U.S. Olympic athletes, including Alex Shibutani, Maia Shibutani, Jordan Stolz, Hilary Knight, and Jack Wallace, will don uniforms crafted from wool sourced from Central Oregon’s Shaniko Wool Co. This marks the fourth consecutive Olympic Games where this local wool has been utilized in the opening ceremony attire, designed by Ralph Lauren.
Jeanne Carver, owner of Shaniko Wool Company, expressed her pride in being part of the Ralph Lauren Team USA uniform initiative, stating, “It’s a proud day for American wool. It fills us with pride, elevates our work, and shines a light on the largely forgotten traditions of raising sheep and harvesting fiber.” The wool from Shaniko has been featured in the uniforms for the 2014, 2018, 2022 Winter Olympics, and will be included in the upcoming 2026 Milano Cortina Games.
Shaniko Wool, located northeast of Madras, operates as a farm collective established by Carver to continue the legacy of the historic Imperial Stock Ranch, which has played a significant role in Oregon’s agricultural history. The ranch, founded in 1871, once spanned a vast area from Shaniko to La Pine, engaging in sheep and cattle raising alongside hay and grain farming.
In addition to its role in the Winter Olympics, Shaniko Wool Co. has also been chosen as a fiber supplier for the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, underlining their commitment to high-quality, sustainable fiber sourcing. The wool used by Ralph Lauren adheres to the Responsible Wool Standard, ensuring ethical treatment of animals and responsible land management.
Carver emphasized the historical significance of textiles in America, stating, “Those connections inspire stewardship and foster a deeper sense of community and purpose. It makes us all better and stronger.” This collaboration not only celebrates the craftsmanship of American wool but also revitalizes traditional practices, bringing a sense of pride and connection to the athletes and the community.