The Soviet "Veshmeshok" rucksack is quite likely the best carrying sack in recent history. Therefore we just had to make our own Jämä version of it. An awesome backpack for schoolbooks or groceries, or pretty much anything else, even as a gift.

The history of the Veshmeshok is a bit dark and mysterious but what is known is that it was the most popular Soviet army rucksack during the last century. An excellent example that it is sometimes worth spending some time on comfort. One doesn’t just get an idea to make something like this. Except that we just made something like this. Although our Jämä Veshmeshok is even simpler. If you like the design, we will make more of them from other fabrics.

Design

In all its simplicity, Jämä Veshmeshok is sort of a potato sack that is closed with the shoulder straps. This simply ingenious design prevents pick-pockets from going through the contents when you're wearing it. It comes with instructions, so you don’t have to figure it out on your own. We streamlined the design by leaving out the original side straps.

This sack comes with one smaller pocket with a Velcro closure.

Materials

M62

First we made this sack in the classic Finnish M62 camo, affectionately known as the pickle relish. This sack is made of 100% cotton. It is a surplus fabric from a Finnish fabric store. We used all of it for these sacks, so we won’t be getting more. If you fall in love with these, get yours before they are gone.

M05

This version is made in the current Finnish army M05 woodland camo pattern. It is a surplus fabric from a work clothing manufacturer that makes stuff for the Finnish Defence Forces. It is 50% polyester and 50% cotton (275 g/m2). It is less floppy than the M62 fabric.

Sizing

Measurements: 66 x 44 cm (26” x 17.3”). When folded, it fits in e.g. a cargo pant pocket, so it works quite nicely as a shopping bag. Small pocket: 24 x 21 cm (9.5” x 8.3”). Weight is so minimal that it doesn’t really need mentioning.

Made in Finland

These sacks are made in Forssa in Finland by Suomen Käsityöteollisuuden Oy.