The story of the Riga-based company VeloSock began in 2013 with a simple yet original idea — to create a practical solution for storing a dirty bicycle indoors without soiling the floor or damaging the interior. This led to the creation of the bike sock — a flexible, durable, and visually appealing bicycle cover made of polyester fabric that fits 99% of bicycle models, providing convenient storage and transportation.
This Latvian-born innovation quickly attracted attention thanks to its successful combination of design and functionality. Under the VeloSock brand, the product rapidly gained recognition not only in Latvia but also internationally.
A turning point in the company’s development was participation in international trade fairs supported by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA). Between 2014 and 2016, the VeloSock team took part in several major events in Latvia and abroad, where the innovation drew considerable interest and helped establish the first business contacts.
Recognizing the product’s potential and unique market niche, the company patented it — not only in Europe but also in the USA, Japan, South Korea, and other countries. This helped protect its intellectual property and strengthen its position in a competitive market.
Today, VeloSock products are exported to more than 65 countries, with exports accounting for 99% of the company’s total turnover. The main markets include Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Nordic countries, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The company’s clients include both everyday cyclists and professional athletes, for whom customized covers are produced. The products are available in the company’s official online store as well as on major e-commerce platforms worldwide.
VeloSock products are not only functional but also visually distinctive. This is confirmed by several international design awards, including two German Design Awards, as well as victories in the A’Design Award and Bicycle Brand Contest. The product range includes numerous design variations — there is a model for every taste. Moreover, the bike sock is lightweight, compact, and easy to pack in a special carrying bag, making it a practical travel companion.
Although VeloSock is based in Riga, its team works both in Latvia and abroad — the company has built a modern, globally oriented business model. Co-owner Andris Bergmanis emphasizes that VeloSock’s success rests on two cornerstones: aesthetic and high-quality design, and the deliberate creation of a professional team to drive e-commerce growth. In addition to what has already been achieved, the company invests substantial resources each year in improving its e-commerce platform.
According to company representatives, VeloSock is currently focusing on process modernization and efficiency improvements to further strengthen competitiveness. In the coming years, the company plans to expand its presence in Asian markets by partnering with regional e-commerce platforms. Work is also underway on an entirely new product, the details of which the VeloSock team is keeping secret for now.
This article was produced with the support of the Recovery and Resilience Facility. The author is solely responsible for its content, which does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Commission.
