The Inside Story: Roka London Bags

Roka London bags and backpacks have been flying off the shelves at Sheneil Shoes since we started stocking them two years ago. A favourite among customers and staff alike, you may well wonder what all the fuss is about. Let's go back to where it all started.

Roka London History

After spending more than two decades in the fashion industry, the founder Brett was struck with the idea to create a backpack that could withstand the rain after getting caught out by the British weather one too many times. He decided to start a company with his girlfriend at the time, Emma. They decided to name the company Roka, which was formed by combining their surnames: Rosenberg and Katz.

At the core of the Roka London brand Brett wanted a bag that would be sleek and stylish but equally importantly one that would be functional and waterproof! After carrying out market research and observing commuters, tourists, school children and others out and about on the London streets, Brett streamlined his designs to make a product that functions well no matter the intended use. The level of thought that goes into every bag style is both remarkable and evident to any potential customer!

Brett extensively researched waterproofing technologies and coatings to come up with something that would set the Roka brand apart from its competitors. Their first product, the Bantry B backpack has gone on to sell right around the world. Since then Roka has designed multiple other bag options utilising the features and technologies Brett put in place.

The bags have multiple well-thought-out compartments, even weight distribution and several options for carrying. As well as that the reinforced bases and waterproof finishes come as standard with each Roka style. So confident is Brett in his creation that Roka bags come with a limited 1-year warranty. Brett stated that his vision was for every bag to be distinctive and instantly recognisable as part of the Roka London brand. We must say he lived up to his objective.

A lot can be said of the couple through the lens of their products. The bright vibrant colours reflect their outgoing, adventurous nature. With their tagline 'Live Life in Colour'. It seems the Roka London story is not just one of success but also at its heart a modern-day love story. For those wondering, Brett and Emma went on to get married!

US and Canadian customers can get their hands on Roka bags under the name ORI London!

Let's take a deep dive into Roka's unique design system:

Each bag is designed with three key pillars in mind: simplicity, functionality and design.

Roka uses a recycled outer material across all of its designs. It's formed from either a water-resistant recycled nylon or canvas. Each exterior is triple-coated for superior protection against colour fading or water damage.

Roka has added a padded weather-resistant canvas to the bottom of each bag giving it extra protection from the ground and even more support

The adjustable cotton-webbed straps are designed to adjust to the body and provide maximum comfort. The backpacks also have an additional two wide-loop handles to offer an alternative carrying option.

Ideal for commuters, each backpack is designed with a padded laptop or tablet sleeve as well as other internal and external storage pockets for anything from water bottles, umbrellas and other bits-and-bobs.

You may notice the reverse chevron design on the rear panel of Roka bags. One could be mistaken for thinking of this as a mere fashion statement the 'v-design' supports ergonomics and optimal wearing comfort.

The signature chunky zips and durable hardware are easy to use and incredibly durable.

Designed with security in mind each bag features a zipped compartment that can fit anything from your wallet and keys to a passport or phone.

For many consumers today making sustainable choices is a key consideration in the buying process. Does Roka London hit the mark?

When questioned about their sustainability Roka responded: "At ROKA London we are trying hard to make our products in a more sustainable way. Since 2020 we have been using recycled materials for the main material of our bags and backpacks." 

Roka, though have gone further to ensure they make choices that will benefit not only their consumer but also the planet. 

The matte Roka Canvas bags are made from recycled plastic bottles. Roka uses (RPET) as a canvas-like material to give new life to a plastic that would otherwise end up in a landfill or the ocean.

The smoother Nylon bags are made using pre-consumer fabric waste such as scraps, rejects, offcuts and trimmings. Roka takes this waste that would otherwise be thrown out and repurposes it into new material. Recycling this waste creates a durable nylon and is a great way to reduce waste. 

Roka is proud of its Vegan-friendly status and ensures that any chemicals used are compliant with EU laws.

From the progress made so far and their statement of intent to become carbon neutral within the next 5 years, it's evident that for Roka their dedication to ensuring a sustainable future is more than just a passing whim or PR stunt. This has earned them a B-Corp certification in June 2023.

Roka London FAQ's

Why are ROKA bags so popular?

Each Roka bag and backpack is designed for maximum storage capacity. Inside each backpack, you’ll find a padded laptop or tablet sleeve in addition to external and internal pockets and storage compartments. 

Roka bags are designed to be lightweight and durable, the external material is triple-coated, weather-resistant and comes in a variety of vibrant colour options. They're available in a smooth shiny nylon finish, or a matte textured canvas.

Can I wash my Roka bag?

The waterproof materials in ROKA bags make them durable and easy to clean. The best way to clean your ROKA bag is to spot clean using a damp microfiber cloth and allow time to air-dry. ROKA do not recommend fully submerging your bag in water.

Can you fit a laptop in a Roka bag?

Roka's Medium Backpacks, the Bantry B and Canfield B can fit a laptop in their secure padded sleeve.

Are Roka bags water-resistant?

Roka bags are made with water-resistant and waterproof material. This makes them durable and easy to clean. They offer protection against wind, rain and sun. 

What are Roka bags made of?

ROKA canvas bags are made from (RPET) recycled polyethene terephthalate. Each medium canvas bag is made from the equivalent of 12-15 recycled water bottles. The canvas bags have a matte-textured look. ROKA Nylon bags are made from recycled nylon that's triple-coated to make them Weather-resistant and durable. 

Looking for the perfect casual backpack to fit everything? ROKA London have bags and backpacks for absolutely everything. 

ROKA bags are functional, weather resistant and suitable for every occasion!

A cool everyday essential ROKA bags can be used for everything from hiking backpacks to diaper bags, from office to outdoors. The only question is which colour will you choose? Shop the full collection in Ireland and the UK at Sheneil Shoes, located in Galway.