The Secret of Randoseru: The Japanese School Backpack That Lasts Six Years
In Japan, most children use the same randoseru (a school bags unique to Japan) for all six years of elementary school. When they enter first grade, they carefully choose a randoseru, and many continue using it until they graduate.
During elementary school, children grow significantly. Despite these changes, Ikedaya’s randoseru continues to fit comfortably and is durable enough to be used for the entire six years.
There are three key reasons why our randoseru lasts so long.
1. A Shoulder Belt That Adjusts to Growth
Ikedaya’s randoseru is designed with a special joint at the base of the shoulder straps. This joint moves freely in all directions, allowing the bag to adjust to different body shapes and sizes.
Even as a child grows by nearly 30 cm over six years, the randoseru continues to fit properly.
The base of the belt moves up and down and left and right, so it can adapt to changes in shoulder width and body thickness.
2. Exceptional Durability
Japanese elementary school students carry their randoseru every day. Throughout their school life, they may:
✅ Lean against walls while wearing it
✅ Play and push each other with their friends
✅ Accidentally drop the bag
Even with such heavy use, the unique deformation-preventing parts of Ikedaya continue to protect the shape of the school bag so that the gussets do not collapse.
The elongated anti-deformation plate attached to the upper part of the gusset allowed the bag to withstand a load-bearing test of 80 kilograms.
3. Easy Maintenance – Just Wipe with Water
The entire surface of our randoseru, both inside and out, is made from waterproof materials. Unlike fabric backpacks, dirt does not seep into the fibers, so simply wiping with water keeps it clean.
(Note: Some stains, such as permanent marker ink, may not be removable.)
No maintenance with waterproof spray or cream is required.
Learning to Take Care of Belongings
In Japan, children are encouraged to take good care of their belongings. By using the same randoseru for six years, they naturally learn the importance of handling things with care.
Thanks to its adjustable fit, durability, and easy maintenance, Ikedaya’s randoseru is a trusted choice for children across Japan.
There are many other unique features of Ikedaya Randoseru, which we will introduce in another article.
