[NYC25]




Key Dates

20 March - Launch Deadline
19 June - Standard Deadline
25 September - Late Deadline
31 October - Judging
5 November - Winners Announced

Cloudridge Outdoor camping backpack

Project Overview

The Cloudridge Outdoor Camping Backpack redefines the outdoor experience by innovatively blending practicality with the philosophy of nature-inspired mindfulness, creating a deeper, more meaningful connection between users and the natural world.

Organisation

SHANGHAI TOPRINT DESIGN CO., LTD.

Team

SHANGHAI TOPRINT DESIGN CO.,LTD.

Project Brief

Amidst the chaos and fast pace of modern urban life, hiking has become more than exercise—it’s a powerful way to get out in nature, where people can rejuvenate physically and emotionally. Recognising this shift, the Cloudridge Outdoor Camping Backpack reimagines the role of the traditional backpack: not just as a tool for carrying gear, but as a companion for mindful exploration.

More than mere utility, this design innovatively integrates the philosophy of nature-inspired mindfulness, transforming each journey into a deeper dialogue with nature. Its standout feature—the Nature Collection Compartment—provides a dedicated space for hikers to gather natural mementos like fallen leaves and small stones along the trail.

This simple act of collecting creates a tangible connection between people and the natural world, offering a moment to pause, reflect, and recharge. Complemented by a nature-inspired colour palette and reliable, functional performance, the Cloudridge Outdoor Camping Backpack supports not only the physical journey through the wilderness, but the emotional journey as well.

Project Innovation/Need

- Wilderness Collecting: The classic roll-top design now embraces a new purpose with a thoughtful innovation: the integrated Nature Collection Compartment. More than just extra storage, it’s an invitation to pause and gather natural gifts like fallen leaves and small stones along the trail, helping foster a sense of presence in nature. Every time a hiker reaches down to collect something, it becomes a profound moment of connection. In this way, hiking transforms from mere exercise into a therapeutic journey that engages the body and refreshes the mind within nature’s embrace.

- Nature-Inspired Aesthetic: Inspired by the natural world, the colour palette of Misty Beige, Rotting Wood Brown, and Berry Orange creates a soft, earthy atmosphere, while pops of vibrant orange highlight key functional elements, ensuring practicality without sacrificing its harmonious aesthetic. Material selections include moss-textured Oxford fabric for the main body, soft canvas for the top flap, and elastic rubber for the straps to reflect the plump resilience of wild berries. Together, they engage both visual and tactile senses, grounding the design in natural authenticity. Thoughtful details, such as embossed leaf patterns and seam stitching resembling rock fissures, further deepen this connection, making the backpack feel not just made for the wild, but of the wild.

Design Challenge

The core challenge lay in balancing emotional resonance with uncompromising practicality—not as opposing aspects, but as coequal priorities.
To this end, the roll-top design incorporates a dual-lock system: hook-and-loop fasteners paired with a secure buckle. This synergy remains stable in motion, resists deformation, and provides confidence across dynamic conditions. The ergonomic shoulder straps offer three adjustable positions, flexibly adapting to the spinal curves of different body types for long-lasting comfort.

Built to last, the backpack uses durable, stain-resistant, and water-repellent fabrics, maintaining reliability in diverse, demanding outdoor environments. Externally, the versatile attachment system accommodates additional gear with flexibility; internally, thoughtfully organised compartments keep essentials secure and within reach. Together, they support personalised storage solutions for evolving needs on the move. By seamlessly integrating multiple practical features with an immersive experience of nature, the backpack not only serves as a professional outdoor companion but also fosters a lasting, meaningful emotional connection.

Sustainability

The Cloudridge Outdoor Camping Backpack represents a meaningful step forward in sustainable design and ecological responsibility. Materials, including Oxford fabric, canvas, and rubber components, are selected for their recyclability and biodegradability, enabling over 90% of the backpack to be recycled at the end of life and significantly reducing resource consumption. Complementing this, eco-friendly dyes reduce harmful emissions by approximately 37.6%, further lowering the environmental footprint.

Beyond materials, the backpack embodies a deeper philosophy: reconnecting with nature. Its innovative Nature Collection Compartment is designed to hold small natural objects like stones, leaves, and pinecones, inviting users to engage mindfully with the outdoors and fostering a sense of presence. More than a functional feature, it encourages urban dwellers to experience nature’s restorative power, supporting physical and mental health while subtly cultivating their environmental awareness. In this way, the design nurtures a virtuous cycle where personal wellness and sustainable living go hand in hand.




This award celebrates creative and innovative design for either a component or overall product. Consideration given to aspects that relate to human usage, aesthetics, selection of components and materials, and the resolution of assembly, manufacturing and the overall function.
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