Why The Catalyst?

Introducing:

The Catalyst Pack

Modular. Repairable. Designed for flow.

  • This bag’s origin comes from a desire for flow and has been tested in lecture halls, airports, and bike commutes daily.

    Weather-resistant:

    • DWR-coated (sheds rain, snow, spills)

    • Reinforced bottom panel (sets down anywhere)

    Thoughtful details:

    • Padded back panel (comfortable for hours)

    • Quick-access outer pocket (phone, keys, passport)

    • Low profile Interior key clip (never dig again)

    • Reflective hits (visible in low light)

    Aesthetic:

    • mindful colorways (forest green, indigo, slate)

    • Minimal branding (subtle woven label)

    • Ages beautifully (develops character, not wear)

    It's a bag that works as hard as you do—without looking like it's trying.

  • The Catalyst doesn't force you into one use case.

    Three carry modes:

    1. Messenger (crossbody, quick access)

    2. Briefcase (professional, structured)

    3. Backpack (hands-free, balanced load)

    Modular interior:

    • Separated laptop sleeve (fits 15")

    • Streamlined Organization (flat pockets on interior panels)

  • Most bags force you to choose: overhead bin or cramped feet.

    The Catalyst was designed specifically for under-seat storage. In briefcase mode, it slides perfectly under the seat in front of you and stays upright—no slouching, no spilling into your legroom.

    Dimensions: 16" × 11" × 6" (fits all major airlines)
    Capacity: 20L (expands to 25L with roll-top)
    Weight: 2.1 lbs (lighter than most laptops)

    Whether you're flying to Tokyo or commuting to campus, the Catalyst adapts without compromise.

  • We're tired of gear designed to fail.

    The Catalyst uses accessible hardware—no welded seams, no hidden rivets. Every zipper, buckle, and strap can be replaced with basic tools.

    Materials:

    • 500D Ecopak outer shell (ECOPAK is the world's only durable and waterproof fabric made from 100% recycled polyester fiber)

    • YKK #10 Natulon zippers (made from recycled materials such as PET bottles using materials recycling technologies)

    If something breaks in 10 years, we'll help you fix it—not sell you a new one.

    That's ownership.

  • From Home

  • To Far Away Places

  • Always Ready,

  • Adventure Driven.

A Letter from Paul

“ So there I was standing in a crowded immigration line listening to an audio book by Yvon Chouinard, describing how he built Patagonia.

I'm in this unfamiliar place feeling, honestly, pretty overwhelmed.

As I was hearing about waste and consumption in this book, this felt like my ultimate call to action, to stand behind the things that I care about most.

And the catalyst, well, it's the first realization of that idea.

It's modular, repairable, designed to fit into your daily rhythm. Not complicate it. So I'm here to build gear that promotes ownership over consumption, if that resonates.

I'd love to have you along for this.

I'm Paul, and this is Borash Design Co.”