Though seemingly at odds with the slow-fashion approach it champions, Bennett Winch’s new partnership with the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the full throttle, high-octane race that’s perhaps the most iconic in the world of motorsports, makes perfect sense. After all, the annual automotive fixture centres on stamina, fortitude, finely tuned engineering, and skeleton crews pitting themselves against big-name teams – and, in a parallel way, the independent British-bag brand is revered for its commitment to producing considered, detail-heavy items that are made to last. ‘We champion endurance; the mark of true quality. The Bennett Winch x 24 Hours of Le Mans collaboration is a celebration of that rare synergy between spirit and tool,’ so says the label.
Bennett Winch driver Harry Tincknell
Since 2014, Bennett Winch has been admired for its tightly edited line of bags and accessories made for the modern man, a range that runs the gamut from holdalls to briefcases, by way of everyday-use folios and totes. Driven by a buy-well-buy-once spirit, the venture is largely defined by subtle, pared-down designs that make use of neutral colours and premium materials – solid British brass hardware; Italian leathers – and are created in a pair of workshops in England. ‘Our products are designed for the discerning minimalists; those who shed all surplus in pursuit of true quality.’
Its latest offerings, formed in tandem with the 24 Hours of Le Mans, comprise a trio of timeless pieces, with all three items handmade from full-grain Tuscan leather and veg-tanned to British racing green as a tasteful paean to the cars and teams that pioneered the early championships.
First up is The Backpack, whose sleek, svelte profile belies the manifold features within, including a detachable compartment for shoes and gym clothes that’s also fully waterproof to withstand the worst of the British weather. A concealed front pocket for the phone and wallet – as well as a protected slot for a laptop – ensures your daily essentials are secure.
Then comes the latest iteration of Bennett Winch’s iconic holdall, The Weekender, which, again, makes use of separate waterproof sections for shoes; hidden pockets, both internal and external; and a detachable shoulder strap that’s made from military-grade cotton and draws upon solid brass clasps. Moreover, the hue in which it’s made gives it a rich, lustrous look, and its neutral style makes it suitable to take to either bucolic countryside settings or city hotels.
Rounding things out is a unique addition to the brand’s stable – The Helmet Bag, designed in the run-up to the 2024 races alongside Bennett Winch drivers and former Le Mans champions Harry Tincknell and Alex Lynn. With an elegant, curved silhouette and a pleasant sense of depth, this specialist product is anchored by a fully vented helmet compartment that’s overlaid by a twin-track wide-mouth opening, which allows for ease of access (the zip lining underneath is scratch-proof, too, in order to prevent damaging the item within).
A shoulder strap and a pocket for small accessories are incorporated, of course, but even better for those getting behind the wheel is the fact that there’s a separate area for a HANS device, gloves and various other driving accessories.
‘From the emphasis on performance engineering and innovation, to the idea of independent crews going up against big factory teams on a level track, Le Mans has always resonated with Bennett Winch,’ says the brand. ‘And we are honoured to share our logo with such champions of excellence.’
Want more from Bennett Winch? Read about its Navy Collection here…
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