American industry has been derailed by globalist companies and organizations eager to exploit cheap labor for short-term gains at the expense of self-reliance, independence, and American jobs/know-how. A growing movement is developing in our great nation of folks who are saying “enough!” – and want to buck this trend by directing their hard-earned wages towards companies who care about American jobs and desire quality, domestically-sourced and manufactured products to an appreciative customer.
The time is upon us to act through purchasing. Stopping to ask the origin of your next shirt, pants, or home appliance could make the difference in keeping American manufacturers’ lights on, or seeing them go overseas. The multinationals who have outsourced cheap labor only do so because the revenue streams continue – their bottom-line increases as their costs go down. But if an American populous collectively says, “enough!” and reduces (or even cuts) the revenue streams to these greedy organizations, they will be left with the responsibilities of their short-sighted actions.
When I was a child, my grandfather stopped buying Wrangler’s because they moved their primary manufacturing locations outside of the United States. This was my first exposure to the massive shift underway in our nation from domestic textile manufacturing. Companies began making their products “in Mexico of US fabric”, Nicaragua, Bangladesh, India, or China… among others. These facilities are massive with hundreds of foreign nationals slaving away over long shifts to make your cheap t-shirts and fashion items. This is not solely limited to the textile market – this comes at the expense of American jobs in every industry, simple supply chain infrastructure, and the important knowledge of how-to.
During my time in federal service, I was exposed to the Berry Amendment, which states food, clothing, fabrics, fibers, yarns, other made-up textiles, and hand or measuring tools must be grown, reprocessed, reused, or produced in the United States, a fantastic concept.
In the past several decades, we have witnessed a massive shift away from American manufacturing, particularly in the Textiles space, but this pervasiveness rears in all facets of industry. For example, in 1970, seventy percent of clothing that Americans purchased was manufactured on our own shores. Today, that number is a stark two percent. Two percent is a startling number, and I would wager that many of that two percent is manufactured including fibers, components, and subcomponents that are not domestically sourced. What can we do about this?
“Buy American” is the simple answer, but it turns out… it’s not that simple. I have experienced the challenge of finding American made goods to be so complex that I was compelled to begin compiling a list. This list will be refined and updated over time, so if you’d like to stay abreast, please bookmark the location for your future reference.
Additionally, I warmly welcome any suggestions and additions of your business, or American-made businesses you think are worth including for collective reference.
First of all, let’s consider the production process, per the Berry Amendment guidance:
This is one step beyond simply “buying American” as it requires all components and subcomponents to be sourced from the United States. Berry differentiates between “Buy American” in a few key areas, most notably the 100% domestic content. This is a critical area, and worthwhile to support. At this point in time, I’m not sure if these manufacturers receive tax incentives to produce wholly domestic goods, but it is certainly something our legislators may want to consider, moving forward.
While I dream of one day walking into a big box retailer or mom-and-pop alike, and seeing exclusively Berry-Compliant goods, products, and wares… that day is nowhere in sight in contemporary America. In the meantime, here is a list of companies who are putting their best foot forward and either making their products entirely in the United States, or specializing in lines that are American Made. Companies and products which I have used I will also write a quick statement of my appreciation / endorsement of the goods I’ve worn / tested / abused.
Again, any and all suggestions, leads, and endorsements of American-made goods / products are greatly appreciated, please use my contact form to reach me directly.
All-Around Clothing:
I have thoroughly enjoyed American Giant pants and sweats for the past couple years, the durability of the construction and quality of the fabric is apparent each time I put them on. My go-to casual pant.
AG Video:
These western shirts are made in El Paso, Texas and are affordable (check their clearance section, too) and well-made from the two I’ve received. My only critique of this company is their e-commerce / webpage could use some refinement.. but that matters not when you’ve got the shirt on your back.
I have not yet purchased any Schaefer, but recently discovered their lines while researching this article. I will likely purchase one of their shirts and outerwear from them, for the next winter season. May even go visit them in Fort Worth, Texas. This company is a good example of “MOSTLY” American made goods, always double check, as even though the vast majority of their products are made in the USA, some are imported. Thankfully, they list the difference on each product page.
Swim Trunks:
Before a recent vacation, I decided to purchase new swim trunks… and let me tell you there are fewer apparel markets with less American-made products than swim gear. I put these Miami, Florida-made trunks through resort pools, volcanic hot springs, and ocean tidal waves and they have held up well. They have multiple pockets (not all trunks do), and come in some pretty strong colors. Additionally, they have an American flag on the left thigh, which adds a certain ‘cool’ factor.
Socks:
I love these socks. I have had dozens of pairs over the past decade since I first came across them in the Quantico Exchange. They make a wide range of socks to accommodate any clime and place, but my perennial favorite are the “Desert Sands” line, which I have found to be suitable in the hottest and driest Mojave summer to the coldest winter temperatures in Levantine badlands, and everywhere in between. I wear them almost every day.
Boots:
A wide range of Portland, Oregon-made footwear, Danner is a standard-issue boot for the US Military, but so much more. Footwear for a wide range of applications… if you want to take care of your feet with American-made kickers, look no further than Danner.
Hats
The gold standard of Western Hats, it doesn’t get much better than a Stetson. However, if you venture into their other product lines you will come across “imported” goods, always verify.
Camera & A/V Bag / Protective Equipment:
I have used Domke gear for the better part of the last decade on many of my trips to austere environments and harsh climates. I also love their simple “wrap” to protect my camera and drone when packing them inside of larger non-A/V bags. Their gear is the real deal and a $10 wrap could save your gear from unwanted damage, scratches, or worse.
Personal Care
I view personal grooming to be an important task not only for outward upkeep, but also as a critical routine and ritual in your daily life. When approached as a methodical/intentional/ritual aspect of your day, one can find meaning in the mundane. For me, this is exacerbated by using tools that enhance this perpetual routine.
- Chicago Comb: a stainless line of combs made in Chicago that will provide expert control and longevity
- Wet Shaving Club: their “winning” razor is simple and stainless, and safety razors are a massive cost-savings over cartridges in the long term… Keep it simple.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this list, please bookmark it for future reference as I will be updating sporadically over the years and intend to make this a definitive American-Made resource for patriots and those who simply want to support their neighbors.
As stated above, I also welcome any and all suggestions, leads, and endorsements of American-made goods / products; please use my contact form to reach me directly.