In the 1980s, Mike Graham was unable to find shorts specifically suited to rock climbing, so he designed and made his own. The shorts featured innovations such as a gusseted crotch and an integrated waistband, and would forever change the outdoor clothing market. His designs were made from undyed fabric, providing a blank canvas for the creativity and individuality of the climbing and surfing communities. Graham gave the shorts to his friends and launched his own clothing company. Through the 1970s and 1980s, the brand became more firmly rooted in streetwear DNA with innovative design and contemporary streetwear style.