Ibex
Ibex is an American merino wool apparel brand, founded in 1997 in Woodstock, Vermont, by mountaineers looking for an alternative to polyester and nylon. It makes premium wool clothing for outdoor use and everyday wear.
| Founded | 1997, Woodstock, Vermont |
|---|---|
| Owner | David Hazan (since 2018) |
| Relaunch | 2019 |
| Core material | Merino wool |
| Website | ibex.com |
What is Ibex?
Ibex is a merino wool outdoor apparel brand from the United States. It was established in 1997 in Woodstock, Vermont, by keen mountaineers who wanted a natural alternative to synthetic outdoor fabrics such as polyester and nylon.
History
After a period in which leadership decisions damaged relationships with wholesale partners, Ibex moved to a strictly direct-to-consumer model. David Hazan bought the company in late 2018 and assembled a small team of the brand's fans. Ibex relaunched in 2019, with the team based in Nederland, Colorado, and general manager Jordan Todoroff leading operations.
Products and positioning
The brand sells premium, full-price merino wool apparel that is PFAS-free, with the stated aim of making clothing that lasts fifteen years or more. Its sub-label Ibex Labs produces small-run experimental products and explores new textiles and fibres.
Distribution
Ibex sells primarily through its own e-commerce. It returned to wholesale in autumn/winter 2023 with a handful of US specialty shops, targeting a mix of roughly 70% direct-to-consumer and 30% wholesale.
Why it matters
The brand's revival shows how a heritage outdoor label can be rebuilt around a loyal community, durable natural fibres and a deliberately balanced channel strategy.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Ibex clothing from?
Ibex was founded in 1997 in Woodstock, Vermont, and its relaunched team is based in Nederland, Colorado.
What does Ibex make?
Ibex makes premium merino wool apparel for outdoor and everyday wear, designed to be PFAS-free and long-lasting.