After his first down the line ride at Pilgrim Ave, Chris Gentile was hooked on surfing.
In 2012, Chris Gentile opened Pilgrim Surf + Supply on a quiet corner in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. His goal was to create a gathering space for surfers, friends, and the community.
Little by little the surf community started coming out of the woods and showing up at the shop. It was specifically during surf film screening evenings that Chris started to become aware of the size and passion of the New York surf community.
Shortly after the opening of their storefront, Chris started Pilgrim the clothing brand by working with a few small factories in the Garment District.
The idea behind the clothing is that the majority of surfing is actually the journey to get to the waves. Specifically when you live in the city, there is a pilgrimage required to surf. This adventure is the inspiration for their clothing & their store. And this has also allowed Pilgrim to transcend past the traditional confines of a “surf” brand. Pilgrim applies to adventure seekers from all over the spectrum whether it be surfers, hikers, travelers etc.
Why We Chose Pilgrim
Part of the ethos at Pilgrim Surf is to thoughtfully combine things that don’t traditionally go together, in a way that makes you stop & think. First of all, brooklyn and “surf shop” don’t traditionally go together. Neither do surfboards and a beautiful $800 wool overcoat made in France. But when you step in their shop, it all makes sense and comes together to create what is truly a unique brand and community.
Pilgrim is committed to thoughtful, small-batch production in order to minimize waste. They currently work with only 7 handpicked retailers in the United States in order to stay true to this commitment. We are honored to be one of those 7 retailers and to be able to share this brand with you.
My Picks From Pilgrim's Fall/Winter Collection
The Russel Zip Parka
Details:
- Based on surf team jackets from the 1960s
- Lightweight
- Slash pocket & breast pocket
- Drawstring at the hem
- Eco-friendly polyester made from recycled plastic bottles and plant-derived materials (solotex)
- Soft texture, light stretch, and wrinkle resistant
- Available in driftwood (pictured) and black
The Kendrick Jacquard Tee
Details:
- Looser, oversized silhouette
- Long sleeves and a contrast neckband
- Soft, 100% cotton
- Jacquard stripe
