Ethnotek might be one of the coolest companies I learned about this year. (Actually, all the companies I have been researching for this writing project are cool. They are all INCREDIBLE).

What I love most about Ethnotek is not just why they were created, but the relationships they build with people who do not even own one of their bags...yet. I bought my Vietnam 6 Raja Pack because Megan was so incredibly friendly and then I found out about what this company did, and I was on board. I can't wait to take it on an adventure with me! (Which will be Utah and Wyoming in January, so look out!)

So, what/who is Ethnotek? 

The company was founded by Jake Orak and Josh Linde. 

Their inspiration? 

"[A]  passion and dedication to the mission of keeping culture alive by spreading cultural appreciation and awareness." 

Cultural preservation. 

" The only way culture can stay alive is if we keep it that way."

How are they doing that? 



They employ artisans from cultures around the world (India, Vietnam, Indonesia, etc.) to create the beautiful "threads" for their bags. http://www.ethnotekbags.com/pages/artisans



Ethnotek sells their bags with several options of "threads" to choose from. You can even buy a "thread" separately, and viola! you have a new bag.

If you follow Ethnotek on Instagram, you can see other Tribe Members sporting their bags. The connection to other supporters of this brand is another reason I love them. They are about human connection and not just about selling a product.

Definitely check these guys out. The backpacks are fantastically designed, can pack a ton of stuff, and are heavy-duty for all the adventurers out there!

www.ethnotekbags.com
instagram.com/ethnotekbags
twitter.com/ethnotekbags