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Smartwool released the Smartwool x Grateful Dead Capsule Collection this week, a new line of Dead-inspired winter outerwear. The new line of clothing arrives in collaboration with Smartwool athlete and artist Chris Benchetler.
Smartwool’s collection initially arrived on Monday, December 7th, and combines a variety of mountain-ready apparel options with designs inspired by the Dead’s art and aesthetic. The Capsule Collection includes Merino wool ski socks, outdoor ultra-light crew socks, and both men’s and women’s long sleeve base layers. With prices ranging from $33 to $95, this collection is designed with skiing and other outdoor winter activity in mind. The Merino wool used is not only breathable but helps to regulate temperature and odor with the quick dry time of polyester. Benchetler’s designs portray masterful reimaginations of classic Dead imagery, including the Stealie, Dancing Bears, and a tripped-out VW bus.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, Benchetler said the Grateful Dead “Have really become a huge part of my world, both intentioned and unintentionally. My father always listened to classic rock, so the Dead made their way in and out of playlists.”
He continued, “But then in my early twenties a good family friend, who was the quintessential Dead Head, always had them playing in his car jamming his imaginary keys on the dashboard. He then took me to a live show when Dead & Co. first started playing shows. After that first show is when I went in a more obsessive spiral understanding their true mastery of improvisation.”
This isn’t Benchetler’s first professional work with the Dead, either. Late last year he co-directed Fire On The Mountain, a Dead-inspired action sports film narrated by noted Deadhead Bill Walton. Not only was Benchetler a featured athlete in the film, but his art served as a focal point as well.
Below, check out the announcement video, and click here to purchase items from the Smartwool x Grateful Dead Capsule Collection.
Smartwool x Grateful Dead Capsule Collection Announcement
[Video: Grateful Dead]
[H/T Rolling Stone]
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