In the ever-evolving and fascinating world of pop culture, design plays an important role in bridging the gap between nostalgia and innovation. From beloved childhood icons to automotive legends and superhero lore, designers are finding new ways to bring these themes to life in unique and exciting products.

We have curated a collection of the top 5 pop culture products we think you need. These products showcase the power of creativity and craftsmanship in celebrating the icons we hold dear. These top 5 pop culture designs are making waves with their distinctive charm and undeniable appeal. Dive in!

1. LEGO Power Rangers Megazord

Say hello to the LEGO Power Rangers Megazord – this masterpiece allows fans to relive the magic and wonder of Saturday morning cartoons with a new and interactive twist. This set isn’t simply a static model, but an interesting and dynamic build that brings the Megazord to life.

The set disassembles into the five legendary Dinozords: Mastodon, Pterodactyl, Triceratops, Sabertooth Tiger, and Tyrannosaurus. Each Dinozord features posable limbs for creative play. When combined, they form the mighty Dino Megazord, capturing every detail from the TV show.

Why is it noteworthy?

This LEGO set can transform and engage. It offers fans a hands-on experience, allowing them to recreate classic scenes or invent new adventures. The attention to detail in capturing the Megazord’s likeness is impressive, appealing to both longtime fans and new enthusiasts. Its versatility and interactivity make it a must-have for collectors and LEGO builders alike.

What we like

• Offers a dynamic building experience with transformable Zords.
• High attention to detail, staying true to the original design.

What we dislike

• May require patience and skill to assemble.
• Price could be a barrier for casual fans.

2. Batmobile Crocs

The Crocs Batman Batmobile Classic Clogs are a playful blend of footwear and fandom, celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Batman movie. These clogs capture the essence of the 1989 Batmobile, utilizing the clog’s naturally curvy shape to mimic the iconic vehicle.

The front features turbine intake details, while the heel straps are molded with the Batmobile’s classic wings. Side carvings resemble the vehicle’s rear wheels and air intakes, showcasing the design team’s dedication to authenticity. These clogs are a fun, wearable tribute to one of the most iconic vehicles in comic book history.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Crocs offer Batman fans a unique way to express their fandom in a casual setting. The attention to detail, from mechanical lines to tiny signal lights, showcases a commitment to authenticity that fans will appreciate. These clogs are a bold statement piece for those who embrace their inner superhero.

What we like

• Unique design that captures the essence of the 1989 Batmobile.
• Comfortable and easy to wear, with a playful flair.

What we dislike

• Polarizing design that may not appeal to everyone.
• Limited to casual wear, not suitable for all occasions.

3. Porsche 911 Backpack

The Porsche 911 Backpack is a bold fusion of automotive design and fashion, inspired by AI-generated images that were brought to life. This unique backpack features a vacuum-molded hard outer shell that mimics the iconic curves of the Porsche 911. It is a bit impractical, but it is eye-catching.

It represents a blend of form and function, although with a more emphasis on form. While it may not accommodate tech gadgets like laptops, it could hold essentials like books, a lunchbox, or clothing. Its visual appeal and the spoiler detail make it an impressive fashion accessory.

Why is it noteworthy?

It challenges traditional notions of functionality in fashion, focusing instead on aesthetic appeal. Its unique shape and automotive inspiration make it a conversation starter, appealing to car enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike. Despite its practical limitations, the Porsche 911 Backpack is a bold statement piece.

What we like

• A striking design that captures the iconic Porsche 911 aesthetic.
• Features a durable hard shell construction.

What we dislike

• Limited practicality for carrying tech items.
• Uncertain storage capacity due to unconventional shape.

4. SmartAir Minion Routers

Last year at CES 2024, these adorable SmartAir Minion Routers completely captured our attention with their unique design. At first glance, these devices appear to be charming plush toys, complete with the lovable features of Minions. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that these adorable figures are fully functional WiFi routers.

The adorable devices are cleverly disguised to add a touch of whimsy to your home network setup. Adding them to your living space will add a dose of cuteness and amusement, giving you a break from the typical tedious tech gadgets that do the job but aren’t very visually pleasing.

Why is it noteworthy?

