THINK WIDER

Elevate Collection

WIDE WHEEL HANDLE
Why is it more than a trend?

At VOCIER we believe that the wide wheel handle will be the defining standard of the coming years.

More than a design choice — it’s a commitment to innovation, comfort, and reimagining how people move through the world.

Thoughtful Design

Improved stability and manoeuvrability, meaning total control over direction and speed.

Redefining “functional luxury,” this is an aesthetic piece like no other.

Designed with rods on the sides to optimize space and simplify packaging.

In our CEO's own words

"The wheel handle on The Elevate Pro Tech is placed in the middle and not at the side , which allows for even more space gain and better traction!"

Q&A: ARNE BORREY, CEO FROM VOCIER
Why Wide Wheel Handle?

Q: Can you tell us a little about why luggage needs a wheel handle (aka trolley)?

Great question. The wheel handle is one of the least known but most important—and expensive—pieces on luggage. It lets you manage mobility, steering, and stability, and apply more or less power as needed. It also serves as a handle on stairs and as an attachment point for your bags. Lastly, it’s an aesthetic element that strongly influences the look and feel of the luggage.

Q: What has been the evolution?

The wheel handle was long an afterthought, as the main focus was on the wheels—first on two-wheel suitcases and then on four. When suitcases were horizontal, the wheel handle was a simple rod or leash for traction. As cases went upright, that idea became the narrow single- or double-rod wheel handle. Since 90% of suitcases were two-wheel, the wheel handle remained just a traction tool. Only when designs moved to four wheels did people realize it also had to steer and provide stability.

Q: What are the issues with the narrow wheel handle?

It was never designed for steering or stability—only traction—so it’s quite primitive. It also takes up a lot of interior space as the rods run through the middle of one half, making packing more difficult. Once serious designers became involved, the wide wheel handle appeared as the superior solution for handling, mobility, and stability. Famous designers such as Philippe Starck, Marc Newson, and even our own Michael Kogellnik began using it, increasing its visibility.

Q: What are the advantages of the wide wheel handle?

The width gives you total control over direction and speed, and it’s easier to manoeuvre—especially with a heavy case. Coupled with great wheels, you don’t need to exert as much power to move at a good pace. You also don’t lose as much interior space, as the rods are at the sides and you can pack the full depth.

Q: Why are the VOCIER wide wheel handle products so special?

When we introduced Avant—our first suitcase with a wide wheel handle—consumer acceptance was immediate. Vocier enthusiasts are savvy travellers and they appreciate the wide wheel handle on our second-generation Elevate, too. On the Elevate Pro Tech, the wheelhandle is placed in the middle rather than at the side, which allows even more space gain and better traction.
Currently, about 15% of all four-wheel suitcases sold have a wide wheel handle, and I expect that to increase to over 50% in the next three years. So yes—Think Wider is the way to go!
- Arne Borrey, CEO VOCIER