OKIINO: Pants With A Purpose
By Sachi Doctor
Wandering the neighborhoods and parks of San Francisco, it is abundantly clear that yoga clothing has officially replaced our favorite pair of jeans as our day-to-day staple. And the sea of tanks you see when holding Warrior II pose are embossed with as many different logos as there are people in class.
Yoga practitioners are on the lookout for high-performance gear that can be worn for a sweat session and also for running errands, meeting friends for brunch, and transitioning to work. While many brands have adapted to making "at leisure" apparel precisely to capitalize on this increased demand, San Francisco-based OKIINO has emerged on the scene with a clear purpose. Pants with a purpose, to be precise.
Surfers, yogis, athletes and explorers themselves, the founding trio (Robyn Tosick, Angeline Kung and Rachel Frey) have combined experience at Goldman Sachs, Pepsi Co., Inyo Yogawear and more. They've seen success and examined its shortcomings. For this powerhouse, the understanding that the current need for fashion, fit and functionality extends far beyond downward dog inspired their innovative designs. They recognized that all too often, companies wait until they're successful to consider giving back. And this realization shaped their purpose-driven values.
OKIINO's give back philosophy is influenced by three factors - caring for one's self, caring for the planet and caring about community. In selecting the Skin Cancer Foundation, ocean preservationist, 5 Gyres, and Surf for Life, these entrepreneurs have chosen to back work that reflects their brand, lifestyle and product while simultaneously showing support for small non-profits. The company's local, sustainable ethos is also echoed in their signature Scales pant. Los Angeles-based artist, Amanda Herrin, custom designed and hand-painted an original print which was then digitized and printed onto fabric. The leggings themselves are made in San Francisco and feature reinforced ankle elastic (to keep it from riding up), UV protection which is great for surf, SUP and swim, and a handy pocket for keys.
The pants are meant to serve as a vehicle for connecting with one another, and in doing so, reminding customers that purchases can extend beyond the self — much like the effects of the yoga practice itself.
To learn more about OKIINO and upcoming fundraisers and events, visit www.okiino.com.
