The Pickwick is a versatile canvas roll-top backpack whose design complements the ease that epitomises a urban journey by bicycle. Made from water-resistant cotton and genuine Brooks leather trim, the Pickwick has been designed by André Klauser in London and is manufactured in the hills of Tuscany by Italian artisans. The backpack features one secret pocket and one extra compartment, both hidden on the back of the bag, completed with waterproof zips.

The pockets and roll-top system close toward your back, maintaining a sleek appearance while keeping your belongings to safe. This spring, we were excited to see the Pickwick Backpack from Brooks of England coming to the states. Understated and undeniably cool, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on one.

The body of the bag is comprised of treated canvas while the tabs are made of Brooks signature leather. This particular bag shows the color Mud Grey. The straps are made from soft webbing that’s nicely compliant, even with a heavy load on your back. As with all their bags, Brooks nails the hardware with branded alloy fasteners. At the base of the pack, you can see one of the secret pockets. These pockets are an unexpected twist: They’re waterproof. We expect this echelon of technology on an Arc’teryx alpine shell, not a Brooks backpack– even though it’s fully advertised in the description. All the same, it’s a welcome surprise given that if you’re stashing items in a secret recess, it’s likely they’re important and warrant a bit of extra protection (wallet, cell phone, passport, etc.).

The Pickwick presents with some decidedly strong features, including:

– Durable, treated canvas exterior
– Leather details that live up to any Brooks saddle or full leather bag
– Lightweight, stamped alloy fasteners that avoid cheap/ugly buckles
– Practical waterproof zippers without losing that old-world ethos
– A practical overall capacity for daily use

width: 31,5 cm
height: 49-58 cm

designer: andre klauser
producer: brooks
materials: water-resistant cotton, leather.
period: 2013