This past week I found myself in San Francisco, CA and decided to visit Triple Aught Design’s Dogpatch HQ. Dogpatch is a historical warehouse and factory district on the city’s eastern waterfront.
Triple Aught Design’s Dogpatch SF Headquarters
It’s an area in a state of flux. The neighborhood seems to be a haven for people who pride themselves in being a little “different”. But, there’s also a ton of commercial development just to the north. I thought it was an interesting dichotomy and perhaps a harbinger of change in the brand identity of TAD in the wake of founder Patrick Ma’s departure.
The store itself is larger than the Hayes Valley location I visited last year but more spartan, which is not what I expected since this is TAD’s flagship store.
I visited on a Sunday afternoon and the store was pretty empty. I was able to take my time trying on various things to gauge sizes.
The lack of online stock is the biggest complaint I’ve heard from TAD’s customers. The company has made an effort to stock more often but I found that they still suffer from shortages. I went to Dogpatch hoping to pick up a Tradecraft and Overland shirt in my size. The Tradecraft has a slimmer fit but overall I discovered that they both run a little big and long so I needed an XL versus an XXL. Unfortunately, the store had no XL’s in stock (in any color) so I walked away empty-handed. I was disappointed because I was very impressed with the quality of both shirts.
Triple Aught Design Tradecraft Shirt in Black and Intercept PD Pant
It happens that they did have the just released Intercept PD pant in my size. The Intercept is made from what TAD calls “performance denim”. I found the material definitely had some give, which made it less stiff and pretty comfortable; even before being broken-in. The fit was fine; not too tight and not too loose. I just had a difficult time getting past the $135 price tag. For a denim connoisseur, I’m quite certain the made in the U.S.A. rugged triple stitch detailing and reinforced pockets would pass scrutiny and easily justify the cost. The problem is I’m more of a Levi’s guy and prefer to spend my hard-earned dollars on other parts of my wardrobe. The great thing is that Triple Aught Design provides plenty of choices. Pick your poison and prepare to dent your credit line. Remember boys and girls… if you have a significant other to answer to… it’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the excellent service that I experienced during my visit. Even before mentioning that I was with Loadedpocketz, Richard and the rest of the team made sure I had whatever help I needed finding what I was looking for. We also had a great conversation on some of the new products coming out (he was very careful not to expose too many details) and on our individual philosophies on knives and other gear.
After I left, I stopped by the Just for You Cafe while I was waiting on Uber to make a pick-up. Located a couple of blocks away, Just for You has an eclectic menu. I opted for a snack consisting of strong coffee and the best beignets I’ve had this side of New Orleans.
Overall, I enjoyed my shopping trip to the Dogpatch store. If you’re a Triple Aught Design fan and find yourself in the San Francisco Bay Area, then definitely make the pilgrimage. It’s at 660 22nd Street with hours of operation Tuesday through Sunday from 1100 – 1900.
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