FJÄLLRÄVEN Keb 52 rucksack

RRP: £275 Target price: £245

A wooden-framed rucksack isn’t something you see much of outside mountaineering museums – but there’s more to the Keb than simple heritage. Wood, if it’s sustainably sourced and processed, is vastly less pollutive in its processing than any amount of plastic or polymer, and that’s what Fjällräven are reminding us with this well-made

pack. The frame is made with light, pliable Finnish birch, and its production reduces CO2 emissions by over 90% compared to an aluminium

frame. The fabric is just as sound: the main component is G-1000 Eco S, a blend of tightly woven cotton and recycled fabric, while the toughened and waterproof base and sides are made with Fjällräven’s recycled nylon blend, Bergshell. All this quality comes at a price, and the Keb won’t suit all budgets, or even all needs, as it is very much dedicated to multi-day trekking. It’s tough, heavy, stiff and serious, from the hard-work strapping to the front compartment, which might as well be a separate rucksack in itself. But what it’s really all about is longevity: when something is this well built, it’s built to last. You know that line Patek Philippe use about their watches, that you just look after them for the next generation? Same here: you could probably will this to your great-great-grandchildren and know it’ll still hold their sandwiches when they’re walking on the moon. NH fjallraven.co.uk

WHAT COULD BE BETTER?

More info about the sourcing of the wood would be nice. Also why not use wooden frames on smaller-capacity packs for day walks?