Launch! | Design Notes #1: First Christmas Brings Local Cotton, Retro Vibes

Launch! | Design Notes #1: First Christmas Brings Local Cotton, Retro Vibes

We start on the trail—where earth and sky meet, and the familiar turns to wonder. This is a brand for those who move through the world with purpose: adventurers, explorers, and anyone who cares what they leave behind.

Our first collection reflects that vision: every piece designed and crafted with intention, built for quality, reliability, and responsibility. But more than gear, this brand is about the impact we make—on the land, the people, and the communities the brand was born to serve: faithful outdoor enthusiasts, and those in need who benefit from our work.

We source materials with care: wax from the Midwest, cotton from Texas and California, and most of our manufacturing centered in Los Angeles. Whenever possible, we collaborate with local suppliers, artists, and makers. From our humble L.A. Workshop, we are starting with candles because fragrances anchor memories, give light and heat, and mark the passage of time. This ensures every product meets our standards, supports the local economy, and allows you to prepare with purpose for any challenge. Thanks to our cotton farmers, fantastic suppliers, graphic designers, eagle-eyed sewers, product testers, and first customers.

A portion of profits—7%—is equally divided between three certified nonprofit charities serving the poor and homeless in the U.S.A. with an emphasis on Los Angeles: Homeboy Industries (https://homeboyindustries.org), FOCUS (https://focusnorthamerica.org) and DriveByDoGooders (https://www.drivebydogooders.org/). Basically, we donate our advertising budget! Every purchase contributes to this effort, letting you equip yourself responsibly while making a tangible difference.

Keeping production local and transparent is another way we do good. Made in the USA is good. Made in Los Angeles, both in-house and by trusted local makers, is our ideal. It’s all about ensuring quality, supporting our neediest neighbors, and delivering products you can trust on every trail, trek, or pilgrimage.

This is just the beginning. More gear, home goods, and innovative tools are on the horizon (with Easter Bunny ears, by the look of it), all crafted with quality, responsibility, and readiness for whatever comes next.