Video: Restrap Tour 

In July, I visited the UK to say hello to some family and friends. During the visit, I passed the city of Leeds, home to Restrap, the bikepacking bag company I currently use on my setup. I’ve been impressed with Restrap since I first heard about them many years ago. It’s a family-run business with a humble beginning. The founder, Nathan, explains,

“The company began in a back bedroom with a single sewing machine, I made pedal straps, firstly for myself, then for my friends. Interest grew, so did my company. Over time we branched out to develop the full range of bags, luggage and accessories available today. From a small bedroom to a large factory in Leeds it’s been one hell of ride. Still, I don’t think I ever envisioned it being this big. I remember at one point saying five people is all we need, so it’s amazing to think at our peak we had 75 employees.”

It is incredible to see how much Restrap has grown over recent years. The pandemic brought about a 300% growth in the company as bikepacking became a great way to keep your distance and enjoy the great outdoors. Today Restrap produces some 10,000 items per month, from bikepacking luggage to Brompton handles to, of course, the inimitable pedal strap.

I swung by the factory where my bags were made to catch up with the team. I was welcomed by Nathan, the founder, and Jon, who’s in charge of marketing. We had a great conversation about the possibility of Restrap visiting Norway and collaborating on a video project. It would be awesome to take the guys on a gravel adventure and see what they thought of the country I call home. After our chat, Jon and Helen, who is head of operations, took me on a tour of the factory. I had asked if we could film a product being made for my YouTube channel, and they suggested a Musette bag. It was a great choice because the process was easy to film and didn’t cause any inconvenience for the staff. I got to pick the materials and colors and watched as the skilled staff operated the large machines, bringing my custom-made Musette to life.

It was amazing to see the prototypes of their future products and to meet the hardworking people who make it all happen. Even though the company has faced its fair share of challenges to get where it is today, it still maintains that small, family-run feel. Everyone is valued and plays an important role in ensuring the quality of their products. I left feeling privileged to represent them on my channel and website.
If you’re interested in checking out their products, be sure to visit their website at www.restrap.com. And don’t forget to use the coupon code MATTHEW15 to get a 15% discount on anything you buy from their range. This offer is valid until 15th September 2023.

My custom musette hand made in Leeds.