We've looked at a number of experimental self-healing materials over the last few years, but are these wonder products ready to leave the lab for the great outdoors? Gear company Slughaus thinks their time has come, and is running crowdfunding campaign for a clever carry bag claimed to patch up its own wounds.
The Wolverine Pack itself is a nicely designed, versatile carry bag that boasts a 20 L (5.3 gal) capacity. Because it is collapsible, however, the top can be rolled down and its body can neatly contract to carry smaller loads, a way of avoiding floppy unnecessary bag material.
But what's really impressive about the Wolverine Pack is its claimed self-healing capabilities thanks to so-called FuseFabric, which the company describes as regenerative version of ripstop nylon. When the woven fabric is punctured from the outside, applying heat and friction with bare hands to the affected area apparently repairs the busted fibers and patches up the hole.
Slughaus says that sometimes it will be repaired perfectly, but depending on the angle and severity of the puncture, there will sometimes be signs of scarring. It also says that the fabric may even fix up smaller rips and tears, though this will likely be a partial as opposed to a full repair job.
All of this is of course Slughaus' way of making a more durable pack for outdoor adventuring. To that end, the Wolverine is water resistant and sports a six inch (15 cm) tall double-layered base for added durability.
When fully collapsed, the Wolverine Pack can be packed down to the size of a cell phone. When unfurled, a quick release clip acts as a carry handle, while a removable strap can also be attached if you want to sling it over your shoulder.
Available in orange and grey, the Wolverine Pack is currently the subject of a Kickstarter campaign, where Slughaus has raced past its original goal of US$10,000, with more than $70,000 raised at the time of writing. Early pledges of $59 are available, with shipping slated for May if everything goes to plan.
You can check out the pitch video below.
Source: Kickstarter