I never really got into the whole eco-friendly bamboo thing that’s been a small craze as of late. That’s why I’m not pissing in excitement about this Bamboo Briefcase, which should actually be a particularly nifty document case, since the whole thing is clad in the ultra-durable and lightweight organic material.
Assembled by hand from Moso bamboo panels (right out of Midland Chinese forests), the small suitcase claims a tensile strength of 28,000 lbs per square inch, making it more durable than steel. Factor in the slight weight along with natural water resistance, and you’ve got one heck of a briefcase that can rival your favorite portable storage panels.
Dimensions are 17.25 x 12.75 x 3.5 inches, with an easily manageable weight of 5.5 lbs. Exterior is completely decked in bamboo (with a natural finish), which makes it look like a toolbox more than an office briefcase (and that sucks). It comes with a carrying handle up top made of the same dense and hard material, along with dual combination locks. Interior is lined with lush suede and features two file slots, three penholders and one cellphone pocket, all in high-grade leather.
To be honest, the whole thing is pretty impressive. Unfortunately, the aesthetics are not quite up to par with the formal and professional qualities that briefcases usually exude. I’m not sure how bamboo will respond to being coated in paint, but if it looks halfway decent, this thing should be a winner with a more “unnatural” finish.
The Bamboo Briefcase is available now for $200.