686

686 creates technical snowboard outerwear and apparel that blends Los Angeles street culture with mountain performance. Founded in 1992 by Michael Akira West, this independently rider-owned brand has been innovating snowboard jackets and pants for over 30 years.
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About 686

686 builds technical snowboard outerwear that seamlessly fuses Los Angeles street style with mountain performance. Founded in 1992 by Michael Akira West in Gardena, California, this independently rider-owned company has spent over three decades perfecting snowboard jackets, snowboard pants, and technical apparel that performs on the mountain while looking fresh in the streets.

What sets 686 apart is their commitment to innovation through kaizen principles and their unique position as a Climate Neutral Certified B Corporation. Their snowboard outerwear combines cutting-edge technical features with designs inspired by LA's diverse culture and skateboard heritage. From their insulated snowboard jackets to their waterproof snowboard pants, every piece reflects their philosophy of bringing street sensibility to mountain gear. The brand's dedication to sustainability and community shows in everything they create, whether it's their technical gloves and mitts or their casual streetwear pieces.

As a minority-owned, independently operated company, 686 maintains complete creative control over their vision. This independence allows them to push boundaries in both technical innovation and cultural relevance, creating snowboard apparel that works as hard on the mountain as it does in the city.

FAQ

What is 686 known for in snowboarding?
686 is known for creating technical snowboard outerwear that blends Los Angeles street culture with mountain performance. They've been innovating snowboard jackets, pants, and technical apparel for over 30 years, bringing a unique street-inspired aesthetic to functional mountain gear.
What products does 686 make?
686 makes technical snowboard outerwear including insulated jackets, waterproof pants, gloves, mitts, and thermal layers. They also produce streetwear-inspired casual apparel like hoodies, shorts, and beanies that reflect their Los Angeles roots and skateboard heritage.
Is 686 independently owned?
Yes, 686 is independently rider-owned and operated by founder Michael Akira West. This independence allows them to maintain complete creative control over their designs and stay true to their vision of blending street culture with technical mountain performance.
What makes 686 different from other snowboard brands?
686 stands out as a Climate Neutral Certified B Corporation that's also minority-owned and independently operated. Their unique approach combines LA street culture with technical mountain gear, and they follow kaizen principles of continuous improvement in both sustainability and innovation.
When was 686 founded and where are they based?
686 was founded in 1992 by Michael Akira West and is based in Gardena, California. The brand has deep roots in both Los Angeles street culture and mountain lifestyle, which influences their approach to designing technical snowboard outerwear and apparel.