Made In America | Evolving Consumer

Made in America: Cages Fit for a King

Not much consideration is given to a water bottle cage purchase by the average cyclist, the greatest importance is that there is at least one mounted to their new bike. It is not until they hit the trails and lose a bottle or have to wrestle with the bottle just to pull it out of the cage to get a drink does the thought of a well made water bottle cage come to mind. King Cage, based in Durango, Colorado, has been making water bottle cages the right way since 1991 and making them in America.

Ron Andrews has worked for a unique list of manufacturers in the bicycle industry including Fat City Cycles, One Off Titanium, Joe Breeze Cycles, Ted Wojack Cycles and Yeti Cycles. It was at One Off Titanium that Ran was asked by a customer if they could have a water bottle cage made from titanium. After he successfully made the titanium cage, he continued to produce them ever since Continue reading Made in America: Cages Fit for a King

Made in America: Swami Sportswear

Finding athletic apparel that is made in the U.S.A. is actually not too terribly difficult if you read enough labels. Yoga pants, cycling clothing and even t-shirts are still made in America, but most of these items are well over $20. Sometimes a simple pair of sweatpants or shorts to bike around town is all that is needed and not breaking the bank is a bonus. Swami Sportswear of Temecula, CA is manufacturing a line of pants and shorts for men, women and children that are all 100 percent Made in America and all for under $20 – even for custom made sweatpants.

The line of clothing includes Capri pant for the ladies, sweatpants, sports shorts and non-padded cycling shorts. The material is a fleece cotton and polyester blend with a fabric weight of 400 grams. Most of the adult bottoms are available in nine different colors and seven different sizes, all using the same thickness of fleece. There is one pair of sweatpants specifically made for the girls out there, but you only have the choice of two different colors. There is no specific section for boys, but the men’s wear is offered in some fairly small sizes. Continue reading Made in America: Swami Sportswear

Made in America: FITS Socks Co.

Last week was the Snowsports Industries America (SIA) Show in New York featuring a number of different manufacturers from all around the winter sports industry. With so many companies to choose from, it might seem odd that we picked a sock company to feature. There are quite a few sock companies that still produce their items in the U.S.A., but most usually on feature three sizes – FITS Socks manufactures five different sizes ranging from 3-½ to 15-½ for men and 5 to 17 for women.

Knitting socks in Niota, TN since 1902, Crescent Sock Co. endured the ups and downs that shaped the character of America’s people and her textiles industry. Today the company produces socks under its own FITS name in the oldest operating hosiery mill in the U.S. – leveraging technical expertise and long-held knowledge of fit and comfort. The family-owned company remains committed to its vision, its people, and to keeping jobs in the Tennessee Valley. Crescent manufactured socks for more than 30 other brands before deciding to market its own high-quality product. Responding to an industry-wide epidemic of ill-fitting socks, FITS leveraged over a century of experience to develop the world’s best-fitting sock using materials, processes, and quality controls that far exceed industry standards. The result: a product line that embodies the crucial connection between fit and performance.

FITS Sock has a different approach to sock ‘fitting‘. Instead of looking at the length of the foot, they base their sizing on total volume of the foot creating a precise sock-fit. FITS socks are constructed from two-ply, compact-spun, ultra-fine Merino Wool, providing the ultimate blend of softness and durability. Their F3 Technology™ delivers a unique form FIT thanks to a deep heel pocket, specialized toe seam, and contoured leg – which keep FITS socks firmly in place. This means no more bunching, hot spots, or friction, regardless of the task at hand – if you experience any of these issues, you will appreciate how important a good pair of fitting socks can make your sporting experience much more enjoyable.

At SIA FITS was featuring their winter sports sock – FITS SKI. The heart of the FITS SKI line is the FITS Ultra Light SKI, a minimalist’s SKI sock. Developed to be the thinnest high-performance Merino Wool ski sock, it features ultra-light construction with absolutely no cushioning; a vented instep for breathability and reduced material; and FITS’ signature SculptureKnit leg that conforms to your foot and leg and stays up all day.

Along with winter sports, FITS also produces socks for hikers, runners, hunters and even business or casual use. Ranging from $15.99 to $19.99, FITS Socks are available directly from their website or you can search their store locator page to find a retailer near you. If you order directly from FITS, rest assured that the socks will fit you properly. If you are not satisfied with your socks, simply contact FITS Sock Co. within 30 days and they will replace your pair with the correct size or refund your money.

FITS Sock Official Website

Made in America: Something to Jump Up and Down About

The modern trampoline is not as old as you might think. After observing trapeze artists performing flips and tricks on a stretched safety net below the trapeze, George Nissen had the idea to create a bouncing bed from a stretched piece of fabric to help him train for his gymnastics tumbling.

