As devoted vagabonds with over 200 collective trips under our belts, my husband and I take travel gear seriously. We‘ve tested dozens of suitcases and backpacks over the years before discovering our forever brands – Solgaard and Rimowa.
While scanning departure boards and ticket counters, their sleek luggage consistently turns heads. When debating our next adventure, friends often ask: "What’s better – Solgaard or Rimowa?"
We decided to settle the score once and for all with this comprehensive 2020 comparison highlighting key differences in quality, features, pricing, and sustainability efforts. Let‘s examine what sets these luggage titans apart.
Brand Histories and Reputations
First, a quick backgrounder before digging into product details…
[Infographic showing Solgaard‘s founding in 2016 compared to Rimowa launching in 1898]Solgaard
A newcomer launched in 2016, Solgaard makes travel goods from recycled ocean plastics. The mission-driven brand earns B Corp certification by adhering to rigorous standards benefiting people, communities, and the planet.
Their luggage appears routinely on publications like Forbes, Travel + Leisure, and National Geographic as a top sustainable choice.
Rimowa
Luxury legacy brand Rimowa debut in 1898 inventing grooved metal steamer trunks. Now in its 5th generation of family ownership, the German heritage firm supplies durable aluminum cases respected globally as a symbol of premium travel.
Rimowa secures spots on best luggage lists from GQ, Architectural Digest, and The New York Times year after year for its iconic styling and resilience.
While vastly different ages, both brands share reputations for outstanding quality and innovation that make ideal travel companions. Now let‘s compare some specifics…
Materials and Durability
Luggage faces bumps, drops, moisture, and mayhem during transit, so premium construction matters.
Solgaard cases endure thanks to:
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Recycled polycarbonate shells – Made from plastic bottles diverted from oceans, the durable exterior withstands fractures from impacts. We‘ve had bags bounce down subway stairs unscathed!
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Anodized aluminum frames – Lightweight metal skeletons prevent collapsing while reinforcing stress points prone to cracking.
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Weatherproof zippers – Water-resistant teeth prevent leakage in drizzles and downpours during runway dashes.
Rimowa relies on:
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Grooved polycarbonate – Populated by parallel ridges, the distinctive lining adds strength helping shells avoid scratches and dents while handling rough baggage handling.
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Aircraft-grade aluminum – Sourced from aerospace manufacturers, the ultra durable alloy aluminum handles temperature swings and corrosion during cargo holds and desert layovers.
Both brands design luggage to endure years of adventure rather than shred after a single season. If treated properly, their products last a lifetime.
Carry-On Essentials Compared
While externals keep bags intact, inner organization streamlines packing. Let‘s contrast key carry-on offerings.
Dimensions
| Model | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solgaard Carry-On Closet | 22” | 14” | 9” |
| Rimowa Original Cabin | 21.7” | 15.7" | 9.1” |
With almost identical sizing, both slide smoothly into 737, A320, and regional jet overhead bins. The extra 1.3 liters of Solgaard space gets filled by innovative storage, however…
Weight
| Model | Weight |
|---|---|
| Carry-On Closet | 8.4 lbs |
| Original Cabin | 7.5 lbs |
At just under a 1 lb. difference, either model feels light initially. But during longer connections, the Rimowa has a slight edge for remaining fatigue-free.
Storage & Organization
The Carry-On Closet‘s signature retractable shelving unveils clothes, cubes, and essentials in a snap! No unpacking everything to grab your eye mask or extra socks.
We can hang 8 shirts inside, stack 24 underwear/socks cubes, fit cased shoes, with room leftover for formalwear.
The modular extension stays put when closed keeping contents wringle-free. Sheer genius!
[gif showing the Solgaard Carry-On Closet shelves extending]The Original Cabin offers traditional lid pockets and straps. It can hold comparable items if packed strategically, but accessing necessities involves shuffling around everything first.
Security
Both integrate TSA-approved locks to deter tampering. Solgaard adds anti-RFID material shielding passports and credit cards from hacks too.
So for business trips and short getaways where unpacking every arrival gets tiring, we adore our Solgaard Carry-On Closet‘s sheer convenience!
Checked Bag Faceoff
Moving up in size, we compare these oversized options for extended trips.
Dimensions
| Model | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solgaard Check-In Closet 28" | 28.3” | 17.3” | 14.5” |
| Rimowa Check-In L | 31.2′′ | 20.1” | 10.7” |
Both offer cavernous space for 2+ week voyages. The Check-In Closet fits more thanks to innovative storage, while the Rimowa has a sleeker silhouette.
Weight
| Model | Weight |
|---|---|
| Check-In Closet 28" | 10.8 lbs |
| Check-In L | Approx. 10 lbs |
When packed full for longer trips, a measly 0.8 lb. difference barely registers. Sturdy handles do help during loading either model in trunks however.