The SmartAir Minions Routers come in two distinct models, each modeled after beloved Minion characters. The first is Bob, the short and endearing Minion, who offers dual-band WiFi connectivity for reliable internet access. The second model is Kevin, the taller and more playful Minion, which provides triple-band internet capabilities, supporting 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands. This variety allows users to choose the router that best suits their connectivity needs.

What we like

• The routers deliver wide coverage and high speeds.
• They eliminate dead zones, providing WiFi connectivity to every corner of your home.

What we dislike

• Kids may think they are toys and play with them, so they must be positioned carefully.

5. Squid Game Security Camera

Inspired by the intense and suspenseful South Korean series Squid Game, this security camera is a must-have for pop culture enthusiasts who want to add a touch of cinematic flair to their home security system. The camera’s design is reminiscent of the enigmatic workers from the series who diligently monitor the players through CCTV.

These intriguing figures can be a part of your home, offering both a unique aesthetic and the reassurance of safety and security. The design will make a wonderful addition to your home since Squid Games 2 just released! It features a cleverly integrated rotating lens positioned where the eye would be, providing a wide 180-degree view of its surroundings.

Why is it noteworthy?

The rotating lens offers comprehensive surveillance coverage, leaving no blind spots. Additionally, the camera boasts a distinctive security feature: a privacy mask that physically covers the field of view when the camera is not in use. This innovative design prevents unauthorized access and potential hacking attempts, offering peace of mind to users concerned about digital security.

What we like

• The camera features built-in illumination that users can customize to their preferred brightness levels.

What we dislike

• Being a conceptual design, there is uncertainty about how effectively it could be developed into a physical product.

The post Top 5 Pop Culture Designs To Bring Some Contemporary Coolness Into Your Home & Life first appeared on Yanko Design.

Luxury and technology have always been intertwined, producing devices that seamlessly blend innovation and opulence. From the world’s first gold-colored iPhones to foldable smartphones wrapped in 18K gold, third parties continue to push boundaries for those who demand sophistication in every detail. Devices like Huawei’s Mate XT Ultimate Design represent the union of artistry and engineering, but they’re part of a larger story—a story where gold remains the material of choice for tech’s most exclusive creations.

Huawei Mate XT: A Golden Transformation in Foldable Smartphones

Huawei’s Mate XT Ultimate Design takes foldable phones to an entirely new level. Encased in an 18K gold backplate with a ripple pattern that mimics flowing water, the Mate XT is as much a piece of art as it is a smartphone. The textured surface enhances light reflection and improves grip, merging luxury with practicality.

Designer: Huawei

The Mate XT’s tri-fold design is a feat of engineering. Fully unfolded, the 10.2-inch LTPO OLED screen delivers an expansive resolution of 3,184 x 2,232 pixels, making it ideal for multitasking and immersive content consumption. When folded, the display adapts to 7.9-inch and 6.4-inch configurations, transforming seamlessly to suit the user’s needs. Huawei’s precision-engineered hinge system ensures durability while maintaining a sleek silhouette.

Source: GSMArena

Performance-wise, the Mate XT is powered by Huawei’s Kirin 9010 chipset, offering up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The 50MP main camera, complemented by a 12MP periscope lens and a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, is integrated into a circular module that harmonizes with the rippled gold backplate. With its tri-fold capability and lavish exterior, the Mate XT surpasses the definition of a smartphone—it’s an experience.

For the ultra-exclusive, the gold casing transforms the already luxurious device into a collector’s piece for those who demand the highest standard of design.

The Gold iPhone: Redefining Status in Tech

The introduction of the iPhone 5S in champagne gold in 2013 forever changed the tech industry. Gold, a material long associated with prosperity and exclusivity, found its way into Apple’s minimalist design language. While subtle, the finish had a profound impact, particularly in markets like Hong Kong and mainland China, where gold holds deep cultural significance. The gold iPhone became an instant status symbol, with pre-orders selling out in hours and resellers marking up prices to astronomical levels.

Designer: Apple

By blending gold’s cultural allure with Apple’s design ethos, the iPhone 5S set the stage for smartphones as aspirational products. It showed that one color could change how people see a device—from simply being a tool to becoming a symbol of style and elegance.

