Key Takeaways
- The Shaniko Wool Company, based in Oregon, has been selected to supply wool for Team USA’s Olympics uniforms for the fifth time.
- The company will provide wool for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- Shaniko Wool Company has a long history of producing high-quality merino wool, with 10 family-owned ranches producing over 600,000 pounds annually.
- The company was founded by Jeanne and Dan Carver, building on their work at Imperial Stock Ranch, which was founded in 1871 by Oregon Trail pioneers.
- The 2026 Winter Olympics will begin with the opening ceremony on February 6.
Introduction to the Shaniko Wool Company
The Shaniko Wool Company, a renowned Oregon-based wool company, has been chosen once again to supply the wool for Team USA’s Olympics uniforms. This marks the fifth time the company has been selected by Ralph Lauren, the official outfitter for Team USA, to provide wool for the Olympic uniforms. The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games will feature uniforms made from the high-quality merino wool produced by the Shaniko Wool Company. This is a testament to the company’s commitment to producing exceptional wool and its long-standing relationship with Ralph Lauren.
History of the Shaniko Wool Company
The Shaniko Wool Company was founded by Jeanne and Dan Carver, who built on their work at Imperial Stock Ranch. Imperial Stock Ranch was founded in 1871 by Oregon Trail pioneers and has a rich history in the wool production industry. In fact, it became the first ranch in the world to be certified under the Responsible Wool Standard. The Carvers’ experience and expertise in wool production have been instrumental in establishing the Shaniko Wool Company as a leading supplier of merino wool. The company is composed of 10 family-owned ranches that produce over 600,000 pounds of merino wool annually, making it a significant contributor to the US wool industry.
Partnership with Ralph Lauren
The partnership between the Shaniko Wool Company and Ralph Lauren is a long-standing one, with the company providing wool for the official uniforms of Team USA on four previous occasions. The first time was in 2014, followed by the 2018 and 2022 Winter Olympics, and most recently, the 2024 Summer Olympics. This partnership is a result of Ralph Lauren’s commitment to using high-quality, American-made materials for the Olympic uniforms. The Shaniko Wool Company was part of Ralph Lauren’s first Made in America Winter Olympic uniform program, which aimed to promote American manufacturing and support domestic industries. The company’s merino wool has been praised for its exceptional quality, and its use in the Olympic uniforms is a testament to its excellence.
Upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics
The 2026 Winter Olympics are scheduled to begin with the opening ceremony on February 6. The event will bring together athletes from around the world to compete in various winter sports, and Team USA will be proudly representing the country in their uniforms made from the Shaniko Wool Company’s merino wool. The company’s contribution to the Olympic uniforms is not only a source of pride for the company but also a reflection of its commitment to producing high-quality wool. As the world watches the Olympics, the Shaniko Wool Company’s merino wool will be on full display, showcasing the best of American manufacturing and the company’s expertise in wool production.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Shaniko Wool Company’s selection as the supplier of wool for Team USA’s Olympics uniforms is a significant achievement for the company. With its long history of producing high-quality merino wool and its partnership with Ralph Lauren, the company has established itself as a leading supplier of wool for the Olympic uniforms. As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, the Shaniko Wool Company’s merino wool will be on display, representing the best of American manufacturing and the company’s commitment to excellence. The company’s story is a testament to the importance of supporting domestic industries and promoting American-made materials, and its contribution to the Olympic uniforms is a source of pride for the company and the country.