686 Companions with Golden Circle Group to Launch Way of life Apparel

686 Technical Apparel, a model primarily recognized for its technical snow outerwear, is increasing into way of life attire via a strategic partnership with Golden Circle Group (GCg). The transfer marks 686’s first main step into year-round product classes.

Under the settlement, GCg will act because the official licensee for 686 Apparel within the North American wholesale channel. The partnership will leverage the expertise of seasoned attire trade veterans to develop and distribute the brand new line.

Brian Dunlap, Matix, and Golden Circle Group

The partnership reunites West with Brian Dunlap (BD), co-founder of DVS, Lakai, and Matix Clothing. Dunlap will lead the brand new enterprise as president of GCg. Peter Kim, who has expertise constructing manufacturers like DrunknMunky and Hudson Jeans, can also be a key determine within the partnership.

For 32 years, 686 has focused on the technical winter apparel market. According to 686 Founder and CEO Michael Akira West, the choice to broaden required a partnership with a crew that has confirmed management within the attire house.

“We’re ready to expand 686 in an honest manner that requires focus and proven leadership,” West mentioned in a press release. “I’ve known BD for decades and we worked very closely after we acquired Matix. He has a deep understanding of footwear and apparel, and he understands the 686 brand.”

Jono Zacharias, SVP of Sales at 686, famous that the model’s retail companions have been requesting extra product classes past the winter season. “Partnering with GCg will give our wholesale channel the opportunity to purchase a properly curated clothing line and maximize the brand’s power in-store,” he mentioned.

Industry Veterans Hired for 686 Apparel; “Everywhere” Pants Set Foundation

GCg has assembled a crew with intensive trade expertise to handle the 686 attire line. The product crew consists of Jim Leatherman (DVS, Matix, Lakai), Mike Gomez (Matix, RVCA, Outerknown), Mike Pargas (Matix, Globe), and Sara Juarez (Volcom). Garrett Turk (Stance, Dickies) will lead gross sales, and Geoffrey Hongthong (DVS, Matix, Lakai) will deal with finance and operations.

Dunlap said that the recognition of 686’s “Everywhere” pant assortment created a basis for a broader attire line. “Mike and his team have done an exceptional job in positioning 686 as a leading brand in the technical outerwear market,” he mentioned. “The 686 Everywhere product collection has created a solid foundation for a focused, thoughtful apparel collection.”

The first assortment, Fall 2026, might be accessible for preview and pre-booking subsequent month.