This week I have been introduced to a new clothing company, Sherpa, a clothing company with a difference and that’s what really caught my eye. The story behind the set up is unusual to say to the least and the ethos of the company is fantastic.
What is Sherpa?
Sherpa Adventure Gear was founded in 2004 by Tashi Sherpa. Whilst he was walking down the streets of Manhattan, a magazine issue commemorating the 50th anniversary of the first ascent of Everest caught his eye, the craggy line of the familiar face staring at Tashi from the front cover belonged to none other than his Uncle, Ang Gyalzen Sherpa, who was one of the original Sherpas on Sir Edmund Hilary’s celebrated expedition in 1953.
Sherpa Adventure Gear is an outdoor brand with a difference. The brand has an amazing brand message to support the Sherpa climbers of Everest. From the early days of Sir Edmund Hillary’s first successful summit, to modern mountaineers’ attempts on these treacherous Himalayan peaks, Sherpa’s have been there to support the climbers through guiding, hauling food and gear, setting ropes, and rescuing sick and injured climbers. The company therefore donates a % of every item sold to the Paldorje Education Fund, which provides much-‐needed head start scholarships to less fortunate children in the area. The clothing range is worn and tested by Sherpa’s, which enhances the brands quality and commitment to the very people it was set up to support. Most recently, following the devastating Earthquake, Sherpa have set up a Help Sherpas, Help Nepal Earthquake relief fund. Sherpa Adventure Gear seeks to honour the unsung Sherpa heroes of Everest by creating gear that earns the praise of the world’s toughest high-‐altitude climbers, Tashi Sherpa set out to honour his people by creating the best quality outdoor apparel made in Nepal.
So if you are looking for some new outdoor wear and would like to help the Sherpas at the same time then you absolutely must check out their website. They have a great selection from scarves to coats and everything in between.
If you are big fans of ethical clothing then check out our review of Bella & Phoenix.
