Over the past two years I've been working on launching the AgroPelt. AgroPelt is still a work in progress, but we're working hard to bring it to market.
Skiing and snowboarding are extreme sports, but almost nobody wears body armor. Why? Because the only options out there are bulky, uncomfortable, and restrict movement. So we decided to design something with skiers and snowboarders in mind. The AgroPelt is an impact protective base layer with D3O® chest + back protectors built into pockets. It feels just like your favorite base layer: it’s warm, sweat-wicking, comfortable, and it even looks pretty cool. Protection only works if you’re willing to wear it.
The name AgroPelt has a ridiculous backstory. When picking a name, we discovered an old, cryptid creature from lumberjacking lore called the Agropelter. The Agropelter would throw sticks and rocks at lumberjacks, and cause all manner of mischief. The creature seemed like the perfect mascot/scapegoat for a brand trying to protect against all of the unknown variables on the mountain that lead to accidents. With a budget of less than a dollar we created a bunch of fun digital ads and my personal favorite: an emo music video featuring the Agropelter himself.
The culture around skiing and snowboarding safety is tricky. People have gotten on board with wearing helmets, but the body is left unprotected. But with the incredible tech from our partner D3O®, we think that this category is about to explode. In a few years, we think wearing body armor will be just as popular as wearing a helmet. When impact protection is this comfortable, flexible, breathable, and light, there's no reason not to.
We're a small, local company and want to build a brand with a bigger purpose. Both Ken and I have close family members with spinal injuries, so the cause is very close to our hearts. As we grow, we hope to give back in a meaningful way to organizations that matter to us.