Fashion brand launches stylish and functional adaptive crossbody bags and backpacks

A backpack brand has launched a collection of highly adaptive crossbody bags and backpacks to help make their products more accessible.

Both JanSport’s Central Adaptive Backpack and Central Adaptive Crossbody, which are available in black and misty rose colour schemes, were codesigned alongside the disability community with help from disability advocacy group Disability:IN.

The Central Adaptive Backpack is designed to fit securely against a mobility device’s backrest for better balance. It features a shortened height and decreased depth to allow users to reach items at the bottom of the bag easily. A padded main body was created for easier opening, along with easy-release buckles and finger loops for people with limited dexterity.

The backpack is customisable for all mobility devices with easily adjustable push handle loops on the back of the bag. The anchor straps fit a wide variety of chair types and sizes and secure the bottom of the bag to a wheelchair frame or around the back of a mobility device with ease. It also includes no-dangle and hassle-free shoulder straps with finger loop adjustments, tuck-away shoulder straps for alternative carry methods, dual water bottle pockets, a laptop sleeve with organisation pockets, and is made from 100 percent recycled durable material and lining.

The Central Adaptive Crossbody attaches to a variety of mobility devices, has a removable shoulder strap, easy-release buckles, and finger loops for people with limited dexterity. The bag features an easy-to-open structured front panel, a one-handed open/close mechanism, and a SaniStash pocket. Additional options include tuck-away adjustable loops and side attachment points for multiple carry and attachment methods. The bag is also made from a 100 percent recycled durable material and lining.

Disability:IN was able to link JanSport with disabled consumers to build out consumer focus groups.

The start of the project to product launch took three years, as the company was keen to ensure it had fully got to grips with the needs of disabled people.

Monica Rigali, Vice President, Global Brand, at JanSport commented: “JanSport strives to meet consumers where they are by intently listening and developing products that are inclusive, stylish and functional, while simultaneously providing an opportunity for self-expression.

“Consumers with disabilities played an incredibly large role in our adaptive journey from conception to testing, and this collection would not have been possible without their honest advice, feedback and support.”

The Adaptive Collection is available now on the Jansport website and at select retailers in the UK.

The entry of the well-known brand to the adaptive clothing industry is joined by Tommy Hilfigre’s Adaptive Collection, which was recently added to Zalando, an online platform for fashion and lifestyle.

Similarly, the Able Label is an innovative range of clothes, designed to make life easier for people who like to look good but find high-street fashion challenging to wear.