I think they're a great idea... I nearly bought one but I'm a student and can't afford it. I'm not sure what there is to really comment on regarding this topic.

There's another similar line that's been around since 1993, LittlEarth that has taken a similar concept but applied it to products made from license plates, bottle caps, and also seat belts, innertubes, and the like.

And I've also seen a number of Frietag knock-off products lately... one by Donkey (sorry, no link) at CB2 here in Chicago. But Frietag bags are the original as far as I know.

I know this is more a book review than product piece, but I thought I'd point out what else is out there. And the knock-offs are solid evidence of the Frietag influence even a few years after their bags were on the edge of 'hip' (or hanging off the edge of yours).

Thanks, all. True, it's a book review, but the bags, the brothers, Lars, and the book itself are all game for discussion. As another side note, a group calling themselves reloaded bags makes a line very similar in look to the Freitags, and the marketing and communication materials have a similar sense of whimsy (this is us, and we don't take things too seriously).

However, I doubt any of these companies use the tarps and can brag about green design. As much as I crave my own Freitag, my $19.99 Parcel bag from a Seattle street vendor will do just fine—and it looks similar. The book addresses this issue of copycats, and justifies the expense of buying a Freitag bags by stressing the recycled nature and their authenticity. Freitag laid the groundwork, has been keeping that golden egg warm, and will continue nurturing it. They have expanded their market and product line to include more "upscale" and fashionable goods such as wallets and laptop sleeves. I see them giving folks like Puma a run for their money in the long term.

Check out Freitag's Mancipation Line

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Jason - the donkey messenger bag at CB2 actually uses old NYC billboard vinyl, so at least they're reusing materials just like Freitag. Of course, they're also reusing Freitag's idea.

LittlEarth's products are based entirely on the reuse/recycle/repurpose idea. I don't really dig the look of their products, but I appreciate their sensibilities.

Are these bags/tarps really recycled? According to the website it looks as if they are "sampling" the tarps from moving tractors that are pulling into truck stops for whatever reason. I don't have the book so I don't know the whole story... Just making an observation.

These bags are original in their own right. There are other groups that are making bags from museum banners and/or billboards wraps too. There's lots of original ideas out there, it's hard to say who did what first. Obviously there is an influence!

Whatever their source is, their bags are fantastic!

very very cool bags! i went to the website and you can actually make your own with materials they provide. if you're a type lover than you'll love it because the letterforms are so grand. too bad they charge hundreds of dollars for stuff they "may" find on the road.

There are a number of companies copying Freitag nowadays. For example, kultbag

Search for Freitag style bags on Ebay and you will find a few more companies.

For something completely different check out my alumabags.

I am travelling in Europe & US and would like to buy two frietag bags as gifts to take back to Australia. I know they are available in Australia but thez are very expensive there. Where are they made? Thank you

Bought the surfside six model of the FREITAG line best bag on earth , three day shipping to so cal
life is too short to settle for second best - JP

ID magazine's current issue has a little blurb on Frietag's recycling taken into the Architectural realm. A fantastic repurposing went into their new store.