Yukon Leather Backpack
Regular price $519.00 Sale price $441.90 Save $77.10
We exclusively purchase hides from L.W.G. Gold Certified tanneries. This is our guarantee, and yours, that each hide comes from tanneries that demonstrate environmental best practices and performance in all areas of leather production. Learn more.
The newly redesigned and renamed Yukon Leather Backpack can take you from school to work to exploring the most rugged terrain with aplomb. Handcrafted from hardy crazy horse leather, this versatile bag is built to last. The spacious interior boasts a secure snap-closure compartment large enough to tote laptops up to 16 inches(Macbook Pro 16"). An additional large, zippered compartment, a roomy open pocket, and a built-in keychain holder make staying organized effortlessly. The stylish exterior has a snap-close pocket that cleverly hides an open pocket large enough to stash a notebook. Two side pockets and a convenient back pocket are all secured with durable YKK zippers. The top zips shut, and an attractive fold-over top flap adds an extra layer of security with two snap-shut, buckled straps. The padded leather carry-handle and the adjustable, ergonomic shoulder straps make this bag comfortable and easy to carry. The Yukon comes complete with softly padded, detachable Caribou shoulder pads to provide the ultimate in comfort.
Beautifully embossed crazy horse leather, striking contrast stitching, and polished brass accents create a bag that is sophisticated enough for any workplace. The soft, yet resilient crazy horse leather and the exceptional workmanship combine to produce a sturdy bag that can last a lifetime with proper care.
Dimensions:
- 15.7" x 11.8" x 6.3" (40cm x 30cm x 16cm)
- Front Pocket: 8.26" x 9.05" - 21 cm x 23 cm
- Side Pockets: 9.84 " x 5.11 " - 25 cm x 13 cm
- Interior Open Pocket: 5.51" x 7.08" - 14 cm x 18 cm
- Interior Zipper Pocket: 4.92" x 7.08" - 12.5 cm x 18 cm
- Open/Hidden Pocket: 7.87" x 5.9" - 20 cm x 15 cm
- Back Zipper Pocket: 4.92" x 7.08" - 12.5 cm x 18 cm
- Straps - Extended: 32.2" - 82 cm Shortened: 23.6" - 60 cm
Weight:
-
4.29 lbs ( 1.95 kg)
Features:
- Handcrafted
- Made of full-grain cowhide crazy horse leather
- Comes with a drawstring dust bag
- YKK Zipper
- 31L maximum carrying capacity
- Exterior pockets: 1 front pocket with magnetic closure, 1 open/hidden pocket, 2 side zipper pockets, and 1 zipper pocket at the back.
- Interior pockets: 1 large compartment, 1 laptop compartment designed for up to 15/16" Macbook Pro, 1 zipper pocket, and 1 inside pocket.
- Comes with softly padded, detachable Caribou shoulder pads.
- Leather-lined, comfortable grab handle
- Adjustable leather straps
- Built-in keychain holder
- The unique color-changing ability that only crazy horse leather provides guarantees that each bag is one-of-a-kind
15/16" Size Laptop Compartment
- Fits up to 15/16" MacBook Pro and similarly-sized laptops.
Crazy Horse Leather is full-grain cowhide that has been treated with a specialized wax coating. This process strengthens the fibers and creates a water-resistant 'pull-up' finish that changes color when rubbed or folded.
When you hold a Yukon Bag, you are holding full-grain leather finished with waxes and oils to create a distinctive pull-up effect and a patina that evolves with use. “Crazy Horse” can sound misleading, but in practice, it refers to a waxed pull-up leather finish that is popular for rugged, everyday gear.
What it is vs what it isn’t
- It is a finish style: a waxed or oiled pull-up look designed to develop character over time.
- It is not a separate animal, and the term alone is not a guaranteed leather grade.
- 30-second summary
What you’ll love: character, patina, and a surface where many marks blend with time.
What to expect: tone variation, visible grain, and gradual darkening in high-contact areas.
| Feature | What it means | What you’ll see |
|---|---|---|
| Base Leather | Full-grain hide | Visible natural grain & pores |
| Finish | Wax/oil pull-up | Color shifts when rubbed |
| Aging | Patina development | Richer tone, satin sheen |
| Marking | Marks easily | Scratches blend with rubbing |
Why is it called Crazy Horse Leather? (It's Not from Horses)
One of the most common misconceptions is that this leather comes from horses. It does not.
The name "Crazy Horse" comes from its historical popularity in saddle making. Saddlers discovered that when they applied a specific type of wax to high-quality cowhide, it created a grip and durability perfect for horse saddles. The leather could withstand the friction of a rodeo, the sweat of the horse, and the elements of the wild.
- The Reality: It is 100% natural, high-quality Cowhide.
- The Origin: Named after the use (saddles), not the animal.
