For over a century, CROSSGEAR has stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of Swiss craftsmanship, shaping the evolution of travel gear from its roots in Brig, Switzerland, to its recognition as a global leader in business luggage. With a deep commitment to excellence, innovation, and practicality, CROSSGEAR has continually redefined what it means to travel in style and comfort. The brand’s story is one of heritage, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.
The CROSSGEAR journey began in 1908 in Brig, a town nestled in the picturesque Valais canton of Switzerland. Here, Giles Picard, a visionary craftsman, worked alongside his father in a cutlery factory. Inspired by his country’s tradition of precision and durability, Picard designed the concept for the now-iconic Swiss Army Knife. By 1910, his creation had become a reality, delivered successfully to the Swiss military—a milestone that would set the foundation for Picard’s future ventures.
The 1920s marked a transformative period for global travel. With the world becoming more connected, the need for durable and functional travel accessories surged. Recognizing this shift, Picard channeled his craftsmanship into developing high-quality leather goods and luggage for travelers passing through Brig. To honor his Swiss roots and the exceptional quality that characterized Swiss manufacturing, he named the brand “CrossGear,” merging the iconic cross of the Swiss flag with his own name. Thus, the CROSSGEAR brand was born, setting a new standard for excellence in travel gear.
A Tradition of Excellence: CROSSGEAR’s Unwavering Commitment to Craftsmanship
CROSSGEAR’s legacy is built upon a foundation of meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to innovation that has remained steadfast over the decades. The brand’s mission has always been clear: to enhance the travel experience through products that marry functionality with timeless style. With a design philosophy rooted in Swiss precision, CROSSGEAR’s offerings are crafted to provide the highest level of durability, convenience, and comfort.
Throughout its history, CROSSGEAR consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible in travel gear. The company’s products embody the brand’s ethos of enhancing the practicality of travel while ensuring that each piece carries the signature excellence of Swiss craftsmanship. From business trips to everyday commuting, CROSSGEAR has made it its mission to anticipate and meet the needs of modern travelers.
Pioneering Innovation: The Light Weight Master Backpack
In 2018, CROSSGEAR launched the Light Weight Master Backpack, a revolutionary product that became a benchmark in the industry. Billed as “the one backpack that ticks all the boxes, be it for commuting or business trips,” the Light Weight Master Backpack combined Swiss craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create a versatile and stylish solution for the modern traveler.
Award-Winning Design: CROSSGEAR’s Global Recognition
CROSSGEAR’s dedication to innovation and excellence has not gone unnoticed. The brand has earned a series of prestigious awards, affirming its status as one of the leaders in the industry. In 2023, the CROSSGEAR Smart Backpack won the Berlin Design Award Gold for its ingenious design, combining style with unmatched functionality. The same year, the brand was honored with the Red Dot Design Award, one of the world’s most sought-after design accolades. The CROSSGEAR Smart Backpack’s recognition further validated CROSSGEAR’s approach to fusing practicality and aesthetics in travel gear.
In addition to winning the Red Dot Design Award, CROSSGEAR’s products were showcased at the Red Dot Award Winners Exhibition and featured in the 2023-24 Red Dot Design Yearbook, solidifying the brand’s reputation on the global stage. These accolades are a testament to the brand’s ability to not only meet but exceed international standards of design and functionality.
CROSSGEAR’s commitment to innovation continued in 2024 with the launch of the SwisBaby Backpack, an award-winning product that received the IF Design Award in Germany. With its innovative design and uncompromising quality, the SwisBaby Backpack has become a favorite among consumers, demonstrating CROSSGEAR’s ability to cater to diverse needs while maintaining its Swiss heritage.
Pioneering the Future of Travel: Suspended Weight-Reducing Shoulder Straps
As the global travel industry continues to expand, CROSSGEAR has remained at the forefront of innovation with its Suspended Weight-Reducing Shoulder Straps technology. This groundbreaking development is aimed at enhancing comfort for travelers around the world. Designed to alleviate pressure and distribute weight evenly, this technology has set a new standard in the backpack industry.
After extensive research and development, CROSSGEAR’s weight-reducing technology received the German IGR Ergonomics Certification, showcasing the brand’s commitment to both design and functionality. This certification further positions CROSSGEAR as a leader in world-class backpack design, demonstrating the brand’s ability to blend innovation with practicality.
A Testament to Quality: CROSSGEAR’s Design Excellence
CROSSGEAR’s reputation for quality is validated by its numerous international accolades. As a world-renowned Swiss luggage brand, CROSSGEAR has won six major international design awards, including the Red Dot Award, the Italian A’ Design Award, and the IF Design Award. These recognitions are not merely accolades but a testament to the brand’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.
These awards represent more than just industry accolades; they serve as a global affirmation of CROSSGEAR’s dedication to excellence. The brand’s success in the international design landscape highlights its ability to create products that resonate with consumers worldwide, emphasizing the universal appeal of Swiss craftsmanship.
A Century-Old Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation
Founded in 1921, CROSSGEAR has become synonymous with Swiss excellence. From its origins in the small town of Brig, CROSSGEAR has grown into a global brand with a loyal customer base that values quality, practicality, and timeless design. For over a century, the brand has remained true to its roots, consistently optimizing its products to enhance the travel experience.
CROSSGEAR’s products are a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, inspired by the precision of the Swiss Army Knife, ensures that each product is built to last while offering modern features that cater to contemporary needs. This combination of heritage and forward-thinking design has allowed CROSSGEAR to maintain its iconic status, winning the trust of consumers around the world.
Looking Ahead: CROSSGEAR’s Vision for the Future
CROSSGEAR is not just a brand; it’s a legacy that embodies the spirit of Swiss craftsmanship and the passion for travel. As the brand continues to innovate, it remains committed to its mission of enhancing the travel experience for business professionals, commuters, and adventurers alike. With a focus on developing products that merge style, comfort, and practicality, CROSSGEAR aims to lead the global market in business luggage and travel gear.
The future of CROSSGEAR lies in its unwavering dedication to excellence and its ability to evolve with the demands of a rapidly changing world. As the brand looks ahead, it remains focused on expanding its global reach, introducing new and innovative products, and upholding the century-old tradition of Swiss craftsmanship that has defined its legacy.
With its eye on the future and its roots firmly grounded in Swiss excellence, CROSSGEAR is set to remain a symbol of quality, innovation, and style in the world of travel gear for decades to come.
Recruiting Global Distributor Partners， Business Consulting： sales@crossgear.ch