The Fjällräven Greenland No.1 is a testament to timeless design and durable construction. First introduced in the 1970s, this waxed backpack has evolved from a simple outdoor pack into a versatile companion for hiking, travel, and daily urban use. In this review, we examine its features, performance, and how it compares to modern alternatives.

History and Heritage

The Greenland No.1 traces its roots to the original Fjällräven Greenland jacket, which used waxed cotton for weather protection. The backpack adopted the same G-1000 fabric—a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton—impregnated with Greenland Wax for water resistance. Over the decades, the design has remained largely unchanged, a testament to its functional simplicity. Unlike the iconic Kånken, launched in 1978 for Swedish schoolchildren, the Greenland No.1 targeted outdoor enthusiasts needing a robust, waxed pack. Today, it remains a staple in Fjällräven's lineup.

Materials and Build Quality

The Greenland No.1 is constructed from G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco, a variant of the original fabric made from recycled polyester and organic cotton. The wax coating provides a water-repellent finish that can be reapplied as needed. The backpack features leather accents—specifically, vegetable-tanned leather from Swedish and Italian tanneries—on the bottom, straps, and closure. The main compartment closes with a leather strap and brass buckle, echoing traditional rucksack design. All seams are taped and reinforced, ensuring longevity. The hardware is brass or nickel-plated, resistant to rust. Weighing approximately 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs), it feels substantial but not overly heavy.

Capacity and Organization

The Greenland No.1 offers a 20-litre capacity, suitable for day hikes, school, or office commutes. The main compartment is a single large space with a padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 15-inch laptops) and a small internal zippered pocket. There is no external zippered pocket; instead, two side pockets (each 2 litres) hold water bottles or small items, secured by leather straps. The front flap is secured by two leather straps with brass buckles, which can be tightened to compress the load. Inside, a small zippered mesh pocket is ideal for keys or a phone. The lack of multiple pockets may frustrate some users, but the minimalist design appeals to purests.

Comfort and Carrying System

The Greenland No.1 features adjustable padded shoulder straps with a sternum strap. The back panel is padded but not ventilated, which can lead to sweat in warm weather. The top handle is leather-wrapped, comfortable for hand carrying. The backpack does not include a hip belt or frame sheet—the structure comes from the thick fabric and wax coating. For heavy loads (up to 10 kg), the straps may dig in, but for typical daily loads (5-7 kg), it is comfortable. The back length is fixed and suits most adults (45-50 cm torso). The sternum strap helps distribute weight, but a hip belt would be welcome for longer hikes.

Performance in the Field

We tested the Greenland No.1 over several months in varied conditions. The wax coating repels light rain and snow, but heavy downpours will eventually soak through—re-waxing is essential. The fabric is durable; after brushing against branches and rocks, only minor scuffs appeared. The leather bottom protects against wet ground. The buckles are easy to operate with gloves. The backpack holds a day's gear: a jacket, lunch, water bottle, and a 13-inch laptop. The lack of a laptop sleeve padding means you'll need a separate laptop sleeve. The side pockets fit 1-litre Nalgene bottles but are tight with larger bottles. For urban use, the classic look attracts compliments, but the lack of a quick-access pocket for a phone or transit card is a drawback.

Comparison with Other Fjällräven Backpacks

Compared to the Kånken Classic, the Greenland No.1 is heavier (1.1 kg vs 0.4 kg) and more rugged. The Kånken offers a zippered main compartment, front zip pocket, and removable seat pad, while the Greenland No.1 prioritizes weather resistance and durability. The Fjällräven Rucksack Guide notes that the Greenland No.1 suits those who value heritage and waxed fabric over modern organization. The Kånken is better for students and minimalists, while the Greenland No.1 appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and vintage lovers. Another alternative is the Singi 28, which includes a hip belt and more pockets, but costs £190 versus the Greenland No.1's £150.

Price and Value

The Greenland No.1 retails for £150 (€170, $185) on the official Fjällräven website and at retailers like Cotswold Outdoor, REI, and Amazon UK. The price reflects the premium materials and Swedish craftsmanship. A Greenland Wax block costs £10 and lasts for multiple re-waxings. Compared to similar waxed canvas backpacks from Filson (£280) or Barbour (£200), the Greenland No.1 offers competitive value. It is a buy-it-for-life item if properly maintained. The resale value is high; used models in good condition sell for £80-£120 on eBay.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Durable G-1000 fabric, water-resistant wax finish, classic timeless design, leather accents, repairable and re-waxable, made from sustainable materials.
  • Cons: Heavy (1.1 kg), lacks hip belt and zippered external pockets, minimal organization, shoulder straps can dig in under heavy loads, back panel not ventilated.

Final Verdict

The Fjällräven Greenland No.1 is a classic waxed backpack that excels in durability and style. It is not the most practical for modern EDC needs, but its charm and ruggedness make it a favourite among enthusiasts. If you value tradition and are willing to accept its quirks, it is a worthy investment. For those seeking more features, consider the Fjällräven Rucksack Guide for alternatives. The Greenland No.1 earns a 4 out of 5 stars for its build and longevity.

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