2026.02.10 update

[Feature] PROTeCA Suitcase 3 Series Comparison: A Thorough Explanation of Features, Differences, and How to Choose

Traveling or going on a business trip with a suitcase begins with "packing" while imagining the schedule, but choosing the right suitcase isn't just about capacity or price. Some people prioritize ease of movement during the journey, others need to accommodate changes in luggage volume between the outbound and return trips, some frequently pack and unpack, others choose a design that matches their business suit or a striking color, and some simply want a suitcase that makes them feel good when they carry it. There are a variety of needs when choosing a suitcase.

This time, we've curated PROTECA suitcases, a Japanese suitcase brand, from the perspective of "what's most important to you when traveling," and selected three series based on popular models available at the Isetan Shinjuku suitcase department store. This is a thorough explanation essential for those looking to replace their suitcase or prepare for their next trip.

  1. What is PROTeCA ? PROTeCA is a trusted suitcase born from world-class quality and a rich, uniquely Japanese sensibility.
  2. Choose based on your travel style (values) | Proteca's 3 Series
  3. "Completeness-balanced type | Staria CXR"
    1. Here are the key points of "Staria CXR"!
    2. PICK UP "Staria CXR" 02351/37L model
  4. "Variable storage type | Frester EX"
    1. Here's what makes "Frester EX" so special!
    2. PICK UP "Frester EX" 01553 (76/89L) model
  5. "Luxury Experience | J5 Collection "SHISUI-F""
    1. Here are the key points of the J5 Collection "SHISUI-F"!
    2. PICK UP "SHISUI-F" 00573/70L model
    1. A comparison of the differences between the 3 series of PROTeCA a Japanese travel bag brand that can be chosen to suit your travel or business trip style, plus different types | Which series is right for you?
      1. [Information] Starting April 15th, 2026 (Wednesday), the travel bag section on the first basement floor of the Isetan Shinjuku Main Building will be relocated to the first basement floor of the Isetan Kaikan and reborn as "ISETAN SUITCASE"!


What is PROTeCA ?
World-class quality and reliable suitcases born from a rich sensibility unique to Japan.

PROTECA is a leading Japanese travel bag brand from Ace Co., Ltd. Manufactured under strict quality control at their Akabira factory in Hokkaido, each craftsman at the Akabira factory handles multiple processes and conducts self-inspections while understanding the preceding and succeeding processes, resulting in improved quality and an exceptionally low defect rate.

PROTeCA suitcases feature a lightweight, rigid magnesium alloy frame, also used in racing car wheels, and some models have interiors finished with cushioned urethane fabric hand-applied by skilled craftsmen. In addition to being "designed for long-term use," they also incorporate "details that reduce the stress of travel."

In addition to its high quality and advanced features, the "Proteca Premium Care" 3-year unlimited free product warranty, which also covers some types of damage, provides peace of mind. (The "J5 Collection" has a 10-year free product warranty period.)


Choose based on your travel style (values) | Proteca's 3 Series

A series recommended for three different travel styles (values).

❶ Balanced level of completeness = "Staria CXR"
❷ Variable storage type = "Frester EX"
➌ Luxury Experience = J5 Collection "SHISUI-F"


Balanced level of completeness | "Staria CXR"

The "Staria CXR," a balanced model that embodies Proteca's standards, is a high-performance model that pursues both functionality and design.


This updated design features a beautiful mirrored body with linear ribs and beautifully unified parts colors. The ergonomically designed handle makes travel more efficient. The impact-resistant body, made from a unique blend of polycarbonate and ABS resin, is scratch-resistant thanks to the convex (convex) ribs running horizontally and vertically, while the quiet and smooth casters and user-friendly interior make travel and storage comfortable. Furthermore, a wide range of sizes and vibrant color variations allow you to easily choose the capacity that suits your needs. This is a highly refined suitcase with excellent overall balance of durability, maneuverability, and storage capacity.
Furthermore, the "Staria CXR" is available in five different sizes, ranging from a "coin locker compatible size" (22L) that fits lockers installed in train stations and other locations, to a large size (103L) suitable for long trips.
*The models available at Isetan Shinjuku store are 02351 (37L), 02352 (52L), 02353 (82L), and 02354 (103L).

►Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store
View PROTeCA "Staria CXR" series list.



Here are the key points of "Staria CXR"!


1. Equipped with caster stoppers to prevent accidental movement.


Equipped with "Magic Stop®," a uniquely developed and patented caster stopper function that allows you to easily lock the wheels with a switch on the handlebars. This prevents unexpected movement on moving trains or on inclines.

2. Casters that run quietly and smoothly

The "Silent Caster®," which significantly reduces perceived noise, and the "Bearon Wheel®," which employs highly durable chrome steel bearings that minimize frictional resistance, enable quiet and smooth running.


3. Ergonomic handle for easy gripping



The grip is ergonomically designed with an oval shape for a comfortable hold, improving the user experience.

4. Simple and user-friendly interior design


A simple and easy-to-use interior that allows you to store your belongings in every corner and prevents them from shifting. It also has a mesh pocket for storing small items.


PICK UP "Staria CXR" 02351/37L model



PROTeCA
Staria CXR (02351_37L)
71,500 yen
52 x 38 x 25 cm / 3.0 kg

View Products


The "02351" is a convenient carry-on size. It's recommended for short trips or business trips of 2-3 nights.


►Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store
View PROTeCA "Staria CXR" series list.




Variable storage type | "Frester EX"


A slim, vertically oriented suitcase with a front-opening and expandable design that easily accommodates changes in luggage capacity.


The "Frester EX" is Proteca's first trunk-style suitcase to feature a front-opening design. The front opening allows for quick access to your belongings while on the go or in confined spaces, becoming more convenient the more you use it. Combined with an expandable function to accommodate varying amounts of luggage, it allows for efficient storage in business hotels and on airplanes. Its tall, slim form and sharp design, inspired by a Japanese sword, create a sophisticated look for business trips and short vacations. With its versatile storage capacity, this suitcase reliably supports a variety of travel styles.
*Available at Isetan Shinjuku store are 01551 (36/45L), 01553 (76/89L), and 01555 (105/120L).
This is a model.


Here's what makes "Frester EX" so special!


1. User-friendly front-opening design


For the first time in the Proteca series, the main compartment is accessible from the front. Carry-on size bags feature a "vertical opening" for easy loading and unloading while standing upright, while checked baggage bags feature a "horizontal opening" for space-saving access. This ensures smooth loading and unloading of luggage even in confined spaces.

2. The "I'm glad it's included" expandable function


It features an expandable function that allows you to increase the capacity by widening the gusset. You can increase the capacity by about 10L, which is enough for about one night's worth of luggage, making it useful when returning home and allowing you to accommodate a wider range of trips than a typical suitcase.



3. "Bearon wheels" for smooth riding.



The wheels feature "Bearon wheels" with built-in bearings for smooth movement. These are our own developed casters, proven to reduce perceived noise by approximately 30% compared to conventional products.

4. "Magic Stop®" prevents unexpected driving.


Equipped with "Magic Stop®," a uniquely developed and patented caster stopper function that allows you to easily lock the wheels with a switch on the handlebars. This prevents unexpected movement on moving trains or on inclines.




PICK UP "Frester EX" 01553 (76/89L) model



PROTeCA
FRESHTER EX (01553_76/89L)
88,000 yen
71 x 41 x 30-34 cm / 4.9 kg

The "Frester EX" is a model suitable for trips of 5 to 7 days, with a standard capacity of 76L and an expandable function that can be increased to 89L. Its trunk-style design, which makes it easy to transport in a car, is another welcome feature.



Luxury Experience | J5 Collection "SHISUI-F"

This suitcase offers an experience of "JAPAN LUXURY," inspired by traditional lacquered document boxes.


