Men and Yoga are fairly new to each other. Yea there’s always been men doing yoga and this and that, but the odds are still heavily on the women’s side, when it comes to practicing yoga on a consistent basis. Men are catching up. This is why Yoga Crow decided to give it a go and solve a new problem, “what the hell should I wear to practice Yoga?”

I don’t want to stroll into a yoga class looking foolish when my b-ball shorts expose my inner-workings and all the glory that comes with it. Naw, I think it’s fair to say nobody wants that… so right when you started to look at ridiculously expensive options, check out Yoga Crow, an independent line specifically tailored for mens yoga apparel. We recently caught up with Conor OBrien from my home-state of Minnesota, as he talks about what Yoga Crow is all about.

 

Please describe your position at your company…

I founded Yoga Crow two years ago. I spent the first year finding financing and designing the products. Only since May of this year have we been selling the clothing.

 

How long have you known you wanted to do what you are currently working on?

I can’t say that I’d spent my whole life dreaming about running a men’s yoga clothing company. I have, however, always had a passion for design, and fashion in particular. It’s been a real treat getting into an industry that is classically quite closed.

 

One day I realized that there is a dearth in options for men who do yoga. Being entrepreneurial I just went ahead and started Yoga Crow.

Why are you passionate about what you do?

I love what I do. Running a clothing company that is primarily online is an amazing learning experience. I like a challenge and running my own business provides me with an endless amount of challenge. Plus, I want people to look and feel good about themselves. It’s important.

 

How did you overcome your own doubts and the doubts of other people?

I think that I have a good idea in a market niche that is expanding at a rapid clip. The fact that I believe in the concept keeps me going. So while doubt may be good in moderation, I try not to get weighed down in doubt. It can be damaging. I have definitely had moments – or spells – of company, idea, or self-doubt, but those doubts are destructive if taken too seriously. I find it more beneficial to be patient and press on.

What were some bumps you hit to get where you’re at now?

Getting financing for a small upstart is not easy. Even with solid financial planning and a good business model, you’re ultimately too small for most banks to want to take the risk. I quite literally went to almost every bank in Minneapolis only to be shot down. Eventually I got lucky.

 

What is one thing you did wrong in the past that you can share with people?

Well, you’re going to make mistakes. I still make lots of mistakes. Sorry for the cliché, but it’s true. One thing, especially in fashion, is scale appropriately and manage expectations. I think within the entrepreneurial class we can get caught up in the tech porn magazines, [Inc., Fast Company, etc.], and the idea of rapid success and huge paydays. But look around at the companies you respect. None of them are a year old, they have all been around for a good long while. It takes time. Be patient. Practicing patience has really, really helped me.

What is a way you got your name out there?

I could still improve in this field. One of my personal goals is to put myself out there more. But I have found connecting with bloggers [like 7daystheory!], twitter, and of course google adwords to be really helpful. Talk to people!

 

Is there anything that almost stopped you from doing this?

Common Sense.

Is there anyone in your profession that you admire and/or model yourself after?

I like minimalism and am inspired by Eileen Fisher, both her story and her older designs. Recently I think it’s a little too glitzy. I also really like the ethos behind Leftfield NYC. I think they put out really solid product and it’s all made in the United States, which is also a big selling point for me. [Yoga Crow is all American Made].

 

How do you continue to perfect your craft?

Never thinking that I am an expert. There is always more to learn.

 

What’s some advice you can share for anyone who wants to pursue what you are doing?

In general, most people are good and they are willing to help you. The hard part is putting yourself out there and asking for help. Also, manage your books. Design and marketing are fun, but always make sure your books are in order.

How do you envision the future of your product/services?

I am going to be slowly building our product line over the next year. We will have some men’s yoga pants out next year. But in general, I want to stick to the mission: Providing ethical, fashion-forward yoga apparel for the modern man.

 

You have a nice online website. How much of your business is driven by online buyers/clients?

I do a little wholesale, and I would like to do more in the future, but currently, my online presence is everything. I do 90% of my business over the internet. I cannot stress the importance my website.

 

 

Where can people go to find out more about your awesome products/services?

www.yogacrow.com

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