Where it all began!
Virginia Beach, VA 2023 Firefighter Challenge
FDIC 2024
Birmingham, AL 2024 National Finals
Kelacustoms started with one old firefighter coat and a simple idea—to turn it into a duffle bag.
That first bag was rugged, fire-resistant, and full of character. We brought it with us to several firefighter challenge events across different states, not to sell, but to listen. We talked to firefighters, families, and supporters—asking for their honest opinions on the design, the feel, and the meaning behind repurposing this gear.
The response was overwhelming. People didn’t just see a bag—they saw legacy, durability, and a deeper purpose. What began as a creative experiment quickly sparked a powerful vision: to give discarded turnout gear a second life, reduce waste, and honor the service behind every stitch.
From that first duffle bag came a full line of custom pieces, each made with purpose and built to last. And just like that, Kelacustoms was born!
Nashville, TN 2024 World Finals
Purpose, Repurposed.
We’re excited to officially launch our new venture:
Every year, tons of this ultra-durable material is discarded—despite its strength, history, and potential. Our mission is to reduce that waste and give this heroic fabric a second life.
At Kelacustoms, we believe in honoring the past while protecting the future. This isn’t just upcycling—it’s a mission. It’s sustainability with soul. It’s about turning something once destined for disposal into something that still has a job to do
This gear was built to withstand extreme conditions—and now, it’s being given a second life. Every piece we create carries the strength, resilience, and history of the firefighters who once wore it, while helping to drastically reduce the tons of waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.
But our mission goes beyond sustainability. At Kelacustoms, we’re committed to giving back to the fire service that inspired us. Each piece we create not only honors the legacy of those who wore it but also helps protect the environment by keeping it out of landfills. Strong, sustainable, and full of stories—this is more than just upcycling. It’s purpose, repurposed. That’s why a portion of every purchase goes directly to supporting small fire departments and firefighter-focused organizations across the country.
This isn’t just upcycling—it’s impact. It’s a tribute. And it’s our way of making sure this gear continues to serve a purpose, long after its first chapter ends.
Stronger. Smarter. More meaningful.
Kelacustoms is here—and we’re just getting started
Stay tuned—something meaningful is coming your way
Co Founders: Tyler Kelaher and Huan DeRiggs
Photo Vault
