A word from our founder, Rich Johnston:

Over 25 years ago I founded Vertical World, America’s First Indoor Climbing Gym. From the beginning of my involvement in the climbing industry I felt that sport of climbing was male dominated. Although this has improved over the years, this gender disparity remains even today. I’ve always believed that if more women were involved in climbing, the outdoor industry would be a better place.

Vertical Girl was created with a purpose and a vision—to help break down barriers faced by women in climbing, to promote aesthetics, and to produce high quality functional active wear for women. We do this by working with athlete ambassadors, retailers, and climbing gyms who believe in our mission to introduce women to and support women in the sport of rock climbing.

My vision never would have come to fruition without my partner Jenn Quattrocchi. Jenn came to this project with a strong creative talent and the will to make Vertical Girl a reality. She took the seed, planted it, and made it grow. I am very proud of what Jenn has accomplished and how we have stuck to our goals and principles.

Notes on product philosophy from our creative director, Jenn Quattrocchi:

Vertical Girl is about simple staples you can count on. In designing the Vertical Girl line, I have drawn from principles that guide me in my own life: simplicity, durability, and versatility.

Simplicity – can you call this garment your “little black dress” and wear it with anything?

Durability – Will this garment stand the test of time and prevent you from having to buy many replacements?

Versatility – Can this garment work for many activities?

The three together add up to my definition of sustainability—a word that I believe has lost its meaning in our culture. Simply labeling something organic is no real indicator of the nature of the product or its longevity. Many factors go into creating a sustainable collection of products. Close to home sourcing and production, support of small, women-owned businesses, and a commitment to making sure that each of our products truly is simple, durable, and versatile—this is how I make sure that Vertical Girl clothes are comfortable clothes you can feel good about wearing.