Manhattan Portage
Manhattan Portage is a New York bag brand founded in 1983, known for messenger bags with a small red label. It designs messenger bags, backpacks, slings, totes and travel bags in New York City.
| Founded | 1983 |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | New York, United States |
| Signature | Red Label messenger bag |
| Production | Dedicated factory in Taiwan |
| Website | manhattanportage.com |
What is Manhattan Portage?
Manhattan Portage is a bag brand from New York City, launched in 1983. Its original designs were made for the city's bike messengers and East Village DJs, offering a lightweight, durable alternative to bags with heavy metal buckles. The brand grew from a local icon into an international one.
Products and positioning
The range covers messenger bags, backpacks, travel and laptop bags, slings, totes and camera bags, plus wallets, phone cases, straps and apparel such as cycle wear and T-shirts. Bags use Cordura fabric and YKK components. Lines include:
- Red Label, the classic messenger bags with the little red label
- Black Label
- Token
All bags are designed in New York and produced in Taiwan at a factory that makes only Manhattan Portage products.
Distribution
The brand sells through national and international retail and operates regional online stores for Australia, the EU, Japan, Korea, Singapore and the UK. It has collaborated with Alpha Industries, Puma, Undercover, Alife and Zoo York, among others.
Why it matters
Manhattan Portage is an example of a utility product, the courier bag, turning into a streetwear staple, sustained over four decades by a single recognisable label and a steady flow of collaborations.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Manhattan Portage from?
Manhattan Portage is from New York City, where it was launched in 1983 and still designs its bags.
Where are Manhattan Portage bags made?
They are designed in New York and produced in Taiwan at a factory dedicated to Manhattan Portage.