This week, Japanese manufacturer Bridgestone reminded us in colorful fashion that it doesn't just make tires. Indeed, while it's true that the brand is better known here for its robust, efficient tires like the Blizzak or Weatherpeak, it's capable of much more... for example, a set of golf irons! Surprisingly, that's exactly what the company unveiled this week with its new line of forged Bridgestone irons for 2024. This got me wondering about the rest of the tire world. Are there any other strange licensed products coming from the factories of well-known manufacturers? The answer may surprise you...
Not the first Bridgestone irons
I have to admit that my surprise comes first and foremost from my complete ignorance of the world of golf. Fans of the sport will no doubt tell me that Bridgestone irons are nothing new, since the company has been producing reasonable-quality ranges of irons for years. It even manufactures many irons for third-party companies such as Callaway and Nike. Nevertheless, the 220MB, 221CB and other new Bridgestone models stand out for their superior manufacturing quality, the fruit of ever-improving technology. A Christmas gift idea for Dad, perhaps?
The famous Michelin Guide
Michelin is synonymous with tires, of course. But Michelin also means gastronomy, which may seem rather strange. In fact, it was the tire manufacturer who founded the famous guide in 1900, with the aim of encouraging motorists to get out more and wear out their tires! Initially, it contained maps of all kinds and tips on how to repair your vehicle. It wasn't until after 1920 that it began to become a real reference in the world of gastronomy. The star system was introduced in 1931, and continues to this day. Who would have thought that a tire company could one day make its mark in the world of luxury?
BFGoodrich boots
Well, maybe this one makes a little more sense. After all, boot soles are made of rubber! So it's only natural that a tire specialist like BFGoodrich would be interested... Nevertheless, I found the Soles range of boots, produced in collaboration with Cabela's and heavily inspired by the company's All-Terrain T/A KO2s, rather interesting (and slightly comical). From the anti-slip tread to the 3D sipes that eject mud and gravel, the boots in the range seem like are ready for an off-road adventure...
