Chaps, if you’re after a bit of British charm for your two-wheeled steed or a dash of vintage flair for your everyday carry, look no further than Brooks England
This venerable brand has been turning heads since Queen Victoria was on the throne, and they’re still as cool as a cucumber in tweed. Brooks England has captured our hearts for numerous reasons. First and foremost, the quality is unparalleled – every detail of their products is crafted with incredible skill and love, whether it’s a saddle, handlebar, or any part of the “carrying” bicycle equipment. This dedication to quality is visible at first glance, even from a distance.
Their leather bags are the epitome of coolness – they look light and wearable but are actually incredibly robust. Legend has it they’re built to last a lifetime, which speaks volumes about their durability. We’re particularly impressed by their innovation, such as the special leather molding process without stitching, resulting in a flawless design.
From Saddles to Satchels
While Brooks cut its teeth on bicycle saddles that could make even the cobblestoned streets of London feel like riding on a cloud, they’ve since expanded their repertoire to include bags that would make any postie green with envy.
Picture this: It’s 1866, and **John Boultbee Brooks**, dissatisfied with the sorry state of bicycle seats, decides to take matters into his own hands. The result? A leather saddle so exquisite, it could make a penny-farthing feel like a Rolls-Royce. As they say in Blighty, the rest is history.
More Than Just Cycling Kit
Fast forward a century and a bit, and Brooks is no longer just the darling of the cycling world. They’ve pedalled their way into the pages of GQ, proving that their appeal extends far beyond the velodrome.
On a recent jaunt to Graz, we stumbled upon a Brooks treasure trove in the Kastner&Ohler department store. It was like stumbling into a modern art museum, only you could take the exhibits home with you (for a price, of course).
Bags of Style
Now, let’s talk about those bags. Brooks’ leather satchels are the bee’s knees – they look as light as a feather but are built like a brick outhouse. Legend has it they’ll last longer than your gran’s fruit cake.
Some of these beauties are crafted using a special moulding process, joining the leather without a single stitch. It’s like origami, but for leather enthusiasts.
A Right Royal Affair
Brooks recently flung open the doors of their London flagship store, showcasing bags born from a collaboration with the Royal College of Art. These stitchless wonders are formed around a “zero” model, resulting in a seamless masterpiece that would make even the most discerning bag lady swoon.
The Price of Cool
Now, we won’t sugar-coat it – Brooks isn’t exactly pocket change. Their bags might set you back £250 to £300 or more. But compare that to a Balenciaga number (launched around the same time) going for £1,255, and suddenly Brooks looks like a proper bargain. And let’s be honest, it’s infinitely cooler.
History and beyond
Brooks England remained a family affair until 1962 when Raleigh Bicycle Company took the reins. After a few wobbles in the late ’90s, entrepreneurs John Godfrey Macnaughtan and Adrien Williams stepped in to save the day. In 2002, Italian company Selle Royal acquired the brand, ensuring that Brooks continues to add a touch of British class to cycling and fashion alike.
So, whether you’re cruising down the Mall or just popping to the local for a pint, Brooks England has got you covered. It’s not just a brand; it’s a slice of British history you can wear on your back or park between your legs.
Fancy yourself a Brooks aficionado? Regale us with your tales of Brooks-inspired adventures in the comments below. We’re all ears for your stylish cycling stories!
