Murray McCory: Innovator of the Lightweight Backpack

Murray McCory, the visionary behind the renowned outdoor equipment brand JanSport, passed away on October 7 in Seattle at the age of 80. His daughter, Heidi Van Brost, confirmed that his death was due to complications arising from congestive heart failure.

McCory’s legacy is intertwined with the vibrant spirit of the 1960s and 1970s counterculture in the Pacific Northwest, much like other iconic brands such as Starbucks and Nike. His groundbreaking work transformed the way students carried their belongings, making a significant impact on school life for millions.

While still a student at the University of Washington, McCory entered a national competition sponsored by Alcoa, a leading aluminum manufacturer, which challenged participants to design a new product using aluminum. His innovative sketches for a hiking backpack set him apart from the competition.

As an enthusiastic outdoorsman, McCory had grown frustrated with the rigid, one-size-fits-all wooden frames that characterized traditional hiking backpacks. In response, he engineered a revolutionary design that incorporated an adjustable, lightweight aluminum frame paired with a nylon pack that featured a convenient pocket for a water bottle. This innovative approach not only earned him first place in the competition but also laid the foundation for a product that would change the outdoor gear landscape forever.