JanSport is an American brand renowned for its backpacks and, to a lesser extent, collegiate apparel and outdoor gear.Founded in 1967 in Seattle, Washington, the company has become a globally recognized name, particularly popular among students.
The company was started by Murray Pletz, his then-girlfriend (later wife) Janice "Jan" Lewis (after whom the company is named), and Pletz's cousin Skip Yowell. The initial idea was sparked by a design competition Pletz won for an aluminum flexible-frame backpack. Jan Lewis, an accomplished seamstress, played a crucial role in sewing the early pack designs.
JanSport is credited with several innovations in backpack design.They pioneered the panel-loading daypack, a departure from traditional top-loading packs, which offered easier access to contents.In 1975, they introduced the first convertible travel pack, further showcasing their commitment to versatile and practical designs.
The brand is widely known for the durability of its products, famously backing many of its backpacks with a lifetime warranty. This reputation for quality has contributed to its longstanding success and popularity. While originally focused on outdoor and hiking gear, JanSport backpacks became a ubiquitous sight in school hallways and on college campuses, solidifying their status as a cultural icon for generations of students.
Today, JanSport is the world's largest backpack manufacturer.
