Polycarbonate Versus Aluminium Luggage

Rimowa is one of the most sought after names in luggage, with legions of high-end fans and celebrities frequently seen using the Rimowa brand to complement their jet-set lifestyle! Of course, Rimowa’s credibility in the luggage industry does not just come from having very attractive designs that appeal to people with big budgets – Rimowa is also an innovator that produces luggage that is extremely practical for people who travel regularly, such as business travelers.

Rimowa luggage (Photo: Rimowa)

Rimowa

Rimowa offers a range of beautiful lines, including the much-talked-about Topas and Salsa lines,
which you can see at globalluggage.co.uk. The Rimowa line uses two different materials in its cases: aluminium and polycarbonate. Which of these to choose is a decision that is important to
anyone looking to invest in their own Rimowa luggage, so we take a look at the differences between the two:

Rimowa Aluminium Luggage

Rimowa was the first luggage brand to take inspiration from the aluminium used in building aircraft in their luggage design. The lightweight, durable nature of aluminium made it perfect for use in the aviation industry, and by extension made it a good choice for luggage too. Even early Rimowa cases from the 1950s were built in aluminium and featured the groove design that has since become one of the Rimowa brand’s most powerful identifying features.

Rimowa aluminium luggage is incredibly popular, but can be something of an acquired taste. While it is strong, light and very practical, it does pick up dents very easily when you travel – such as from being thrown around by baggage handlers. This is something it is designed to withstand without opening or failing, but as Rimowa says, each aluminium case develops its own unique look as it travels! You can rely on the case, but you have to realize it will not look pristine after a lot of trips – it isn’t supposed to, and this is part of its special charm!

Rimowa Polycarbonate Luggage

The other option, if you are in love with Rimowa but not so keen on the idea of aluminium luggage, is polycarbonate. Rimowa was the first brand to really make use of the full potential for polycarbonate in luggage and now produces polycarbonate pieces that are literally bomb proof. This luggage has been heavily tested, and its design allows it to respond optimally to pressure yielding and then returning to its original shape when no longer under pressure. It is incredibly light and durable, and can come in a wide range of finishes.

If you are looking for a truly classic look for your Rimowa suitcases and love the idea of your own luggage developing its own patina as you travel giving you a unique piece that can remind you of all your trips, then aluminium is the perfect choice. However, if you want the performance and design options that come with polycarbonate, Rimowa has some of the best luggage on the market when it comes to making best use of the properties of the material.

Article by Cassie Matthews