May 2014 Denver Colorado. Tom and I were sitting in the coffee for a little chat about my recent trip. The lost passport accident inspired us to build a new backpack brand. The brand name Matein was initially from Tom’s response to my startup idea, “Mate, I'm in!” Just like that, a symbol of companion and friendship infused its soul into the brand. Imaging the backpack is your best mate that carries everything you need and secures every trip you take. That is your true mate in a way that others can't replace.