Tough Ties

Overview

Tough Apparel, originally Tough Ties, produces durable, machine-washable professional menswear designed to withstand daily wear including baby spit-up. Founded by Skylar Bennett and Kevin Shoemaker, it expanded from neckties to a full apparel line including shirts, pants, socks, belts, hats, and t-shirts targeting active professionals and fathers. The brand gained visibility through a 2020 Shark Tank appearance where it secured investment from Robert Herjavec.¹²³⁵

History

Tough Apparel began as The Tough Tie in approximately 2018 as a side project by Skylar Bennett, who quit real estate to focus on it full-time; Kevin Shoemaker joined soon after. The founders pitched Tough Ties on Shark Tank season 11 in 2020, accepting $100,000 for 35% equity from Robert Herjavec. The company rebranded to Tough Apparel, expanded its product line beyond ties, survived COVID-19, and continues to grow.¹²³

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Manufacturing location not specified in available sources. Products emphasize durable materials suitable for machine washing, developed by founders Skylar Bennett and Kevin Shoemaker.

Notable Products

• The Tough Tie - Machine-washable necktie designed to resist stains and wear from daily use including baby spit-up.
• Work Shirts - Professional button-up shirts built for durability and easy cleaning.
• Pants - Trousers suited for active professionals.
• Socks - Durable socks complementing the apparel line.
• Belts - Matching belts for professional outfits.

Reputation

Tough Apparel is recognized among Shark Tank followers and new fathers for practical, family-proof menswear that addresses common professional clothing issues. Strengths include product durability and expansion post-Shark Tank investment. No specific criticisms noted in sources; perception centers on successful growth from niche ties to broader apparel.¹³