I recently pulled my dad’s old weekender out from the garage. It is a classic and I was hoping it was in good condition. Wrong. The waxed canvas and leather handles had molded and the zipper was rusted shut. Into the garbage it went and a heritage tear was shed.
Recently however we discovered a new line of luggage coming out of New York City that is classic, quality and pretty indestructible. Hudson Sutler is the vision of Grant Hewit, a former history major and Wall Streeter who had that, “look in the mirror moment thinking, what the hell am I doing on Wall Street”. He quit his job and created his company in 2011. As for the name, Grant explained that Hudson is a nod to his New Jersey upbringing and a Sutler was a civilian merchant who sold goods to the military while they were in camp. The term died out after the Civil War but, “we like to say we’re carrying on the entrepreneurial spirit of the sutlers of our past.”
Grant was looking for a weekend bag and couldn’t find anything he liked so he started brain storming on a bag line that was good looking, functional and affordable. “So many weekenders are in the $400-$1000 price range and that is simply unattainable for many,” Grant told us.
Hudson Sutler bags are made from 18 oz. canvas with heavy weight cotton handles (opposed to leather so you can chuck it in the wash), a quick grab handle at the end of the bag and a big fat white zipper. The zipper has become something of a trademark for the company. It helps the bag stand out in a crowd and it also doesn’t rust and won’t get stuck.
We are also fans of the distinctive linings in all the bags, giving the user a little something extra to look forward to while packing. We are also happy about the exterior pocket for quick grab items. Order one up for weekends away, gym time or just a daily carry all. And don’t be afraid of those colors! They will certainly add a little pop to your day.
Keep an eye out for Dopp kits in the fall.
