CompanyWeek SmartWool

Smartwool is a brand that has become synonymous with high-quality, comfortable, and durable wool clothing. The company’s focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials, as well as its commitment to social responsibility, has made it a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and environmentally conscious consumers. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Smartwool, its roots in Colorado, and its impact on the local business community.

Smartwool in Colorado

Smartwool was founded in 1994 by ski instructors Peter and Patty Duke in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The Dukes noticed that wool was an excellent natural insulator that kept them warm and dry even when they were sweating during a long day of skiing. However, traditional wool clothing was often itchy and uncomfortable, and it could take a long time to dry after getting wet.

The Dukes set out to create a line of wool clothing that was comfortable, durable, and functional. They worked with a team of designers and wool experts to develop a unique blend of merino wool and synthetic fibres that combined the natural benefits of wool with the technical advantages of synthetic materials.

Smartwool quickly gained a following among outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado and beyond. The company’s products were well-suited to the region’s climate, and its commitment to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practises resonated with local consumers.

In 2001, Smartwool moved its headquarters to nearby Steamboat Springs, where it remains to this day. The company’s headquarters include a retail store and showroom, as well as offices and warehouse space. Smartwool’s presence in Steamboat Springs has had a significant impact on the local business community, providing jobs and economic opportunities for residents.

Smartwool and CompanyWeek

Smartwool’s commitment to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practises has also attracted the attention of local media outlets. In 2016, the company was featured in CompanyWeek, a digital media platform that covers manufacturing and economic development in Colorado.

The article, titled “Smartwool’s Sustainable Fabric of Success,” highlighted Smartwool’s use of ethically sourced merino wool and its commitment to reducing its environmental impact through responsible manufacturing practises. The article also discussed Smartwool’s impact on the local business community and its role in promoting sustainable business practises in the outdoor industry.

Smartwool’s Impact on the Outdoor Industry

Smartwool’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly materials has helped set it apart from other outdoor clothing brands. The company uses ethically sourced merino wool from New Zealand and Australia, and it is committed to reducing its environmental impact through responsible manufacturing practises.

Smartwool is a member of the Textile Exchange, a global non-profit organisation that works to promote sustainability in the textile industry. The company is also a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, a group of companies that are committed to reducing their environmental impact.

Smartwool’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility has helped make it a leader in the outdoor industry. The company’s products are highly regarded for their quality, comfort, and durability, and its commitment to sustainable business practises has earned it a loyal following among environmentally conscious consumers.

Conclusion

Smartwool is a brand that has become synonymous with high-quality, comfortable, and sustainable wool clothing. The company’s roots in Colorado and its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility have helped make it a leader in the outdoor industry. Smartwool’s impact on the local business community in Steamboat Springs, as well as its role in promoting sustainable business practises in the outdoor industry, have made it a model for other companies to follow. With its continued focus on sustainability and innovation, Smartwool is poised to remain a leading brand in the outdoor industry for years to come.