From Indoor Gyms to National Crowdfunding Sensation
When 26-year-old Sara Chen began rock climbing in Detroit indoor gyms during the 2020 pandemic to connect with local community, she encountered an immediate barrier: traditional outdoor brands rarely designed technical gear with women of color or diverse body types in mind.
Driven by a vision of inclusive design, Chen founded Pangoo Apparel in 2023. Launching a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, the Detroit startup exploded past its initial goals—raising over $175,000 from 1,500+ individual backers across Detroit, Denver, Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago within 30 days.
Community & Innovation
Pangoo Apparel represents Detroit's growing ecosystem of independent consumer brands, backed by philanthropic support from the New Economy Initiative (NEI) and the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.
Built for Performance & Representation
Pangoo's debut pant style is built from high-durability 4-way stretch fabric engineered to withstand abrasive granite, quartzite, and gym walls. Features include high-rise elastic waistbands that remain comfortable under harness pressure, tapered ankles for foot placement visibility, and harness-accessible zippered pockets.
Founder's Statement
"Our mission is simple: design clothes that celebrate women of color in outdoor spaces. Detroit has a rich history of making things that last—we are bringing that Motor City grit and precision to outdoor apparel."
— Sara Chen, Founder of Pangoo Apparel
Milestones & Growth
Founder Sara Chen starts rock climbing in Detroit indoor gyms during the pandemic, noticing a severe lack of functional climbing apparel for women.
Incorporates Pangoo Apparel in Detroit and begins engineering technical outdoor pants built specifically for female ergonomics and movement.
Launches a viral Kickstarter campaign, raising over $175,000 from 1,500+ supporters across Detroit, Denver, Seattle, LA, and New York.
Fulfills 1,200+ pre-orders worldwide and expands Detroit e-commerce operations with support from the New Economy Initiative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pangoo Apparel?
Pangoo Apparel is a woman-owned outdoor clothing brand based in Detroit, Michigan, dedicated to designing high-performance technical apparel for women of color and outdoor enthusiasts.
How was Pangoo Apparel funded?
Founder Sara Chen crowdfunded more than $175,000 from over 1,500 individual backers nationwide in under 30 days.
What makes Pangoo Apparel's rock climbing pants unique?
Designed in Detroit, the pants feature abrasion-resistant flexible weave, ergonomic high-rise waistbands, accessible harness-compatible pockets, and inclusive sizing from XS to 2XL.