【SPECIAL COLLABORATION】WHATNOT × rerer — Breathing new life into materials that once saved lives, with a deep appreciation for tools.
We are pleased to announce the launch of a special collaboration product from the select shop "YUEN," and it is the hottest of the season.The products will be released simultaneously on our web store and in-store starting Friday, July 31, 2026.
Based in Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture—a region known as a hub for hardware—is the brand "WHATNOT," which offers a wide range of products from professional-grade tools to DIY supplies and rugged outdoor gear, garnering many loyal fans. And then there is "rerer," an upcycling brand that transforms everyday waste materials into unique fashion items.
The shared appreciation for the "joy of crafting" and the "affection for tools" between WHATNOT and rerer’s philosophy of breathing new life into waste materials have resonated deeply, resulting in the birth of this special bag, which epitomizes functional beauty. Here, we introduce the charm of this highly anticipated collaboration item, the "rerer airbag -rolltop bag by WHATNOT," exploring everything from its unique backstory to its overwhelming ease of use.
1. A one-of-a-kind story born from 3.5 million discarded vehicles annually
The core of this collaboration lies in the material background of rerer's base "seatbelt / airbag series."
Currently, the number of vehicles discarded in Japan reaches approximately 3.5 million per year. Among these are airbags that were never deployed and seatbelts that have guarded passengers' lives. These are made from extremely durable nylon material to ensure safety in extreme conditions.
However, due to their incredible toughness, they are notoriously difficult and time-consuming to process, which has led to the current reality where most are discarded without being reused.
"It is a waste to throw them away when they are such strong, high-performance materials."
To challenge this status quo, rerer collects these waste materials and reconstructs them into products. By combining this with WHATNOT’s rugged and practical approach to outdoor and DIY gear, the materials have been reborn into the ultimate gear that appeals to the craftsman's spirit, going beyond mere recycled goods.
Because they use reclaimed materials, each piece features individual differences such as embroidery marks or small scratches. Each is a one-of-a-kind expression with a history of "having been installed in a vehicle to save someone's life." This is the greatest charm that mass-produced items lack—the ability to grow attached to it as your own personal "character"—and it is the unique value that this product holds.
2. The full scope of the "rerer airbag -rolltop bag by WHATNOT," where functional beauty is condensed
This rolltop bag catches the eye with its exquisite size and tech-inspired look. Designed for everything from daily use to camping and garage work, it is packed with the thorough attention to detail that only a WHATNOT collaboration can provide. At a regular price of ¥5,500 (tax included), it is affordable while delivering value and a sense of ownership that exceeds the cost.
① Rolltop design for any load & direct access
The bag utilizes a user-friendly rolltop design. Because the volume can be flexibly adjusted to fit the amount of cargo, it is suitable for a wide range of activities, from daily use to active scenarios. Furthermore, what makes it truly excellent is that you can access the inside directly through a YKK zipper on the front, even while the top buckle is closed. There is no need for the hassle of opening and closing the top, allowing you to smartly and quickly retrieve items like smartphones, wallets, or tools.
② Emergency whistle function & infinite customizability
The buckle is equipped with a standard "whistle" function, which is useful for outdoor activities and emergencies. This practical detail reflects the WHATNOT perspective on disaster prevention and the outdoors, providing a sense of security just by having it. Additionally, if you attach your favorite cord or paracord to the D-ring provided on the bag, you can customize it into a shoulder bag as you like. Furthermore, its uses are endless depending on the user's creativity, such as attaching it to bicycle handlebars, frames, or garage racks.
③ Carefully selected colors and Made in Japan quality
Proudly featuring the tags of both brands on the front, this is a product crafted in Japan with reliability and dedication. It boasts a rugged look that utilizes the industrial texture unique to vehicle airbag material (100% nylon). It comes in three colors: orange, yellow, and navy, all of which act as the focal point of your outfit. These colors serve as a perfect accent for styles that might otherwise feel too simple.
3. The toughness of airbag material that you can use heavily in any scene
Airbag fabric, developed to save human lives, boasts a toughness that cannot be compared to ordinary nylon or canvas fabric. The strength of this material demonstrates its full potential in various active daily scenes.
① Resistant to heat and friction, allowing for rough handling
In DIY garage work or outdoor scenes like camping, it is not uncommon for a bag to be rubbed against things or exposed to heat. Because airbag material is extremely resistant to heat and friction, you can use it vigorously without worrying about scratches or tears. It is the perfect level of toughness for those who want to handle their gear roughly.
② Unique texture to accent your daily life
Unlike slippery fabrics meant for rain, this material offers a rugged, industrial feel characteristic of high-density nylon. It naturally fits not only casual attire like American casual, military, or street wear, but also work styles.
4. For everyone who loves craftsmanship and tools
Precisely because we live in an era of mass production and consumption, we are drawn to the "background" and "story" behind an item.
"rerer" breathes new value into the durable material that once protected passengers' lives. "WHATNOT" infuses the joy of crafting and a deep attachment to tools into its products.
Born from the intersection of these two brands, this rolltop bag is not just a sack for carrying things, but a piece of "gear" you can trust to accompany your lifestyle. We hope you will incorporate the unique stories and overwhelming functional beauty of these brands into your daily life and hobbies. The joy of using and breaking in your gear will surely make your everyday life even more special.
The release date is July 31, 2026. For product details, please visit our web store at (https://yuenstore.jp/) and look forward to the launch!
