Carhartt WIP rides with Pelago Bicyles

Pelago (from Archipelago) is a Finnish urban bicycle brand launched in the 2000s. Its bikes are distinctive for their pared-down, stress-free design. Pelago's founders are keen on an eco-responsible approach, and aim to offer top-of-the-range bikes built to last until 2050, suitable for city commuting or short trips.

This approach, and the fact that the Pelago team consists of former skateboarders, has won over Carhartt WIP. The label, which started out by introducing a new, street-fashion take on workwear, has collaborated with the Helsinki brand for the next autumn/winter.

"In 2013, some members of the Carhartt WIP's skateboarding team left for Fuerteventura, in the Canary Islands, for a week-long cycling stint. Their idea was to call on former skateboarders turned bicycle manufacturers to devise a bike specifically suited to this adventure, the label has explained in a press release. The only requirement was that the Pelago people would ride together with the Carhartt WIP team. Our shared experience during that particular week drove us to develop a cycling-inspired collection called 'Freeway Your Mind'."

The collaboration with Pelago Bicyles has generated a fixed-gear utility bike and a holdall created with Mission Workshop, fitting the bike's front rack. The range also features an apparel collection especially designed for cycling, with a premium on functionality.

The jacket is water-proof, the tee-shirts have been styled with cycling comfort in mind and reflective elements are incorporated in all items. Of course, Carhartt is not giving up on skateboarding (a collaboration with British brand Isle is on the cards) but it is enjoying a foray in a domain where its brand identity can hold its own. This collaboration is quietly staking out the same territory as the Levi's Commuter collection, and will be available from 11th August at Carhartt WIP's stores and on the brand's e-shop.

Carhartt WIP rides with Pelago Bicyles

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