The Rucksack in brown full grain leather, front view with buckled flap, drawstring and side pockets
Video thumbnail
The Rucksack, back view with leather shoulder straps, mesh back panel and buckled side pocket
Close-up of the debossed James Redwood logo above the drawstring toggle on The Rucksack flap
Close-up of an engraved James Redwood stainless steel strap adjuster on The Rucksack mesh back
Close-up of The Rucksack stainless steel buckles and stitched leather flap straps
Close-up of The Rucksack flap with debossed James Redwood logo, drawstring toggle and buckle
Close-up of The Rucksack stitched leather top handle and flap
The Rucksack opened, showing the drawstring top, steel eyelets and magnetic flap clasps
Inside The Rucksack: a laptop in the padded sleeve and a card in the leather slip pocket
Inside The Rucksack: zipped pocket, sunglasses, a leather wallet and a passport in the cotton twill lining
The Rucksack side pocket holding a phone, with keys on the key clip
The Rucksack on a black suitcase, its luggage sleeve over the suitcase handle

The Rucksack

The Rucksack

4.8/5 from 1,637 reviews

Regular price $979.00
Regular price Sale price $979.00
Graduation Sale Sold out

“Pieces that age like a fine wine—gaining more character over time.”

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Italian vegetable tanned full grain leather
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Signature stainless steel hardware
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Padded sleeve fits up to 16" laptops
In stock - Low stock

Size Guide

Size Guide

Fast & Free Delivery

Please note the date displayed here is for delivery of this item to the contiguous US.

Every JAMES REDWOOD order ships complimentary from our warehouse in Missouri. 

There are no tariffs, import duties or unexpected charges on delivery.

We also ship to Canada and the UK. Delivery times vary slightly by location. Read full shipping policy.

100% Secure Checkout

Your payment is fully encrypted and processed securely. We never store your card details, and all transactions are protected using industry-standard security protocols.

Easy 30 Day Returns & Exchanges

If you’re not 100% satisfied, you’ve got a full 30 days from your order date to return or exchange your item. We offer full refunds or easy exchanges, and our expert team is happy to recommend something better suited if needed. Items must be unused and in original condition and packaging. Read full returns policy.

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Description
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Delivery
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The Rucksack combines the character of a traditional leather backpack with the practicality required the modern journey. Its distinctive buckle detailing and spacious design make it a refined companion for weekends away, city breaks and longer adventures.

Crafted from custom Tuscan vegetable tanned leather, it develops a rich, individual patina with age. Stainless steel hardware and substantial 100% cotton twill lining ensure lasting quality throughout.

Three compartments feature concealed magnetic fastenings, preserving the classic buckle appearance while allowing effortless access. A spacious main compartment with a drawstring closure provides room for travel essentials, while a dedicated laptop sleeve, substantial interior organization and two external side pockets keep everything in its place.

Wide, adjustable shoulder straps provide comfort during longer journeys, while a reinforced leather top handle and integrated luggage pass through offers convenient alternatives.

Traditional character, thoughtfully designed for wherever the journey takes you.

Leather defines the character of every JAMES REDWOOD piece. Ours was custom-developed in Tuscany for natural beauty, substantial structure and the ability to grow richer with age.

Leather Specification

  • Origin: Tuscany, Italy
  • Tannery: MPG Conceria
  • Hide: French bovine double shoulder
  • Grain: Full grain
  • Tanning: Vegetable tanned
  • Finish: Aniline
  • Thickness: 2.0-2.2 mm/5-6 oz
  • Certified by: Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather Consortium
  • LWG rating: Gold

Selected for Strength and Character

  • We use substantial 5-6 oz (2.0-2.2 mm) full grain French bovine double shoulder. By retaining the hide’s strongest outer layer rather than sanding it away, full grain leather preserves its strength, texture and distinctive grain.

  • We choose the slower, traditional vegetable tanning method for the structure, depth and exceptional ageing characteristics it gives the leather. Plant-derived tannins create a firm, characterful leather that responds beautifully to handling and use, gradually deepening in colour and developing a distinctive patina.

  • Aniline dyes keep the natural grain visible, while oils and waxes create its smooth, supple hand and rich depth of colour. Natural variations in grain, tone and markings ensure no two pieces age exactly alike.