The Gold Apple Watch: Technology as Fine Jewelry

Apple expanded its exploration of gold in 2015 with the launch of the Apple Watch Edition. Encased in 18-karat yellow or rose gold, this wearable blurred the lines between traditional jewelry and modern technology. Priced between $10,000 and $17,000, the Apple Watch Edition positioned itself as a luxury item for the elite.

Designer: Apple

Key design details included a sapphire crystal display for enhanced durability, meticulous polishing for a seamless finish, and bands crafted from premium materials to match the watch’s opulence. Available in two sizes—38mm and 42mm—the Edition wasn’t just a smartwatch; it was a reimagining of what a watch could be in the digital age.

While Apple discontinued the Gold Edition after one generation, its impact remains undeniable. It elevated wearable tech into the realm of luxury accessories, paving the way for high-end materials like titanium and ceramic in subsequent models. The Apple Watch Edition proved that technology could belong in the same category as haute horology.

Tesla Cybertruck: Bold, Electric, and Gold

Gold’s allure isn’t limited to personal devices—it’s transformed even industrial designs like Tesla’s Cybertruck. Popular YouTuber Zack Nelson, known as JerryRigEverything, turned heads when he coated a Cybertruck in 24-karat gold. The electroplating process took four days, with three people working to cover the vehicle’s angular surfaces in real gold.

Designer: Tesla

The finished product was extravagant and functional. Protected by a self-healing film, the golden Cybertruck showcased how materials can transform futuristic designs into representations of exclusivity. The gold plating alone added an estimated $100,000 to the vehicle’s value, proving that even the boldest innovations can embrace timeless luxury.

Why Gold Continues to Captivate

Gold’s enduring presence in technology speaks to its ability to balance timeless appeal with cultural and psychological resonance. In many Asian cultures, gold symbolizes prosperity and success, making it a natural fit for markets that value exclusivity. But beyond cultural significance, gold offers something universal: a sense of individuality in a world of mass-produced gadgets.

For many people, owning a gold device signifies a desire to stand out. Gold-colored or plated devices act as status symbols, combining heritage, aesthetic appeal, and modern functionality. Limited-edition creations like the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Edition or the gold Apple Watch Edition tap into this desire for rarity, offering devices that feel as personal as they are cutting-edge.

The Evolution of Gold and the Future of Luxury Tech

Gold’s journey through the tech industry highlights its transformative role in luxury design. Apple’s iPhone 5S demonstrated how a single color could elevate a device into a marker of success, while the gold Apple Watch Edition blurred the lines between modern technology and fine jewelry. Encased in 18-karat yellow or rose gold, the Edition positioned wearable tech in the luxury market with unparalleled attention to detail, from sapphire crystal displays to seamless finishes.

Huawei’s Mate XT further extends this narrative, combining foldable technology with 18K gold to create a device that balances innovation with artistry. Beyond personal devices, larger-scale designs like the Tesla Cybertruck prove gold’s versatility. Coated in 24-karat gold, the Cybertruck redefines how luxury can enhance even the boldest, most utilitarian forms.

These examples showcase how gold continues to redefine what’s possible in design—from pocket-sized devices to full-scale vehicles—pushing boundaries and inspiring new conversations about luxury in technology.

The post The Craft of Luxury Tech: From Gold iPhones to Tri-Fold Smartphones first appeared on Yanko Design.

January’s new moon is the onset of the Lunar New Year aka the Chinese New Year, which for 2025 is the Year of the Snake according to the zodiac calendar. While watchmakers like Longines and Oris have already revealed their celebratory timepieces to leverage the fanfare around the 15-day-long celebrations, the Jordan brand is also walking in with an iteration of the Air Jordan 11 Low inspired by the mythological Year of the Snake.

Dubbed the Air Jordan 11 Low CNY Year of the Snake, the silhouette is part of the Jordan brand’s thematic collection, which comprises a few other pairs including the Air Jordan 1 Low and the Air Jordan 5. The AJ 11 Low CNY edition promises to be a unique sneaker with cultural significance and the Jordan branding, which has its own contemporary fanbase. How many takers it’ll find will be apparent after the sneaker drops in the third week of January.

