Mechanix Wear Expands Its Portfolio with Kinco Acquisition
Mechanix Wear Expands Its Portfolio with Kinco Acquisition
In a significant move within the protective apparel industry, Mechanix Wear, a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance work gloves, announced on June 23, 2025, that it has acquired Kinco, a family-owned maker of premium gloves with a solid 50-year history. This acquisition marks a notable expansion for Mechanix Wear, which is a portfolio company of the reputable investment firm Gryphon Investors. Although the terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, the implications for both companies seem promising.
About Kinco
Founded in 1975, Kinco has built a strong reputation for manufacturing and distributing high-quality gloves tailored for various applications, including farming, industrial work, and outdoor activities. Especially popular in the ski and snowboard sectors, their gloves possess a devoted following that appreciates quality and performance. The Kinco brand primarily sells its products through retail partnerships and directly to consumers, which aligns perfectly with Mechanix Wear’s distribution strategies.
Travis Kindler, the current owner and son of Kinco's founders, will remain with the company as President and will report directly to Mechanix Wear's CEO, Jesse Spungin. Kindler will also retain a minority ownership interest in Kinco, ensuring that the brand’s legacy continues under its original family leadership.
Synergy Between Brands
The acquisition of Kinco is a major step for Mechanix Wear, expanding its existing product portfolio and channel presence. Spungin expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to team up with Travis and the Kinco group. Both brands carry strong family legacies and a commitment to quality and durability, making this acquisition a natural fit.” This merger aims to enhance customer satisfaction while promoting product innovation in line with a growth-focused mission.
Mechanical Wear is not new to mergers; this acquisition follows their earlier purchase of Chicago Protective Apparel, reflecting their strategy to build a stronger lineup of protective gear and to reinforce their role as industry leaders.
Future Growth and Development
Commenting on this acquisition, Kindler remarked, “Joining the Mechanix Wear brand is an exciting opportunity. We believe that our employees and customers will greatly benefit from the resources and scale that come with being part of a larger company.” He also highlighted plans for future investments aimed at innovation and customer satisfaction, as they strive to maintain the legacy of Kinco while also building a sustainable future.
Mechanix Wear and Gryphon Investors
Established in 1991, Mechanix Wear has maintained its position as a leader in the automotive, construction, and tactical apparel sectors. Their innovative approach to product development has gained them widespread recognition among consumers and retailers alike. The company’s headquarters in Valencia, California, supports global sales across more than 70 countries through various retail outlets and industrial distributors.
Gryphon Investors, which manages assets exceeding $10 billion, focuses on fostering profitable growth within its portfolio companies. Their investment strategies include partnerships that leverage operational resources to drive expansion and innovation, making them ideal collaborators for firms like Mechanix Wear and Kinco.
Conclusion
The union of Mechanix Wear and Kinco promises a wealth of benefits, from broadened product offerings to enhanced market reach. As both companies focus on innovation and exceeding customer expectations, this acquisition could herald a new era in the protective apparel market, ensuring that two storied brands continue to thrive together. Expect to witness exciting developments as they merge their strengths and resources to redefine what quality and protection mean for consumers worldwide.