Freitag F685 Henry Review: The Rugged Messenger Bag Built from Trash to Last
I still remember the first time I saw a true bicycle messenger in action. He glided effortlessly through the chaos of 1990s San Francisco traffic, balancing perfectly on his fixed-gear bike at a red light, his messenger bag bulging with urgent deliveries. Back then, messenger bags weren’t just utility — they were a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and purpose.
That same spirit lives on today through Freitag, a Swiss brand that launched in 1993 and built its reputation around upcycled messenger bags. Fast forward to now, and I’ve spent the last few weeks testing the F685 Henry — Freitag’s latest evolution of the iconic messenger bag. Spoiler: it's fantastic.
Eco-Friendly Materials That Tell a Story
Every Freitag bag is one of a kind. That’s because the company sources its materials from used truck tarps, old seatbelts, and recycled plastic bottles. No two bags are alike — a rare thing in today’s world of mass-produced sameness. I love that my F685 Henry not only carries my gear, but also a story stitched into its seams.
Freitag takes sustainability seriously, and the Henry is proof of that ethos. Despite being made from “trash,” this bag is anything but disposable. My first Freitag messenger, which I bought nearly 20 years ago, is still going strong. The Henry is just as sturdy, which makes its $330 price point easier to justify.
Built to Survive Any Urban Adventure
The F685 Henry is a compact 13-liter bag that expands to 20 liters, giving it plenty of room for daily gear. I’ve used it for everything from grocery runs and gym sessions to biking across Amsterdam’s cobbled streets and heading to coworking spaces. It adapts well, which is what I want from an everyday bag.
Yes, it’s heavy — 3.26 pounds empty — but that weight comes from reinforced polyester made from recycled PET bottles. It feels tough and dependable. Over time, the material starts to loosen up, and that stiffness fades, just like it did with my original Freitag.
Design Details That Matter
This bag is a tactile experience. Velcro plays a starring role — and not in a subtle way. Opening the main flap is a loud, gritty SHHHRRRRIP that commands attention. It’s not my favorite part (it’s noisy, scratchy, and can wear on clothes), but it fits the rugged vibe Freitag is going for.
Fortunately, the bag includes heavy-duty buckles that add both security and an industrial look. There are reflectors made from truck markings for nighttime visibility, and every strap or flap has a purpose.
One of my favorite features is how easily I can swing the bag around using the padded shoulder strap. Once you get used to folding the stiff top just right, accessing the front pockets becomes second nature. There's a handy side zip for your phone or wallet, plus a zippered inner pocket with a key lanyard.
A Functional Gear Companion with Real Versatility
Freitag nailed the utility factor here. The bag includes a laptop sleeve — though it offers only light padding, so I don’t throw the bag down carelessly. I’ve added a camera cube inside to organize my tech gear, and it fits perfectly.
Want to carry more? There’s external webbing to attach a U-lock or yoga mat, and the bottom has straps that tuck away neatly when not in use. Even the dangling bits — usually a pet peeve of mine — can be hidden in an external sleeve to keep things tidy.
Is the Freitag F685 Henry Worth It?
If you’re looking for a durable, eco-conscious, and completely unique messenger bag, the Freitag F685 Henry is an outstanding choice. It’s not for everyone — the Velcro and weight might be deal-breakers for some — but for me, it’s a fair trade for something built to last.
Messenger bags are making a comeback, and with designs like this, I’m all in. Whether you’re navigating city streets or packing up for your digital nomad lifestyle, the Henry is a dependable partner.
Pros:
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Made from recycled truck tarps, seatbelts, and PET bottles
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Water-resistant and expandable (13L to 20L)
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Unique design — no two bags are the same
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Includes reflective accents for night visibility
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Three-year warranty and repair policy
Cons:
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Velcro is noisy and aggressive
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Heavy for its size
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Material needs time to soften up
Buy Freitag F685 Henry Messenger Bag — $330 at Freitag
If you’re serious about sustainability, durability, and design that tells a story, this bag is more than just a fashion statement — it’s a lifestyle commitment.
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