VeloSock: Latvian innovation that won the hearts of cyclists around the world

The story of Riga-based company VeloSock began in 2013 with a simple yet original idea – to create a practical solution for storing dirty bicycles indoors without making a mess on the floor or damaging the interior. And thus the bike cover was born – a flexible, durable and visually appealing polyester fabric cover that fits 99 % of bicycle models and ensures convenient storage and transport. 

This Latvian innovation quickly attracted attention thanks to its successful combination of design and functionality. Under the brand name “VeloSock”, the product quickly gained recognition not only in the local market, but also internationally. 

A decisive stage in the company’s development was its participation in international exhibitions supported by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA). Between 2014 and 2016, the VeloSock team participated in several important events in Latvia and abroad, where the company’s innovation attracted great interest and helped establish its first business contacts. 

Recognising the product’s potential and unique niche in the market, the company patented it not only in Europe, but also in the United States, Japan, South Korea, and elsewhere. This allowed the company to protect its intellectual property and strengthen its position in a competitive environment. 

Currently, VeloSock products are exported to more than 65 countries, and exports account for 99 % of the company’s total turnover. The main markets are Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Scandinavia, the United Kingdom and the United States. The company’s customers include both everyday cyclists and professional athletes, for whom custom-made covers are manufactured. The products can be purchased both in the company’s official online store and on various popular e-commerce platforms around the world. 

VeloSock products are not only functional but also visually appealing. This is confirmed by several international design awards won by the company, including two German Design Awards, as well as victories in the A’Design Award and Bicycle Brand Contest competitions. VeloSock designs come in a wide variety of styles, so every buyer can find a model to suit their taste. In addition, the bike cover is lightweight, compact and fits easily into a special bag, making it a practical travel companion. 

Although VeloSock is based in Riga, its team works both in Latvia and abroad – the company has created a modern, globally oriented working model. Co-owner Andris Bergmanis emphasizes that VeloSock’s success is based on two cornerstones: aesthetic and high-quality design, as well as the creation of a focused professional team for successful e-commerce development. In addition to what has already been achieved, the company is investing significant resources each year in improving its e-commerce platform. 

According to company representatives, VeloSock is currently focusing on modernising its processes and increasing efficiency in order to further strengthen its competitiveness. In the coming years, the company plans to expand its presence in Asian markets by establishing cooperation with e-commerce platforms in the region. Work is also underway on the development of a completely new product, the details of which the VeloSock team wishes to keep secret for the time being.  

Information material prepared with the support of the Recovery Fund. The author is solely responsible for the content of this publication. The views expressed herein do not reflect the official position of the European Union or the European Commission.