Made in Tuscany, Italy

  • Our leather was developed with MPG Conceria, a family-run Tuscan tannery established in 1963 and specialising in vegetable tanned bovine leather.

  • Our leather is certified by the Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, whose exacting standards govern Tuscan origin, traditional vegetable tanning and leather quality. 

  • It also holds the Leather Working Group’s highest Gold rating for responsible leather production. Every hide is fully traceable and sourced as a by-product of the food industry, making use of material that might otherwise go to waste.

Every component is selected for strength, longevity and a refined daily experience.

Components

  • Our signature 316 stainless steel hardware is corrosion-resistant, hand-polished and load-tested up to 100 kg.
  • The interior is lined in substantial 100% cotton twill for a soft hand and excellent abrasion resistance.
  • High-strength bonded polyester thread in a matching color is used for exceptional seam strength and abrasion resistance.

Construction

  • Fully turned and finished edges ensure no exposed raw edges remain.
  • A reinforced base adds strength and helps resist crushing.
  • Stainless steel rivets reinforce key stress points, adding strength where the bag carries the greatest load.
  • Structured construction helps the bag stand upright whether empty or full and retain its shape over time.
  • English-point detailing carries the same level of finish through to the smallest details.
  • Dimensions: 13" × 16" × 6.5" (33 × 40.6 × 16.5 cm)
  • Weight: 3.75lb empty (1.7 kg)
  • Capacity: 22L

  • Padded, suspended laptop sleeve fits up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro
  • Three compartments with concealed magnetic fastenings for quick, effortless access
  • Traditional buckle-style detailing with adjustable leather flaps
  • Drawstring closure to secure the spacious main compartment
  • Reinforced leather top handle for easy hand carrying
  • Extra-wide 2.25" padded leather shoulder straps for comfortable weight distribution
  • Adjustable shoulder straps with leather keeper loops to secure excess webbing
  • Breathable, color-matched air mesh on the back panel and underside of both shoulder straps to improve airflow
  • Integrated luggage pass-through secures The Rucksack to a telescopic suitcase handle
  • Sized to fit beneath all airline seats
  • Packaged in a rigid lift-off box with a cotton drawstring dust bag, tissue paper, care card and unique numbered Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium certificate of authenticity card.

Storage

Main Compartment

  • 1x padded laptop sleeve, 11" wide
  • 2x interior slip pockets
  • 1x zippered pocket
  • 1x concealed AirTag pocket
  • 1x business card pocket
  • 1x spacious main compartment

Easy-Access Pockets

  • 2x side pockets for phone and wallet
  • 1x integrated key leash

Shipping

Every JAMES REDWOOD order ships complimentary from our warehouse in Missouri. There are no tariffs, import duties or unexpected charges on delivery. Most orders arrive within 1–5 business days after dispatch, depending on destination. Read shipping policy.

Returns

If your purchase isn’t quite right, we’re happy to accept returns within 30 days of delivery, provided the item is returned in its original condition and packaging. Read returns policy.

Description Toggle

The Rucksack combines the character of a traditional leather backpack with the practicality required the modern journey. Its distinctive buckle detailing and spacious design make it a refined companion for weekends away, city breaks and longer adventures.

Crafted from custom Tuscan vegetable tanned leather, it develops a rich, individual patina with age. Stainless steel hardware and substantial 100% cotton twill lining ensure lasting quality throughout.

Three compartments feature concealed magnetic fastenings, preserving the classic buckle appearance while allowing effortless access. A spacious main compartment with a drawstring closure provides room for travel essentials, while a dedicated laptop sleeve, substantial interior organization and two external side pockets keep everything in its place.

Wide, adjustable shoulder straps provide comfort during longer journeys, while a reinforced leather top handle and integrated luggage pass through offers convenient alternatives.

Traditional character, thoughtfully designed for wherever the journey takes you.

Leather Toggle

Leather defines the character of every JAMES REDWOOD piece. Ours was custom-developed in Tuscany for natural beauty, substantial structure and the ability to grow richer with age.

Leather Specification

  • Origin: Tuscany, Italy
  • Tannery: MPG Conceria
  • Hide: French bovine double shoulder
  • Grain: Full grain
  • Tanning: Vegetable tanned
  • Finish: Aniline
  • Thickness: 2.0-2.2 mm/5-6 oz
  • Certified by: Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather Consortium
  • LWG rating: Gold

Selected for Strength and Character

  • We use substantial 5-6 oz (2.0-2.2 mm) full grain French bovine double shoulder. By retaining the hide’s strongest outer layer rather than sanding it away, full grain leather preserves its strength, texture and distinctive grain.

