Highland man wanted 'no regrets' in life so launched 'clothing brand with a cause'
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A man with a passion for fashion and sports decided to have 'no regrets' in life by launching his own clothing company.
Dylan Cathcart (32) set up ACTIV3 Clothing in 2022, starting with a range of bespoke caps which has now evolved into a sportswear brand. The IV3 in the name comes from his Inverness postcode.
With the mission statement of 'clothing with a cause' a proportion of the profit goes to straight to local charities to give back to the community.
Dylan, who also works full-time as salesman, explained why he decided to take a leap of faith into the fashion world.
He said: "I think everyone has dreams of their own but are scared to pursue them.
"I've always had a passion for fashion and sports, and I just though I may as well try it. People are often filled with regret about the things they didn't do."
With an online site and having done several pop-up shops around Inverness, Dylan has received a positive reaction from people who have bought his products so far.
New ranges of sportswear drop every few months and he says his products provide 'quality without the big price tag'.
However, Dylan's biggest driver is his community and that's why he gives back to causes which are close to his heart.
He said: "We've given money to Cash for Kids, and we've done an exclusive line with Maisie's Wishes.
"We are launching a new oversized T-shirt range, and £5 from each sale will go to Mikeysline.
"Mikeysline is really important to me, as I've battled with mental health and I've lost friends to suicide. It's great to see what Mikeysline do and how much they support people in the area. I just think giving back to the community is the right thing to do."
Alongside this, ACTIV3 Clothing supports and sponsors local sports teams such as Inverness Olympic Weightlifting Club.
He added: "It's a real sense of community which drives me. We've worked alongside gyms and local businesses, and it's amazing to see how people come together for certain things."
ACTIV3 Clothing is not about being athletic, but it's about promoting an active lifestyle for both the body and mind.
"We want to promote our brand as an active lifestyle including keeping the mind well," Dylan said.
"Getting out for walks helps with mental health, or it could be the gym or climbing a Munro – whatever it is, that’s what our sports brand represents.
"When I was in a bad place, the gym helped me physically and mentally, so there is proof in the pudding for me."
Dylan's ambitions include having his own clothing store and seeing leading athletes wearing his brand someday.
He concluded: "I really want to get to the level where we can give sizeable donations to local causes that will make a real difference.
"I just want to thank Forge Gym, Anytime Fitness, Pure Gym, The Training Club, Inverness Olympic Weightlifting Club, Auctioneers Football Club, Jarvis Media and TTL Media for all their support on this journey."
