When an Editor Goes on a “Press Trip”: A Wild Adventure of Free Gear and Influencers
Picture this: a group of journalists, freelance writers, and influencers all gathered together for a brand-sponsored trip to a far-off destination. They’re wined, dined, and shown the latest and greatest products in hopes of getting some media coverage. It’s a mix of professionals and social media stars, all competing to create the best content and score more freebies.
But when I arrived at the Usal store in sunny Los Angeles for a shuttle bus to Mammoth, I was surprised to find that I was the only media member there. Instead, I was surrounded by 10 of designer Reese Cooper’s closest friends.
Reese himself found it amusing when I mentioned the unconventional group to him the next day. But for him, it’s all part of the norm. As a designer who creates clothes that he and his friends want to wear, he’s used to breaking the mold. His eponymous label and diffusion line, Reese Cooper Outdoor Supply, blend heritage Americana with functional outdoor gear.
“Most people would want to do a big launch party for a collaboration like this,” Reese says with a grin, lounging in a camp chair as the mountains of Mammoth cast a shadow over his face. “But for me, it’s more about getting out of LA for a few days and doing something with a core group of friends.”
A Provider in More Ways Than One
After spending 48 hours with Reese, it’s clear that he’s a provider. Not just in the sense of bringing friends along for the ride, but also in his approach to design. His creations are functional, practical, and perfect for everyday wear, but with enough unique details to keep them from being boring. And that’s exactly what he did with his latest collaboration with UGG.
The collection, featuring a trio of Cordura shroud-equipped Classic Mini boots and a duo of Classic Ultra Mini boots lined with GORE-TEX, was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to create UGG footwear that could withstand an active lifestyle. Before the collaboration, Reese wasn’t a regular UGG wearer. Not because he didn’t like the brand, but because he’s tough on his shoes.
“Every time I get a new pair of shoes, they’re destroyed within six days,” he admits. “So I always had this idea of making a shoe that could last. And I would see people in LA wearing UGGs that looked like they should have been retired months ago.”
Thanks to Reese’s keen eye for design and functionality, that’s no longer an issue. His UGG collaboration is the perfect blend of style and durability, making it a must-have for anyone with an active lifestyle. And for Reese, that’s what it’s all about: providing for his friends and customers in more ways than one.
Gallery
