Kånken is exceptionally durable, has a timeless look that never goes out of style, and is made by a company with strong ethical standards. It is an investment in a bag that can last for a decade or longer.

Are Herschel bags waterproof?

Herschel bags are water-resistant, meaning they can handle light rain or minor splashes. However, they are not fully waterproof and their contents can get wet in a downpour.

Which brand is better for hiking?

Fjällräven is the superior choice for hiking. The brand is specifically designed for outdoor activities, offering durable materials, ergonomic support, and features tailored to trail use.

Which brand is better for school or work?

Either brand works well, so it comes down to preference. Herschel is a popular choice for its modern style and dedicated laptop sleeves. However, the Fjällräven Kånken is also a favorite among students and professionals for its simple design and durability.

Can you wax a Herschel bag?

No, it's not recommended. Herschel bags are typically made from polyester or nylon, which are not designed to absorb wax. Applying wax could damage the fabric. This treatment is intended for materials like Fjällräven's G-1000.

What does the Fjällräven logo mean?

The Fjällräven logo is an Arctic Fox. This is not only a nod to the brand's Scandinavian roots but also part of its mission, as Fjällräven actively supports conservation efforts to protect this endangered animal.