Herschel Supply Co. was founded in 2009 by brothers Jamie and Lyndon Cormack. The company takes its name from the small village of Herschel, Saskatchewan, where three generations of the Cormack family were raised. According to the founders, the town symbolizes creativity, freedom, and exploration, values that continue to shape the brand’s identity. [1]

Although inspired by its family roots in Saskatchewan, Herschel established its headquarters in Vancouver, British Columbia, a city known for its outdoor culture and design community. [2]

The company entered the market during a period when many backpacks emphasized either technical outdoor performance or luxury fashion. Herschel positioned itself between those segments by offering stylish, functional products at accessible prices.

Herschel’s philosophy centers around creating products that balance:

• Timeless design

• Everyday functionality

• Quality craftsmanship

• Simplicity

• Travel-inspired lifestyles

The brand promotes the idea of “travel everywhere, travel often,” encouraging exploration in both everyday life and longer journeys. [2]

Herschel manufactures a wide variety of products, including:

Backpacks

The company’s signature category includes models such as:

• Little America Backpack

• Heritage Backpack

• Classic Backpack

• Retreat Backpack

• Pop Quiz Backpack

• Kaslo Backpack

These are designed for students, commuters, travelers, and professionals.

Travel Collection

• Carry-on luggage

• Checked luggage

• Duffel bags

• Weekenders

• Packing cubes

• Travel organizers

Everyday Accessories

• Wallets

• Hip packs

• Tote bags

• Crossbody bags

• Laptop sleeves

• Pouches

• Passport holders

Apparel

In recent years, Herschel has expanded into clothing and accessories, including:

• Jackets

• Hoodies

• T-shirts

• Caps

• Beanies

• Socks

Herschel products are known for several recognizable features:

• Clean, minimalist appearance

• Classic silhouettes

• Neutral and seasonal color palettes

• Signature striped interior liners (on many models)

• Woven Herschel logo patch

• Leather or rubber zipper pulls (depending on model)

• Laptop compartments

• Magnetic strap details on selected backpacks

Their design language blends vintage mountaineering influences with contemporary urban style.

Depending on the collection, Herschel uses:

• Recycled polyester

• Ballistic nylon

• Ripstop fabrics

• Canvas

• Vegan leather details

• Water-resistant coatings

• Polycarbonate shells (for luggage)

The company has increasingly incorporated recycled materials into many product lines as part of its sustainability efforts. [2]

Herschel has introduced initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact, including:

• Greater use of recycled fabrics

• More sustainable packaging

• Longer-lasting product design

• Responsible sourcing practices

The company states that it continues working to reduce its environmental footprint while maintaining product durability.

Most Herschel bags and accessories are covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. The warranty does not generally cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or accidental damage. [4]

Since its launch, Herschel has expanded into more than 90 countries through:

• Official retail stores

• Department stores

• Lifestyle boutiques

• Sporting goods retailers

• Online marketplaces

• Regional distributors

Its products are particularly popular in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Herschel has released limited-edition collections with a range of well-known brands and franchises, including:

• LEGO®

• Coca-Cola

• Disney

• Hello Kitty

• NASA

• New Balance

• Thrasher

• Basquiat

• Heinz

These collaborations often reinterpret Herschel’s classic bags and luggage with exclusive graphics, colors, and branding. [2]

Some of Herschel’s best-known products include:

• Little America Backpack

• Heritage Backpack

• Classic XL Backpack

• Retreat Backpack

• Pop Quiz Backpack

• Novel Duffel

• Heritage Hardshell Luggage

• Kaslo Backpack

These collections remain among the brand’s flagship offerings.

Herschel primarily appeals to:

• Students

• Young professionals

• Travelers

• Urban commuters

• Creative professionals

• Casual outdoor enthusiasts

The brand emphasizes lifestyle versatility over highly specialized technical outdoor gear.

Herschel is widely recognized for:

Strengths

• Distinctive minimalist design

• Comfortable everyday carry

• Broad product range

• Strong brand identity

• Accessible premium pricing

Common Criticisms

• Some users feel durability is lower than that of technical backpack brands designed for heavy-duty use.

• Certain fashion-focused designs prioritize aesthetics over advanced organizational features. Community discussions reflect a mix of positive and critical experiences, with opinions varying by product line and usage. [5]

Since its founding in 2009, Herschel Supply Co. has grown from a startup focused on backpacks into a globally recognized lifestyle brand. Its combination of classic design, everyday practicality, and travel-inspired branding has made it a prominent name in the backpacks and travel accessories market, with products used by students, commuters, and travelers around the world.

1. About Us | Herschel Supply Co. Philippines

2. About Us – Herschel Supply Co. USA

3. About | Herschel Supply Company

4. How I Built This: Herschel Supply Co