Design Thinking: Halfdays

(Image courtesy of Halfdays. Image depicts the Carson Bib Pant in Spritz. Halfdays describe these pants as, " Our insulated bib pants will take you straight from the slopes to après. Designed with recycled fabrics, adjustable straps, and water-resistant materials, these high-performance pants keep the good vibes in and the elements out.")

In Graduate School, one of the buzzwords professors love to discuss is "Design Thinking." Design Thinking is an iterative process in which we seek to understand the user, challenge assumptions, and redefine problems to identify alternative strategies and solutions that might not be instantly apparent with our initial level of understanding (Dam and Siang). Design Thinking enables a company to understand consumer needs to serve their audience better. For this project, I contacted different companies to learn how the organizations apply Design Thinking into their market offerings. I had the opportunity to talk with Karelle Golda, Co-founder and CMO , to learn more about the mission and vision of the Halfdays.

(Image courtesy of Halfdays. Image depicts the Georgie Puffer Jacket in Olive. This jacket is described as, " Versatile, vegan puffer is here for you & all your winter activities. Skiing? No problem. Fireside cocktails? We’ve got you.")

1. What makes Halfdays different from other brands?

Before our entrance into the market, a customer could find hyper luxury on one end of the spectrum and hardcore athlete on the other, and very little in between.

(Image courtesy of Halfdays's Instagram account)

2. How does Halfdays stay ahead of trends in the industry?

We stay ahead of trends by looking outside the outdoor apparel industry and drawing inspiration everywherefrom street style to vintage photography.

(Image courtesy of Halfdays's Instagram account)

3. How do you incorporate your mission and envision into your product offerings?

This mission comes through in the community we're building as well as developing products in a wide range of sizing (XS-3XL & Short Lengths) so that everyone feels welcome to join in the fun!

(Image courtesy of Halfdays. Image depicts the Emma Pants in Rosé. These pants are described as, " soft-shell ski pants are ready to hit the slopes in styles. The stretchy, fleece-lined, and waterproof fabric will keep you toasty & dry all winter long. Whether you're knee-deep in powder or taking a tumble on the bunny hill, the Emma pant is here for it.")

4. What's the future of the company?

The company is expanding the product line into more products in the ski and snowboard sphere while continuing to grow globally. What we're most excited for in our futureis continuing to build a community of Halfdayers!

(Logo courtesy of Halfdays)