ANKHGEAR grew from an engineer, an occupational therapist, and a family member’s struggle with jacket zippers into a maker of adaptive apparel and the patented MagZip magnetic zipper. Its MagZip aligns and connects at the base, helping people with limited dexterity zip independently, while ANKHGEAR also supplies the zipper for brands and do-it-yourself garment projects. The company’s Freedom hoodies and related gear carry that original practical idea into everyday clothing.
UndercareFounded after its creator saw a swimmer struggle to put on underwear, Undercare makes adaptive underwear and swimwear that people with disabilities, mobility limitations, or dexterity challenges can put on and remove without stepping through leg openings. Its patented easy-on, easy-off design uses soft Velcro closures and wraparound panels, with features that also simplify toileting and catheter access. The company’s garments are designed in the USA and include extended sizing through 4X.MOUNT VERNON, NY
IDEAL Fastener CorporationFamily-owned and operated since 1936, IDEAL Fastener Corporation manufactures zippers and closure systems for apparel, automotive, luggage, furniture and other products. The company pairs a long-running family business with a worldwide manufacturing network of nine factories totaling more than 1 million square feet, while developing specialized designs such as the magnetic self-aligning MAGZIP. IDEAL also developed a recycled-polyester zipper in 2007 and continues to expand its sustainable offerings.New York, NY
AGH Trimsource, IncSince 1897, AGH Trimsource has manufactured fashion zippers for apparel brands and retailers worldwide, pairing a broad sample inventory with custom slider and tape development. Its specialty is the design flexibility built into the zipper itself, including logo-ready pulls and more than 50 metallic finishes for coordinated fashion details. Based in New York’s Garment Center, AGH also supplies selected garment-trim products and supports dye-matching and design work in the U.S. and Asia.NEW YORK, NY
Care+WearCare+Wear is a healthwear company that makes adaptive clothing and accessories for patients and healthcare workers, from PICC line covers to port-access shirts and recovery wear. It began with founder Chat’s effort to create a better PICC line cover after hearing that patients were told to use tube socks, and its products are now developed with clinicians, patients and designers including The Natori Company, Oscar de la Renta and Parsons School of Design. The company says its healthwear reaches millions of patients and clinicians and shares up to 10% of profits with nonprofit organizations.NEW YORK, NY