If you’ve ever been to Manhattan (and shopped in the buzzy SoHo district of the city), you’ve likely come across REI’s massive store in the Puck Building. The location isn’t just notable for its large size and key placement, it’s also the (possible) future site of REI’s first-ever union. At the end of last week, employees at the Manhattan flagship — roughly 115 individuals — have filed a request with the National Labor Relations Board with a successful initiative resulting in the aforementioned employees gaining representation by the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union. While REI has retail locations across the country and employs more than 15,000, this unionization effort is born out of anxieties surrounding the pandemic, including unsafe working conditions. While REI has expressed support for its employees’ rights to unionize, like many other retailers, feels that it’s not the best option for its workers and its business. Time will tell if this initiative will actually go forward, but it is a big pro-union step in one of the biggest retail areas of the country. REI news aside, we’ve got updates on Ikepod’s first sneaker (not a collab!), Shiner’s latest IPA and Casper’s new line of sleepwear, including a jacket that’s literally a duvet with pockets. This is Today in Gear.
Today in Gear is our daily roundup of all the latest product announcements, drops and news. Want your question featured in our weekly “Ask an Expert” column? Send your most pressing product questions to [email protected].
The NYC label crafting one-of-a-kind garments tailored just for you.
OnsloeOnsloe, a brand based in New York City, aims to shift the paradigm around men’s style, building a curatorial approach to the way it sources, produces and sells each and every one of its garments. Tapping into the legacy of the Crombie silhouette, Onsloe’s version is crafted from 100 per Shetland Wool and is literally made-to-order, so you can add anything from an extra pocket to a subtle embroidered detail.
