Product Details & Size Guide
Carry a reminder of Sky City’s place in Asheville and Southeastern retail history. The chain began in 1962 as an evolution of Bowers department stores, then expanded from Asheville into cities including Hickory and High Point. At its height, Sky City operated more than 70 stores across five states, bringing a self-service discount format to communities throughout the region. Its story of local roots, growth, corporate change, and closure makes this backpack a thoughtful choice for fans of regional history and memorable businesses.
Sky City was a regional discount-store chain based in Asheville, North Carolina. Its name referred to “Land of the Sky,” a nickname for Asheville popularized in the 20th century. The chain began in 1962 as an evolution of Bowers department stores, founded in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1919. Retail executive M.C. Peterson, who became Bowers president in 1948 and moved its headquarters to Asheville that year, developed Sky City as a self-service, multi-department store offering discounted name-brand goods and free parking. After its Asheville flagship doubled in size by 1963, the chain added Hickory in 1964 and High Point in 1965. Sky City merged with St. Louis-based Interco, Inc. in 1977 while retaining operational independence and its Asheville headquarters. By 1982 it had more than 70 stores across five Southeastern states. A 1990 restructuring closed 20 of 55 stores. Interco sold the chain in 1991 to an investor group led by chief executive Harvey Yellen, which formed Sky City Holding Corp. Five new stores and Asheville facilities were planned, but in January 1991 Yellen announced that all remaining stores had closed.
A rugged, everyday 20L backpack designed for days that move fast and demand durability. Built from water-repellent 600D polyester, it shrugsoff drizzle and light rain while protecting what matters inside. The padded laptop sleeve holds up to a 15" device snugly, and a fleece-lined pocket keeps sunglasses or small screens scratch-free. Two mesh side pockets keep a water bottle within easy reach, while roomy compartments organize chargers, notebooks, and daily essentials. Clean lines and practical pockets make this a dependable companion for commutes, classes, and short travel stints.
Product features
- Durable 600D polyester construction with water resistance
- 20L capacity, one-size carry for everyday use
- Padded sleeve fits up to a 15" laptop
- Fleece-lined pocket for eyewear or media devices
- Mesh side pockets for water bottles and quick access items
Care instructions
- Before cleaning the bag, remove all the items from the bag. Suggested to pretreat visible stains with stain remover. Mix warm water with laundry detergent and clean the bag with terry washcloth or soft bristle brush. Let the bag air dry.
| One size | |
| Width, in | 12.50 |
| Height, in | 19.00 |
| Depth, in | 5.50 |
EU representative: HONSON VENTURES LIMITED, gpsr@honsonventures.com, 3, Gnaftis House flat 102, Limassol, Mesa Geitonia, 4003, CY
Product information: Oakley 921056ODM, two year warranty in the EU and Northern Ireland
Care instructions: Before cleaning the bag, remove all the items from the bag. Suggested to pretreat visible stains with stain remover. Mix warm water with laundry detergent and clean the bag with terry washcloth or soft bristle brush. Let the bag air dry.