Entrepreneur Wins Locally, Grows Internationally
ToeSox Doesn’t Slip in Economy
Carlsbad, CA. – March 16, 2010 - The ToeSox company is proof that a “Eureka!” idea can build a business worth the effort. Joe Patterson, President of ToeSox, Inc. knows this better than anyone. Nearly six years later, his idea and efforts have paid off. Sales have doubled each year, and he recently won Entrepreneur of the Year at the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Dinner that took place on February 26th at Four Seasons Resort Aviara. By definition, an entrepreneur takes a new enterprise and accepts the risks of the outcome. With plenty of weight on the downturn economy, Patterson’s entrepreneurial story may seem rare and it is worth the recognition.
To combat the ill effects of job-related stress, Patterson and his wife Christina, signed up for a series of yoga classes. During their second class, they noticed two students. “There were two women in my class wearing regular athletic socks and when the instructor asked them to remove their socks, they refused,” says Patterson. The women were focused on hygiene and warmth, while the instructor was focused on safety due to socks slipping on the mat. Patterson said it exposed a need in the marketplace.
After researching designs and materials, The Pattersons founded ToeSox, Inc. in 2004, and patented the Non-Slip Grip of ToeSox which is the rubber-dotted sole of the sock. Originally designed as yoga socks and Pilates socks, ToeSox prevent slipping on mats, floors and equipment, but also feature the five-toe pocket design that allows the toes to spread naturally promoting healthy feet and blood circulation. Since conception of the original ToeSox, the half-toe and sport-sandal styles were created to meet the demands of their active demographic. In addition to the unique design and function of ToeSox, Patterson placed importance on materials involved; ToeSox are made of 100% organic cotton.
The company has grown from a home-based business and sells nationwide and to 32 countries. Now housed in a 2300 sq/ft warehouse facility in Carlsbad, Ca., Patterson forecasts outgrowing the space in the next year. The ToeSox enterprise grows while Patterson keeps risks and healthy feet in mind.
ToeSox come in full-toe (with and without Non-Slip Grip) and half-toe styles, and are available in 10 different colors. The five-toe socks are used for yoga, Pilates, martial arts, dance, walking, cycling, as well as post- pedicure. Visit ToeSox at www.toesox.com or call (877)486-3769.
