Burro Bags began in 2007 with Chris Williams and Matt Bort, two longtime buddies who needed a durable and affordable bag for their daily bicycle commute.

The first prototype was constructed in their Springfield house combining Chris’s experience as an upholsterer and Matt’s days as a messenger and bike mechanic. After experimenting with a variety of materials, the pair decided to pursue the use of re-purposed highway billboard, satisfying the needs of both durability and affordability with the added benefit of being environmentally-conscious. But billboard is ephemeral so Burro also uses military-grade Cordura for those who need a stronger bag that will last a lifetime.

After making bags for friends, the orders started pouring in and the pair quickly outgrew their living room and moved into the BBB Complex, sharing the space with Zombie Bikes and Royal Treatment Records and conveniently located next door to their favorite bar, Shantytown Pub. From there, things took off and a few more bodies were added to the team.

Josh Dunn (aka Big Dunn) convinced Matt and Chris to start printing t-shirts and John O’Brian (aka JOB) was brought onboard for his design expertise. When Burro launched their new website, Jack Twachtman (aka Jack Diablo) offered his blogging and social media skills to help expand the Burro brand.

One day while hanging out at the shop, JOB got the idea to create a foot retention system out of materials Burro was already using. In that moment the Burro Pedal Strap was born and JOB assumed the title of Pedal Strap Wizard.

Burro Bags now occupies The Letter Shop in downtown Jacksonville. The new location is home to a retail store that carries local, independent designers, the Diamond Mine record shop and the Burro production facilities.

If you ever find yourself in Jacksonville, feel free to stop by and hang out. We’re always looking for excuses to do something other than work.