There’s no argument that visibility whilst cycling is important – part of that is cycling lights and also reflective gear. However, a lot of high-vis gear is simply not that attractive off the bike.
That’s where LUMO comes in. LUMO make city cycling jackets and backpacks designed to be attractive, and visible, using waterproof LED lights built into stylish, understated designs.
The founders are seeking Kickstarter funding, and have currently made £18,000 of their £50,ooo goal, with the support of 105 backers (at time of writing). We receive a lot of messages from brands seeing support for their Kickstarter project, but this one really appealed to the stylish yet safety conscious writers here at the London Cyclist.
The full range includes polo shirts and cycling caps, but key items are the ‘Herne Hill Harrington’ and ‘Bermondsey backpack’.
The ‘Herne Hill’ stems from the traditional British Harrington style, and is made from 100% Gabardine Cotton twill – that is then treated with a water repellant technology. The lined jacket is available in men’s and women’s cut, from size XS to XL.
The most obvious unique selling point is the LED lights along the front, which provide great visibility with 400 lumens. The lights are powered by a small USB charging battery that sits in the inside pocket.
Other key features include a fleece lined collar, zipped front pocket, and magnetic closing rear pocket for easy access, as well as a dropped hem and extra breathability on the rear panels.
Safety features aside, the styling is understated and smart, so you’ll feel at home jumping off the bike and into the pub.
The second key item, the Bermondsey Backpack, is a roll-top bag based on British military styling. Using 100% British waxed cotton canvas, it is resilient to weather and shouldn’t start to look scruffy whatever you put it through. At 30cm x 46cm, you should be able to store a good amount of gear.
The waterproof LED lights are again powered by a USB rechargeable battery, and you get a strip of red lights on the rear as well as white lights on the straps, which meet across the chest and have padding for comfort when riding.
LUMO are seeking an extra £30,000 in Kickstarter pledges, which they need before 15th January – so if you’re interested, pledge here.
I talked to Lucy Brown, co-founder of LUMO, about where the inspiration came from and what hidden features LUMO has to offer: http://www.digital-commute.com/lumo-makes-city-cyclists-safe-bike-stylish/
Visibility is vital to cyclist’s safety.