Designer: Nike

From the very looks of it, the Air Jordan 11 Low CNY Year of the Snake silhouette is not very different from the AJ 11 Low OG. Nevertheless, it has a subtle new design embodying the celebratory spirit without altering the idea of the sneaker too much. Of course, for the snake symbolism – and to fit the year of the wood snake theme – it has a mysterious snakeskin design to stand out.

The sneaker has a clean and classic look enhanced by a versatile, eye-catching texture on its predominant white canvas. Made from white tumbled leather, the Air Jordan 11 Low’s upper is complemented by a similar color midsole. The sneaker’s vibe is scaled up by the greyish snakeskin mudguard that nods the Year of the Snake theme. The shoe design is finished with a semi-translucent milky outsole.

While we are scouting for clear information about the release date – which tentatively appears to be January 23, 2025 – we leave you with the first clear images of the Air Jordan 11 Low CNY Year of the Snake by way of Instagram handle sneakersbar. When it launches, the Chinese New Year-themed sneaker will be available at select Jordan brand retailers and through the Nike website online. The Air Jordan 11 Low in its Year of the Snake detailing will retail for $190 in men’s sizing.

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Collaborations between fashion and lifestyle brands can sometimes be a hit or miss. But if the two brands share the same vision and values, then it can often be a hit. Lifestyle brand Kith has had its fair share of great collaborations and to close out the year, they have partnered with adventure sneaker brand Salomon to come up with not one but two pairs of collectible footwear.

Designers: Kith x Salomon

The XT-4 retro trail runner is one of the more popular items by Salomon and now they are releasing a collaborative version that has more colorways and of course co-branding. This updated version has closed mesh, synthetic leather uppers, reflective accents, and also more options for colors. You can choose between the white and red colorway or the black and red one (or get both) to match your outfit and aesthetic.

Meanwhile, the other collaboration is a new version of Salomon’s archival Adventure 7, released back in 1994. The XT-Voyager is the 2024 version complete with mesh lining, ballistic nylon overlays, and a synthetic upper with debossed suede. It also has a zippered tongue and a hidden Quicklace closure. It’s meant for adventurous trecks as it has a dual-density midsole and the Contragrip rubber outsole.

The XT-Voyager has more of a retro feel while the XT-4 retro trail runner has a more modern aesthetic. They are now available at the Kith website and app for around $220 each but they are limited editions so you should get one now if these appeal to your adventure and fashion sensibilities.

The post Kith and Salomon collaborate on updated adventure sneakers first appeared on Yanko Design.

Remember when we all agreed that GenAI tools were going to be used to scam people with fake images of unreal scenarios or fake products? Well, this isn’t one of those times. Images of a Porsche 911 backpack began circulating on the internet, and although sure, the image is absolutely 100% AI generated, turns out that there are actually prototypers and manufacturers working on a real version of the product.

Remember the Gorilla Couch phenomenon? If you’re hearing it for the first time, try searching the words “Gorilla Couch” and seeing what the internet throws up. The story goes like this – someone generated images of a gorilla-shaped couch and it instantly picked up online with people wanting to buy it. However, rather than it being a fake scam, manufacturers (some in China) actually reverse-engineered the images and MADE the couch, selling it online. The internet basically WILLED an AI product into existence, and now gorilla couches are even available on Amazon.

Designer: Cole Kessel

The Porsche 911 Backpack’s story is somewhat similar. The lifestyle image above is clearly AI-generated, but hey, sometimes the AI generates some pretty neat images, right? So someone just decided to turn the images into a real product. You can see the prototyping below in action, from someone who clearly works in the vacuum-molded luggage space. It makes sense to vacuum-mold the outer -facade, giving the backpack a hard outer shell, although where one would put the zip is still anyone’s guess. Maybe the backpack opens like the car’s boot?!

