It’s really starting to feel like winter is just around the corner.

The other day, we introduced our trusty GUNTE gloves, an essential for the colder months. Today, we’re back with another item to help make winter a little more comfortable.

*BLUE LUG* handle cover

As a bike shop, we figured handlebar covers were something we ought to have in our lineup, so we decided to make our own.

And now they’re back in stock, with some updates to the materials and overall design!

For the outer fabric, we’ve used water-repellent nylon taslan with a salt-shrink finish.

The salt-shrinking process gives the fabric extra thickness and just the right amount of structure, helping the covers hold their shape and making it easier to slip your hands in and out.

If you’re more interested in something that blends naturally into your everyday style than maximum water resistance, we’d recommend the two-tone plaid versions.

We’ve got two options: one with a larger check pattern and another with a smaller one.

Another update this time around is the insulation sandwiched between the outer fabric and lining.

We’ve switched to 150g padding, putting even more emphasis on warmth.

We were testing the two-tone plaid version last winter, and slipping your hands inside felt almost like being sandwiched between two big, fluffy pieces of hanpen (Japanese fish cake).

Soft, squishy, and surprisingly cozy!

The extra padding made a much bigger difference in warmth than we’d expected.

Another pleasant surprise was how quickly they dry.

If they get soaked in the rain, just undo all the snap buttons and hang them up to dry, making sure the inside gets plenty of air.

For the lining, we’ve stuck with the same thick black fleece as before.

It’s easy to keep clean, and the dark color helps hide dirt from everyday use.

One of the biggest improvements this time is compatibility with a wider variety of handlebars.

Previously, these covers were designed specifically for sweep bars.

By switching to a snap-button closure system, we’ve made it possible to adjust the hand openings to suit different handlebar shapes.

This means they can now accommodate flatter handlebars!

We’ve also improved the fit around accessories such as the display controls found on electric-assist bikes and larger bells, which could make installation tricky on the previous version.

Installation is super simple.

① Undo all the snap buttons and position the cover on your handlebar. Decide where you want the hand opening to be.

② Temporarily secure the cover using the Velcro straps. If they interfere with your cables, you can trim or make a small slit in part of the Velcro.

③ Fasten all the snap buttons except those at the hand opening.

And you’re good to go!

One of the biggest advantages of handlebar covers is that you don’t have to carry gloves around or worry about losing them.

They also make it much easier to check your phone while waiting at a traffic light, especially if you’re someone who finds themselves constantly taking gloves on and off throughout the day.

Some people swear by gloves, while others prefer handlebar covers.

Both have their advantages, so we hope you’ll give whichever suits your daily routine a try!

*BLUE LUG* tissue pouch

Our Tissue Pouch is also back in stock after a little update!

Ever had a pack of tissues mysteriously disappear into the depths of your bag?

It happens to me all the time, especially when I’m carrying one of those thin, floppy tote bags.

I’ll feel around every corner of the bag, convinced I’ve checked absolutely everywhere, but somehow the tissues are nowhere to be found.

Then, once I calm down and take another look, there they are, all crumpled up in some corner.

So this winter, I’m thinking of getting one in a color that really stands out inside my bag.

Something that practically screams, “Hey! Over here!”

You can also attach our Multi Shoulder Cord and wear it around your neck.

Super handy on days when your clothes don’t have pockets, or when you want to keep small essentials within easy reach.

It’s a small change, but starting with this batch, we’ve switched the zipper pull to a reflective cord.

A subtle little upgrade, but definitely a welcome one when you’re out after dark.

With the sun setting earlier and earlier these days, it’s a good time to add a few reflective accessories to your everyday setup.

Stay warm, stay visible, and ride safe out there!