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The Chrome Industries brand, known for its hard-wearing urban bags, was initially only known to cool bike messengers. In Berlin, Frankfurt and Hamburg, they carried the robust bags with the striking logo of a winged mythical creature on the seatbelt buckle - a fastener similar to an old seatbelt buckle. The author of these lines also had a carrying strap for the U-lock early on, which could be casually attached to the belt, allowing him to carry his yellow Kryptonite lock through the city centre.
To mark its 30th anniversary, Chrome is presenting new versions of the Barrage backpacks. The product line, which has been established for around a decade, is being expanded with 4 new models. In addition to the existing backpack variants with volumes of a huge 80, 34, 22 and 18 litres, the almost civilian shoulder bag Office Tote, a duffle bag and two sling bags have now been added. The typical brand features remain the same: a minimalist look, functionality and a design geared towards urban mobility.
Sustainable materials for urban challenges
All models in the extended Barrage collection are made from PFC-free materials. The main material used is Polyspun X, a special material mix of recycled polyester and nylon, which is designed to bridge the gap between technical functionality and lifestyle aesthetics, according to the manufacturer. The high-tech fabric is characterised by a soft look and feel reminiscent of denim, but also offers high durability for everyday use.
Chrome uses recycled nylon and recycled, waterproof welded TPE-Tarp for the inside of the bags. This combination of materials not only takes environmental aspects into account, but also increases the longevity of the products. An aspect that Chrome emphasises with its lifetime guarantee and professional repair service.
The new ones from Chrome: Barrage Office Tote - versatile carrier bag for everyday use
The new Barrage Office Tote from Chrome with a volume of 16 litres represents an expansion of the collection away from the "bike messenger" towards "normal" office and everyday use. With its three different carrying options, it proves to be versatile: with the padded shoulder strap, which can be stowed away if required, the bag can still be carried as a messenger bag in combination with an additional stabilising strap (optionally available).
In classic tote mode, the handles can be connected with a press stud, making it easy to carry. Two additional carrying straps on the inside also transform the bag into a functional briefcase.
Inside, a padded laptop compartment, several organisation compartments with and without zips and two elastic bottle holders keep things tidy. The characteristic cargo net on the front is of course a must. Price: 120 euros.
Also new at Chrome: Barrage Duffle
With the Barrage Duffle, Chrome Industries is expanding its collection with a 32-litre model that is particularly suitable for short trips or trips to the gym. This hybrid bag combines the features of a travel bag, a crossbody bag and a rucksack. Despite its generous volume of 32 litres, the duffle retains a compact design that matches the urban aesthetic of the Barrage line. I
Mesh inserts in the main compartment ensure that small items remain organised and within easy reach, while the reinforced base provides stability and also protects against moisture. The outside is again equipped with the characteristic cargo mesh, an additional zip compartment and special straps for attaching a jacket, towel or yoga mat, for example.
Modular carrying system
A special feature of the Chrome Barrage Duffle is the T-Lok strap system, which allows different carrying options. The bag can be carried over the shoulder with the padded shoulder strap or used as a crossbody bag by adding the stabilising strap. With an optional second shoulder strap, the duffle can also be transformed into a rucksack.
The third innovation in Chrome: Barrage Slings
With the two Barrage Sling models Chrome Industries has added particularly compact formats to the collection in 2 and 5 litre volumes that focus on the essentials. These minimalist bags take the characteristic design elements of the Barrage range - including the distinctive cargo net on the front - and reduce them to a format that is ideal for carrying everyday essentials.
With their slim profile, the slings fit close to the body, which is a particular advantage when cycling or walking through the city. A PU-coated zip reliably protects the contents of the main compartment from rain, while a concealed zip pocket on the back offers additional protection for valuables such as your smartphone, keys or wallet.
Different carrying systems for different needs
The two sling models differ not only in their volume, but also in their carrying systems. The smaller 2-litre version is equipped with the modular, removable T-Lok system that is already used in the Barrage Duffle. The larger 5-litre version has a lightly padded, adjustable shoulder strap equipped with Chrome's iconic aluminium seatbelt buckle.
This characteristic closure, which has become a Chrome Industries trademark, also integrates a practical bottle opener. A removable stabilising strap on the 5-litre version provides additional support during active movements.
The new bags from Chrome Industries at a glance
Barrage 16L Office Tote
- RRP: 120 Euro >> available here.
- Colour: Black X
- Dimensions: 33.5 (W) x 32.4 (H) x 11.4 (D) cm
- Volume: 16 litres
- Weight: 1050 grammes
- Material: Polyspun X (recycled polyester and nylon)
- Inner lining: Recycled nylon and waterproof welded TPE tarp
- Carrying options: Messenger, Tote, Briefcase
- Features: Padded laptop compartment, organisational compartments, elasticated bottle holder, cargo net
Barrage 32L Duffle
- RRP: 130 Euro
- Colour: Black X
- Dimensions: 43.2 (W) x 23.5 (H) x 25.4 (D) cm
- Volume: 32 litres
- Weight: 1080 grammes
- Material: Polyspun X (recycled polyester and nylon)
- Inner lining: Recycled nylon and waterproof welded TPE tarp
- Carrying options: shoulder bag, crossbody, rucksack (with optional second shoulder strap)
- Features: mesh inner compartments, cargo net, zip compartment, fastening straps
Barrage Sling 2L
- RRP: 50 Euro >> available here
- Colours: Black X, Moss X, Mauve X
- Dimensions: 18.4 (W) x 14 (H) x 5.1 (D) cm
- Volume: 2 litres
- Weight: 220 grammes
- Material: Polyspun X (recycled polyester and nylon)
- Inner lining: Recycled nylon and waterproof welded TPE tarp
- Carrying system: Modular, removable T-Lok system
- Features: PU-coated zip, concealed rear compartment, cargo net
Barrage Sling 5L
- RRP: 90 Euro >> available here
- Colours: Black X, Moss X, Mauve X
- Dimensions: 21 (W) x 15.9 (H) x 8.3 (D) cm
- Volume: 5 litres
- Weight: 380 grammes
- Material: Polyspun X (recycled polyester and nylon)
- Inner lining: Recycled nylon and waterproof welded TPE tarp
- Carrying system: Padded shoulder strap with aluminium seatbelt buckle, removable stabilising strap
- Features: PU-coated zip, concealed rear compartment, cargo net, integrated bottle opener
Marc Strucken
Editor