  • We choose the slower, traditional vegetable tanning method for the structure, depth and exceptional ageing characteristics it gives the leather. Plant-derived tannins create a firm, characterful leather that responds beautifully to handling and use, gradually deepening in colour and developing a distinctive patina.

  • Aniline dyes keep the natural grain visible, while oils and waxes create its smooth, supple hand and rich depth of colour. Natural variations in grain, tone and markings ensure no two pieces age exactly alike.

Made in Tuscany, Italy

  • Our leather was developed with MPG Conceria, a family-run Tuscan tannery established in 1963 and specialising in vegetable tanned bovine leather.

  • Our leather is certified by the Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, whose exacting standards govern Tuscan origin, traditional vegetable tanning and leather quality. 

  • It also holds the Leather Working Group’s highest Gold rating for responsible leather production. Every hide is fully traceable and sourced as a by-product of the food industry, making use of material that might otherwise go to waste.

Materials Toggle

Every component is selected for strength, longevity and a refined daily experience.

Components

  • Our signature 316 stainless steel hardware is corrosion-resistant, hand-polished and load-tested up to 100 kg.
  • The interior is lined in substantial 100% cotton twill for a soft hand and excellent abrasion resistance.
  • High-strength bonded polyester thread in a matching color is used for exceptional seam strength and abrasion resistance.

Construction

  • Fully turned and finished edges ensure no exposed raw edges remain.
  • A reinforced base adds strength and helps resist crushing.
  • Stainless steel rivets reinforce key stress points, adding strength where the bag carries the greatest load.
  • Structured construction helps the bag stand upright whether empty or full and retain its shape over time.
  • English-point detailing carries the same level of finish through to the smallest details.
Specifications Toggle
  • Dimensions: 13" × 16" × 6.5" (33 × 40.6 × 16.5 cm)
  • Weight: 3.75lb empty (1.7 kg)
  • Capacity: 22L

  • Padded, suspended laptop sleeve fits up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro
  • Three compartments with concealed magnetic fastenings for quick, effortless access
  • Traditional buckle-style detailing with adjustable leather flaps
  • Drawstring closure to secure the spacious main compartment
  • Reinforced leather top handle for easy hand carrying
  • Extra-wide 2.25" padded leather shoulder straps for comfortable weight distribution
  • Adjustable shoulder straps with leather keeper loops to secure excess webbing
  • Breathable, color-matched air mesh on the back panel and underside of both shoulder straps to improve airflow
  • Integrated luggage pass-through secures The Rucksack to a telescopic suitcase handle
  • Sized to fit beneath all airline seats
  • Packaged in a rigid lift-off box with a cotton drawstring dust bag, tissue paper, care card and unique numbered Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium certificate of authenticity card.

Storage

Main Compartment

  • 1x padded laptop sleeve, 11" wide
  • 2x interior slip pockets
  • 1x zippered pocket
  • 1x concealed AirTag pocket
  • 1x business card pocket
  • 1x spacious main compartment

Easy-Access Pockets

  • 2x side pockets for phone and wallet
  • 1x integrated key leash
Shipping & Returns Toggle

Shipping

Every JAMES REDWOOD order ships complimentary from our warehouse in Missouri. There are no tariffs, import duties or unexpected charges on delivery. Most orders arrive within 1–5 business days after dispatch, depending on destination. Read shipping policy.

Returns

If your purchase isn’t quite right, we’re happy to accept returns within 30 days of delivery, provided the item is returned in its original condition and packaging. Read returns policy.

Man in a linen shirt wearing The Rucksack, leaning against a concrete wallMan in a linen shirt wearing The Rucksack, leaning against a concrete wall
Man sitting on a concrete bench with his hand on The Rucksack beside himMan sitting on a concrete bench with his hand on The Rucksack beside him
Man in a linen shirt and grey trousers carrying The Rucksack by its top handleMan in a linen shirt and grey trousers carrying The Rucksack by its top handle
Man in a linen shirt leaning on a wall beside a black suitcase with The Rucksack on topMan in a linen shirt leaning on a wall beside a black suitcase with The Rucksack on top
  • “Not just a bag—an heirloom investment in something lasting, personal, and timeless.”