Myth vs Reality
| Claim | Reality | Customer takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| “Crazy Horse is a special leather grade.” | It’s mostly a finish term | Ask what base leather is |
| “It’s always the toughest leather.” | Durability depends on hide + tannage + finish | Compare construction, stitching too |
How is Crazy Horse Leather Made?
Crazy Horse leather starts as Full Grain leather—the highest quality grade of leather available. Unlike "Genuine Leather" or "Top Grain," full grain preserves the entire dense outer layer of the hide.
The Production Process
- Hide Selection: Only the strongest full-grain hides are selected.
- Dyeing: A base tone is applied (often aniline or semi-aniline).
- Impregnation: The hide is saturated with a special blend of oils and waxes under heat.
- Buffing: The surface is buffed to lock in the "pull-up" behavior.
| Production step | What happens | Result on the bag |
|---|---|---|
| Hide selection | Full-grain surface kept | Strong fiber structure |
| Dyeing | Base tone applied | Natural variation remains |
| Wax/oil treatment | Waxes fill / coat pores | Water resistance + pull-up |
| Buffing | Surface smoothed | Satin sheen, “distressed” look |
The Pull-Up Effect (Why the Color Changes)
The defining characteristic of Crazy Horse leather is the "Pull-Up" effect.
When you fold, bend, or stretch the leather (like stuffing your Leather Backpack for a trip), the oils and waxes inside the hide shift and move. This causes the stretched area to temporarily lighten in color, creating a beautiful multi-tonal look.
This isn't a defect; it is the hallmark of high-quality, wax-saturated leather. It gives every Yukon Bag a unique, dynamic appearance that changes depending on how you use it.
Pull-Up Triggers
| Action | Typical effect | Is it normal? |
|---|---|---|
| Rubbing with a cloth | Lightens or evens tone | Yes |
| Bending/folding | Lighter streaks | Yes |
| Conditioning | Often darkens | Yes (expected) |
Look and Feel (What You’ll Notice Day 1)
When you first unbox your bag, here is what your senses will tell you:
- Touch: It feels waxy, "grippy," and substantial. It is not slippery or plastic-like.
- Sight: The finish is matte, not glossy. You may see natural imperfections, bug bites, or wrinkles—these are proof that the hide is natural and not sanded down to look like plastic.
- Smell: A rich, earthy, authentic leather scent that synthetic materials can never replicate.
Note: You might notice slight shade variations or light marks right out of the box. This is normal behavior for wax-finished leather and part of its charm.
Durability and Water Behavior (Water-Resistant, Not Waterproof)
Crazy Horse leather is water-resistant, not waterproof. The waxed finish helps repel light moisture, but soaking can still penetrate the leather and cause spotting or dryness if dried incorrectly.
| Scenario | Risk level | Correct response |
|---|---|---|
| Light rain | Low | Blot, air-dry at room temp |
| Splash wiped quickly | Medium | Blot, air-dry, buff |
| Heavy soak | High | Slow air-dry, then condition lightly if needed |
| Heat-drying (hair dryer, heater, sun) | Highest | Avoid. Heat can pull oils out and stiffen leather |
For a deeper wet-care protocol, link this in your page: Can Leather Get Wet?
Scratches, Marks, and Patina (Character by Design)
Many new customers ask: "Why does it scratch so easily?" The answer is simple: It is designed to. The waxed surface records your adventures. However, it also has a "healing" property.
The "Magic" Healing Trick
Because the wax can move, scratches aren't usually permanent.
- Light Scratches: Rub them briskly with your thumb or a dry cloth. The friction creates heat, redistributing the wax and making the scratch disappear.
- Deep Scratches: These blend into the leather over time, adding to the Patina—that coveted, vintage shine that only old leather possesses.
| Mark type | Cause | Best fix |
|---|---|---|
| Light surface scratch | Fingernail, keys | Dry cloth rub 30–60s |
| Deeper line | Sharp edge | Mild conditioner/wax, buff |
| Dark scuff | Friction + dirt | Gently clean, then condition |
Comparison: Crazy Horse Leather vs. Genuine / Standard Leather
To help you understand the value, here is how Yukon's leather compares to standard "Genuine Leather" often found in department stores.
| Feature | Crazy Horse Leather (Yukon Bags) | Genuine Leather/ Standard Leather |
|---|---|---|
| Material Base | Full Grain Cowhide (The strongest layer) | Split Leather (The weaker under-layer) |
| Finish | Natural, Matte, Waxy | Glossy, Painted, Artificial texture |
| Response to Scratches | Scratches heal or become patina | Scratches, peel, or reveal grey/white backing |
| Lifespan | Decades (Gets better with age) | 1-3 Years (Cracks over time) |
| Price Point | Higher Investment | Cheap / Fast Fashion |
| Maintenance | Low (Scratches rub out) | High (Scratches peel/flake) |
How to Care for Your Crazy Horse Leather Goods
The best part about this leather? Less is more. You don't need to baby it.
