Q&A with Peter & Patty Duke, Founders of Point6

Peter & Patty Duke know wool. Even more specifically, merino wool. The husband and wife team launched SmartWool but later sold it before starting their newest venture, Point6. They picked up the mantle of leadership again and took the sock design movement forward. Point6 is headquartered in Steamboat Springs, CO and sticks with the mission of making high performance gear to keep outdoor enthusiasts warm. They are however using 100 % compact spun yarns – a merino wool yarn that is 25% more durable, less bulky, and with minimal pilling. We are talking socks that also don’t overheat, have a smartly designed ventilation system, and offers arch support and cushioning. Not to mention, the socks are biodegradable.

 

Q: What is the significance of the name?

The name derives from 98.6 F, the optimum body temperature.

 

Q: What makes Point6 different from other competitors?

Point6 is made, tested and designed in the USA with imported yarns. We compact spin our yarn and offer a 100% guarantee. Our founders saw that the trends were heading to coloration. This posed a new challenge, as this would create less durable wool socks. Peter knew that in order to elimination the durability issue while maintaining coloration they needed to compact spin their yarn.

 

Q: What is the biggest challenge of running the business? And biggest reward?

Point6 is a small growing business and it’s been a challenge to get the word out that we make the best wool socks ever! The biggest reward, this is Peter’s passion. He knows more about wool and socks then anyone else in the industry.

 

Q: What is something readers would be surprised to know about you or your business?

Peter and Patty are not new to the game, as Point6 is their second merino wool sock company.