Storage & Organization
Like its smaller cousin, the Check-In Closet deploys integrated shelves for 10+ days worth of outfits and extras. Zero unpacking needed for access!
It swallows my entire Arizona and Europe capsule wardrobes with room for bringing home artisan mementos. And the laundry pouch prevents clean/dirty mixing!
The Check-In model only offers tie-down straps however. While effective, grabbing items entails removing everything first each time. Major hassle!
So for globetrotting weeks afar, the effortless organization of our Check-In Closet ranks supreme over Rimowa‘s fastener approach.
Backpack Bonanza
When wheels won‘t cut it, like cobblestone side streets or hiking Machu Picchu, sturdy rucksacks come through.
Dimensions
| Model | Height | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solgaard LifePack | 19" | 13" | 7" |
| Rimowa Flap Backpack | 16.5′′ | 11.4′′ | 7.3" |
Despite a moderate size difference, both qualify as "personal items" for planes, trains, and automobiles. The cushier LifePack adds more loadable volume.
Weight
| Model | Weight |
|---|---|
| LifePack | 2.2 lbs |
| Flap Backpack | 1.5 lbs |
Starting out, that 0.7 lb. variance barely registers. But after several hours wearing either packed full of camera gear, water bottles, and paperbacks, the feathery Rimowa wins for comfort.
Organization & Convenience
The LifePack‘s genius lies within its pop-open case design allowing customized compartments. It carries my entire drone kit!
Pockets sidestep gadget rattling while anti-slash panels prevent slicing by thieves. And the built-in charger juices phones for Instagramming sunsets on trail!
A�minimalist, the Rimowa Flap keeps things simple with one large hold for everything and a small exterior pouch. Clean, but chaotic. And no anti-theft precautions exist.
For versatility, we pick the LifePack every time!
Pricing Showdown
When selecting luggage, budget factors in too. Let‘s contrast MSRPs:
| Model | Solgaard Price | Rimowa Price |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-On | $365 | $1,150 |
| Checked Bag | $425 | $1,800 |
| Backpack | $245 | $1,525 |
Across categories, Solgaard bags ring in around 75% cheaper than Rimowas!
We‘ve scored them discounted even deeper too during holiday sales. Signing up for Solgaard‘s mailing list alerts you to regular 20% off promos also.
And the built-in customization of their Carry-On Closet and LifePack make both well worth budgets in our book!
Sustainability Showcase
With eco impact in mind, comparing environmental commitments proves enlightening too…
[Infographic showing Solgaard‘s recycled plastic usage and sustainability certifications next to Rimowa]Solgaard
As a Certified B Corporation devoted to social good, Solgaard adheres to verified standards benefiting people and environmental welfare through initiatives like:
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Transforming 8 plastic bottles diverted from oceans into luggage with each purchase
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Participating in 1% For The Planet by donating 1% of all revenue to environmental nonprofits
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Running a robust upcycling program where dedicated bags get broken down and reborn into new products later on rather than trashed
By quantifying plastic avoidance and corporate accountability, Solgaard offers unmatched sustainability currently.
Rimowa
While light on specifics, Rimowa has acknowledged a responsibility toward ecological stewardship as well with a mission to:
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Reduce emissions and waste from factories
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Craft aluminum cases partially from recycled aircraft metal
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Research renewable materials like bio-based polycarbonates for future implementation
So Solgaard bags actively prevent plastic entering oceans now while Rimowa aims for a greener tomorrow. Both beat landfilling cheap vinyl luggage at least!
Verdict: Solgaard = Storage + Savings + Sustainability
We travel full-time currently and basically live out of our bags. After comparing all specifications, Solgaard emerges as our top choice for quality luggage matching modern priorities.
While Rimowa dazzles with prestige heritage and sleek metalwork, the customizability and convenience built into Solgaard carry-ons and backpacks prove practically priceless organizationally.
Their sustainability focus also aligns ideally with our eco values from supporting B Corps to financing environmental nonprofits through purchases. Responsible production and business practices matter.
On shorter weekend escapes, the Carry-On Closet makes outfit access mid-flight effortless. And the Check-In Closet becomes a portable walk-in closet containing our entire capsule wardrobe for long-term nomading.
For trekking Asia’s temples or exploring ancient medieval villages when wheels won’t work, the customizable LifePack stashes and charges gear with insane ease too!
At the end of the day, thoughtful design enabling better experiences through any excursion wins out over luxury branding in our book.
So if seeking innovative luggage easing hectic travel, with savings to fund more of it sustainably, Solgaard secures our glowing recommendation! Their products demonstrate enduring quality too if cared for properly.
We hope this transparent feature comparison helps you zero in on ideal luggage as well – whether Solgaard, Rimowa, or otherwise. Happy packing and journeying!
Let us know if any other questions arise when selecting your perfect travel companion. Safe voyages!
