With all the talk of sustainability in the fashion world today it is amazing when you find a company founded on that principle. Alchemy Goods was started by Eli Reich in 2004 after his messenger bag was stolen. He upcycled some old bicycle tubes to make a new waterproof messenger bag. He then made a few for his friends and Alchemy Goods was born. They now use old bike tubes, advertising banners and overrun denim to make bags and accessories right here in the United States.

I recently had the pleasure of testing the Brooklyn Backpack from the limited edition Denim Travel Collection from Alchemy Goods. The collection includes the Weekender Duffel, the Brooklyn Backpack and the Elliot Dopp Kit. In this weatherproof version of the Brooklyn Backpack, Alchemy Goods uses overrun brown denim with bicycle tubes to construct the pack, creating an urban style with a utilitarian design.

When I first put on the Brooklyn Backpack, I thought it might be too thin to carry much. I then put my laptop in the padded sleeve, loaded my assortment of colored G-2 07 Pilot pens, added my full-size planner and notebook and I still had room for some copies of CO YOGA + life® Magazine to hand out on my commute to the office. The padded straps made the load comfortable and the pack stayed secure. It has asleek design, making it super low profile keeping the pack close to my back. The only addition I would have for the Brooklyn Backpack would be a bottle sleeve on either side.

Check out the Brooklyn Backpack and all other Alchemy Goods products www.alchemygoods.com

Bobby L’Heureux is the co-owner and Director of Partnerships for CO YOGA + Life™ Magazine. At the heart of his work, Bobby thrives on community and connection. He lives in the Vail Valley where he teaches yoga and runs Big Heart Big Hands, a non-profit that supports mountain safety and awareness. He is an ambassador for Lululemon Athletica Vail, and his yoga classes are always led with a big smile and a relaxed demeanor. www.bigheartbighands.org