- The Dust Off: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe away surface dust weekly. Dust can settle into the wax and darken it excessively over time.
- The Wet Wipe: If you spill something sticky, use a slightly damp cloth with warm water. Avoid chemical soaps.
- The Re-Waxing (Optional): Once every 3-6 months, or if the leather looks light and dry, apply a high-quality leather balsam or wax.
| Product | High-wear areas to watch | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Backpack | Bottom corners, straps | Wipe + buff these areas more often. |
| Duffle | Handles, zipper panel | Spot clean + condition sparingly. |
| Wallet | Edges, fold lines | Use minimal conditioner to avoid softening it too much. |
Why We Use Crazy Horse Leather at Yukon Bags
We use Crazy Horse leather because it is designed for daily wear, visible character, and long-term ownership.
- Ages well: patina makes the bag look better over time
- Realistic durability: waxed full-grain handles daily friction and travel better than many uniform finishes
- Uniqueness: every bag develops a one-of-one surface story
Shop the collections built around this leather:
Comparison: Crazy Horse Leather vs. Regular Leather
“Regular leather” can mean many things, so compare by grade + finish, not marketing labels.
| Feature | Crazy Horse (waxed pull-up) | Common mass-market leather (often corrected-grain or split, varies) |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Natural, matte, waxed | Often coated, more uniform |
| Scratch behavior | Many marks blend into patina | Coated finishes may show sharper contrast |
| Water behavior | More resistant due to waxes | Varies; coated can repel, split can absorb |
| Aging | Patina develops | Coatings can crack or peel over time (depends on build) |
| Best for | Daily carry, travel, character | Uniform look, lower-maintenance appearance |
Is Crazy Horse Leather Right for You?
Yes, if you:
- Like a vintage, rugged aesthetic
- Want a bag that develops character and patina
- Prefer materials that look better with use
Not ideal, if you:
- Want a perfectly uniform surface forever
- Dislike visible marks and tone shifts
- Prefer a glossy, highly coated finish
Product-Specific Care (Backpacks, Duffles, Wallets)
| Product | High-wear areas | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Backpack | Bottom corners, straps | Wipe + buff more often |
| Duffle | Handles, zipper panel | Spot clean + condition sparingly |
| Wallet | Edges, fold lines | Minimal conditioner, avoid heavy oils |
Pros & Cons of Crazy Horse Leather
To help you decide if this finish fits your lifestyle, here is the honest breakdown of why it is loved—and what to watch out for.
| The Good (Pros) | The Trade-offs (Cons) |
|---|---|
|
|
FAQ
| FAQ Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Crazy Horse leather real leather? | Yes. It’s real leather with a waxed/oiled pull-up finish. |
| Is Crazy Horse leather full-grain? | Often, but the term alone doesn’t guarantee a grade. Yukon should state it clearly: full-grain + waxed pull-up finish. |
| Is it waterproof? | No. It’s water-resistant. Light rain is usually manageable with correct drying. |
| Why does it change color when rubbed? | Pull-up effect: waxes/oils shift under pressure and friction. |
| Will scratches go away? | Many surface marks blend with rubbing. Deep scratches may remain but soften into patina. |
| Does conditioner darken it? | Often yes. Spot test first and apply thinly. |
| How do I remove water spots? | Air-dry fully, buff dry. If needed, lightly wipe the whole panel to even tone, dry, then condition sparingly. |
| How often should I condition it? | As needed. Common range: every 3–6 months for daily use. Over-conditioning can soften and darken. |
| Can I use mink oil or neatsfoot oil? | Usually not recommended for waxed pull-up finishes. They can over-darken and leave uneven results. |
| Does it stain from denim or ink? | It can. Prevention is best: avoid prolonged contact with dark denim when new; keep pens isolated. |
| How should I store it long-term? | Cool, dry place, away from sun/heat. Use a dust bag, add soft stuffing to hold shape, and avoid sealed plastic. |
| Crazy Horse vs pull-up leather: same thing? | Closely related. “Pull-up” is the technical behavior; “Crazy Horse” is a common market name for the look. |
| Is it good for humid climates? | Yes, with ventilation. Avoid sealed storage; let it air out periodically. |
Caring for Your Crazy Horse Leather Bag - Crazy Horse Leather Care Guide
We are proud of the quality and craftsmanship of our bags. Every Yukon bag is designed to be tough enough to survive even the most rugged terrains while retaining their timeless beauty. Each bag must undergo a special process to earn the status of the Crazy Horse label. Bumps, bangs, and scratches intensify the bag’s vintage look and beauty. The quality craftsmanship allows the bag to carry a heavy load while still retaining shape. With proper care, your Yukon bag will hold up to decades of service.