The backpack’s design is a great example of form NOT following function, though. A car like the Porsche 911 is truly iconic, but its shape applies to automotives, not necessarily to fashion. The result is an odd backpack that has tremendous visual appeal, but I honestly don’t know what its shape would hold. It won’t fit any tech like a laptop for sure, but maybe you could carry a lunchbox, a book or two, and maybe a few clothes in it. The backpack does, however, fulfill its need to look fashionable. It’s gorgeous (even if it isn’t practical), and the spoiler mounted on top literally feels like a cherry on the cake!

It isn’t entirely clear where the product will be sold (I found these images on Instagram), but it sure as hell won’t be available at your nearest Porsche dealership. I see the Porsche logo molded into the back too, so that’s definitely a lawsuit waiting to happen. Try AliExpress or Temu, maybe? I’d say for $120, chances are the backpack will either be of dubious quality, or probably won’t ship at all. Does it still look cool? Oh yes, for sure.

The post This Porsche 911 Backpack is Apparently a Real Product and Costs $120 first appeared on Yanko Design.

French designer Louis Le Joly Senoville has introduced Ha Mat, a wearable chess set that turns a centuries-old game into a playful, portable accessory. Born from his passion for chess and a desire to play anytime, anywhere, the design combines functionality and style, challenging traditional notions of both games and fashion.

Designer: Louis Le Joly Senoville

The Ha Mat set consists of three key elements:

Rings: 32 bold metal rings represent the chess pieces. Each piece is crafted from rectangular brass blocks, laser-cut to feature graphic reliefs that symbolize their identity. A cross for the king, a zigzag for the queen’s crown, and a simplified horse head for the knight exemplify the blend of utility and artistry.

Silk Scarf: The silk scarf serves as the chessboard, seamlessly blending form and function. Its design incorporates patterns derived from the ring pieces, creating an elegant accessory that can be worn daily. To complement the unconventional forms of the chess pieces, the scarf features a printed layout of their arrangement, making it intuitive for players to recognize and use the pieces during a game.

Custom Watch: A sleek aluminum and leather wristwatch serves as a dual chess timer when separated, enhancing its multifunctional appeal.

Le Joly Senoville’s design draws from history, referencing concealed wearable objects like silk escape maps from WWII and 19th-century military scarves. This historical context blends with modern aesthetics to create a set steeped in tradition yet tailored for contemporary use.

The pieces were precision-cut from brass and galvanized with silver, produced in collaboration with a French waterjet metal cutting company. The scarf was crafted from deadstock silk sourced from LVMH Group, emphasizing sustainability. Even the watch prototype was handmade with the help of watchmakers, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail.

The designer’s decision to manufacture entirely in France challenges the mass-production norms of design industries, aligning with his commitment to local craftsmanship and sustainable practices.

While Ha Mat’s concept may not cater to daily wear, its ingenuity and charm are undeniable. The wearable rings are visually striking, balancing functionality and artistic expression. The project was conceived as Le Joly Senoville’s final-year project at Central Saint Martins, reflecting his appreciation for chess as a “timeless and intergenerational” game.

The name Ha Mat pays homage to the Breton phrase “eched ha mat” (checkmate), a nod to the designer’s heritage in Brittany. It underscores the designer’s effort to modernize the game while honoring its rich history.

Le Joly Senoville joins a growing movement of designers reimagining chess, such as Stefan Gougherty’s Negative Space Chess Set and Florian Hauswirth’s stackable Democratic Chess Set. However, Ha Mat stands out for its wearable, multifunctional approach, blending the worlds of design, fashion, and gameplay in an innovative and striking way.

This unique set invites players to rethink the boundaries of the game, offering a creative and stylish way to engage with chess in any setting.

The post This ‘Wearable’ Chess Set features 32 ‘Chessmen’ Rings, and a Checkered Playable Scarf first appeared on Yanko Design.

The use of personal commuters in cities is on the rise as people are becoming aware of the environmental impacts of our lifestyle. Kick scooters fit perfectly in the future of personal transportation and safety is one consideration that’ll fuel their feasibility in the long run. While other modes of transportation come with advanced safety features, kick scooters are limited in that aspect.

One of them is the spatial awareness of the surroundings in crowded cities. What’s behind you is one major blind spot that’s only covered if you look back to be aware of what’s happening. That in itself can be a driving hazard as one loses vision of what’s happening right ahead and can also lead to loss of balance. The idea of these RearView Glasses is born out of the need to get over this catch-22 situation. Not only kick scooters, but the accessory is also useful for cyclists, delivery personnel and anyone who needs enhanced peripheral visibility.

