Chrome Industries

To describe the commuter bags and bike shoes built by Chrome Industries in a single word? Bombproof. The company started making hardcore gear from military-grade truck tarpaulin in a Boulder basement back in 1995 and later relocated to San Francisco, the West Coast hub for bike messengers. Like the people its products are made for, Chrome doesn’t slow down for anything and continues to deliver products that are both innovative and indestructible.

Everyone loved the functionality and durability of Chrome’s messenger bags, but was less enamored with pulling the straps on and off over bike helmets. Prototypes for Chrome’s signature buckle-release messenger bag were originally made in 1999 using seatbelts cut from old cars in a salvage yard. The design has been refined and now the buckle that doubles as a bottle opener is iconic.

Speaking of icons, the brand’s Griffin logo—which combines the body of a lion with the wings of an eagle and the head of a gargoyle—can be seen on professional skateboarders, crit racers and bike messengers worldwide. If the gear is tough enough to withstand the daily use and abuse they put it through, you know that Chrome’s cargo backpacks, travel bags and other products can withstand your daily commute with ease. Check out our curated collection of Chrome bags and cycling footwear here on Gear.com.