Exceptionally Durable & Rain-Resistant! The Ideal Backpack for Urbanites: "Manhattan Portage BLACK LABEL"

With plenty of space for your belongings and the convenience of easily carrying your laptop, not to mention the ability to keep your hands free for your smartphone, backpacks offer countless advantages for urban dwellers.

To meet these growing demands, a variety of bag brands have launched their own backpacks, yet the one that truly stands out for its impeccable quality is "Manhattan Portage BLACK LABEL" and its "POWELL JR BACKPACK VEG LEATHER."

Since its debut in 2023, this best-selling model has instantly become a flagship item for the brand. Together with Yuka Shiroki, the brand's PR representative, let's uncover the exceptional capabilities hidden behind its simple design.

The Brand’s Origin: Bags Made with "Cordura ®️ Classic Fabric" for Messengers

Manhattan Portage first emerged as a bag brand in Manhattan, New York, in 1983. Today, the company offers everything from unisex apparel to hats, targeting a wide audience from kids to adults.

Their iconic red logo draws inspiration from the Manhattan skyline.

"In 1983, Manhattan Portage began creating bags that New Yorkers truly needed, drawing inspiration from the rugged city streets."

The brand closely observed bicycle messengers weaving through the city as well as record-laden DJs in East Village.

They reimagined sought-after outdoor bags, making them more convenient for city life.

With lightweight, durable materials and adjustable, functional straps, the resulting messenger and DJ bags quickly gained popularity among businesspeople, students, and the wider public alike.

BLACK LABEL: Created for Sophisticated Urban Adults

Manhattan Portage landed in Japan around the early 2000s.

At the time, New York cycling culture—including fixie bikes—became popular in Tokyo, and Manhattan Portage took off as a symbol of genuine messenger-style bags.

"While our roots are in street culture, there was a growing demand for bags suitable for more formal occasions, such as business."

So, starting with the 2014-15 autumn/winter season, the brand launched Manhattan Portage BLACK LABEL in Japan, inspired by New York’s urban style.

The "POWELL JR BACKPACK VEG LEATHER" is emblematic of this adult-focused collection.

"We've previously offered backpacks, but this model was designed with mature fashion and settings in mind, targeting those in their 30s to 40s who prefer a sophisticated style."

True to BLACK LABEL's ethos, its design is stripped of any unnecessary embellishments.

Rather than the brand’s familiar red logo, a monochromatic black logo enhances its stylish appeal.

Military-Grade Nylon Material Supports Everyday Heavy Use

While it may look sleek, this backpack is built for toughness.

"For this BLACK LABEL piece, we used 1680-denier Cordura®︎ ballistic nylon, woven densely with extra-thick nylon thread, for the main body."

Cordura ®︎ nylon is a nylon fabric developed for military use by Invista, America’s largest fiber manufacturer.

Manhattan Portage was among the first to recognize the potential of this fabric, pioneering its use in messenger bags.

"The 'ballistic' in Cordura ®︎ ballistic nylon refers to ballistics. Originally developed for bulletproof vests, this nylon is exceptionally strong, with outstanding tear and abrasion resistance. Its surface also features a water-repellent treatment, ensuring resilience against rain and dirt."

The front parts utilize a material known as veggie leather.

"Veggie leather is a synthetic leather coated with ether-based polyurethane, enhancing its water resistance, durability, and flexibility.

"This material, also used in raincoats, outdoor furniture, and sportswear, brings aesthetic advantages as well."

Indeed, the unique firmness accentuates the bag’s three-dimensional form, while the matte finish further elevates its stylish appeal.

Certain parts of the shoulder strap and handle feature seatbelt webbing.

"As the name suggests, seatbelt webbing is sturdy enough to be used for automobile seatbelts. Braided from polyester fibers into a band, these belts excel in durability and tensile strength.

"Since the shoulder strap bears the most weight, we've adopted the same strap used in BLACK LABEL's messenger bags."

Despite their toughness, these straps are smooth and soft to the touch, so there’s no need to worry about damaging your clothes—a welcome benefit.

Storage is thoughtfully designed as well. The back features a padded sleeve for your PC, accommodating laptops up to 13 inches.

"We chose concealed zippers, which stay hidden when closed for a sleeker look. Plus, with fewer gaps between zipper elements, they boost water resistance too."

The main compartment is loaded with pockets, including a large zip pocket up front and open pockets on both sides.

The roomy main compartment is big enough for A4 files, making it ideal for business use—and handy for overnight business trips or travel as well.

The Promo Video Achieved the Brand’s Highest-ever Views

Two years after its release, sales are still on the rise.

"This bag has now become an iconic model for Manhattan Portage BLACK LABEL. Its promotional video on YouTube racked up over 15 times the usual views—an all-time record for the brand—proving just how much interest this model has generated among users."

Manhattan Portage’s brand concept is "New York Tough." While the phrase embodies versatility, durability, and adaptability, this backpack truly ticks all three boxes.

It’s just right for your commute, a business trip, or a day out. It looks great with a sharp suit or faded jeans alike.

This straightforward yet durable backpack, inspired by New Yorkers' practical mindset, is sure to be a fit for any urban adult's lifestyle.