Hard Trolleys Arrive from Nordic Brand "Thule"! | THULE
DESIGN / PRODUCT
March 27, 2019

Hard Trolleys Arrive from Nordic Brand "Thule"! | THULE


THULE | Nordic Brand


A Unique Heritage and Design


While THULE is primarily known in Japan as a brand for car-mounted carriers, it is widely recognized as a bag brand throughout Europe and North America. This season marks the debut of their hard trolley, a product that encapsulates the brand's accumulated technology and sophisticated Nordic design. Let's revisit its history and explore the appeal of its latest offerings.

Text by KAWASE Takuro





Thule Revolve: Where Durability Meets Nordic Design



Previously, the brand offered a diverse lineup of two-wheeled semi-hard cases combining nylon shells and polycarbonate. However, this is their first appearance with a four-wheeled hard case made entirely of polycarbonate. It integrates the technology of combining metal and plastic, honed through the manufacturing of the company's best-selling car-mounted roof boxes. The main compartment maximizes capacity by minimizing protrusions, achieving remarkable lightness and exceptional durability. It features a comfortable, ergonomic handle and a robust zipper secured with a TAS lock. The sophisticated design, with all metal parts unified in black, is likely to appeal to fashionistas and business executives alike. While the hard trolley market has been dominated by a select few brands, the arrival of the "Thule Revolve" is poised to significantly reshape the landscape.

A Look Back at Thule's History




A Clear Message: Bring Your Life
For dedicated car enthusiasts, Thule is synonymous with top-tier car-mounted carriers. However, particularly in Europe and Nordic countries, the brand also holds a significant market share for outdoor backpacks and travel bags. In recent years, their product range has expanded to include camera bags, laptop bags, strollers, and child bicycle seats. A common thread across all these products is their commitment to enabling users to transport their valued possessions easily, safely, and stylishly.

From Fishing Gear to Automotive Products
Thule was founded in 1942 by Erik Thulin in Hillerstorp, Sweden, initially selling fishing gear to local fishermen. As an outdoor enthusiast, Erik's interests extended beyond fishing equipment, leading him to develop a protective grille for headlamps in 1955. Subsequently, he ventured into automotive products, creating ski racks and roof racks, laying the foundation for the brand as we know it today. The product line expanded in 1977 with roof boxes and in 1983 with surfboard carriers, eventually establishing Thule as the world's largest manufacturer of roof boxes by 1997.

A Leap to a Global Luggage Manufacturer
While holding a leading market share in car-mounted carriers for various outdoor sports like skiing, surfing, and kayaking, the company also expanded beyond automotive accessories. The "Crossover" collection, launched in 2010, introduced a wide range of products including trolley cases and backpacks for international travel. This was followed by the development of camera bags, cycling bags, and trekking bags. By incorporating feedback from professionals across various fields, Thule's products, which balance functionality and design, have gained widespread acclaim worldwide.

Pride and Mission as a Global Brand
Although Thule achieved global recognition for its car-mounted carriers, the trust in its quality originates from the Thule Test Center. With safety as the utmost priority, the brand conducts over 100 crash tests annually, subjecting products to extreme temperatures, and exposure to various chemicals. A total of 25 rigorous tests are performed to ensure durability under any condition. Furthermore, to support a healthy and active lifestyle for all users and employees, Thule is committed to environmentally conscious manufacturing and fair labor practices, principles upheld consistently from material sourcing to logistics.






Poised for a Breakthrough in Japan



Beyond its identity as a brand for automotive products, Thule is steadily increasing its market share in Japan as a globally expanding bag brand. While previously gaining attention through retail presence in major department stores and sporting goods shops, the addition of the Revolve series is expected to further elevate its recognition as a bag brand. Thule's bags, which refine the function of safely and comfortably transporting belongings while maintaining a stylish aesthetic, are sure to be welcomed by Japan's discerning consumers.

The Crossover 2 Backpack: Ideal for Daily Use

Thule Crossover 2
Among Thule's luggage offerings, the "Crossover 2 Backpack 30L" stands out as the most versatile urban backpack. It is packed with features designed for the modern individual, offering dedicated compartments for essential digital devices like laptops and tablets, as well as organized storage for valuables such as wallets and passports. The semi-hard material used as cushioning provides a Safe Zone compartment, ideal for storing fragile items like sunglasses. Thoughtful details include a pocket for small items with anti-skimming technology and side pockets for drinks or umbrellas, ensuring not only secure storage but also easy access. Two resin rails on the front panel reduce abrasion on the front panel. [W32×H47×D24cm] ¥29,800 (excluding tax)


Thule Crossover 2

Thule Crossover 2

Thule Crossover 2

Thule Crossover 2