For the out and about discerning gent, style accessories that level up or compliment your existing look is crucial, yet hard to find. Step forward Kapten & Son, a brand that will add function to your substance whether it is navigating the urban jungle for work or pleasure, or further afield for weekends away to rest and recharge.
Founded in 2014, Kapten & Son has rapidly grown from a student-started concept into one of Europe’s most dynamic lifestyle accessory brands. Based in Cologne, the company now sells watches, backpacks, eyewear and travel kit in more than 30 countries. Discoverable online via its digital channels but also available as an in-store experience with its retail flagship stores in prominent locations, there is something to love about a brand that makes the functional beautiful.
Whilst the brand has a wide collection, DiscerningGent.com will focus on the area that troubles most men when thinking about how to pair their look to the functional need to pack well, keep items dry and secure – but look damn good on his arm or on his back. Its good-looking accessories ooze style whilst remaining practical to the needs of a mobile discerning gent that needs to trek around town or travel to new destinations where he’ll need to pack a few essential items that will keep him looking good throughout the trip.
First off, there is the Lisbon Duffle Back Pack (£189.90) for the long weekends. With a healthy 50L of storage capacity, there is ample room to get a few outfits and items in – but with the flexibility to work as both a backpack and bag to suit your situation (and endurance of the back itself).
Next up, and a personal favourite of the DiscerningGent.com team, is the Bali Back Pack (£189.90). A full frontal opening gives the biggest opening to cram in all that you require for a weekend away, 24L of storage specifically. Add to that the additional compartments for a laptop, grooming products and one pair of footwear couple with slick styling in a bag the size of hand luggage-only sizing, means you are seriously good-to-go with this one.
Both the Lisbon and Bali backpacks are available in a number of subtle colourways such as walnut, sandstone and pistachio but also the more traditional black version too. Both are made out of recycled PET fabric (a form of recycled polyester plastic) and vegan approved so you can travel continents in the knowledge your luggage isn’t adding to the global plastic agenda harming the world right now. And it feels damn good in the hand too, similar to the tactile feel of leather.
Finally, for those needing the storage space of traditional suitcases, look no further that the Heathrow suitcases in aluminium (from £999.90). Available in check-in suitcase (77L capacity) and cabin suitcase (39L capacity), these smooth-rolling cases will glide you into your next adventures whilst keeping all that you need perfectly secure.
Overall, Kapten & Son is certainly worth keeping on your radar as an example of modern accessory styling filled with functionality and practical appeal. That is also looks good on your back or on your arm is an added bonus.