With the help of his coach, Larry Griswold, the two decided to experiment with stretched canvas, grommets and coil springs in the mid-1930s to create their own bouncing platform. Nissen and Griswold were both gymnasts and wanted to add some entertainment to their performances along with helping them train for competitive events. While touring with their new invention in Mexico, Nissen overheard the Spanish word for diving board, el trampolin, used to describe the apparatus and he decided to use an anglicized form as a trademark. Throughout the years, the trampoline has been used by entertainers, athletes, the military and even astronauts for everything from training to competition. Continue reading Made in America: Something to Jump Up and Down About

Made in America: Sheila Moon Athletic Apparel

Fashion vs. function…the discussion that my wife and I have each time we are shopping for a new piece of furniture, apparel or sporting equipment together. Sometimes the two concepts work cohesively, but often one must be sacrificed over the other. Sheila Moon Athletic Apparel has been able to successfully merge the two concepts together and has a line of cycling clothing that is both functional and fashionable all while being made in America.

Based in Emeryville, California, the entire line of apparel is manufactured across the bay in San Francisco. Mostly geared towards women, the Sheila Moon line of apparel is whimsical and colorful without being ‘fruity’. From active wear clothing and accessories to casual apparel, the Sheila Moon collections are just plain ‘fun’.

The cycling clothing can be worn on a century ride just as easily as it can be worn on a cruiser ride down to the coffee shop for the afternoon – it just looks fashionable. The construction is on par if not better than that of the bigger names in the cycling apparel world. Most of the jerseys have at least one pocket for carrying nourishment or as my wife puts it…a place for her lip gloss. Sheila Moon offers all different styles of tops ranging from tanks to long sleeve jerseys all with the same pattern as the other cycling tops so that a rider can be coordinated if they so desire.

Along with tops, a wide variety of bottoms are also available. The cut of the traditional, padded cycling shorts is a little unique compared to other manufacturers. My wife described the waist as having a ‘yoga’ pants cut – instead of the waistband being straight across, it forms a ‘V’ below the navel area. Along with traditional shorts, Sheila Moon also offers skirts, knickers and padded liners all geared towards on the bike use.

Not only does Sheila Moon Athletic Apparel manufacture cycling tops and bottoms, but they also offer a line of accessories and street wear for those times that you are off of the bike. When the weather turns chilly or a normal summer day in San Francisco, a line of coordinated arm warmers, caps and headbands can help keep you warm while still looking good.

For the men out there, you may have to look elsewhere for your apparel needs. Even though there is a men’s section on the Sheila Moon website, it appears to be only listed under the ’outlet’ link with no new offerings apparent for 2011.

Sheila Moon Athletic Apparel is available at numerous cycling and outdoor retailers around the country. If you do not find one near you, the full line can also be ordered directly from their website. And if you were wondering if there is a real Sheila Moon, do a little search on Facebook…someone appears to be a huge Thor Hoshovd fan!

Sheila Moon Official Website

Made in America: Annin Flags

It is July 4th, the day that we celebrate our independence and reflect upon what it means to be an American. Overall, most of us are proud of who we are as a nation and though we are going through some tough times we still take pride in our country. This is often seen in a subtle ways through the display of our flag on our porches, businesses, sporting complexes and government buildings; but our patriotism takes a more predominant presentation through people running up a mountain in France next to a pack of cyclists, a rowdy crowd at a FIFA World Cup game or wrapped around the back of an Olympic champion. But who makes these flags? Though it is dishearting to find a flag labeled ‘Made in China’, most U.S. flags are actually made in America.

One such company still producing flags in the U.S. is Annin Flagmakers. Based in New Jersey, Annin is the oldest and largest flag maker in the United States. The American flag was scarcely 70 years old in 1847 when brothers Benjamin and Edward Annin founded Annin Flagmakers flag–makers on Fulton Street in New York City. The business had begun with their father, Alexander Annin who had been sewing flags and supplying them to merchant ships from his sail-making shop on the New York City waterfront as far back as 1820. Annin grew throughout the years and had their greatest surges in production during times of elevated American patriotism. The Civil War, World War I, World War II, the addition of Alaska and Hawaii, and 9/11 all saw times of increased pride in our country and ultimately increased sales. Unfortunately there were slower times for the flag company too, particularly during the Vietnam War, but that was drought in sales was ended by our nation’s bi-centennial celebration.

In 2005, Annin Flagmakers joined with other domestic flag manufacturing companies and became a founding member of the Flag Manufacturers Association of America (FMAA). This industry organization is dedicated to promoting the manufacture of U.S. flags in America by Americans with domestically made fabric.

In Annin’s two largest domestic factories, US flags are manufactured with advanced cellular production techniques; state, international and custom flags are digitally and screen -dyed to exact color specifications; the in-house research and the development testing laboratories, together with the art department are constantly monitoring dye formulas. Our Distribution systems are in real-time synchronization compliance with customer requirements.

Presently, Annin Flagmakers is still family owned and operated by the Beard and Dennis families. On January 1, 2011 Carter Beard became the President and CEO of Annin Flagmakers. Carter and his cousin Sandy Dennis Van Lieu, Sr. Vice President, are supported by a strong team of managers, many of whom have over twenty to thirty years of experience with the company. Annin Flagmakers employs over 500 Americans and prides itself on the quality of its products and the experience of its people.

