My new favourite accessory – a bag made from a used sail
15/4/2026
Translation: Elicia Payne
Pictures: Siri Schubert
I immediately liked the look of the 360 Grad sling bag when I first saw it. The story behind the bag was impressive, too. But does it live up to its promises in everyday use? Read on to find out.
I like the nautical flair. The rough stitches that come from the original sails. The slightly crinkled look. And the story behind the 360 Grad bags.
From the first messenger bag to travel bags and sling bags
Since the 1990s, company founder Edzard Kramer has been experimenting with bags made from sailcloth. He started out in his parents’ garage, using an old sail belonging to his father, who was a water sports enthusiast, as explained in the 360 Grad making-of video (video in German).
While studying design in Hamburg, Edzard focused more on the functionality of the bags. Larger bags for a shopping trip were complemented by messenger bags and fanny packs. Today, the brand produces bags for a wide variety of needs – from weekenders to phone bags.
Turbulent past, simple design
My sling bag was a gift from my husband, an experienced sailor. He knows I like simple bags that have enough room for my phone, wallet, and other small items.
Zippers are a non-negotiable because I don’t want my keys to slip away unexpectedly. And it’s important the design can withstand a little rain and is easy to clean. The 360 Grad sling bag ticks all of my boxes. In my opinion, the bag’s also a great example of upcycling – another plus.
The company collects the material itself: anyone wishing to sell used, torn, or otherwise unusable Dacron sails can contact 360 Grad (website in German) directly. Spinnaker sails are also welcome. According to the manufacturer, the bags are sewn by a family-run business in Poland.
Sturdy and spacious
I’ve been carrying this bag around for a few weeks now. The size is perfect – whether for a long stroll through town or a walk where, in addition to your usual essentials, there’s room for a small notebook for jotting down spontaneous ideas and for sunglasses, sunscreen and snacks.
I particularly like the separate, smaller outer pocket with a zipper. It lets me grab my keys at the front door without having to rummage around for them. Inside, there’s a small open pocket for items like your smartphone or lip balm.
The bag’s water-repellent, and the Dacron fabric is durable. It dries quickly, is UV-resistant and doesn’t lose its shape. Even though newer materials such as carbon, Kevlar, or Dyneema have largely replaced polyester in high-performance racing sails, Dacron (woven polyester, or more specifically, polyethylene terephthalate) continues to be used in many sails. The material’s also said to be biocompatible and is used in medical technology (link in German).
My sling bag isn’t waterproof, but it can withstand a brief shower thanks to the two-layer construction of the main compartment. The smaller outer pocket only has one layer of fabric, so you should only put items in there that won’t be affected by moisture.
The sling bag’s already taken a trip to the North Sea
One of the reasons I like this bag so much is its design, which makes me dream of the sound of the sea and the wind blowing across the waves. Is it all just a fantasy? Not quite. In fact, there’s a label indicating the origin which tells me where the material comes from and which waters the sail’s already crossed.
My bag used to be a mainsail sailing the North Sea – a rough past life, I imagine. When I think about it, this instantly makes me feel bold and adventurous.
In a nutshell
A great accessory for water sports enthusiasts
The sling bag is a practical, durable bag for anyone who loves the water sports look and dreams of wind and waves. It has enough room for a wallet, smartphone, and other useful small items. The finish is top-notch, and the details are well thought out, without any frills or unnecessary embellishments.
What makes this bag so special is its history as a sail. It’s a great example of upcycling and makes me dream of adventures at sea. That leaves me wondering – why didn’t I discover this Hamburg-based brand sooner?
Pro
- Spacious with separate compartments
- Sturdy zippers
- Durable and wipeable
- Quick-drying
- Made from recycled materials
- Sporty look
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