Designer: Ugly.Duckling

The concept is targeted towards Gen-Z who are normally carefree and need all the aids to drive safely in cities. Attaching rearview mirrors to a kickscooter is highly impractical, so the only option left is to have rearview mirrors on a pair of glasses. The RearView Glasses are a stylish solution as they have foldable mirrors integrated into the frame’s temple arms. Having high-quality convex mirrors promises a wider field of view to eliminate any blindspots, and give the rider a safe option to navigate the visual surroundings without moving the head.

The design team went beyond the conceptual stage to create the prototype version of the RearView Glasses. Its frame is made from durable and lightweight material to keep the fatigue down with extended sessions of wearing. This novel approach to solving the rising safety issues of urban transportation is a holistic solution that balances the functionality, aesthetics and user experience. More than anything, the idea of RearView Glasses raises the bar for urban mobility standards since we are heading into a future dominated by emission-free personal mobility vehicles.

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Serbian basketball genius Nikola Jokic, who plays a center for the Denver Nuggets, has crept up into the list of all-time NBA greats most quietly, if you would agree. Often regarded as the greatest draft steal in NBA history, Jokic aka “the Joker” within the professional basketball circles, now has a signature shoe to reflect his style and strength.

At an event themed “Disrupting The Game,” organized at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado; 361° did really disrupt the court code with the new shoe called the JOKER 1 after the NBA superstar. This was a highly anticipated launch event, not only for all Joker fans, but for the Chinese sporting brand as well, that with the launch making its global presence felt.

Designer: 361°

With the JOKER 1 to his name, Jokic has earned himself a place amid the legendary league of players featuring silhouette etched with their name (branding in most cases to be precise). The JOKER 1 is Jokic’s first signature shoe and also sort of debut for 361° into the international basketball footwear arena with attachment to his name.

The Joker was seen donning the signature silhouette when Denver Nuggets took on the Golden State Warriors earlier this week. One of its kind shoe on the court, the JOKER 1 draws inspiration from the iconic Batman character evident in its purple upper and green sole. The Joker-themed colorway silhouette is meticulously crafted keeping Jokic’s on-field requirements, playing style, and personality.

All the details this, right from the bold colorway to the high-performance features are aligned with lightweight comfort, ultralight cushioning for optimal responsiveness, and material usage to deliver breathability. The JOKER 1 is now available in the U.S. and is likely to make European debut on December 7 in Serbia—Jokic’s home nation. It will then release in China on December 14.

The post NBA MVP Nikola Jokic’s first signature shoe, The JOKER 1, launched by 361° first appeared on Yanko Design.

Backpacks have come a long way from their humble beginnings as utilitarian gear for hikers and campers. Today, they’re indispensable companions for everything from daily commutes to globe-trotting adventures. Their transformation reflects an evolution in materials, functionality, and style, becoming essential tools for modern living. Centuries ago, people relied on rudimentary sacks made of animal skins or plant materials. Over time, these evolved into leather bags for medieval travelers and soldiers, and by the 19th century, metal-framed designs appeared, though they offered little comfort. In recent decades, backpacks have revolutionized, offering unmatched versatility and comfort.

Here’s how contemporary trends are reshaping the industry:

1. Sustainability Takes Center Stage

As consumers grow more eco-conscious, backpack manufacturers are adopting sustainable practices. Materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled plastics are gaining prominence, balancing durability with environmental responsibility. The 21st century has witnessed a surge in designs that minimize ecological impact without compromising on strength or longevity—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability in extreme conditions.

The 38L Hybrid Duffle Pack combines sustainability with high functionality, using materials and processes that eliminate waste.

Designed to be carbon neutral, it is crafted from 123 recycled plastic bottles and strengthened with atmospheric CO2, making it storm-proof and incredibly durable. Endorsed by explorer Ed Stafford, this pack features a versatile hybrid design, allowing you to easily switch between backpack, side-strap, and duffle modes thanks to its detachable straps and handles.

