Production and Design Notes: Synik 26

Maia Hamilton
2024-09-27T09:35:32-07:00

The idea for the Synik 26 began with customer feedback on the Synik 22.

While many of our customers loved the compact size of the Synik 22, a recurring request emerged: "Could there be something in between the Synik 22 and the Synik 30?"

One of the most common requests was to have a larger external laptop compartment that could comfortably fit a 14"-15" laptop, something the Synik 22 wasn’t designed to accommodate. While the Synik 30 could meet this need, many customers felt that its dimensions were too bulky for their frames.

This request led to the development of a mid-sized Synik—designed to retain the features customers loved while offering a new “just right” size.

The First Steps: Finding the Perfect Dimensions

We began by exploring the idea of taking the dimensions of the Synapse 25 and incorporating the Synik’s signature features. After all, isn’t the midpoint between the Synik 22 and Synik 30 essentially the Synapse 25? However, it soon became clear that this wasn’t the right approach.

Both the Synapse 25 and Synik 30 have back panels that are 20” high, and their widths are nearly identical, with the Synapse 25 measuring 13.4” and the Synik 30 the same. Since we wanted the Synik 26 to be genuinely smaller than the Synik 30—accommodating smaller-framed individuals—this meant we had to design an entirely new back panel.

After multiple iterations, we finally landed on a back panel height that struck the right balance. This new back panel allowed us to accommodate the laptop zipper opening we needed, ensuring that it could comfortably fit the larger laptops we aimed to serve. The key was making sure the zipper, which is sewn into a curved seam, could open wide enough without ending at the bottom of the panel—a construction challenge unique to the Synik line. Once that was resolved, we knew we had the right foundation to move to the next portion of construction.

The Challenge of the Curves: Working on the Side Panels

With the back panel figured out, the next step was tackling the side panels. The Synik’s distinct curves aren’t just for aesthetic purposes; they help the bag expand when filled and give the front compartment its unique shape. These curves also serve a functional purpose, as they ensure the bag maintains its balance, even when packed to capacity.

However, these same curves presented a new challenge: Developing side panels that would integrate seamlessly with the newly created back panel. This took several rounds of sampling and pattern adjustments. The goal was to ensure the side panels would not only fit the back panel but also allow the front compartment to take shape without sacrificing the integrity of the bag’s structure. A few trials, multiple conversations with our Production team, and countless hours of patternmaking later, we finally landed on side panels that achieved our goals.

The Front Compartment: Putting The Puzzle Together

The front compartment of the Synik 26 proved to be one of the most intricate aspects of the design. This compartment not only houses the signature water bottle pocket but also features a series of internal pockets and dividers that add to the bag’s functionality. These elements, combined with the curves of the bag, created an additional layer of complexity when designing the new front compartment size.

One of the key considerations was keeping the water bottle pocket consistent with those on the Synik 22 and 30. The height and placement had to be just right, which meant reworking the panels that form the bottom “chin” pocket. The water bottle pocket on the Synik 26 is the same height as the Synik 22 and a ¼” shorter than the Synik 30.

Never having sewn a Synik from scratch before, our designer Jose took the bold step of taking one apart to better understand its internal construction. This allowed us to visualize how the notches—the markers that guide sewing alignment—worked and how they could be applied to the new Synik 26.

After several iterations and a bit of guidance from our experienced Production team, we were able to finalize the front compartment. It took some trial and error, but eventually, we sewed a sample of the front compartment that worked seamlessly with the side and back panels.

Bringing It All Together

“Developing the Synik 26 was a challenging but deeply rewarding experience. It pushed my patternmaking and construction skills to new levels, and in the end, I walked away with a greater understanding of what goes into making a bag as iconic as the Synik - a bag that’s a reflection of the thoughtful design, customer feedback, and dedication that goes into all of our products. I was fortunate to have the help of our Production team, who provided invaluable feedback and suggestions throughout the process. Their experience with the Synik series helped me navigate challenges I hadn’t anticipated and ensured that the final product met our high standards.

As I look back on this project, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m excited to see how our customers will use and enjoy this new addition to the Synik family.” - Jose, TOM BIHN Designer