For Chelsea Rizzo and Allison Levy, the founders of Hikerkind, nature forces them to be present. It grounds them, challenges them and provides perspective in their lives reminding them of what’s really important and meaningful. On-trail is where they feel like the most authentic versions of themselves, and they wanted to create women’s gear that embodies that feeling.
Hikerkind is a women’s outdoor gear and New York City hiking club. Every two weeks, Allison and Chelsea lead bi-weekly hikes to find and connect with others who, like them, look forward to escaping New York City on the weekends. Anyone is invited to join, at no cost, and hikes vary with length and difficulty. Each week they spotlight a specific organization, giving participants the option to donate.
It is through this love of hiking that the pair, working as stylist assistants on a shoot for Gucci, initially bonded. They shared a mutual desire for hiking apparel that fit, functioned, and looked like they wanted. Combining their passion and their career, the pair set out with a vision.
They chose the material first, carefully considering many factors, including sustainability, durability, and end of life. So for their first product, they selected Polartec® Power Air™, the award-winning future fleece technology specifically designed to reduce microfiber shedding. The Midlayer_01, a pullover hiking fleece, is designed to equip you for moments when you need a little extra warmth on trail, at the campsite or in town. It can be worn on top of your shirt, and under your jacket as your insulation layer. It’s warm, yet lightweight and breathable, with four-way stretch and a soft hand feel. It features a kangaroo pocket with an interior phone pocket, an adjustable bungee hem, and blouson sleeves with elastic binding cuffs. Additionally, diamond underarm gussets enable enhanced movement and comfort. The bluesign® and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100-certified Polartec fabric is made in the USA and the garment is constructed in NYC, with 100% curbside-recyclable packaging.
In support of the brand’s conscious ethos, Hikerkind will also launch Scrap Scrunchie_01, made from up-cycled scrap Polartec® Power Air™ fabric, on Monday, August 9th.
For more information on the gear and the hiking club, please visit hikerkind.com.
