Some materials stand the test of time.
Millican was founded on the principles of quality, sustainability, and adventure. We’re returning to what matters. Rebuilding with intention.
That’s why we’re reintroducing Bionic® Canvas to the Maverick collection, with our Smith The Roll Packs.
When we set about to re-engineer the Smith Roll Pack, we searched high and low for the perfect fabric and were thrilled to discover existing unused stock of the original Bionic® cotton canvas. The opportunity to once again use Bionic® Canvas, and avoid the production of any new fabric, was too good to pass up.
Why Bionic® Canvas?
Originally, Bionic® Canvas was at the heart of our Maverick collection — an innovative blend of natural fibers and ocean-recovered plastic. As we reclaim Millican’s original values, we recognise Bionic® Canvas as a key part of our journey.
The reintroduced version has seen small refinements since its earliest iteration:
- 67% RPET / 33% cotton blend
- Custom PU coating – replacing the original paraffin wax for better durability, a cleaner hand feel, and resistance to marks and scratches.
- C0 DWR finish – a PFAS-free water-resistant treatment, evolving from earlier C6 DWR coatings.
These updates maintain the integrity and performance of the original fabric while enhancing sustainability and longevity.
The Road Ahead
Our goal is to take Bionic® Canvas even further. Right now, it includes cotton — but we’re working closely with Bionic® to develop a 100% RPET (recycled polyester) version, keeping the same durability and performance while eliminating virgin materials.
We know it’s been quiet for a while, but behind the scenes, we’ve been hard at work — rebuilding relationships with manufacturers, refining our processes, and shaping the future of our range. Your feedback has been invaluable, and we’re excited to share that more past favourites are being redeveloped and planned to return in late 2025.
Further ahead, we’ll be continuing to bring back old favourites while introducing new designs — built with the same commitment to quality and sustainability.
Stay tuned. There’s more to come.
2 comments
You’ve absolutely got a point, Simon, and we’re still exploring the best possible fabric options for the next generation of packs. Durability and quality are non-negotiable for us, and we’re carefully weighing up both performance and environmental impact. Your feedback genuinely helps steer those decisions, so thank you again.
I’m so glad you’re back and very excited for the poly-cotton bionic fabric … but please, please don’t go the all polyester route. It’s what ruined the packs the first time. You make packs that last, and as such, are already reducing environmental impact considerably. Figure out a way to use recycled cotton or something. I figure I’m probably a lone voice, so I’ll just buy one of the new – old packs and keep quiet. Anyhow, glad you guys are back.