The guys over at CloudLine Apparel recently got in touch with us at Industry Outsider to introduce themselves and their Switchback Technical Hiker socks. CloudLine is manufacturing these socks right here in the USA. As I‘ve said before, I really like to bring attention to companies that are working hard to build jobs here at home. We are hoping to get some socks for testing, so expect a detailed review to come. Below is a press release from CloudLine.
– Mark
CloudLine Apparel is a young outdoor brand producing premium products for the hiking, backpacking and outdoor community. Their first product developed and released is the Switchback Technical Hiker, a premium merino wool hiking sock. CloudLine starts with ultra soft merino wool imported from Germany. Using the latest knitting machines available, the socks are then knitted in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Fort Payne, Alabama, once considered the sock capital of the world, has seen a steep decline in manufacturing jobs as many companies have moved their production overseas. CloudLine is proud to be supporting and rebuilding American manufacturing in Fort Payne. Co-founder Joe Shaw says, “Being able to produce a premium wool sock in the USA is a source of pride for our brand, and the quality is evident in each sock.” Shaw goes on to say, “Manufacturing in the states allows CloudLine to innovate and quickly trail test new designs, because the factory can knit a prototype and we can have it out on the trail in a matter of days, instead of the weeks it might take if we were manufacturing overseas.”
The Switchback Technical Hiker was designed and trail tested in the rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest to be ready for any adventure. Knit with hiking-specific cushion zones and ultra soft merino wool, your feet will love wearing them for everything from day hikes to thru-hikes. Best of all, each sock is backed by CloudLine’s 100% guarantee, so you can hit the trail with confidence.
The CloudLine Switchback Technical Hiker, merino wool hiking sock is available at cloudlineapparel.com and on amazon.com. Already proving popular, CloudLine hiking socks have quickly gained a social following of over of 20k fans. The Switchback will initially be available in 8 colors and sizes from small to extra large. Stay tuned for additional styles and for CloudLine to expand beyond hiking socks to other outdoor gear.
Looks like a nice pair of socks.