I wonder how long ago that was.
Back when I didn’t know the first thing about bicycles.
Back at the height of the first fixed-gear boom.
Back when I was riding a Surly Cross-Check as a fixed-gear.
Amidst that movement—or perhaps culture—that arrived from far-off America, I encountered a wave of enthusiasm for the philosophy of “making what we use ourselves” and “making it if you can’t find what you want.” This led to the creation of messenger bags, cycling caps, and clothing remade for cycling—many items designed not just for their looks, but to be truly used as functional tools.
Chuey Brand was one of the brands I discovered during that time. I was strongly drawn to its texture, the fabrics used, the sense of style in their combinations, and above all, the spirit behind them.
Chuey Brand is a manufacturer based in San Francisco, California, that creates items—primarily cycling caps—by hand, one by one. The fabrics used in Chuey’s stylish pieces are mainly vintage Pendleton skirts and jackets from the 1960s to 80s, which he finds at thrift stores. The colorful fabrics used for linings and other details are things he finds locally when visiting his father in Africa. These caps, made from such fabrics, are naturally stylish and radiate the warmth of Chuey’s own personality.
That personality is beloved not only by San Francisco cyclists but also by messengers and handmade frame builders throughout Northern California. Now widely recognized among cyclists around the world, even in recent times when many people have started making handmade cycling caps, he is respected by many cap makers as the pioneer who birthed the handmade cycling cap.
The items arriving this time are three types: the wool cycling cap, the Classic Cap; the Flappy Cap, which features ear flaps; and the Floppy Hat, a hat-style version that is a first for me as well. By the way, the items in the image above are all my own, ranging from ones I’ve used for years to the Floppy Hat I just recently purchased.
Chuey Brand
Classic Cap
¥4,000 (excl. tax)
Chuey Brand
Flappy Cap
¥5,400 (excl. tax)
Chuey Brand
Floppy Hat
¥5,400 (excl. tax)
Every model has a deep fit, making them very easy for us Japanese people to wear. They are also versatile enough to match a variety of situations, from weekend rides to days when you aren't on a bike at all.
Crafted one by one by hand, combined according to the inspiration of the moment, each cap has its own unique charm. For those of you with a curious spirit, I suspect you might find yourselves wanting more than just one.
This is our first arrival in a long time. I hope many people will take a look, from those who have been waiting a long time for them to return like I have, to those who are learning the name Chuey Brand for the first time.
Detailed images of each individual item are posted on the Circles Web Shop, so please be sure to check them out.