SOTTOS Roll Model™: A European Summer Travel Highlight
In partnership with Jordan Finkle/Existenz
By Kody Boye
As record-breaking numbers of tourists flood Europe’s iconic cities and summer hotspots, a fresh debate about tourism’s impact on local economies is unfolding. While tourism brings significant revenue, it also strains local infrastructure and raises the cost of living, causing frustration among residents. Just across the English Channel, the Paris Olympics amplify these concerns, placing the city at the center of global attention. Drawing athletes, fans, and media from around the world, the Olympics significantly boosts tourism yet poses logistical and economic challenges. This heightened visibility and the associated pressures have put the city under a global spotlight, highlighting both the opportunities and drawbacks of such a monumental event and over-tourism in general.
Amidst this particularly chaotic European travel season, an unsung hero has emerged. A highlight of the summer has been the Roll Model™ from SOTTOS, turning heads and actually endearing locals to American travellers.
What makes SOTTOS stand out in a crowded luggage market? The secret lies in its innovative design. The Roll Model™ boasts patented oversized wheels that tackle cobblestones and rough terrains with ease. Constructed from ballistic nylon and aerospace-grade polymers, the luggage is both tough and sleek. The design maximizes interior space, ensuring every inch is utilized efficiently without compromising style.
A European Affair
American tourists wheeling around the Roll Model™ are sparking curiosity and admiration across the European summer travel circuit from St. Tropez and Mykonos to Barcelona and the Amalfi Coast. Its distinctive design and functionality have made it a conversation starter, as locals and tourists alike marvel at its ability to handle Europe’s diverse landscapes. Whether navigating the charming streets of Nice, the bustling beaches of Ibiza, or the scenic coastal paths of Cinque Terre, the Roll Model™ proves its versatility and durability.
As travelers flock in from the French Riviera to Paris for the Olympics, the brand’s relevance will be further amplified as the Roll Model™ shines in the French capital with its melange of practicality and panache.
From Hollywood to Heathrow
Beyond Europe and outside of athletics, SOTTOS has deep ties to the music industry. Kenneth Hertz, a prominent music attorney, is a major investor in SOTTOS. The Roll Model™ is increasingly becoming a staple for musicians, whether hauling equipment to the studio or surviving the wear and tear of a world tour.
Ken’s personal experience during a severe blizzard in London exemplifies the Roll Model™’s reliability. When the city was at a standstill and Ubers were nowhere to be found, Ken relied on his two SOTTOS bags. The oversized wheels glided effortlessly through the snow, allowing him to strap the bags together and walk to the airport on foot — and he made it. Since then, he hasn’t looked at another luggage brand.
Technically Superior
The Roll Model™ stands out with its unique low-mass all-terrain wheels, designed to effortlessly navigate diverse terrains. These wheels ensure a smooth and stable ride, making it an ideal choice for travelers who encounter varying surfaces from cobblestone streets to snowy paths. The bag is constructed with super strong ballistic nylon for exceptional durability and features an aviation-grade telescoping aluminum handle that is both lightweight and robust. Impact-resistant polymer panels provide added protection, while the waterproof bottom keeps your belongings dry.
The arched belly design optimizes space and balance while smooth-operating YKK zippers, a discreet passport holder for quick access, a dedicated, expandable water bottle holder, and an expansion zipper offer additional convenience. The built-in TSA combination lock enhances security, ensuring peace of mind. Inside, the Roll Model™ offers a flat-back interior that maximizes packing space, complemented by front office and tech compartments for organized storage. The spacious interior comfortably accommodates personal items, while a detachable flat divider keeps clothes wrinkle-free. Numerous mesh pockets provide versatile packing options, and an Air Tag pouch helps you keep track of your luggage. While the polycarbonate components may sustain surface scratches, these marks are purely cosmetic and can be maintained with simple cleaning techniques.
The Roll Model™ is designed to meet carry-on sizing guidelines for major US and international airlines with dimensions of 14 inches in width, 9 inches in depth (expandable to 11 inches), 22 inches in height, a weight of 9.4 lbs, and a capacity of 38 to 40 liters.
As the European summer travel season continues, the Roll Model™ from SOTTOS is proving to be the ultimate travel companion. To explore the Roll Model™ and discover what the buzz is all about, visit the SOTTOS website.
Rolling Stone UK newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this featured content