Our Story
At Cortical, we’re passionate about celebrating the vibrant spirit of the West Coast. Our mission is to embrace the beauty of California. From the rugged mountain peaks to the coastal shores, and even the bustling city sidewalks. We want to capture the essence of this diverse landscape. Our brand isn’t just about clothing; it’s about creating a lifestyle that resonates with adventure, authenticity, and the freedom to explore. Whether you’re hiking through wilderness trails or strolling along the beach, Cortical is here to accompany you on every journey.
Our love for hiking and nature is the heartbeat of our brand. Imagine living in a place where hundreds of trails cover the landscape. All within a two-hour drive in any direction. These trails have been our companions since childhood. From lush forests to panoramic vistas. Yet, we’ve noticed that the average person often overlooks these natural treasures And that’s we’re here—to create a symbol of connection and celebrate this place. A reminder that the beauty of our surroundings is nothing short of amazing. Our clothing isn’t just fabric; it’s a tribute to the trails we’ve walked. The sunsets we’ve witnessed and the quiet moments that ground us in this extraordinary place.
Our “Three Pillars”
At Cortical, One of our core beliefs is that life is meant to be lived outside. As much as we enjoy the long hours and satisfying our customers, we have three pillars we live by. In order to make this work while balancing our own lives in nature. Our first pillar is activity. It’s the flame that ignites our brand and the need to keep moving. If our momentum stops, our productivity takes a beating. So it's important for us to go outside and live a little. And as we’ve gone out into nature, we’ve always run into poppies. That's the thesis for our logo. It’s a reminder to go wherever the poppies grow.
Our second pillar is connectivity. We’ve witnessed the ebb and flow of our beloved state over the past few years. Our neighborhoods have transformed. With our trails and streets looking a bit more crowded. The smiling faces have shifted and it seems like not everyone sees the value in the land around us. But amidst it all, we’re committed to creating a culture of connectedness. Cortical isn’t just about clothing; it’s about weaving threads of community. So let's enjoy this place together and celebrate what we have to share.
Our third pillar is sustainability, and it’s not just a “checkbox” on our to-do list. We’ve delved deep into the practices that protect our environment. From sustainable agriculture and soil practices to supply chain management and waste reduction, we’ve walked the talk. Our founders have collaborated with non-profit organizations, working towards global outreach and care. These past endeavors aren’t just stories—they’re the roots that anchor our mission. And we aren’t just here to take pictures of ourselves doing it. We’re rolling up our sleeves and doing the work. Because our commitment to the planet is as real as the soil beneath our feet.
Our Logo
Cortical’s logo serves as a snapshot of California’s diverse landscape. The two mountain peaks within it represent more than pointed lines. They symbolize the Coastal Plains Mountains and the Sierra Nevada range. The Coastal Plains, with their gentle slopes and proximity to the ocean, evoke a sense of tranquility. The Sierra Nevada peaks, with their ruggedness and intensity, create a sense of adventure. Together, the mountains act as a symbol of duality.
Between them is a valley where the blooming golden poppy sits. The heart of our design. It’s the same flower that graces California’s hillsides and mountain cliffs. It blooms resiliently, thriving in diverse conditions. Much like the people who call this place home. The orange poppy connects us all. Transcending differences and reminding us of our shared roots. It’s more than a symbol; it’s a piece of our culture. The poppy acts as a beacon of authenticity and unity.
Our Path
Our founders come from diverse backgrounds, each contributing a unique perspective to our brand. Their career journeys have shaped our mission. First, with our deep connection to agriculture—the beating heart of this region. We’ve worked closely with farmers, understanding the roots that have sustained families for generations. Next, our graphic design experiences have exposed us to the high-pressure world of sportswear, luxury, and activewear. We’ve navigated the ever-changing landscape, honing our creativity and attention to detail. Lastly, our supply chain management expertise ensures that we execute our mission sustainably and resourcefully.
In this digital age, small clothing brands like ours have an unprecedented opportunity. Modern technology levels the playing field, allowing us to compete with the giants. Through small-scale printing operations, we can turn our designs into reality. Stitch by stitch and press by press. We can source 100% cotton when available, taking pride and effort in our attention to detail. Ensuring that every piece of clothing reflects our dedication to craftsmanship. And as we step into this exciting chapter, we can’t wait to see where our dreams take us. Together, we can create a brand that resonates far beyond the foothills.