Another partner, ROWA Masterbatch GmbH, was brought on board for Desmopan^® AIR padding:

For shoulder straps, back panels, and hip belts, Desmopan^® AIR TPU granulates are processed into lightweight, breathable padding using a novel parallel layer manufacturing (PLM) extrusion process¹. The result is washable, hygienic padding that retains softness and shock absorption without compromising the recyclability of the single material.

The leading specialist for polymer-specific and customer-specific masterbatch solutions was tasked with developing a color masterbatch that perfectly supports this demanding application: optimal in processing, powerful in function, fully recyclable, and at the same time precisely tailored to the customer’s design requirements.

The iconic color scheme of the rear panels was achieved by using the ROWALID^® TPU-2002A-01 ORANGE color masterbatch from ROWA Masterbatch. Particular attention was paid to ensuring that the base polymer used here was perfectly matched to the Desmopan^® AIR type selected for this application. This ensured that the desired functionality of the upholstery was optimally guaranteed.

VAUDE was thus able to design a backpack that combines all the essential advantages:

• Developed for recycling: The entire backpack can be melted down and reused via standard recycling processes.
• Designed for performance: Weatherproof, durable, and comfortable—even under extreme conditions.
• Easy to manufacture: A single material simplifies procurement, processing, and assembly.
• Sustainable choice: Recyclable, high-performance equipment that meets user expectations.                                                                                                                        

This backpack was first exhibited at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, which placed a special focus on sustainability. A real crowd-puller, it attracted everyone’s attention and immediately appealed to a wide range of buyers.

ROWA Masterbatch is very proud to be part of the development partnership for this innovative and groundbreaking concept.

¹Advanced extrusion-based parallel strand lay-up process for manufacturing recyclable, breathable, and washable upholstery products