What is the brand 686?
Michael Akira West grew up in Los Angeles, where the culture of skateboarding and snowboarding were two of his strongest influences. Inspired by this, West launched his lifestyle brand 686 in 1992. The company focuses on technical apparel and accessories for the snow sports industry.
Where is 686 company located?
Westlife Distribution LLC is the umbrella for 686®, which is comprised of 25 young, passionate family members. You live the lifestyle 110% or you don’t work here. Because of what we do, heads think we’re located in the mountains, but our global headquarters are actually in Los Angeles.
Is 686 a ski or snowboard brand?
686 first got its start as a snowboard-specific technical outerwear and accessories brand over 25 years ago by founder Michael Akira West, who still runs the show today. In an effort to grow the brand and its female customer base, 686 is putting a big emphasis on its women-specific offerings for winter 2020-21.
Can Gore-Tex wear out?
Gore-Tex is an interesting case. It’s pretty fragile stuff, but technically doesn’t “wear out” or break down chemically (well, it does, but it takes a long time). Because it can’t take a lot of abrasion, however, manufacturers have to sandwich it between two layers of material.
Does GORE-TEX lose its waterproof?
Waterproofing a Gore-Tex Jacket will eventually be required because despite the inner layer being a breathable waterproof membrane, the outer layer (shell) of the jacket will lose its waterproofing, soak up water and stay wet, blocking the effect of the Gore Tex.
Who is 686 technical apparel?
However personal as it started, the number has now become synonymous with providing innovative, forward thinking outerwear and technical apparel inspired by the outdoors and mountain culture. 686 Technical Apparel continues to be independently owned and operated since 1992.
What does the name 686 mean?
The name “686” has its roots in numerics. There have been a lot of rumors about the meaning of 686, but 686 stems from personal dates and numbers in Mike’s life that all merged together at the perfect time.
What is Smarty® 686?
The SMARTY ® 3-in-1 purposeful proposition later spawned other intelligent products such as the Original Toolbelt and Thermagraph ® Body Mapping System that are still in the collection today. The name “686” has its roots in numerics.
Why choose 686 Skateboards?
Each piece is uniquely crafted to provide more than you expect and push your experience beyond what you thought possible. This opens in a new window. Since 686 founder, Michael Akira West, first stepped on a skateboard as a youth in the early eighties, he immediately had a new addiction and inspiration.
