Have you ever wondered how many bicycle tubes you have used in your lifetime? More than 30 million tubes are manufactured worldwide daily. After all the fun where does all this used waste go? I used the tubes from my bikes to make sling shots when I was a child. I always feel a bit guilty throwing the tubes away. I feel like I need to be using them for something. Three companies have chosen to put these tubes back in full use in several aspects of our lives.
Alchemy Goods makes an incredible array of bags from used bicycle inner tubes. The bag that we tested is the Pike. I thought at first that the tubes would rub or catch on my jacket or t-shirts. The tubes go through a very comprehensive non-toxic cleaning. The bag looks and feels very durable. The straps are made from used seat-belts with a quick release strap gauge to secure the perfect fit or get the bag off quickly. The pull on the zipper is made from a tube valve stem. This bag looks so good. Every time I have used it someone has asked about it. Inside there is a canvas liner, a key clip and a separator to create 2 main compartments. The outside has 2 reflective strips which make it perfect for bike commuters.
Alchemy Goods makes belts, bags of every size, and also does custom used banner bags all out of up-cycled products. To alleviate the guilt you feel right now for all the tubes you have thrown away check out their site: http://www.alchemygoods.com/pike.html
Cycle Dog is a company that makes leashes, collars etc. for man's best friend. These collars are great because they are half colored material and half used tubes. My dog looks so good with his new collar. This collar is unique because it has a bottle opener and a miniature seat belt clip to quickly and easily remove the collar. The tube is the part that is on the dog's fur. I noticed that this is great for walking with a leash because the collar can sit looser than other collars because the tube grips the fur just slightly. The multiple colors, choices, and sizes are very nice. These collars are very durable. My dog was slipping through a door and ripped off his ID tags but, the collar stayed on. Cycle Dog is in the process of releasing some great dog toys including; chew toys, balls, dishes, discs most of which are made with recycled tubes. For more information go to:www.cycledog.com
SANUK is a great sandal company that makes fantastic lifestyle slippers for everyday wear. They have a sandal, called That's What She Said, that has straps made of bicycle tubes and a comfy bed made from yoga mats. This is a great recovery sandal. This product is vegetarian and vegan. For more information, check out:www.sanuk.com/thats-what-she-said
If you are feeling guilty about the many tubes you use in your cycling obsession, take a moment to check out these 3 great companies to help guilt slip away.
