Materials & sustainability

 

Here's a quick overview of the materials that I mainly use for KIBA pieces. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

 

Plasteel

Plasteel is a unique material of my own creation. It combines steel pellets, a by-product of manufacturing, with extra durable synthetic resin to form a strong & heavy compound material. Plasteel can be dyed in various colors or coated with paint. In both cases a clear acrylic coat is applied for additional protection and a shiny finish.

 

You can learn more about this material in this little YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/-L2wZdqFJNo?si=RPwOUOhI4rIE4wJW

 

Wood

All wood is sourced from local businesses in Germany. For mace handles and other parts I typically use ash wood which is appreciated for its high durability. Handles are diligently sanded by hand for a smooth and comfortable surface that provides excellent grip.

To protect from moisture, all wood is treated with pure natural oil, like linseed or tung. I strictly avoid any synthetics in places where prolonged skin contact is expected.

If you feel that your mace handle is too smooth, give it some time and you will notice more traction after a few sessions.

Optional colors for wood are achieved with natural non-toxic dyes. It is possible that you will notice a little color rubbing off on your hands, this is completely harmless and washable, it will cease after a few sessions. This is hard to prevent without using synthetics on the wood.

 

You can find out more about why and how I use wood here: https://youtu.be/wZCrcw1pVHI?si=RzqaZQtoBbdmzYyX

 

Stone/Concrete

KIBA Stonelocks and Stone Kettlebells are made from an UHPC (ultra high performance concrete) that includes Flowstone cement by Dyckerhoff. This material is much denser, more durable and also smoother than regular concrete. Any surfaces are polished with organic beeswax for a smooth & shiny finish that protects from moisture while providing excellent grip.

 

Steel & stainless steel

I get all my steel parts from producers in central Europe. 

Any mace handles, as well as other parts where specifically stated, are exclusively made from stainless steel (type 304) due to its high strength and resistance to corrosion.

Other parts can be made from mild steel which is usually brushed or sanded and treated with natural oils. Nevertheless, it is possible for mild steel parts to catch some surface rust which can easily be removed. Grab either a piece of cloth or some fine grit (P400 suggested) sandpaper and wipe off the rust. Afterwards you can apply oil, like linseed oil for example, put it on the surface and let it sit for about 20 minutes before wiping it off.

 

Sustainability considerations

I care deeply about the environment and make it a personal commitment to use natural, recycled and sustainable materials wherever suitable, be it for my products themselves, packaging, or even office supplies. However, my number one priority is quality and durability, which - in the case of exercise equipment - directly translates to user safety. Therefore, materials are chosen based on quality above all. Sustainable alternatives are chosen wherever they can meet the same standards.