eqpd RISD Serif Semi ClassicTote 16"

In 1996, while studying Industrial Design at the Rhode Island School of Design, Jonathan Baker was awarded an internship in the Patagonia Design Dept. where he learned, first hand, the story of “the Tin Shed” . . . and the foundational ethos that is Patagonia. Jonathan's research quickly led to the realization that “reusable bags” are some of the most environmentally damaging products ever made. The results (and overall misuse of plastics in general) has left people with a messy situation.

Jonathan tasked himself to solve this problem . . . to use design to deliver an honest product solution, give the user an amazing experience, and to help the planet. . Hundreds of prototypes and 6 months later the waterproof, industrial strength LastBag came to form in a product that could benefit everyone, from extreme athletes to everyday shoppers, and it all came together under the umbrella of good design and responsible behaviors. It’s an everyday product made so sturdily that it’s the last bag you’ll ever need.

Jonathan Baker founded eqpd in 2014, setting out to make better products that are more versatile, longer lasting, simple in their construction, with a clean aesthetic. He wanted to make products that will help everybody in their daily lives and at the same time, lighten impact on the planet.

Jonathan's philosophy

"A lot has happened since we built our first “LastBags” back in 2014, but then again, not much has changed. Lucky for us, utility has staying power and our very first products are still in production today. We have sold tens of thousands of bags over the past 7 years, can count returns on one hand, and our very first customers are still our customers today. As for local manufacturing, though it requires more management and is more expensive than manufacturing overseas, we believe the culture of the American worker should be celebrated and we are extremely proud to build all our products right here in Washington, USA.

So as we transition into 2021, we continue towards our north star, using design to help solve problems that can lower our environmental impact, slow the spread of a virus or just make daily life a little easier. Every time you use your eqpd gear, you are supporting a value system that’s larger than the object itself, one that illuminates the good that design can do. Whether that be honest manufacturing jobs building durable products, or being a community resource in a time of need, we whole-heartedly believe that good design can bring us together for a better life, one with less consumption and more enjoyment."