Gigliotti views skateboarding and jiu-jitsu as intertwined disciplines, stating, "Jiu-Jitsu and skateboarding, it never ends. There’s never a win or a loss for me. It’s learning something new every time, every day, and it never gets old. Also, both will humble the hell out of you!" This collaboration holds personal significance for Gigliotti, as he recalls seeing a young Zata Toscano, who now models the collection, skating at Tompkins Square Park and offering guidance on tricks. Toscano, now a skater and jiu-jitsu black belt, represents the full circle of connection between the two sports.
In this project, Gigliotti's signature hand-drawn cartoon doodle styles are infused into the performance apparel through various mediums such as print, embroidery, and sublimation. The collection comprises kimonos, a long sleeve rash guard, training shorts, shirts, wearable kimono pants, and a sticker pack, all showcasing original artwork by Mike Gigliotti created specifically for this collaboration. The kimonos feature soft panels designed to distress over time, inspired by the wear and tear of skateboards, gradually revealing hidden artworks underneath during each training session.
In this project, Gigliotti's signature hand-drawn cartoon doodle styles are infused into the performance apparel through various mediums such as print, embroidery, and sublimation. The collection comprises kimonos, a long sleeve rash guard, training shorts, shirts, wearable kimono pants, and a sticker pack, all showcasing original artwork by Mike Gigliotti created specifically for this collaboration. The kimonos feature soft panels designed to distress over time, inspired by the wear and tear of skateboards, gradually revealing hidden artworks underneath during each training session.