686

686 is an independent snowboard and technical outerwear brand founded in Los Angeles in 1992 by Michael Akira West. It makes jackets, trousers and layering for snowboarders and skiers, known for innovations such as the SMARTY 3-in-1 system.

What is 686?

686 is an American technical outerwear brand rooted in snowboarding. It designs apparel that works both on the mountain and in the city, and its mission is to create innovative products that help people reach their summits.

History

Michael Akira "Mike" West started the company in a college classroom at USC, shipping the first order on 13 November 1992 from a photocopied catalogue. He made the patterns himself, sourced fabrics in Oregon and had the pieces cut and sewn in Downtown Los Angeles. In its first winters the brand was called Jib Wear 686. West still owns and runs the company independently, and in 2022 it marked 30 years with a heritage capsule that revived pieces such as the Jib Fleece Hoody and the Transfer Jacket.

Products and positioning

686 is known for technical innovation in snow apparel:

• The SMARTY 3-in-1 system of interchangeable layers
• The patented Hydrastash in-apparel hydration system
• Snowboard and ski jackets, trousers and fleece

It was also one of the first outerwear brands to collaborate with street artists and like-minded labels.

Why it matters

686 is one of the longest-running independent snowboard apparel brands, showing how a founder-owned label can compete with larger outdoor groups through product innovation and a strong board-culture identity.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded 686?

686 was founded in 1992 by Michael Akira West, who started the company while at USC in Los Angeles and still runs it independently.

What does 686 make?

686 makes snowboard and ski outerwear, including jackets, trousers and fleece, with innovations such as the SMARTY 3-in-1 system.

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