A name you may not have heard of in the world of Made in USA products is Tom Bihn. The eponymous company has been making bags for over 20 years in Seattle and has developed quite the niche- heavy duty yet lightweight bags designed to protect your gear from here to there.
The company motto is "Siquid mantica non capit, domi relinquendum est."
Translation: If it doesn't fit in your knapsack, leave it behind.
And man their bags fit a lot. This Tom Bihn video about their flagship "Empire Builder" bag really helps you get to know the product.
What makes a Tom Bihn bag worthy of your consideration? Sturdy construction, ridiculous configuration options (check out the attachable "Brain Cell" and "Packing Cube" add-ons to start) and a complete and thoughtful lineup in a variety of colors including: Laptop Bags
Messenger Bags
Briefcases
Backpacks
Travel bags
Accessories
Typical materials you find across the lines include exteriors made of U.S. 500 denier Cordura, 1050 denier Ballistic nylon with twice the abrasion resistance of 1680 denier fabric, and #10 YKK Uretech splash-proof zippers on main compartments and exterior pockets.
Maybe not the most sophisticated-looking bags you can have in your carryall lineup, but you cannot deny the quality, functionality and sporty aesthetic. A couple pictures of Tom Bihn goods:
Oh, and don't forget that little American flag they can proudly wave because they are all Made in the USA!
For more on Tom Bihn, visit:
