The '452U' Daypack from OUTDOOR PRODUCTS Tells a Story of Permanence

Every product around us is in a constant race to evolve. A prime example is the bag. They have incorporated ultra-light waterproof materials and numerous pockets for digital gadgets. However, there are also bags that haven’t changed.

For instance, the iconic '452U' from OUTDOOR PRODUCTS. This beloved daypack, born in America in the 1970s, has seen almost no change in its design, materials, or manufacturing methods. Why has it remained unchanged? To find out, we spoke with Miyu Itasaka, who handles OUTDOOR PRODUCTS at ITOCHU Corporation.

The Brand's Roots in an Outdoor Goods Department Store

The allure of '452U' is tied to the origin story of the OUTDOOR PRODUCTS brand.

"OUTDOOR PRODUCTS was established in 1973 by the Altschul brothers on the West Coast of the United States. Their father owned an outdoor goods department store in Los Angeles called 'The Famous Department Store (FDS)'. At that time, it was rare to find a store offering a wide range of outdoor equipment, and it was frequently visited by professional mountaineers and adventurers. Eventually, the brothers wanted to create everyday-use gear that even discerning outdoor professionals could easily use, and began manufacturing bags, rainwear, and shoes in a workshop within the store."