Zippers are everywhere, easy, fast, convenient. But at untundra, we don’t build for convenience. We build for legacy.
That’s why many of our leather bags, especially the Bravo Backpack and Leather Laptop Bag, feature a Gladstone-style opening. Not because it’s trendy. Because it’s better. Stronger. Smarter. Built for the long haul, just like everything else we make.
If you’ve ever fumbled with a cheap zipper that split down the middle or jammed at the worst possible moment, this one’s for you.
What Is a Gladstone Opening?
A Gladstone opening is a classic hinged metal frame that snaps open and stays wide open until you’re done. Named after 19th-century British Prime Minister William Gladstone, this design was built for doctors, tradesmen, and travelers who needed quick, full access to their gear, and gear that wouldn’t fall apart after a season.
It’s not just vintage. It’s functional engineering at its finest.
Why We Use It (Instead of Zippers)
1. Durability That Doesn’t Quit
Zippers tend to break. Period. Whether it’s teeth misaligning, fabric snagging, or sliders popping off, zippers are usually the first thing to go. The Gladstone frame? It’s made from metal, reinforced with leather and rivets. It holds its shape, takes a beating, and keeps doing its job.
2. Full Access, Zero Hassle
With a zipper, you’re limited to whatever you can fit through the opening. With a Gladstone bag, the entire top pops open and stays there. No fighting corners, no digging through narrow gaps. Just wide, open access to your gear, tools, laptop, lunch, you name it.
3. Looks as Good as It Works
Let’s be honest—Gladstone bags look great. There’s a reason vintage doctors, mechanics, and old-world travelers carried them. The clean lines, rugged frame, and full-grain leather just scream timeless utility.
If you’re carrying an untundra Bravo Backpack, it’s more than just a bag. It’s a throwback to when things were made with purpose, not plastic.
When Zippers Make Sense
We’re not zipper-haters. We use them in a few pieces, especially where a low-profile, secure closure makes more sense, like in some pockets or small accessories. But when it comes to the core opening of a workhorse bag, we’ll take heavy-duty hardware and open access every time.
Designed for the Long Haul
At untundra, everything we make is designed to outlast trends and handle real life. We choose Gladstone openings because they’re strong, smart, and built for people who work with their hands and travel with purpose.
So yeah—it takes longer to build. Costs more to produce. But the end result? A bag that’ll still be standing long after the zippers have gone quiet.
🔥 Gladstone isn’t just a choice. It’s a statement. And we’re sticking with it. 🔥