JanSport was founded in 1967 in Seattle, Washington, by three friends: Murray Pletz, Jan Lewis, and Skip Yowell. The brand’s name comes from Jan Lewis, who was Murray’s girlfriend at the time (and later became his wife). As a gesture, Murray named the company after her when she helped sew the first prototype backpack.
The original innovation that set JanSport apart was Murray's new design for a panel-loading backpack, which was different from the typical top-loading style of the time. This design made accessing gear much easier and quickly gained popularity, especially among hikers and students.
JanSport's rise to popularity was further fueled by the growing interest in outdoor recreation during the 1970s and 1980s. The company expanded its line to include camping gear, fanny packs, and other travel accessories, but it was the classic school backpack that truly cemented its legacy.
By the 1980s and 1990s, JanSport had become a staple in schools across the U.S., known for its durability, simple design, and lifetime warranty. It became so iconic that owning a JanSport backpack became something of a rite of passage for students.
In 1986, JanSport was acquired by VF Corporation, which also owns brands like The North Face, Vans, and Timberland. Despite the change in ownership, JanSport has maintained its reputation for quality and reliability.
Today, JanSport continues to be a beloved brand, offering a mix of classic and modern styles that appeal to students, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