  • “Pieces that age like a fine wine—gaining more character over time.”

Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium tag hanging from The Rucksack flap

Custom Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather

Our custom, full grain leather is vegetable tanned in Tuscany, Italy.

Developed jointly with MPG Conceria, our leather meets the exacting quality standards of the Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium and holds a Gold rating from the Leather Working Group for responsible leather production.

Aniline dyes preserve the natural grain of the French bovine shoulder, while oils and waxes give the leather its smooth, supple hand. With use, the color deepens and an individual patina develops.

Close-up of an engraved James Redwood strap buckle on The Rucksack, worn over a linen shirt

Signature Stainless Steel Hardware

Our hardware is custom-made to our specification from corrosion-resistant 316 stainless steel and load-tested to carry up to 100kg, giving it the strength for decades of daily use.

Each piece is polished by hand for a smooth, refined finish, with engraved detailing and stainless steel rivets reinforcing key stress points throughout The Rucksack.

Close-up of The Rucksack side pocket flap and stainless steel buckle

Classic Looks. Modern Convenience.

The main compartment and two side pockets feature traditional buckle-style flaps with concealed magnetic fastenings, combining the timeless character of a leather rucksack with quick, effortless access. Each flap is adjustable to accommodate how much you're carrying.

The main compartment also features a drawstring closure that cinches tight for an additional layer of protection, then loosens easily when you need to reach inside.

Inside The Rucksack: zipped pocket, passport and a leather wallet in the cotton twill lined pockets

Natural Cotton Twill Lining

The interior is lined in 100% cotton twill, chosen over synthetic fabrics for its natural softness, breathability and substantial weight.

The cotton gives the lining a soft, comfortable hand, while the twill weave adds structure and abrasion resistance for the demands of daily use.

The Rucksack in brown leather against a concrete wall, lit by a shaft of sunlight

Built to Hold Its Shape

The Rucksack is built with fully turned and finished edges, signature English-point end detailing and a structured body designed to stand upright and retain its shape whether empty or full.

The base is reinforced for added strength and crush resistance, with every exposed edge carefully finished rather than left raw.

Close-up of The Rucksack top handle and debossed James Redwood logo above the mesh back

Reinforced Leather Top Handle

The Rucksack's top handle is constructed from multiple layers of leather, carefully shaped and stitched together to create a secure, comfortable way to lift and carry The Rucksack by hand.

Close-up of a padded leather backpack strap with mesh lining on a man's shoulder

Breathable Mesh Carrying Comfort

The Rucksack features shoulder straps and back panel lined with color-matched, breathable air mesh. The raised mesh construction encourages airflow, helping reduce heat and perspiration buildup during longer commutes and everyday use.

Extra-wide 2.25-inch shoulder straps distribute weight more evenly for a comfortable carry, with adjustable lengths to accommodate all body types. Reinforced and riveted leather attachment points provide lasting strength, while integrated strap keepers hold loose ends neatly in place.

Man sliding The Rucksack luggage sleeve over the handle of a black suitcase

Easier Travel With Your Suitcase

The integrated leather luggage strap slips easily over a telescopic suitcase handle, keeping The Rucksack secure and taking the weight off through airports and longer journeys.

Stitched and reinforced for lasting strength, it sits neatly against the bag when not in use. Simply slide it on or lift it off whenever you need.

Looking into The Rucksack: a laptop in the padded sleeve and a card in the leather slip pocket

Protected 16-Inch Laptop Compartment

The dedicated laptop compartment fits up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, with padding at the front, back and base to protect your device during daily travel.

A suspended sleeve keeps your laptop raised from the bottom of the bag, protecting it from knocks while keeping your essentials neatly separated.

Man opening The Rucksack to show a zipped pocket, passport and leather wallet inside

Purposeful Interior Organization

With 10 separate compartments, there is dedicated space for your essentials without adding unnecessary bulk.

Purpose-built spaces keep essentials such as your clothes, passport, AirTag, business cards, mouse and charging cables organized, protected and easy to find throughout the day.

The Rucksack side pocket holding a phone, with keys clipped to the leather key fob

Easy Access Essentials Pocket

The thoughtful easy-access pockets keep your most-used essentials close at hand without opening the main compartment.

