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5 Asian Brands You Should Know
From cutting-edge street style to exceptional craftsmanship, Asia is home to a number of excellent brands killing it on the carry scene. But they don’t always get the recognition they deserve. So we wanted to showcase some of the foremost Asian brands you should know. Brands at the top of their game, crafting carry that merits a serious second look…
ORBITGear
If your carry preferences run towards technical performance with urban stealth looks, ORBITGear should be on your radar. The Indonesian brand focuses on crafting technical apparel and carry in small batches at their Jakarta studio. ORBITGear’s diverse inspirations range from the practicality of military and mountaineering gear, to the versatility of sportswear. Functionality is at the heart of their design process, paired with a generous dose of military-meets-streetwear styling for everyday urban carry needs.
Gear of note:
RAWROW
South Korean brand RAWROW have come on in leaps and bounds since their founding in 2011. The Seoul-based brand create offerings in a variety of niches including carry, eyewear and footwear. All of which offer a considered blend of simplicity and functionality. RAWROW’s bags range from backpacks and totes, to shoulder bags and wheeled luggage. The clean, minimalist styling transitions from everyday to travel settings. And the practical designs aim to keep your gear organized while integrating sufficient flexibility to adapt to changing needs.
Gear of note:
3 WAY BAG 171 RUGGED CANVAS 15″
WOTANCRAFT
WOTANCRAFT takes its name from Wotan, the god of war and wisdom, to highlight the constant struggle to uncover one’s true aspirations. WOTANCRAFT is a leathercraft workshop located in Taiwan and led by designer Albert Yuan. Their design ethos is to expertly blend beauty and function, creating pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Their use of materials ranges from waxed canvas to vegetable-tanned full-grain leather. Their lineup includes backpacks, messengers, camera bags, watch cases, notebook and passport covers, laptop bags and more, with a focus on premium craftsmanship and materials to create durable, beautiful and useful items.
Gear of note:
“RYKER” Full Leather Camera Bag
Trooper Interior Module Camera Bag
BLANKOF
Founded in 2011, BLANKOF is a Seoul-based brand focused on functional minimalism, simplicity and utility. BLANKOF strips back unnecessary elements to create pieces that are understated, pared back in form and function, yet practical for everyday use. They use quality materials in neutral colorways that move seamlessly between work and play, whether you’re commuting, traveling or exploring on the weekend.
Gear of note:
Voyej
As the name may suggest, Voyej are keen to celebrate a passion for the journey. And not just a physical journey, but an individual’s personal journey too. Their handsome leather goods offer contemporary yet timeless style, combined with functional designs that navigate life’s changing paths. Their primary material of choice is vegetable-tanned leather (mostly sourced from the USA), with goods including bags, wallets, card cases, lanyards and pouches. Voyej goods are crafted in Indonesia by craftsmen in Yogyakarta, with the majority of the construction process carried out by hand including leather pattern cutting, stitching, burnishing and assembly. And with the unique patina developed by their leather goods, your own personal journey will be marked on the essential gear that accompanies you every step of the way.
Gear of note:
If you enjoyed this article, check these out too:
The 8 Best Small Japanese Brands You Should Know
Our Favorite Japanese Carry Brands
WAYS TO CARRY