This is less of a review and more of a look into why it might be hard to find gear that stands the test of time and quality. I actually discovered one of the companies who I have an in-progress interview with while searching for the ‘perfect gym bag for mma’ – he obviously had the same dilemma as I did but took it to that next level.
You’ll hear more about who I’m referring to very shortly but I wanted to go through some of the work I’ve done on this subject and how much more would be necessary to create a brand and promote it.
I started off by looking for a gym bag to replace the ‘less than ideal’ bags that I have been using. I couldn’t find anything at first within the normal realm of gym bags that was exactly what I was looking for. So, coming from the ‘gun world’, I just decided to sketch up what I was looking for and send it to one of the ‘tactical tailor’ type dealers who makes custom bags for law enforcement officers and military personnel.
Here were my requirements:
- Large main compartment. Can hold folded Gi, shin guards and head gear
- Smaller side compartment that will initially hold dry gym clothes (fight shorts, shirt, rash guards) and be vented so that afterwards it will be holding wet/sweaty gear
- Durable YKK milspec zippers
- Molle straps on the front and remaining side
- Molle pouches would be added to carry: wraps, gloves, pouch for cell phone/wallet/keys, gloves, water bottle and basic first aid kit.
- Velcro patch so that I can fasten a simple attachment for my gym card so it never goes missing.
- Shoulder strap only
After giving the dimensions and requirements to the company we’ll just say that I was somewhat set back by the price. I really wanted it but it wasn’t a price I could justify at this point in time. Since getting a ticket that week wasn’t in my plans I ended up having to sideline the whole idea and just wait some more.
I will say that the idea of the bag that I have I still think is an overall good design, and I might pitch it to a few companies. Obviously creating more than just a “one off” would bring the prices down. What I’m trying to bring to light is that the guys who go on to form a company and start getting gear manufactured in quantity put a good bit of their soul in the process and that’s why I think some of the smaller companies fare so well.
I’ll be posting an interview with someone who tackled the exact same feat as I was investigating and by the looks of it is succeeding already.