Dedicated pockets for your phone and wallet, plus an integrated key leash, keeps everything secure and organized, yet easy to reach throughout the day.

James Redwood packaging: a leather bag in a branded white dust bag beside white gift boxes

Signature Gift-Ready Packaging

The Rucksack arrives in a rigid lift-off presentation box, wrapped in white tissue and protected by a custom soft cotton drawstring dust bag.

Inside, a care card and numbered Pelle Conciata al Vegetale in Toscana certificate provide authenticated leather provenance and traceability.

As seen in

Rated 4.8/5 from 1,637 reviews

  • “Let me state this: After your demise, your children will fight over who gets this bag.”
    Jesse S. Hernando, USVerified buyer
  • “My grandson will truly have this bag for life. It’s the high-end quality I hoped for when I ordered.”
    James K. Maryland, USVerified buyer
  • “Something worth keeping forever & creating an heirloom from. Full of decades of adventure, stories, and memories.”
    Jeffery I. Endicott, USVerified buyer

FAQs

Will my device fit The Rucksack?

Up to 16 inch laptops will fit The Rucksack.

To check if your device fits The Rucksack:

  1. Measure diagonally across your screen (only the screen, not the frame or edges).
  2. Round down to the nearest whole inch (e.g., 15.6” becomes 15”).
  3. If your measurement is equal to or smaller than the size given your device will fit. If larger, consider a different bag size.

Example: A 14-inch laptop will fit any piece labeled for up to 15-inch devices.

What can I fit inside The Rucksack?

The Rucksack has many compartments to keep your items organized.

There are separate dedicated compartments to hold your laptop, airtag, journal, sunglasses, business cards, mouse, passport, documents, book, wallet, phone and keys.

How will the leather change with use?

Our Italian full grain vegetable tanned leather is designed to become richer with age.

As the leather is handled and used, its colour will gradually deepen and a distinctive patina will develop.

Natural variations in grain, tone and markings are also part of the character of full-grain leather, meaning no two pieces will age in exactly the same way.

How heavy is The Rucksack, and is it comfortable to carry?

The Rucksack weighs a comfortable 3.75lbs (1.7kg) when empty.

Weight was carefully considered from the outset. We deliberately balanced substantial full grain, vegetable tanned leather, stainless steel hardware and reinforced construction with the need for a piece that remains practical to carry every day.

The result is a piece with the reassuring substance of quality materials, without any unnecessary weight.

With different carry options available, we guarantee a comfortable carry for all body types.

How do I care for your leather?

To keep your leather goods looking their best, we recommend cleaning, conditioning and waterproofing them approximately once every three months with our Leather Care Kit.

The kit has been formulated specifically for our leather, helping to nourish and protect it without compromising its natural character or patina.

Avoid excessive or prolonged exposure to water. If the leather becomes wet, remove excess moisture and allow it to dry naturally at room temperature, away from direct heat.

For more detailed guidance, read our leather care guide.

Where will my order ship from, and will I pay tariffs or duties?

All US orders ship directly from our warehouse in Missouri, USA with complimentary shipping included in all orders.

We guarantee no import tariffs, customs duties or additional charges to pay when your order arrives.

Your order will be processed within 1-2 days, and delivery typically takes 2-4 days.

Can I return or exchange my order?

We offer hassle-free returns within 30 days provided your item is in its original condition and packaging.

Concierge recommended exchanges are also available.

Read more on our Returns Policy.

Is your checkout safe and secure?

Yes. Our site uses full SSL encryption and secure payment providers. We accept all major credit cards, PayPal, and pay-in-4 options.

How can I contact customer support?

Our experts are here to help. Reach out anytime via our contact page and we’ll reply within 2 business days, usually sooner.

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50,000+ Heirloom Bags Shipped

From the first day in a new role to the daily commute or a weekend away, more than 50,000 lawyers, bankers and executives have trusted our leather bags to carry them with quiet confidence.

Rated 4.8/5 across 1,637 verified reviews, each piece combines timeless design with true world class materials and heirloom craftsmanship.

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From a quiet attic workshop in rural England to more than 50,000 professionals worldwide, our story has always been about craftsmanship, purpose and creating something worth passing on.

Discover how one grandfather’s lesson became a commitment to making things that last.

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