Skip to main content

Korchmar Men’s Weekender Bag is a Travel Must-Have

Whether you’re heading in for a business meeting or planning a concert trip out of town, it can be difficult to decide what kind of bag is best suited for the occasion.

Large suitcases may be too big and unnecessary for a brief travel sesh, while ordinary backpacks are unstylish and juvenile. That’s where Korchmar’s new men’s weekender bag can make all the difference.

Recommended Videos

The Men’s weekender bag is a gentlemen’s way to hold clothing, toiletries, and other miscellaneous items needed for short travels. Korchmar takes this rectangular style bag built for flair, capacity, and convenience to the next level with it’s new duffle bags.

Korchmar offers two styles on their weekenders: Twain and Jefferson. Both bags are elegant and simple, yet serve different purposes. We reached out to Korchmar CEO, Michael Korchmar, for an in-depth look on the bags and the Korchmar factory.

The Twain 

l1043co-front-coffee
Image used with permission by copyright holder

“The Twain is a fashionable and functional piece of luggage,” said Korchmar. “It’s larger size and expandable gusset allow it to hold enough to pack for a 4-5 day trip (or longer if you’re a light packer), without sacrificing style.” This particular style comes in six variations, with different colored leathers and a waxed canvas version.

The Jefferson

l1247wa-back
Image used with permission by copyright holder

“The Jefferson was designed more as a day bag,” said Korchmar. “So it is lighter weight and more compact. It’s perfect for a day trip or trips to the gym.” Like the description implies, the Jefferson is smaller in size and comes in four different colors, such as mahogany and walnut.

From travel and laptop briefcases, to large luggage and backpacks, Korchmar pretty much checks off every box for a comprehensive collection of bags. What were your first three steps when taking on the design of a brand new product like the weekenders Korchmar just released?

MK:  I travel over 100,000 miles per year and at least three times per month, so I am constantly evaluating how to improve the experience of carrying the things I need most when I’m on the go. I also pay close attention to how other travelers and business people interact with their bags. So, step one is to identify a need in the market. Step two is to develop new designs and concepts that would effectively address these needs. After testing and retesting new designs, the next step is to work with our team to bring new products to life.

Korchmar is a fourth-generation, family-owned business that favors craftsmanship, quality, and excellent customer service. Do you have any fond memories from when you first inherited these qualities?

MK: I began working in the factory with my father, Don Korchmar, at the age of 12. He was a brilliant engineer and craftsman with multiple patents to his credit, and he had an unwavering passion for quality product through process engineering. I remember my father being very meticulous about product development and product inspections. I would watch him interact with the production team, offering careful guidance and instruction to ensure that only top-quality bags and accessories came through our production lines.

Korchmar takes pride in immaculate craft and attention to detail. What does it feel like when you’re working inside one of Korchmar’s factories? (Does it have a particular sound, smell, energy to it?)

MK: There is a definite “vibe” in the factory. The first floor is full of the sounds of presses cutting leather and fabrics; you hear a constant “boom and bang” of presses pushing dies through material. The second floor hums with the sound of sewing machines and hammering as product is assembled and stitched. The energy is palpable. And the smell…well, the whole place is full of the wonderful, rich and romantic aroma of leather. To me, it’s a heavenly smell.

Korchmar’s designs are simple, yet snazzy, while also boasting some of the finest leathers. What are some key attributes we should all know when looking to purchase a weekender? And how are Korchmar’s bags different from some of the other top companies in the market?

MK: Some of the key attributes to consider when purchasing a new weekender are leather quality, stitch quality, and build quality. All of our weekenders are constructed using 1.4mm -2.6mm full grain American cowhide leather. Not only is it beautiful, it is strong and rich, and it develops a distinct patina with time. We also use the finest nylon and polyester threads to stitch our weekenders using the saddle lockstitch method. And we don’t skimp on material quality or assembly methods. Korchmar products are built to last; we’ve been handcrafting fine leather goods and accessories for nearly 100 years, so it’s safe to say we know how to do it right.

The company will be celebrating it’s 100-year in business in 2017. Are there any new designs or products we should be looking forward to?

