The RiutBag R15, pronounced "riot bag", is a unique design that has redefined the concept of a backpack. The design has been rotated 180 degrees to place all access points against the user's back, a significant departure from conventional backpacks where the person behind can access the bag's contents better than the user. This unique feature has been designed keeping in mind the densely packed urban environments and the increasing reliance on technology, which often results in backpacks being filled with expensive tech gadgets.
The RiutBag R15 is not just about security, it's about comfort and convenience too. The backpack is handmade by expert backpack stitchers using high-quality materials like 1000D waterproof black Cordura, thermoplastic polyurethane, YKK zips, and 2mm Lycra for the laptop holder. The bag is designed to be lightweight, weighing just 1.2 kg, and has a capacity of 15 litres. It can comfortably hold a laptop of up to 15 inches.
The RiutBag R15 is designed for ease of use. The bag is worn on both shoulders and uses the user's back to protect access. It features fold-away straps with "invisible strap lengths" via elastic attachment. The in-built laptop compartment is well cushioned and the inner pockets are designed to store tech, cables, and documents. The 15-litre body opens suitcase style, and the top pocket is designed to hold a wallet, phone, and passport. Zipped strap ticket pockets provide access to tickets on the go, and outer bottle and umbrella holders offer quick access to these replaceable items.
The design of the RiutBag R15 is a result of extensive user-led research. The designer, a regular backpack user herself, sought the opinions of other commuters on social media and used their feedback to refine the design. The first prototype of the bag was crowdfunded on Kickstarter and the feedback from the first 1000 users was used to power two new RiutBag models, the R10 and R15. The design process is ongoing, with new models being released every year based on user feedback.
The RiutBag R15 is not just a product, it's a solution to a problem faced by urban commuters. It's a testament to the power of user-led design and a shining example of how a simple idea can be transformed into a revolutionary product. The RiutBag R15 is more than just a secure laptop backpack, it's a new way of thinking about urban travel.
Project Designers: Sarah Giblin
Image Credits: RiutBag photos: Jasper White, photographer
Photos of Sarah Giblin: Graham Flack, photographer
Project Team Members: Sarah Giblin
Project Name: RiutBag R15
Project Client: Sarah Giblin