Michael Akira West, an avid snowboarder, started the 686 company in 1992 and has been manufacturing quality snowboarding apparel ever since. The company was founded with the goal to provide innovative and fashionable boarding outerwear, as well as technical accessories, inspired by the Los Angeles street culture of the owner's youth.

Skateboarding in Venice and Hermosa beach in the 1980s was a progressive, counterculture movement that spawned its own style, attitude, and culture. Those qualities have been brought to the company by Mike West, and it shows in the look and style of the clothing. The company is completely rider owned and operated, ensuring that the company will continue to stand by those same founding ideals as they continually grow.

686 clothing is one of a kind and they have a selection for both men and women as well as boys and girls. Starting with the basics, they carry an extensive line of board boots and sneakers. There are new lines of boots and shoes every season, insuring the latest styles and features, such as boots with a lightweight design and sneaker-like fits. They also design and manufacture a large selection of lightweight 686 jackets and 686 pants, as well as thermals, logo T-shirts, sweaters, and hoodies. Each article of clothing they produce features their trademark style and quality. Belts, gloves, hats, beanies and other items are also available. You can even grab wallets with their custom logo embroidered on the front.