High-performance and high-quality products born from the diligent and meticulous craftsmanship of Japanese artisans. Featuring a minimalist design that reflects a uniquely Japanese aesthetic, and backed by a comprehensive 10-year free product warranty under the "Proteca Premium Care Plus" after-sales service, it offers peace of mind.

Aiming to create the world's finest suitcases, the "J5 Collection" pursues not only high quality and functionality, but also aesthetic value. By incorporating gentle curves that evoke a natural beauty reminiscent of surface tension, and through repeated trial and error down to the millimeter, the curves of the four corners, brought as close to right angles as possible, exude a dignified atmosphere.

The "SHISUI-F" model is shaped like a traditional Japanese "bunko-bako" (a box used to store precious items), and features different shell surface finishes to match the body color: "Soot Bamboo (mirror finish)", "Ebony (wood grain)", and "Iron Navy (cast iron finish)".
*The Isetan Shinjuku store will carry the "40L", "70L", and "99L" models.

►Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store
View the complete PROTeCA J5 Collection series.



Here are the key points of the J5 Collection "SHISUI-F"!


1. Magnesium alloy frame


It features an ultra-thin magnesium frame that minimizes its presence to the extreme, and a new latchless lock that can be opened with just one finger.

2. Brushed interior


The interior features ample storage options, including low-positioned cross straps, dividers, and mesh pockets, allowing you to keep even a small amount of luggage in place.



3. Garment case included



Includes a garment case with a wire frame that prevents wrinkles and is easy to fold. *Excluding the "40L" model.

4. Double-wheel caster with built-in bearings


Our proprietary "Bearon Wheel®," which uses highly durable chrome steel bearings to assist rotation, is mounted on the easy-to-handle twin-wheel type "Silent Caster®." It boasts high quality in both swivel performance and quiet operation.



PICK UP "SHISUI-F" 00573/70L model

PROTeCA
J5 Collection "SHISUI-F"
(00573_70L) 198,000 yen
69 x 47 x 26 cm / 5.4 kg

View Products


The J5 Collection's "SHISUI-F" suitcase embodies a sense of beauty that resonates intuitively, reflecting refined Japanese aesthetics. The 70L "Check-in L" model is ideal for international travel and cruises.

►Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store
View the complete PROTeCA J5 Collection series.



PROTeCA is a Japanese travel bag brand that offers a variety of options to suit your travel and business trip style.
Comparing the differences between the 3 series + by type | Which series is right for you?


This time, we introduced three series: "Staria CXR" as a well-balanced model, "Frester EX" as a variable storage model, and the J5 Collection "SHISUI-F" as a luxury experience model.
The "Staria CXR" is lightweight and durable, while also offering high storage capacity, a caster stopper function, and quiet casters, making it ideal for those seeking a well-balanced suitcase. The "Frester EX," on the other hand, features a front-opening, single-compartment design for easy packing, making it perfect for those who tend to pack a lot.
The J5 Collection "SHISUI-F" is appealing for its colors that show different expressions depending on the viewing angle, expressing a deep luster like cast iron when light hits it, and it is also very appealing for those who want to experience something special, as you can choose according to your purpose.

information
From Wednesday, April 15, 2026, the travel bag section on the first basement floor of the Isetan Shinjuku Main Building will be relocated to the first basement floor of the Isetan Kaikan and reborn as "ISETAN SUITCASE".

PROTeCA Information
Following the remodel, starting April 15th, 2026 (Wednesday), the "J5 Collection" will begin offering a permanent pattern order service, the first of its kind in Japan. You can choose from 5 colors for the handles, 2 colors for the caster caps, and 5 colors for the name tag (with name engraving available).
*For further details, please contact Isetan Suitcases on the B1 floor of the Isetan Kaikan building at Isetan Shinjuku store.
►Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store
View PROTeCA suitcases
Text: Makoto Kajii
Editing: Studio ALTA

*All prices include tax.
*The information in this article is current as of the time of publication. Product information may be revised or changed without notice.


For inquiries, please contact Isetan Shinjuku Store, Isetan Kaikan B1F, Isetan Suitcases.
For inquiries via email, please click here.