Kiwee | Our Story

Ever felt like you’re on autopilot, doing the same thing day in, day out, and wondering, “Is this all there is?” That was us. Back in 2015, we were industrial and interaction designers with years of experience crafting everything from pens to cranes. But eventually, we felt the pull for something different, something we could call our own. In the winter of that year, by the rugged coastline of Chengmai, we found inspiration in the timeless work pants worn by local clam diggers—tough, durable, and softened by time. That’s when we knew we wanted to create something with that same balance of resilience and character.

But saying, “We have an idea!” was the easy part—turning it into something real? Not so much. Over a year of trial and error, testing materials meant for heavy industry, we wrestled with finding just the right balance of strength and comfort. After 12 months of refining, we finally landed on a design that felt right, something that didn’t just do the job but actually felt good to carry.

In March 2016, we launched our first product, the fisherman backpack, at a pop-up exhibition in Shanghai. We presented the backpack’s ability to organize all belongings and its versatility on the go. The fisherman backpack’s material, the look and the touch,  stood out from the crowd. Our story started when our team cracked open beers to celebrate selling out in the first weekend.

Today, Kiwee is about making things you reach for without thinking twice, whether you’re heading out for work or weekend adventures. We believe that essentials should be as tough as they are comfortable, products you’re proud to own because they fit your life and values. For us, creating Kiwee has been about taking that first step off the expected path and discovering what’s possible. We hope that in each bag, you find that same feeling—the one that says, “Finally, something that just gets me.

 

*One more word, the name “Kiwee” comes from an ancient animation <kiwi!> back in 2006.

It lights us, showing that until you give it a try, you never know what’s ahead.

That little bird moves us forward from the very beginning.

Take a look here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdUUx5FdySs&t=97s