Who made our clothes? We are proud to say that they are all made in Britain.
We wanted to celebrate the individuality, speed and style of life on two wheels. Fusing a passion for British engineering with Italian design, we aim to celebrate both nations’ rich cycling and motorcycling heritages.
Meccanica has produced an eclectic range of British made clothing, also supplying cycles, classic motorcycles, cycling parts, accessories, original artwork, photography and books, including restoration services.
Our range of retro-inspired, British-made apparel is unique. Each piece is individually hand-made to the highest standards, using the finest quality materials – resulting in affordable bespoke, original garments that are a pleasure to wear and be seen in.
A long time in the planning and execution, it has not been easy to make affordable, quality products in Britain. Meccanica is one of a small and growing number intent on changing that. It was not easy finding UK manufacturers but we persevered: Our shirts and boxer shorts are made by Gaddum & Gaddum in Leek, our jeans, jackets and sweatshirts are from the South coast; knitwear, polo’s and T shirts are made in Leicestershire.
Hailing from Cheshire, owner Colin Ball, was keen to set up a store and internet business within the cycling heartland of his hometown. After a long search he settled on Knutsford due to the excellent location, if somewhat tucked away in the town centre, but easily accessible and with parking. It is an ideal location to organise cycle ride-outs from – something Meccanica is already involved in, encouraging riders of all levels to take an interest.
Colin said, “We are intent on getting more people cycling and our location is key to that. We are at the convergence of many cycle routes and have Tatton Park with its miles of private roadways on our doorstep. Our pre-owned classic from the 70’s include Colnago and British Eagle. Our English handmade bikes are by Sven Handmade and Baldwin Titanium. Carbon fibre bikes are constructed by Starley Bikes in the North West. European city bikes are also available which are proving very popular. We also service and restore cycles.”
“The clothing range has been an instant success with everybody as it is not just for cyclists. Those with a larger frame really appreciate that they can buy style classics all the way up to 4XL”. The Meccanica range caters for cycling experts looking for technical merino clothing through to the fashion savvy.
The range includes long and short sleeved Italian merino cycle tops, a growing range of technical clothing, T’s, polo’s, Oxford shirts and even jeans, all with a cycling influence.
Response has been excellent, both in the store and on line, seeing custom received from as far afield as Australia, Taiwan and South Africa, enjoying the fact they can buy from a clothing range completely designed and made in Britain at reasonable prices. Sales of prints and cycle artwork by local artists have also proved popular.
Meccanica take our made in Britain ethos seriously. We stock Brooks England saddles made in Smethwick, UK made accessories, and exclusive men’s’ grooming ranges such as Truefitt & Hill shaving products and Bolin and Webb razors from Rutland.
On the 24th we’ll be wearing our gear #insideout and explaining to our customers the origins of our clothing.