Next time you are looking for a flag to purchase for a sporting event that you are attending, check out where it is made. Along with supporting your favorite American athlete, you will also be supporting your fellow American.

Annin Flagmakers Official Website

Made in America: Platypus ‘Bottles’

With the Fourth of July just around the corner, most of the U.S. is entering into the hottest months of the year, yet some of us forget the importance of staying hydrated. Our bodies can survive for weeks without food, but deprive us of water for a few days and our outlook is bleak. There are plenty of water bottles and hydration packs on the market, but the Platypus bottles from Cascade Designs, Inc. have the unique feature of being able to be stored flat when empty.

Originally designed to conserve space while backpacking, the Platypus bottle was introduced to the outdoor market back in 1996 as a lightweight option to the bottles that were then available . Over the years the line of bottles have grown to include three different types of bottles; three different bladders for hydration backpacks; a number of reservoir packs for transporting larger quantities of water while camping; and a wine preservation bottle – all made in America. Each of these products store flat for transportation when empty, are BPA-free and typically weigh 80% less than a hard-sided bottle of the same volume. The bottles start at a suggested retail price of $7.95 and top out at around $35 for the largest Platy Water Tank.

Since the Platypus bottles are essentially flat, flexible, durable bags, they can actually be frozen and used as ice packs. As they start to melt, the user is treated to ice-cold water, but remember that these bottles should only be filled up halfway with water as expansion occurs when the liquid becomes ice causing a possible bottle burst if they are overfilled.

Not all of the products that Platypus sells are made in America, but the do a very good job on their website labeling where each product is made. Platypus bottles are easily available from local retailers, online retailers and directly from Cascade Designs.

Cascade Designs Official Website

Made in America: Veteran-Owned Wiley X Celebrates the 4th of July

From WileyX:

Wiley X Eyewear, a leading provider of protective eyewear for U.S. soldiers and law enforcement, wants all Americans to pause on this Holiday to reflect on why it is and what it is we celebrate — the independence and freedoms we enjoy not only on this particular day, but every day of our lives.

As a veteran-owned company, Wiley X is keenly aware that our nation’s independence and our personal freedoms have been challenged and defended many times over the years — often by brave men and women far from home.

“We gather on July 4th to celebrate the birth of our great nation,” said Myles Freeman, Jr. Co-Owner of Wiley X Eyewear. “However, we tend to think of Independence Day as an historical Holiday, a celebration of events that happened more than 200 years ago. We need to remember and celebrate the uniquely American freedoms we enjoy today — and the sacrifices required to preserve them for future generations. As modern technology lets us see more of what goes on around the world, we’re reminded that freedom should never be taken for granted,” added Freeman.

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves!

Made in America: New Balance Shoes

New Balance started producing shoes all the way back in 1906 to help relieve the foot pain of laborer’s and keep them working comfortably on their feet. Through out the years, they started producing athletic footwear with their first running shoes appearing in 1938. Since then, New Balance has been committed to innovating and evolving their footwear to meet the needs of the athletic community for over 70 years.

With the trend of all footwear and most everything else being produced overseas, New Balance started a campaign back in 1992 advertising that their shoes were still being made in the U.S.A. That commitment is still true today. New Balance relies on five different ‘associate’ manufacturers in New England to produce 25 percent of the shoes that they sell in the U.S. or approximately 7 million pair. They are the only manufacturer to still make athletic shoes in the United States. Continue reading Made in America: New Balance Shoes

Made in America: Melanzana Outdoor Clothing

For over 150 years, Leadville, Colorado has seen both the boom and bust times that often occurs with mining towns. With the last of the big mines closing in the 1980s, it seemed as if Leadville might just fade away into the history books. A few citizens were not about to let that happen and numerous high altitude sporting events and festivals were born to bring in outside tourist dollars. Along with tourist dollars that started to flow into the economy, other businesses started to appear. One unique business is the outdoor clothing company, Melanzana. Continue reading Made in America: Melanzana Outdoor Clothing

Made in America: Horseshoes by St. Pierre Manufacturing Corp.

Happy Memorial Day. While this day is meant to honor our soldiers and all Americans who have died in all of our wars, we do hope you are also having some time to relax too. We thought we’d offer a special Made in America, of one of the most American of items… horseshoes!

So what do tire chains and horseshoes have in common? Well, they are both made of metal… In Worchester, Massachusetts, the St. Pierre family has been forging Authentic Pitching Horseshoes since 1938 and are the only large-scale remaining manufacturer of pitching horseshoes still in the USA. The trademark designed horseshoes are all Made in the USA and forged of solid steel for balance and control, plus the horseshoes are coated with a special non-slip finish that is superior to high gloss finishes and helps prevent chipping and corrosion. Continue reading Made in America: Horseshoes by St. Pierre Manufacturing Corp.

Made in America: Louisville Slugger

The first product that we chose for our ‘Made in America’ section had to be truly American. A company or product that reminded you of the good old U.S.A. when you heard the name. It only made sense to feature something from the game that is as American as apple pie… baseball and the Louisville Slugger.

Continue reading Made in America: Louisville Slugger