FAQs: Frequently asked questions about our Backpack »Wyatt« CAN I TAKE THE BACKPACK "WYATT," NAVY-BLUE, ON THE AIRPLANE? This backpack meets the dimensions required by common airlines and IATA standards. The backpack is the ideal carry-on luggage for nearly any mode of transportation. IS THE BACKPACK "WYATT," NAVY-BLUE, STRUCTURALLY STABLE OR RATHER SOFT? Our canvas backpack, known as the Backpack "Wyatt," falls under the category of soft luggage and is partially made from soft Navy-Blue cotton canvas. As a result, the shape may change slightly based on its contents. The advantage is that this vintage backpack can be easily stored if not needed. We intentionally avoid using plastic lamination in our bags, which is required for a rigid structure. IS THE CANVAS BACKPACK "WYATT," NAVY-BLUE, WATERPROOF OR WATER-RESISTANT? The backpack, made from canvas and leather, is designed in the style of classic mountain or hunting backpacks from the 19th century. To maintain authenticity, we use materials similar to those available 100 years ago and strive to minimize the use of plastics and chemicals. Unfortunately, our canvas backpack is neither waterproof nor water-resistant in its standard configuration. However, a brief rain shower should not affect our bags. Alternatively, the backpack can be treated with water repellent. CAN THE BACKPACK "WYATT," NAVY-BLUE, BE MADE WATERPROOF AFTER PURCHASE? The backpack can be effectively treated with a commercially available, colorless water-repellent spray (e.g., Imprägnol). Alternatively, you can use a water-repellent wax (e.g., Dr. Gee's water-repellent wax). Keep in mind that this treatment may alter the color and texture of the bag. It's best to test the water repellency on the back side of the backpack. HOW CAN I CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE BACKPACK "WYATT," NAVY-BLUE? We believe that a backpack with a vintage design should be allowed to show signs of its intensive use. That's how it should be. However, if you still feel the need to clean your bag, we recommend three steps: Clean the backpack from dust and dirt particles, for example, using a brush or a handheld vacuum cleaner. Gently dab and rub stains with a clean, damp cloth. If the stains are stubborn, you can try a mild soapy solution. Periodically apply a light layer of leather conditioner (e.g., beeswax or carnauba wax). Be careful not to apply it to the canvas to avoid stains. WHAT LEATHER IS USED FOR THE BACKPACK "WYATT," NAVY-BLUE? For the backpack, we exclusively use vegetable-tanned and full-grain buffalo leather. This exceptionally robust leather originates from India. During production, our leather is additionally treated by hand with a colored wax based on carnauba, resulting in its distinctive vintage patina. It perfectly complements our cotton canvas. WHERE AND HOW IS THE BACKPACK "WYATT," NAVY-BLUE, MANUFACTURED? Our goods are manufactured in India. Our factory is a small family business where longstanding employees craft our bags with passion and dedication. Over time, our long-term collaboration has evolved into a genuine friendship. The production conditions are socially responsible and meet BSCI standards. We personally verify this regularly. Our leather and cotton fabrics are locally sourced in India. When dyeing our cotton fabrics, we exclusively use dyes that are free from AZO colorants. Our leather is fundamentally vegetable-tanned, meaning it is based on plant extracts and devoid of aggressive tanning agents. Our standards are socially and environmentally acceptable, surpassing average expectations. However, we are committed to continuously improving our ecological and social footprint. OUR LEATHER PRODUCTION IS LWG CERTIFIED Our leather tannery is certified to the LWG standard and we use only vegetable tanning agents for tanning. The Leather Working Group (LWG) is an initiative to make conditions in tanneries and intermediaries more transparent and to bring about sustainable change. To implement its goals, the Leather Working Group has developed an audit protocol for sustainable and responsible leather production.