Anatomy of Dry, Odor-free, Naturally Antibacterial Everyday Wear

“The fabric that we have created wicks moisture, emits negative ions and eliminates odor due to the naturally occurring antibacterial and antifungal properties of copper” says Lucas Skriko, Founder & President of FOR Apparel.

The antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles is well known and has been a go-to for gym goers and the athletic wear industry. However, after recent studies that linked silver nanomaterials to potential endocrine disruption as well as potential DNA damage, not many of us will venture out to wear that beloved odor-resistant CrossFit shirt for a prolonged period of time. A new player on the North American market—FOR Apparel (Find One Reason)—has brought us a revolutionary solution in the form of a copper combined with high end cotton blends. They are safe to wear all day, every day.

“The fabric that we have created wicks moisture, emits negative ions and eliminates odor due to the naturally occurring antibacterial and antifungal properties of copper” says Lucas Skriko, Founder & President of FOR Apparel.

The effectiveness of copper as an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agent has been known for centuries. The ancient Greeks in the time of Hippocrates (400 BC) prescribed copper to successfully treat pulmonary diseases as well as for drinking water purification.

The copper nanoparticles coated to natural cotton fibers preserve the fabric’s softness and breathability, while increasing its resistance, and making it an antimicrobial, anti-stain, water repellent, anti-static, and self-cleaning fabric. Skriko explains, “We utilize an innovative process titled “ionic grafting polymerization” to engineer our garments. Our goal is to champion technical fabric innovation while capitalizing on the increasing demand for clothing that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional for an active lifestyle. We use the phrase ‘Active Style’ to describe our gear.”

Find One Reason began as a Skriko’s passion project and has transitioned into his sole focus. “For years I had identified the shrinking gap between active and casual wear, specifically in the male market. I wanted to create apparel that is designed to be worn throughout the day. I have received tremendous feedback on the fit and feel of our fabric. It is truly satisfying to see that others are enjoying what I have worked so hard to create,” shares the master active wear innovator.

The clothing industry is highly saturated and the vast majority of brands use lightweight but often not breathable poly blends. “These garments are not designed to keep pace with today’s dynamic and active lifestyles. Through technical fabric innovation, we engineer garments that support overall wellness. At the heart of our mantra is the concept of self-love. We design technical fabric for men who focus on their personal health and well-being. Our intent is to continue to innovate and develop fabrics that provide a wide-variety of health benefits to the user,” continues Skriko.

“I think a shortcut is just another word to describe laziness. Of course, you could skip or put less effort into the many stages of production such as picking your dyes, creating tech packs, checking correct measurements, proper stitching, etc. but then you would just have an incomplete product. Our team has no interest in taking any short cuts. Our first copper and cotton blend took over two years to develop. Our second fabric, a copper and French Terry blend was also a time intensive process. Innovation in this regard takes time to ensure that the final product satisfies our high standards,” Skriko adds. “The fashion industry is highly competitive. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but we also knew we had something other brands couldn’t offer. The biggest challenge for us like many other up and coming brands is getting recognized.”

“The truth is I learned most concepts about this industry at the same time as I was creating FOR. I had very little knowledge of the industry beforehand and didn’t have the time to be properly trained before I dove into it,” opens up the FOR Apparel founder & President. “However, the advisors that helped me from day one introduced new concepts to me as I moved along and helped me with any development or production needs. By learning as I went along I didn’t really have any expectations since it was the first time I was seeing them myself. For surprises, I learned very quickly how much it really takes to create a new brand, and how you need a strong team to even have a chance to make it. I thank them every day for their loyal support and willingness to fail, learn, and defeat all obstacles, and man, are there many!”

Currently this active apparel visionary and his team are working on developing a variety of new, stylish gear that is designed to keep pace with the modern active lifestyle and the brand’s accessibility by international customers.

Check out Find One Reason latest styles. By the way, these make for a thoughtful, fun, yet practical Father’s Day gift that every dad on your list will love receiving!