Rock Climbing Bag
Rock is a messenger-style gym bag designed for rock climbers, combining all essential needs in one bag. Inspired by the colorful, uniquely shaped climbing holds found in indoor gyms, its design incorporates a vibrant color scheme with red highlighting functional elements for easy identification. The use of hex bolts and outdoor climbing gear, such as carabiners and ropes, further reinforces a grounded, secure aesthetic.
• Industrial Sewing Machine, Pattern Making, Rapid Prototyping, Product Photography
• Adobe Illustrator, Lightroom
1 month
• Model: Hanbyul Lee
Rock Travel Bag
The most memorable aspect of indoor rock climbing is the colorful climbing holds scattered throughout the gym. They each have a unique shape and vibrant color to them, making it easy to identify. These holds often feature a hex bolt for secure attachment to the wall. Additionally, the gears associated with outdoor rock climbing, such as carabiners, ropes, and other equipment, also served as inspiration to show that grounded, secure look.
With the references I found from these iconic shapes and elements, I created Rock, a gym bag designed specifically for rock climbers.
Materials: Nylon Taslan with Durable Water Repellent (DWR), Ripstop Nylon
Hardware: YKK® Nylon Coil Zipper
Key Features: Threaded lock front pocket secures important items behind a custom screw-thread closure, designed to prevent easy access without intentional effort and easily swappable for different styles. Slide-in back compartment keeps flat essentials hidden and protected. Three internal dividers keep contents organized and separated. Small item pouch inside for keys, wallet, and cards. Adjustable tensioner designed to fit the 2" strap for easy height adjustment and a secure carry. Multiple zipper pockets inside and out for fast access to everyday essentials.
Concept Sketch + Rapid Prototyping
Through concept sketching, I wanted to use striking and grounded colors for style while maintaing the functions for a gym bag. Threads, climbing holds, and gears were the three key elements that guided my design process. I explored how each of these elements could serve a functional purpose in the bag. I created rapid prototypes of each iteration that tested the threaded component as well as testing for size, function, and patterning.
For example, the thread serves a purpose where the user could clip their climbing shoes onto the thread bolt that is only accessible by unscrewing it. This design could also unlock a zipper compartment that stores chalk bags. This helps maintain a tidy, clean bag, which addresses common pain points among many climbing users.