Are Kanken Backpacks Waterproof? Nope

Fjällräven Kånken backpacks aren’t totally waterproof, but they’re made from a material called Vinylon F that’s water resistant. This means your Kånken backpack can handle a bit of light rain and dampness for a short while.

As the manufacturer confirms:

Kånken’s Vinylon fabric can resist a brief shower but for persistent rain, you’ll need a little extra protection.

If you’re out in a heavy downpour for a while or your backpack gets dunked in water, your stuff inside will end up getting soaked.

If you want to enhance the water resistance of your Kånken backpack, use waterproofing spray or wax designed for synthetic fabrics. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to avoid damaging the material.

On a side note, Fjällräven offers its own Greenland Wax, which can improve the water-resistant properties of its G-1000 material products.

However, Greenland Wax is not recommended for the Vinylon F material used in Kånken backpacks.

For significant downpours or water activities, consider a rain cover or use a different backpack specifically designed to be waterproof.

Fjällräven Waterproof Pack Bag

Fjällräven offers a very handy waterproof pack bag that you can use to keep your clothes dry. It’s made from tough, waterproof nylon that has a PU coating and taped seams.

The bag serves as a waterproof backpack lining for trekking backpacks.

You close it up by rolling the top, which then locks with a super-strong metal hook.

It has a logo that reflects light on the side. Plus, it comes in UN Blue, a color that’s super easy to spot in almost any weather or landscape.

Fjällräven Rain Cover

The company provides a convenient rain cover, available in various sizes, to keep your backpack dry.

Fjällräven’s rain cover is made from flexible nylon that’s treated with PU and has taped seams. It comes in a safety color called UN Blue which is super visible no matter the weather or where you are.

The cover is held tight by an elastic band at the bottom and you can adjust it with a drawcord.

There’s also a hook that turns the drawcord into a line that stops the cover from flying off in super strong winds.

If you like to strap a lot of stuff on the outside of your bag, you might want to go for a bigger size to have more room.

How to Waterproof Your Kanken Backpack

While Kanken backpacks are made from Vinylon F fabric which is highly water-resistant, they’re not completely waterproof. For added protection, you can use a waterproofer designed for synthetic fabrics.

Here’s a general guide.

Clean your Kanken

Before you start the waterproofing process, clean your Kanken. Use lukewarm water and mild soap to clean any dirt or stains. Then, let the backpack dry completely.

Use a Waterproofing Spray

Pick a waterproofing spray that’s suitable for synthetic fabrics. Follow the instructions on the product label for application.

If you’re unsure about how the waterproofing product will affect the color or texture of your backpack, always test a small, less visible area first.

Generally, you would want to spray the backpack evenly, maintaining a distance as suggested on the product.

Make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area or preferably outside while spraying.

Let it Dry

After spraying, let your Kanken dry naturally. Don’t try to speed up the process with a heater or hairdryer, as it might damage the fabric.

Depending on the level of waterproofing you want and the instructions on the spray, you might need to repeat the process.

Keep in mind that waterproofing sprays wear off over time. You’ll need to repeat this process periodically to maintain the water resistance of your Kanken.

However, please note that not all waterproofing methods may be suitable for all Kanken models and colors.

Why Fjällräven Kånken Chooses Vinylon F for Their Backpacks

Vinylon F is a synthetic fiber often used in outdoor gear like backpacks due to its durability and water resistance. It was developed in Japan and is also known as polyvinyl alcohol.

A well-known use of Vinylon F is in the Fjällräven Kånken backpacks.

Despite its synthetic nature, Vinylon F has a feel that is often compared to natural fibers rather than plastic.

Here’s what makes Vinylon F so special.

Water Resistance

Unlike many materials that are water-resistant due to a surface coating, Vinylon F absorbs moisture to become even more resistant to water.

When the fibers get wet, they swell, effectively closing any gaps where water could penetrate.

This makes it very effective for use in backpacks and other gear designed for outdoor use.

Durability

Vinylon F is a tough material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. That’s why it’s often used in products that need to stand up to heavy use, like backpacks.

Lightweight

Despite its durability and water resistance, Vinylon F is a lightweight material, making it a good choice for outdoor gear that needs to be carried for long distances.

Care

Cleaning products made from Vinylon F is relatively easy. It can usually be wiped clean with a damp cloth.