The gents from the Los Angeles based brand Apolis Activism and I got together during my recent trip to the west coast to shoot the shit, drink German beer and hang out at their studio. Much has been said about Apolis in the press as of late, with the company garnering much praise for their collaborations with Filson, and more recently with vintage boardshorts maker Kanvas by Katin.
Walking into the company’s loft like offices (complete with bunk beds, kitchen and a bathtub full of surf boards) you almost start to feel jealous that you haven’t been invited to hang out sooner. The brothers Raan, Stenn and Shea (not the one pictured below, that is the other Shea) Parton were drawn to the industrial style office space in downtown LA’s “arts district” because of the fact that it is live / work facility. This unique set-up enabled the guys to keep the overhead relatively low while they worked on developing the burgeoning company.
Left to right: Apolis intern Kevin, Shea, plus brothers Stenn and Raan.
The gentlemen at Apolis Activism represent California well in terms of what their brand has been able to accomplish thus far in terms of the line’s commercial success and the social endeavors put forward. It is refreshing to see a stylish, young and driven group of people trying to make a business succeed and work to help the world at the same time. Respect is due to these guys for doing something that rarely happens anymore – talking the talk and walking the walk.
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Cool trip?
Are the Filson bags out already or are they coming up on the horizon?
Love the Tanker desks! Their clothes are great as well.
Nicest guys on the planet. Glad you were finally able to meet.
Definably one of my favorite brands! Glad we could get a look inside their offices!
Apolis is one of the best emerging brands out there. I have known the Parton brothers for nearly 10 years now and I cannot speak highly enough about them. Their products are well made and stylistically relevant. I’m glad to see them on this estimable site.
This is great. I’ve been working with the Parton brothers for 3 years. They have become close friends and are a pleasure to work with. The Filson + Apolis Philanthropist Briefcase will be available in August.
Do they really have to have some of their products made in China?
Love the apolis guys!
Great job on the pictures and the article. I first heard of these guys in Details magazine. I think more fashion start up companies should adopt these measures as a part of giving back to the community at large.
The Parton Brothers are the new Wilson Brothers.
I have the Raan poster over my bed.
well, aren’t those some sharply dressed brothers! it’s nice to know things like this are cropping up in california
Apolis + Filson looks amazing- Where will those bags be sold?
I am constantly impressed by this emerging brand and Raan’s creative direction. Can’t wait to see these guys later this summer.
Apolis = genius
The Parton Men = modern day renaissance
I have been working with them for about 6 months now and it’s been one of the greatest experiences of my life. A brand that is leading the charge in mens ware & even more importantly helping change the industry in the social side of things as well.
I see the leaders of the pack & their charging down Traction Ave.
Hmmm … where are the pics of their office? I think there is some glitch … I would love to see it.