Public Rec Clothing, established in 2015 by Zach Goldstein in Chicago, Illinois, originated from Goldstein’s frustration with the lack of comfortable yet stylish clothing options for men during his time as an investment banker. Goldstein’s quest for the ideal leisure pant, suitable for both home and public settings, led him to create his own after failing to find a suitable option on the market.

The brand gained early success by launching its first product, the All Day Every Day (ADED) pants, through a Kickstarter campaign in 2015. The campaign exceeded expectations, raising over $27,000 and confirming the market’s interest in such a product. Following this, Public Rec shifted to selling directly through its e-commerce site, where the ADED pant’s popularity continued to surge due to word of mouth and media coverage, solidifying its reputation for premium comfort.

In the ensuing years, Public Rec broadened its product line to include joggers, shorts, shirts, and other staples for both men and women. This expansion, facilitated by their direct-to-consumer model, allowed for rapid growth and adaptability. In 2019, the company began opening physical retail stores, enhancing its omnichannel presence. While e-commerce remained their primary sales avenue, the physical stores contributed to the brand’s visibility and accessibility.

By 2023, Public Rec’s annual revenue had surpassed $50 million. The brand continued to expand its product offerings, boasting over 100 SKUs. Additionally, Public Rec expanded its retail footprint, operating 10 stores in key cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles and growing its team to over 100 employees.

Public Rec has maintained its founding ethos throughout this growth and development: providing premium, versatile comfort wear. The core principles that shaped the original ADED pants continue to influence the design and appeal of their wide range of products.