If Mola had a Wikipedia Page
- molahoods
- Jan 5
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Mola Hoods is a Vermont based outdoor apparel manufacturer specializing in small-batch, locally produced technical clothing.
The company is known for its focus on ethical manufacturing, durable materials, and products designed for action sports like snowboarding, mountain biking, kiteboarding, sailing, & backcountry touring. Mola Hoods operates out of Richmond, Vermont, where all items are designed and produced in-house.
History
Mola Hoods was founded in Richmond, Vermont, by a local snowboarder, kiteboarder, and designer who sought to create performance-oriented base layers and midlayers produced locally, and utilizing short supply chains. The company began as a small workshop operation and continues to gradually expand with increased demand for fairly made technical apparel. Its development is influenced by rising interest in transparent production practices and community-supported manufacturing within the outdoor industry.
Products
Mola Hoods produces a range of outdoor clothing, with a focus on:
-Base layers and midlayers for winter sports and year-round mountain activities
-Technical garments designed for warmth, breathability, and moisture management
-Kids’ performance apparel, utilizing smaller fabric pieces to reduce textile waste
-Limited runs and small batches, reflecting the brand’s focus on sustainability and craft production
-Each item is manufactured by a rider in the Richmond workshop, maintaining full control over quality and ensuring traceability of materials and construction.
Manufacturing and Values
The company’s production model emphasizes:
-Local Manufacturing
All Mola Hoods products are designed, cut, stitched, and tested in Vermont, reflecting a commitment to regional craft production and reduced supply-chain distances.
-Small-Batch Craftsmanship
Items are made in limited quantities, allowing for material efficiency, waste reduction, and tight quality control.
-Ethical Labor Practices
The brand positions itself in contrast to mass-produced apparel, highlighting its rejection of low-wage overseas manufacturing and its support of fair, localized labor systems.
-Sustainability
Mola Hoods uses a small-batch approach to minimize overproduction and relies on technical fabrics selected for durability, aiming to extend garment lifespan and reduce resource use over time.
-Community Involvement
Mola Hoods is involved in regional outdoor culture, collaborating with local athletes, mountain bike and snowboard communities, and small media projects. The company also is increasing is contributions to youth outdoor sports by producing children’s performance wear and supporting local riders and events.
Reception
-The brand has gained recognition within Vermont’s outdoor community for its emphasis on local production and for offering an alternative to large outdoor brands that rely on globalized supply chains. Mola Hoods has been noted for its craftsmanship-focused approach and for contributing to a broader movement toward transparent and ethically produced technical apparel.
External Links
Official website: [molahoods.com]
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