Doug’s hands-on (pardon the pun) ice climbing experience, combined with his limitless knowledge of glove design has led to the perfect design and manufacturing partnership with Takashima, a Japanese third-generation glove manufacturing company. Takashima was established in 1936 and Doug started working directly with Kenzo Takashima more than 30 years ago. What started as a business relationship developed into a deep friendship as both men worked together to develop and build the best gloves available. Eventually Kenzo retired and Doug started working with Kenzo’s son Jun, who eagerly welcomed the responsibility of upholding the strict Japanese manufacturing standards that make Takashima so distinguished.

Aniiu’s goal is to build the best gloves on the planet. To accomplish this goal, Doug envisioned creating a true employee-owned company where everyone at Aniiu is invested in the success and well-being of the operation. From product testing to the final realization of an exceptional design, we’re all part owners. As a long-time participant in the outdoor industry, Doug knew that Aniiu could represent a different way of doing business and ultimately, it would become a better company because of it.