Randoseru by Hideo Wakamatsu

From Tokyo comes this great traditional Japanese backpack (randoseru) by designer Hideo Wakamatsu who believes that "a harmonious blend of style function and value is very important and if these elements are properly balanced then a design will evoke an emotional response to its charm. (I) studiously avoid the marketing-driven (and all-too-common) extremes of normal/gaudy, useless/overbuilt and cheap/costly". Pretty cool. The bright, cherry red color of this bag would make my kids want to go to school even on the weekends. I also love that Hideo's take on the traditional backpack is roomy, lightweight and weather resistant, the last two points due to the fact that the bag is made out of polyeurethane instead of the usual, bulky leather.

Look for it at Hideo Store.