THE HISTORY OF THE AVIATOR BAG
The emergence of aviator bags dates back to the 20th century, during the early decades of military aviation.
In the 1920s and 1930s, pilots needed functional bags to carry their personal belongings and essential equipment. At the time, the specifications were complex because cockpits were cramped and unpressurized. A lightweight bag was required to avoid weighing down the small planes of the era, yet it had to be sturdy enough to withstand the elements (humidity, dust, overheating…) and easy to carry. This led to the adoption of a vertical-format bag with handles and a wide opening for quick access to its contents!
During World War II, the US Army Air Forces and the Royal Air Force improved this bag to adapt to long missions and airborne operations, adding dedicated compartments for first aid kits and military rations.
After the war, aviator bags were repurposed from military surplus and used in civilian life. Their practicality and durability appealed to travelers, adventurers, and vintage enthusiasts.
In 1963, Steve McQueen immortalized the aviator bag in The Great Escape. The aviator bag gained popularity and became both a Hollywood icon and an authentic element of the aviation world. Then, in the 2000s, the fashion industry reinterpreted the aviator bag in modernized versions.
Today, the aviator bag has become a symbol of adventure and freedom, blending historical heritage with contemporary fashion.
THE AVIATOR BAG: FEATURES & REINTERPRETATION
Often made of waxed cotton canvas, thick leather, or durable nylon, vintage aviator bags were specifically designed to withstand extreme conditions. Their large capacity, combined with storage pockets, allowed pilots to carry essential flight gear while keeping everything organized. Equipped with ultra-reinforced handles, often stitched along the entire length, they ensured reliable transport regardless of the load.
Designed to accompany modern explorers, the Missak retains all the durability and practicality of the bags of the past. Its carry-on size makes it easy to take anywhere. Its wide opening and rear zippered pocket keep essentials within reach. And, just like vintage models, we have reinforced the handles and straps with stitched and riveted leather reinforcements.
Whether for a short getaway or a spontaneous trip, the Missak quickly becomes the perfect travel companion.
AN EXCEPTIONAL COATED AND TWILL-WOVEN CANVAS
The Missak aviator bag is made from 18 OZ waxed cotton canvas sourced from British Millerain. Waterproof thanks to a specific coating, it effectively protects against the elements while maintaining great flexibility. Its ultra-tight twill weave has a weight of 590 g/m², providing increased resistance to wear and friction, ensuring exceptional durability.
Founded in 1880 in the United Kingdom, British Millerain is a renowned manufacturer of durable and waterproof fabrics. Thanks to its expertise, the brand has established itself as a reference in the technical textile industry, supplying various sectors, from the armed forces to marine and coastal activities, as well as outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
The handles and leather reinforcements undergo vegetable tanning—an ancestral method that transforms animal hides into leather using natural tannins extracted from organic substances such as bark, leaves, or sap from acacia, mimosa, or chestnut trees.
BLEU DE CHAUFFE, FRENCH LEATHERWORK OF EXCELLENCE
Crafted in France, in our exclusive workshop at the foot of the Millau Viaduct, the Missak travel bag is the result of exceptional artisanal expertise. Each travel bag is made by a single artisan from start to finish, in contrast to assembly lines where the human touch is secondary. Inside the bag, the zippered pocket is dated and signed by the artisan who made it.
Available in other colors
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