Bluelounge does a great job of creating innovative products that are both useful and impressive; their line of bags is no exception. The Bluelounge Eco-Friendly Backpack is made from post-consumer PET plastic bottles. In the hands of Bluelounge waste becomes a practical and unusual backpack for under $160. Here’s a look…
We spent time at the company booth during CES 2014 this past January, and we were impressed not only by the products themselves but by the thought and the attention to detail that goes into each and every one of them. We were also impressed by the depth and breadth of the various products they offer. For example, they had a really interesting desk on display but they also sell power accessories such as the Sanctuary 4 we reviewed a few months ago. They have a small adapter cables as well as a variety of bags. And all of the products are designed by one individual. It’s clear that Bluelounge is a labor of love and a wonderful artistic expression opportunity for the creative mind behind the company.
In the case of the Bluelounge Eco-Friendly Backpack, it, along with the other bags in the company’s lineup, were hanging on the wall. The soft interesting material for which the bags were made caught my eye and it was only after taking a closer look at the bags that I realized they were made from recycled plastic. Now taking plastic bottles and reusing them is nothing out of the ordinary, but taking plastic bottles and reusing them in a matter that you don’t even realize you’re using something recycled is an accomplishment, and the company was able to achieve just that. And while this backpack looks unlike any other backpack we’ve seen, once I began using it I quickly realized that this was, thankfully, not an example of form over function. No, this unusual bag is quite practical and is terrific for anyone who needs to carry a laptop, a tablet and an assortment of different gear.
Our new line of bags fuses urban design with superior craftsmanship. Our bags will transport your gear for years to come without ever cramping your style. Bluelounge has covered every detail to provide comprehensive functionality for commuters on the go. Made out of 100% recycled PET bottles, the soft matte-finish fabric has a natural feel that is gadget—and earth—friendly. Our exceptional aluminum quick-release buckles provide easy access and ensure a custom fit. The supple interior lining provides protection for all of your tech essentials. The design and details of each bag maintain the highest level of convenience, without ever forgetting the importance of form.
Bluelounge explains the process they go through to convert plastic bottles into awesome bags. The bottles are first turned into fiber that is, in turn, woven into the material used to create the various bags.
- Step 1. Post-consumer PET bottles are collected, sorted and cleaned.
- Step 2. The bottles are crushed, shredded, dried and melted into a hot liquid.
- Step 3. The recycled PET liquid is extruded into long strands, cooled, spun, and then spooled.
- Step 4. The resulting fiber is woven into highly durable fabrics.
- Step 5. A bag gets built and become “an environmentally-friendly fashion statement”.
The backpack, and all of Bluelounge’s bags, reflect the company’s attention to detail. The hardware, for example, is made from custom aluminum buckles, carabiners and quick-release levers. In addition, since the bags are made from reprocessed plastic bottles, the tightly woven material creates a bag that is both durable and waterproof. In addition both the interior and exterior surfaces of the bag are coated in order to add an additional layer of moisture resistance. The bag may look light and delicate, but it is built to stand up to anything you, or the elements, can throw at it.
Each bag features:
- A large capacity main compartment with custom padded laptop area
- The ability to fit up to 17″ MacBook Pro
- A padded neoprene iPad sleeve
- An extra large front pocket for easy access
- A hidden side pocket
- Ergonomic shoulder straps
- A quick release buckles
- Heavy-duty aluminum hardware
- A custom designed carabiner
- A roll top or fold over closure
- Fabric Made of 100% recycled PET plastic bottles
Video Review of the Bluelounge Eco-Friendly Backpack
The bags come in three colors: Grey, Rust and Black. Each looks great and promises to hold up well to serious use and abuse.
I like the Bluelounge echo friendly backpack. The material used in its creation looks like quality linen, but it is actually recycled plastic, and that makes me smile. The bag offers plenty of organization without feeling overly busy, and it has a unique style that message stand out. That style isn’t particularly my personal aesthetic, so I don’t necessarily see myself carrying this bag on a regular basis. I do, however, highly recommended for anyone who is drawn to its unusual look. It is a quality bag that you can feel good about carrying.
MSRP: $159
What I Like: Made from recycled bottles; Tough and waterproof; Holds a laptop, tablet and tons of gear; Comfortable; Enough organization but not too much; Spacious
What Needs Improvement: Not inexpensive; Design won’t appeal to everyone
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample of the Bluelounge Eco-Friendly Backpack