Unveiled during Paris Fashion Week in January 2026, the latest Walter Van Beirendonck x Eastpak’s collaboration introduces a striking new chapter in their creative partnership: the Walter Pak’r.
This bold design revisits the iconic Monster Backpack first launched in 2004 – a symbol of fearless creativity and playful design with its expressive eyes, ears, and a mouth, originally crafted in bold colors that reflect Walter Van Beirendonck’s graphic aesthetic.
The concept was later reimagined in 2014 as part of Eastpak’s Artist Studio project, an initiative in collaboration with Designers Against Aids (DAA) that invited leading designers and artists from around the world to transform Eastpak’s iconic backpacks into one-of-a-kind works of art. Walter Van Beirendonck elevated the Monster Backpack into a premium leather collector’s piece, adding vibrant color accents and distinctive details that amplified its character.
In March 2026, the Monster Backpack makes its bold return as the Walter Pak’r, a fresh interpretation of Eastpak’s signature design infused with Walter Van Beirendonck’s avant- garde vision. The collection introduces three striking monochrome editions in Orange, Blue, and Military Green. Each backpack amplifies the iconic monster features with pointed ears, a triangular nose, and the signature toothy grin, complemented by a sleek mono-colored metal zip for a refined finish. Every piece is adorned with the distinctive Walterman label, a bold signature that celebrates the collaboration’s creative spirit.
Blending Eastpak’s functional DNA with Van Beirendonck’s imaginative approach, the Walter Pak’r collection stands as a true statement piece. This release marks a continuation of the longstanding collaboration between Eastpak and Walter Van Beirendonck, a designer celebrated for his boundary-pushing creativity as a member of the influential “Antwerp Six” and former head of fashion at the Royal Academy of Antwerp.
“Working with Walter Van Beirendonck has always been more than creating a product, it is about pushing ideas forward. The Walter Pak’r marks a new chapter in a collaboration that spans over 2 decades, where Walter’s radical creativity meets Eastpak’s functional DNA. It is a continuation of a dialogue that evolves with culture, youth and the way people express themselves today.” – Isis Buyse, Eastpak Global Product Director