With a 38L capacity, the bag includes a fleece-lined laptop compartment, multiple pockets, and side bottle holders, offering ample storage and easy organization. The fabric is made from recycled PET bottles, while the interior lining uses recycled fishing nets and eco-friendly dyes.

Its hardware is infused with CO2, making it up to 40% more durable than virgin plastics. Waterproof zippers and advanced water-based coatings ensure resilience in harsh weather conditions—whether you’re heading to work or embarking on an adventure.

2. Integration of Technology

Backpacks are becoming smarter, integrating features that cater to tech-savvy lifestyles. Built-in USB ports, wireless charging pads, and Bluetooth connectivity have become standard offerings for many. Enhanced security features like RFID-blocking compartments, concealed zippers, and cut-resistant fabrics provide peace of mind in urban settings. Smart textiles ensure durability, water resistance, and even protection against microorganisms. Some designs also incorporate LED lighting for visibility at night, making these backpacks perfect for navigating today’s tech-driven world.

For instance, Microsoft’s AI-powered smart backpack, recently patented in the U.S., pushes boundaries. As a digital assistant, it identifies objects, provides real-time information, and manages daily tasks like reminders or calendar updates. With cloud connectivity, it delivers instant access to online resources while aiding navigation for the visually impaired. Its lightweight and ergonomic design reflects how technology and practicality can merge seamlessly.

3. Comfort-Driven Ergonomic Design

Personalized backpacks are becoming increasingly popular, allowing users to select colors, internal layouts, and removable compartments that suit their individual needs. Modern backpacks often feature specialized compartments for laptops, headphones, and even solar-powered charging panels, catering to tech-savvy consumers. Simultaneously, they have become fashion statements, with luxury brands creating high-end versions for professional and casual use. These backpacks are versatile, stylish, and adaptable to any occasion—whether in the office or on a weekend outing.

Fil & Fog by Fritsch-Durisotti, a Paris-based creative studio, offers a thoughtfully designed line of backpacks and companion organizers that blend practicality with durability. Designed for modern adventurers and daily commuters, these backpacks feature water-resistant TPU coatings and high-frequency welding for enhanced durability and water-tightness. The expandable top compartment and spacious 24-liter capacity provide ample room for personal items and essentials.

The accompanying organizers include customizable elastic bands, which allow users to adjust internal compartments for optimal storage. These organizers seamlessly fit into the backpack’s bottom compartment, keeping items organized and accessible. Made from polyester fabric and recycled nylon lining, these backpacks present a sustainable, waterproof solution for all types of travel. Ideal for outdoor excursions or daily use, Fil & Fog offers a versatile, long-lasting companion designed to keep your belongings secure while simplifying an active lifestyle.

4. Comfort-Driven Ergonomic Design

Ergonomic backpacks have become increasingly popular as they provide effective relief from back pain that traditional or heavy backpacks often cause. Designed for comfort and support, these backpacks include padded straps, lumbar support, and back panels that mold to the spine, ensuring even weight distribution and promoting proper posture. Adjustable straps and waist belts help distribute the weight from the shoulders to the hips, minimizing strain and maximizing comfort. For hiking or everyday use, ergonomic backpacks allow users to carry their essentials without discomfort, utilizing lightweight yet durable materials like nylon.

The Symmetry S1 backpack, developed with input from chiropractors, incorporates memory foam straps and lumbar support to reduce shoulder and back strain while promoting proper posture. Designed for versatility, it blends a formal aesthetic with features like collapsible side pockets and a concealed valuables compartment. Its symmetrical, ambidextrous design, along with an upright base and a 180° front opening, makes the Symmetry S1 both practical and stylish for various settings. Made from high-quality materials such as twill nylon, ballistic nylon, and full-grain leather, the S1 provides a comfortable and functional solution for everyday use, with compartments for a 16-inch laptop, tablet, and other essentials.

