NLGX to Improve Your Everyday Kommute

Bikes are enjoying a resurgence worldwide for a number of reasons: 1) They’re cheaper than cars, 2) They’re better for the environment, 3) They give you a handy means of exercise, and finally, 4) They help you avoid traffic.

All major pluses when it comes to navigating Beijing’s polluted and congested roads. The founders of NLGX Design Store, Ed Hung and Michel Sutyadi, both bike to work everyday. Even so, the local independent apparel and design community has mainly focused on producing graphic T-shirts, hoodies and recycled bags … until now.

For them, a new brand oriented around Beijing’s bicycle commuter lifestyle was the next logical step.

Calling Beijing “the bicycle kingdom,” Ed tells me: “It’s become cool to ride a bicycle again.” Of course, no one wants to turn up to business meetings or parties wearing spandex tights and unflattering layers, which is why he promises Kommute will be “more mature in style and technical in construction, fabrics and cuts.”

Below is a sneak peek at a few pieces from the winter debut collection of Kommute.

The extra high collar is meant to protect you from strong winds and cold, as are the longer sleeves with thumb holes. There’s a pocket on the left sleeve to easily stow away your cell phone or MP3 player, a pocket on the left for your katong ka, and a back pocket for gloves, maps or an iPad. Two reflectors on the back will alert nearby cars, but they’re subtle and won’t scream “construction worker.”

All the bags are made of PU (leather), with nylon lining and inside pockets for cell phones. The one shown above, “The Ultimate Carryall,” comes in dark brown, light brown and dark blue. It also has heavy-duty shoulder straps for a hands-free travel experience on the bike or in the subway.

Ed acknowledges that a major deterrent for riding bikes in Beijing is the pollution. But now NLGX offers a solution: Totobobo high-tech anti-pollution masks, imported from Singapore. Ed claims that the best mask in Beijing so far is the Respro, which costs RMB 400 for the mask and RMB 100-200 for the replacement filters. The Totobobo, on the other hand, costs only RMB 150, with each replacement set at RMB 10.

We're told to expect Kommute to eventually expand into accessories, hats, pants and more. The full line will be available in NLGX Design's stores (both in NLGX and at the Capital Airport) and online by January 1. If there are any delays, you'll hear it here first.

Speaking of which, their ever-popular Capital Hoodie is also back, though not scheduled to launch officially until December 14. Click here to pre-order now for a 10 percent discount of the retail price.

NLGX Design Store. 33 Nanluogu Xiang, Dongcheng District (6404 8088) www.nlgx.org 东城区南锣鼓巷33号

Photos: NLGX Design Store