MK:  We are hard at work on our Centennial Collection, which will be introduced next year at the Travel Goods Show in Las Vegas.  We’re really excited about it – there will be several new designs that draw inspiration from some of Korchmar’s classic styles.

Bryan Holt
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Bryan Holt is a writer, editor, designer, and multimedia storyteller based in Portland, Oregon. He is a graduate from the…
New Balance unveils the ultimate luxury walking shoe
New Balance releases new sneaker
man wearing new balance allerdale

For the athletic brand New Balance, constantly creating and innovating classic silhouettes is a well-known challenge. Constantly pushing the boundaries with unique inspirations and creative collaborations, New Balance knows what it takes for a stylish release. In their latest drop, the brand is taking on a more luxurious tone with a lifestyle shoe meant to elevate your walks. As a new addition to the brand’s Made in UK collection, the latest release pays homage to the region with a sophisticated and heritage touch. With a fusion of premium craftsmanship and rugged details, this lifestyle design is perfect for whatever your daily walks have prepared. The new release, dubbed “Allerdale,” takes its name after the Allerdale District, the home of New Balance’s UK factory in Filmby. While equipped with all of the performance features you enjoy from the brand, this new release is a one-of-a-kind sophisticated shoe from an athletic brand. 
New Balance Made in UK Allerdale

Inspired by vintage sneakers, the Allerdale model is crafted with premium leather and suede uppers connected by heavy-duty stitching. Like hiking shoes, they have rugged tread that offers more stability for users. As part of the design’s technology, the design includes the brand’s FuelCell cushioning for an added cushion in every step. An Ortholite insole ensures that everyone feels comfortable and secure in their form. Even this luxury model couldn’t go without the New Balance branding, which is added on the midfoot with an embroidered style. The Allerdale model is available in Tortoiseshell with black coffee and black, via New Balance’s web store for $250. An elegant option for loyal New Balance fans, the Allerdale is a unique opportunity to update your everyday footwear.

Read more
Oasis’ Liam Gallagher and Clarks reunite for another retro collaboration
Liam Gallagher, Clarks release new shoe
liam gallagher wearing clarks boots

While Liam Gallagher is well-known as the lead singer of Oasis, his love and partnership with Clarks are lesser-known facts. Gallagher was reportedly a major fan of the shoe brand since his school days, which continued well into his Oasis days. This connection and shared admiration came to fruition in 2022 when the singer and brand came together for a one-of-a-kind collaboration. The duo released an archival silhouette in their previous partnership, which sold out within minutes. Once again releasing an archival silhouette, the newest collaboration between the two is gearing up for another Y2K-inspired design. Just in time for the start of the new Oasis Tour, the collaboration celebrates the return of an exciting time for the musician and brand. 
Rock out to Clarks Desert Rain x Liam Gallagher

 

Read more
G-Shock watches: Tough, stylish, and built to last
Your ultimate guide to G-Shock watches: Features, models, and buying tips
G-Shock watches are the epitome of class

Without a doubt, the most durable timepieces found on the market are Casio G-Shock watches, which carry a toughness and innovative design that relegate them to a class all their own. Since debuting in 1983 with the innovative DW5000C, G-Shock has been created to withstand the most extreme conditions and are virtually indestructible. From adventurers to professionals and collectors, G-Shock boasts a wide range of models for every lifestyle and price point. 
Why G-Shock stands out
Every G-Shock watch features shock resistance, G-Shock durability, water resistance up to 200 meters, a stopwatch, and an alarm. Advanced models have countdown timers, world time, multiple alarms, and auto calendars. With basic models available to premier luxury editions, G-Shock gives first-time buyers and avid collectors entry points that work with their budget. 
Basic G-Shock models
Casio G-Shock DW 5600 series Cornelius Krishna Tedjo / Shutterstock

The DW-5600, DW-6900, and DW-9052 are basic models that offer shock and water resistance like more expensive models but at a lower price. While they don’t come with multi-city world time and an automatic backlight, they are perfect for casual wear, outdoor activities, and in the workplace.
Solar-powered G-Shock watches
G-shock Japanese watch Ihor Matsiievskyi / Shutterstock

Read more