5. Multifunctionality at Its Best

Multifunctional backpacks are gaining popularity, designed for versatility across different settings such as the gym, office, or travel. Modular designs offer adaptability, allowing users to customize their bags for various needs without sacrificing style. Backpacks have evolved into fashion statements, ranging from simple, understated looks to bold, vibrant patterns, serving as key accessories to express personal style. These practical yet stylish backpacks feature multiple pockets for organizing items like keys, phones, books, and gadgets, making them the perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Sleek, minimalist designs are trending, featuring neutral tones and clean aesthetics seamlessly integrating into urban lifestyles.

Wool & Oak’s Carry-On Backpack offers versatility to accommodate anything from a laptop to a weekend’s worth of gear. This system includes five separate bags, each designed for a specific purpose. The Pro Backpack, featuring 19 pockets and a 16-inch laptop compartment, is an everyday laptop bag. It can function independently or attach to the Weekender Duffle, the largest bag, for expanded storage. The Weekender Duffle, with dual side access and hidden pockets, can also be used as a standalone duffle bag or backpack, adding flexibility for various uses.

Additional accessories like a laptop sleeve, toiletry kit, and sling-style fanny pack enhance the overall functionality, allowing you to tailor the setup to your needs. Made from premium leather in brown or black, the Carry-On Backpack can be customized with add-ons like the Sling-bag, Laptop Sleeve, Toiletry Kit, and Camera Cube. Wool & Oak’s Carry-On Backpack is perfect for travelers who need a flexible, stylish solution for any adventure.

Backpacks have evolved into more than just storage solutions—they’re an extension of how we live, work, and explore. With innovations in technology, sustainability, and design, the humble backpack continues to reinvent itself, ensuring it remains an essential part of our lives.

The post Backpack Revolution: Unpacking the Top Design Trends of Backpack Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

As someone who has worn glasses since middle school, I’ve lived through the minor triumphs and occasional woes of eyewear. For most of us, glasses are more than tools—they’re an extension of our identity, a practical accessory that also has the power to irritate like no other. That subtle, relentless pressure on the sides of your head? It’s not just a quirk; it’s an everyday discomfort that Temple Eyewear promises to change with a bold redesign.

Temple Eyewear’s approach is simple but striking. Instead of leaning on the traditional frame architecture that hooks around your ears, they’ve opted for something that feels refreshingly intuitive: non-slip pads resting on the temples. If you’ve ever adjusted your glasses one too many times during a work call or mid-walk, you’ll understand the appeal of stability. By shifting the support to natural pressure points on the head, Temple Eyewear aims to eliminate ear irritation and prevent discomfort from prolonged use.

Designers: Emre Acikgoz & Sinosoidal Studio

It looks interesting, sort of like those fancy glasses that balance on your nose bridge, or monocles that fit in your eye – but the design also raises a few questions. For one, will these temple pads truly stay secure during more active use, or will they end up sliding out of place? After all, no one wants their glasses taking an unplanned nosedive when they lean forward or break into a brisk jog. And how about fit? While adjustable pads are a nice touch, heads come in all shapes and sizes, and what feels snug on one might slip off another. These are the kinds of details that only time (and countless faces) can iron out.

The customization options, though, are undeniably enticing. Eyewear has always been about personal expression, and Temple leans into this with a range of color choices that cater to both minimalists and maximalists. From sleek, subtle tones to vibrant hues that make a statement, there’s room to find your perfect match. Pair that with a design philosophy emphasizing comfort and functionality, and Temple has carved out a thoughtful space for itself in a crowded market.

Still, there’s no denying the charm of this redesign. For anyone who’s struggled with ear fatigue or skin irritation, Temple’s design might feel worth a shot. The lightweight stability of the non-slip pads seems poised to offer a smoother, more comfortable experience. And, let’s not forget—when your glasses don’t distract you with discomfort, you actually get to focus on what matters: seeing the world clearly.

For now, I’ll be keeping an eye (pun intended) on how this design evolves, because comfort, style, and practicality are a trifecta worth rooting for, and I’m of the opinion that things that aren’t severely broken don’t need fixing. If you’re ready to ditch the ear hooks and try something that could redefine how glasses feel, Temple Eyewear might just be your next move. Let’s see how it holds up to the promise.

The problem

The solution

The post Revolutionary Glasses Ditch Ear Straps for Temple Pads… But Will It Work? first appeared on Yanko Design.