VELO-RE - Von der Recycler gerettet!
velo-re was founded in 2006 with the idea that tyres can be "tired", but don't have to retire.
Originally set up as part of a bicycle recycling project in Berne, Switzerland, which sourced old bicycle parts to use in repairs. The unusable tyre leftovers became a unique clothing item. There aren't many fashion accessories that have done their time on real roads!
velo-re handcrafts belts made from recycled bicycle tyres and inner tubes. Each one is an individual and has its own history. The tread bears the scars of every mile travelled, every unauthorised skid. We like the idea of recycling and making full use of the discarded and the superfluous, ending up with something that already has its' own character.
Tires made into belts
Belties are made from front tyres, which get less wear, so still have plenty of tread left. Beltoes are made from back tyres, which work harder and carry more weight, so they`re kinda threadbare.
Javier and Agata help collecting by trailer spare tyres from around London and bring them to our workshop in bohemian Brixton/HerneHill. Betty, co-founder of velo-re and Javier then shape the belts, adding buckles, bolts and bits and pieces from other tyres to make a rubber work-of-art. We are fortunate to be able to source very different types of tyres in a multitude of colours, but we do have standard black belts and inner tube belts are available as well. All belts are then cleaned with Ecover washing powder and are then available for sale.
Tires made into belts