We're proud of Alpkit products made in Nottingham, where expert makers prototype and produce high-quality gear
We are incredibly proud of the products we make right here in Nottingham. We’re always chuffed to bits when we see rolls of fabric go into our factory and the finished products come out. Our team of expert makers scrutinise every design detail, prototype, test and create products to the highest standards.
Our little factory is home to a group of incredibly skilled, highly passionate individuals who make our dreams come true. This article offers a glimpse into our factory, the wonderful team that makes it hum and the dreams they weave.
A passion for outdoor activity
Whatever issues you have faced, someone in our team has likely been in a similar situation; gear that doesn’t fit quite right, leaks in heavy rain, rips under load, uncomfortable to carry or struggles to organise essentials during a ride. This insight is essential, it’s what fuels our commitment to making reliable, functional products. Our team leverages their own experiences on the road, trail, or mountain, shaping their desire to create custom gear.
Solving everyday problems everyday
We aim to design out the niggling problems that affect your enjoyment of the outdoors. As a small team we can pivot quickly, making small but meaningful changes to our products, whether to take advantage of new fabrics or evolving functional requirements. These challenges inspire us to design solutions that work; frame bags that fit snugly to each bike’s geometry, materials that resist harsh weather, and designs that provide easy access to equipment or tools while on the move.
Ears to the community
Our work is deeply rooted in listening to customers. We interact with cycle tourers, bikepackers, climbers and hikers who share their stories of ripped bags, awkward compartments, or zips that fail when needed most. These conversations shape our approach to design, ensuring every bag we produce solves a specific problem, whether it’s extra storage for long tours or a more secure fit for off-road adventures. Each new product is a direct response to your feedback.
The craft of custom solutions
Our expertise lies not just in manufacturing but in crafting truly personalised solutions. We pride ourselves on the customisation process and nowhere is this more evident than with our Stingray custom framebags.
Taking exact measurements, we cut each bag to fit your bike perfectly. It’s this hands-on approach that sets us apart. It’s not just about making bags; it’s about making bags that work flawlessly in the real world.
Sarah's journey
Sarah is our factory supervisor. She loves running and riding her bike.
What’s your role? I started as a cutter, which means laying the fabric out and laying the patterns over it before using a circular knife to cut it out. I now supervise the team where it’s all about efficiency.
What are you working on at the moment? Possum 52s.
What’s your favourite thing to make? I think some of the faffiest things to cut are also the most interesting! Like the Big Papa Harness. It’s an intricate shape so it’s hard to do, but once you’re finished it’s so satisfying to look at all the little curves. It’s definitely one of the trickiest ones to sew for the machinists. Our bouldering mats are fun in their own way, as they’re just big rectangles!
How did you get into this role? I’ve been here nearly two years now. I had years of experience working in bridalwear, but during lockdown that work dried up. Afterwards, I found somewhere local to work that was right on my doorstep.
Each custom product is a journey
We treat each custom order as a journey, much like a cyclist embarking on an adventure, or a boulderer starting a new project. From the moment you submit your bike’s dimensions to the final testing of the bag, each stage is handled with care and precision. Our story is about dedication—not just to our craft but to you, ensuring that when you receive your gear you feel supported and confident, no matter where your adventure takes you.
Challenges and triumphs of the handmade
Creating custom gear is no easy task. We navigate challenges daily, from sourcing high-quality materials to ensuring each bag meets the demands of rough terrain and changing weather. But it’s these very challenges that inspire our innovation. We cut and stitch each bag and every bouldering mat with you, the end user in mind.
Empowering your adventures
Ultimately, our story is about empowerment. We take hard-earned lessons to create products that give you the freedom to explore further in greater safety, so you can stay out longer, and perform in all conditions with gear you can trust.
The products we make are not just items; they are enablers of adventure, tailored specifically to solve the problems that you face as you step into the wild places.
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