Chrome Industries launched in ’95 with just a Juki sewing machine, military grade fabric and seat-belt buckle straps from bygone era cars.  The company had one mission: make practical, durable and functional gear for city commuters and bike messengers. Fast forward to today, Chrome Industries makes cool bags, footwear and apparel for an urban community. We recently were invited by Chrome Industries’ Chicago HUB located in Wicker Park to make our very own custom messenger bag with the iconic company. What’s unique about their stores is that it’s part factory, part retail. With their custom bag program, you can customize the colors, add patches and details and have it sewn in-house! The result: an urban, chic bag that is uniquely your own. We caught up with Kelsey Coutts, Chicago’s HUB Manager to learn more about Chrome Industries custom bag program.

Give us a brief behind-the-scenes look at Chrome Industries.
Chrome is utility and mobility. We strive to make useful and durable bags, apparel and footwear that go from bike to bar. From a garage in Boulder, CO almost two decades ago to use around the world, we have never wavered from our commitment to quality using simple, resourceful solutions with military grade material.

Tell us about Chrome’s custom bag program.
Chrome Customs is one of the most exciting projects we are working on these days. Our custom design program allows the customer to choose their bag, colors, trims and buckle. Right now, you can choose from the Mini Metro or Citizen messenger bags. With a bag that is designed for a lifetime, it is special to go through the process with our Custom Bag Maker Caroline and come out with a one-of-a-kind bag reflective of your personality. Not only is it a super fun process, you get to have your Chrome bag made right in Chicago for you!

Who is the Chrome customer?
Our customers are professional bike messengers, urban commuters, fixed freestyle riders, students, parents–anyone who lives and rides in the city!

To learn more about Chrome, visit www.chromebagsstore.com