IF YOUR YUKON CRAZY HORSE LEATHER BAG GETS WET:
- Simply wipe dry with a soft leather cloth.
- Do not store your bag while wet.
- Wipe off any moisture before storing to prevent mold or mildew.
- After drying bag: Hang to dry or turn bag inside-out.
- Do not use a hairdryer or any type of heat to dry your bag. Applying heat can cause the leather to crack or harden.
FOR SPILLS:
- Wipe spills off with a slightly dampened cloth.
- Do NOT use detergents or cleansers on your Crazy Horse leather bag – this will discolor the leather and can destroy the beauty of the bag.
- If necessary: Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub away any stains.
Yukon Crazy Horse leather bags are designed to take a beating and still retain their luxurious antique leather look. Scratches and bumps help to increase the beauty of the bag and add to its unique vintage look.
TO ELIMINATE UNWANTED SCRATCHES:
- Using a soft dry cloth – rub scratch in a circular motion to redistribute wax coating.
- For a deep scratch - leather wax can be applied to bring the leather back to its previous condition.
- Leather cream or wax should be applied periodically to preserve softness and luster.
SPECIAL CARE FOR YOUR YUKON CRAZY HORSE LEATHER BAG:
Your Yukon Crazy Horse leather bag can last a lifetime when properly cared for. Each bag has been designed to age beautifully – as it is 100% natural cowhide, the leather will change hue with every scratch and bump, adding to the striking vintage look our bags are famous for. This ability to change hue and retain the stunning antique luster is exclusive to Crazy Horse leather bags. Wear and tear will increase the bag’s beauty - however, we recommend periodically treating your bag with leather cream or wax to preserve its softness and sheen.
To ensure your bag’s ability to retain its shape, luster, and beauty for a lifetime of use we recommend:
TO AVOID STRETCHING THE LEATHER:
- Limit the number of items stored in the bag over long periods.
- Limit storing heavy items for long periods.
- Avoid over-stuffing pockets.
TO KEEP YOUR CRAZY HORSE LEATHER SOFT AND SUPPLE:
- TEST a small patch before coating entire bag. Some products can change the color of the leather.
- Apply a THIN, even layer of leather balm or leather wax to your bag with a soft, clean sponge.
- Wipe off any excess balm (or wax) with a soft, dry, leather cloth.
We strongly recommend periodically treating your Yukon Bag to a coating of leather balm or wax to prevent the leather from becoming dry or cracked.
Caution: Overuse of products designed to keep leather soft can result in too much softening and may result in the bag losing its shape.
STORING YOUR CRAZY HOUSE LEATHER BAG:
- Protect your Yukon bag by storing it in a clean, dry space.
- Wipe away any moisture before storing your bag.
- Be sure the bag is completely DRY before storing it.
- For optimal results in maintaining the bag’s shape – empty bag before storing.
- For long periods of storage, we recommend keeping the bag in a soft cotton pillowcase. This will prevent discoloration from dust or infestation by insects (always check for them after a hike!).
- If you plan for your bag to stay in storage for an extended length of time, inspect it every 3-4 weeks. If you store the bag without emptying it first, check every 1-2 weeks to avoid stretching or mold.
We designed Yukon bags with durability, functionality, and beauty in mind. Our craftsmanship and materials are of the highest quality. Please follow our recommended care guide to keep your Crazy Horse leather bag in optimal condition, year after year. With proper care, your Yukon bag will last for decades of use.
Customer Reviews
Five starts across the board on these bags. I’ve owned the backpack for some time and just got a couple other bags. Fantastic stuff!!
I bought this for my son for his college graduation gift, he absolutely loves this bag. I also had his name put on which he thought was cool. I also bought one for my husband. It's definitely worth it! My husband also has a bag from this company and it’s 5 years old and it still looks brand new. The complements that he gets on his backpack is crazy. He says everywhere he goes. People are always asking where he got his bag. He is a pilot and he travels a lot and this is a great traveling bag. My friends and family also bought from the same company. I highly recommend if you’re looking for a great reliable heavy duty bag.
I've had this bag for a couple years now and absolutely love it! It's my go-to for 1-night stays or my "personal item" on planes because the size is perfect for underseat carry-on. The leather is certainly stiff when you first get it, but I've since hit it with about 7-8 full coats of Bick 4 leather conditioner, letting it dry overnight before wiping off the excess in the morning and the texture and marbling is just beautiful and will only get better over time.
I've carried backpack through 5 years of collage and across the country over a few dozen times. Expensive but one of my best purchases before this my previous back packs wouldn't last 2 years.
This backpack has really impressed me. The leather is a very good quality and the inside is very well organized. For school this perfectly fits all my books, computer, and Ipad. Theres less space than my old backpack but I guess that forces me to be more tidy. Very good overall.
Got it today and I can’t believe the quality and workmanship. I know I will enjoy this backpack for a long time.
