Owl Store’s paraglider bags, my must-have accessory
Those who know me can vouch that I have never been in one place for a long time. With my life dotted across London, Paris, Tenerife and Berlin, I love it when I find accessories that can keep up with my rapidly changing schedule. Travelling light is essential for me - and in style, even more so. This is why, Owl Store and its ingenious collection of paraglider bags have quickly become my go-to sustainable bag of choice. If you're looking for a versatile, eco-friendly travel companion that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle—whether you're hitting the beach, heading to a festival, or just running errands—these bags are a dream come true.
Responsible fashion, without compromise
Owl Store, created by fashion designer Eduard Ballester in 2013, is centred around sustainable design and environmental consciousness. Each design that leaves their Barcelona-based studio has been created with three core principles in mind: livability (ensuring it supports both life and the environment), equity (benefiting both society and the market), and viability (balancing environmental sustainability with profitability). So, how did the paraglider fabric become a bag?
From the skies to your side: A story of innovation
Why use resources to create something new when you can upcycle existing fabrics? This was the big question and ultimately the challenge that set Owl Store on a mission to create a bag that was both functional and fashionable. The nylon used to make paragliders takes over 500 years to decompose, only adding to the mountain of fabric that ends up in landfills per year. Yet the fabric boasts some noteworthy technical characteristics that make it lightweight, durable and resistant, offering protection against wind and light rain. When it comes to choosing a resilient fabric that will survive a busy day-to-day routine, for Owl Store, it was a match made in heaven. Come rain or shine, these bags are exceptionally long-lasting which is why I, and many others like me, cannot leave the house without one.
The anatomy of a bag: Functional meets fashion
The unique nature of paragliders with their varying colours and fabric sections requires every piece of the bag to be individually cut by hand. This laborious task requires time and skill, creating limited, one-of-a-kind editions of significant ecological value. Each bag is lined with recycled polyester, ensuring not only sustainability but also resilience against everyday wear and tear. The bags feature an adjustable rope handle, which makes them as comfortable to carry as they are stylish, and a 3D-printed label for that extra touch of innovation.
What’s even better? Every bag comes in an array of vibrant colours. Whether you prefer bold, eye-catching hues or subtle, neutral tones, there’s a shade to match your wardrobe and personal style. The rainbow of choice ensures these bags are not just practical but also a fun, fashionable addition to your travels.
A travel companion you can rely on
Whether you're exploring new cities or heading off for a weekend getaway, Owl’s paraglider bags are designed to keep up with your adventures. As someone who has had an Owl Store bag on them every day, it’s hard to imagine life without one. They’re just that handy. While there are a million reasons why I am obsessed with these little bags, these are the key selling points for me:
Lightweight and Compact: These bags are easy to pack or carry, making them ideal for minimalist travellers.
Weather-Resistant: The nylon material repels light rain and is robust enough to resist the harsh climate of Northern Europe and the fast pace of city living.
Versatile Design: From festivals to the beach to everyday errands, these bags are the definition of multipurpose.
They also make wonderful gifts
Whether you are stuck for birthday gift ideas, or need something for a Secret Santa, you cannot go wrong with one of these bags. In fact, by choosing one of these bags, you’re not only giving a thoughtful gift but also contributing to sustainable practices that promote a positive environmental impact. With little carbon footprint and a lot of style, these bags make ideal planet-friendly presents.
Festival Bags
Do you have a friend who spends summer hopping from one festival to another? These mini-bags hold just the essentials without adding any additional and unnecessary weight making dancing the night away even easier. Charge up your phone, pop it into the bag and enjoy an electric, music-fuelled festival without the worry of losing your belongings - or of them getting wet.
A jet-setter’s must-have
It always feels like a faff having to go rooting inside your main bag for your passport and boarding card when at the airport. So, why not save someone stress and give them this little pouch that keeps all the important documents in hand? Never again will they get flustered at the boarding gate.
A city-slicker's saving grace
Big cities are bustling places making it not only uncomfortable to be weighed down by a big and heavy bag but also, unfortunately, more prone to pickpocketing. If you know someone who spends their life in an urban jungle, Owl Store’s paraglider bags are perfect for keeping valuables safe and out of sight when worn under a coat or tucked into clothes.