From environmental values to cycling gear — rooted in philosophy.

The term “sustainable development” was coined during international conferences in the 1980s, eventually leading to the adoption of the “SDGs” by the United Nations in 2015. A decade on, even Japan—once slow to adapt—is finding that “eco-friendly” has become such a given, it’s almost a dead phrase. Today’s buzzwords have shifted from “sustainable” to “regenerative,” calling for an even deeper commitment.

In a time when the planet is in crisis, consumer goods are overflowing, and the waste we see around us is overwhelming, the desire to say “But I still want to enjoy life” or “I still want to ride my bike!” resonates more than ever. And at this year’s Tour de Brisbane, held in Queensland, Australia, I discovered items that embody just that spirit. No surprise from Australia—one of the world’s environmental leaders.

Both brands featured were founded by female cyclists, who turned their riding challenges and real-world experience into meticulously researched products. They’ve launched on a small scale, but have steadily built engaged, like-minded communities.

Table of Contents
1. For Women Who Want to Enjoy Cycling Without Worrying About Gender
2. How Frustration Sparked a Better Snack Time

1. For Women Who Want to Enjoy Cycling Without Worrying About Gender

Muze Women, founded by Nicole Stanners, is Australia’s first women-focused cycling apparel brand, headquartered in Sydney. Attracted by the brand’s sleek designs and striking visuals, I visited their pop-up shop where I was personally welcomed by Nicole, the founder.

A cyclist, triathlete, and advocate for gender equality, she is a serious athlete and entrepreneur who has completed four Ironman races, including the World Championships. Drawing from her own experience, she envisions a world where women of all body types and skill levels can enjoy cycling. Her goal is to help transform the sport from an elitist, rule-heavy world into an inclusive space where women feel welcome and empowered to aim higher.

That’s why well-designed cycling apparel matters. Body-hugging cycling wear should fit your shape—regardless of gender. Muze Women was born from the belief that it’s nonsense for women to endure long rides while worrying about things like hair, periods, or bra chafing. With that in mind, the brand’s designs are the result of extensive research and thoughtful consideration.

And naturally, careful attention is paid to the materials used.
Muze Women is committed to reducing environmental impact by using recycled yarns and producing high-quality, long-lasting garments. The brand also prioritises low-impact fabrics and works with responsible partners who share their values of sustainability and ethical production.

Tags and packaging are also made from biodegradable or recyclable materials. Muze Women actively puts the “5Rs” into practice—Reduce, Repair, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle—ensuring everything runs as smoothly as a cycling chain.

2. How Frustration Sparked a Better Snack Time

Next, I came across the PR booth for Snacket—a lidded pouch designed to fit perfectly in your jersey pocket.
It’s made for carrying snacks during rides, but at first, I nearly walked past, thinking, “Why not just toss the snack packets directly into your pocket?”
How clueless of me!
I had forgotten two things: that I was in environmentally conscious Australia, and that Japan’s uniquely careful packaging isn’t the global standard.

According to Karla Chaffey, one of the founders of Snacket and a passionate endurance sports enthusiast, the idea for the product came from her frustration:
“There must be a better way than struggling to pull snacks out of a crumpled ziplock bag stuffed into my jersey pocket—or ending up with sticky gel everywhere.”
It was also driven by her strong desire to avoid generating waste during rides.

Exactly—Japan’s packaging is uniquely designed to be opened easily with one hand, even while riding. Most snacks overseas don’t offer that kind of thoughtful convenience.
And not just in Australia—at triathlon events around the world, littering is strictly prohibited. That includes not only plastic bottles but also wrappers from supplements and snacks, with penalties imposed for violations.
It really makes you think about what happens to that little wrapper after you eat your snack, doesn’t it?

Karla, who fell in love with road cycling after starting triathlon at age 30, was inspired by snacks to develop comfortable ride gear.
After years of research, she created Snacket—the world’s first food pouch designed specifically for athletes.
Its patented magnetic hold system allows snacks to be stored securely and accessed easily without adding bulk or weight, keeping them clean and safe.
With a lid, biscuits can be enjoyed without getting soggy in the rain (and it’s great for holding cash too).

Craftsmanship starts with mindset.
Rooted in perspectives of gender equality and individual awareness, these products resonate with their communities, raising great expectations for future developments.
That’s a wrap on our introduction to these exciting new cycling items from Australia that support a comfortable ride.
Thank you for your wonderful assistance and inspiring philosophy!

Text_ Mayumi Kamura

Profile

Mayumi Kamura
I’m a Global Ride editor. My expertise lies in visual expressions like design, art, fashion, and more. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted me to focus on my physical and mental health. I started playing tennis and resumed taking contemporary dance lessons. Considering that bicycle-related accessories often boast high design quality, I have a feeling I might become a fan during this experience.

Post Date：2025.05.30