This is one of those rather pesonal blogs for me.

Did you realise that a backpack weighing under 500 grams can carry all you need for a multi-day hike? Atelier Longue Distance crafts such ultra-light gear, allowing adventurers to embrace Saint-Exupéry’s wisdom: “To travel happy, travel light.” As part of inspiring European consumers to buy local for a sustainable Europe, we’re spotlighting this French artisan who keeps production close to home.

Introduction to the Manufacturer

Atelier Longue Distance is a French-based artisan workshop specialising in custom ultralight backpacks for hiking and fastpacking. Founded by Jason around 2021, the company operates from France, where all manufacturing takes place handmade by the artisan himself. This ensures 100% European production, focusing on high-quality, durable gear tailored to individual needs. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in the use of recycled materials like 100% recycled polyester and nylon. As someone who’s spent years crafting similar extremely light backpacks myself, I, Jakob De Proft, view this with extra curiosity and passion—it’s inspiring to see such dedication. For more details, visit their website at https://atelierlonguedistance.fr/. With a lead time of about 10 weeks for custom orders, they prioritise craftsmanship over mass production, supporting local skills in the heart of Europe.

“To travel happy, travel light.”

Short Story

Jason, the founder and sole artisan behind Atelier Longue Distance, started this venture four years ago with a passion for ultralight gear that doesn’t compromise on functionality. As a hiker himself, he saw the need for backpacks that are lightweight yet robust, customised to fit each adventurer’s body and requirements. Just like Jason, my own designs originated during hikes on the HRP (Haute Route Pyrenees), which I’ve traversed multiple times—those rugged trails sparked innovations in lightness and efficiency. His workshop in France embodies the spirit of independent European manufacturing, where every stitch is made with care to promote long-lasting products that reduce waste.

“I am Jason, artisan for 4 years at the head of Atelier Longue Distance, a company specialised in the fabrication of backpacks,” he shares in a social media post, highlighting his hands-on approach. This dedication inspires a community of outdoor enthusiasts who value gear that lasts generations, fostering a sense of European pride in sustainable adventuring. By choosing local fabrics and avoiding overseas production, Jason contributes to a greener continent, encouraging others to rethink fast fashion in outdoor equipment. His story is one of perseverance, turning a personal hobby into a beacon for eco-conscious travellers across Europe—they do it better than I ever did, with bold carrying systems that are truly the right choice for comfort and weight. In fact – you will not carry a backpack anymore – you will wear a backpack.

What They Make

Atelier Longue Distance focuses on custom ultralight backpacks, handmade in France using recycled, abrasion-resistant fabrics like EPX200 and UltraGrid. These products emphasise quality, durability, and minimal environmental impact, with European production ensuring short supply chains, fair labour, and reduced carbon footprints. Local manufacturing supports French artisan skills, promoting economic resilience and pride in EU-made goods. As a former maker myself, I admire their custom tailoring for every client, which elevates the experience far beyond standard gear.

• Custom Hybride Backpack: A versatile frameless pack available in 20L to 35L volumes, customised with options for pockets, bottom configurations, and strap systems. It’s designed for hiking and trail running, featuring waterproof materials and sternum straps for comfort. EU production guarantees superior craftsmanship and sustainability, lasting through countless adventures. View product
• Hybride All Around Custom: Similar to the Hybride but optimised for all-terrain use, with enhanced pockets for bottles and essentials. It offers Z-compressions and ice axe loops, ideal for backpacking. Made from recycled UHMWPE fibres for extreme resistance, this EU-crafted bag reduces reliance on imported goods, boosting local economies and eco-friendliness. View product

• Accessories and Customisations: Options like reminder strips, side compressions, and Dyneema bottom pockets enhance any pack. These add-ons, produced in France, focus on longevity and repairability, aligning with sustainable European values by minimising waste and encouraging top-quality gear.

Why Buy This?

Choosing Atelier Longue Distance means investing in high-quality and ultralight backpacks that prioritise sustainability and European craftsmanship. Their use of recycled materials and local production minimises environmental impact while supporting artisan jobs in France. As Jakob De Proft, I’ve experienced how such gear transforms hikes, and I believe they surpass my efforts with their innovative designs.

By opting for these, you contribute to a stronger EU economy, reducing transport emissions and fostering innovation in outdoor gear. But in this case – you opt for a lighter hike using a backpack with a really personal story. You know who made it!

Through weekly blogs mapping EU manufacturers on www.ineurope.eu, we’re building a passionate, responsible Europe where quality trumps quantity. Embrace the joy of light travel with gear that’s built to last.

Call to Action

Ready to lighten your load? Purchase your custom backpack via https://atelierlonguedistance.fr/.

If you are one the people who made it to the end of this blog – you might also be interested in the ultralight quilts from Khibu.