About

Hello!

I'm Ian, a California native with 10+ years experience in product design and development. One of my earliest forms of creative expression was through skiing (started when I was 2), but it wasn’t until design school that I discovered a new creative calling through sewing, problem solving and using design as a way to connect people with the outdoors.



Since graduating from CCa in 2014, I’ve had the pleasure of working across a variety industries,  mostly focused on outdoor and soft goods, but also spanning into medical & consumer electronics. I’ve worked as a full time employee for large corporate brands (Lowepro & Joby) and small, nimble start-ups (Boundary Supply & 3rd Stone Design), as well as a consultant for a few ID firms (Y-Studios, Whipsaw, Surface Ink, Blue Product Development & others).

In 2021, my partner and I launched Parapack, an ultralight headwear brand that makes multi-funk-tional products for travelers that desire adaptable and thoughtfully designed gear. In 2023, we coordinated our first Kickstarter to relaunch the core line of Parapack products in a new recycled fabric, custom colorways, and a proprietary compression molded visor. As of 2025, we now have 8 core products, 3 patents, 30+ SKUs, and are currently selling in stores around the world.

The experience of launching and running my own company has been the best tool to challenge & grow my existing skillset within design, but it has also pushed my experience into disciplines outside of design. Gaining a deeper understanding of operations, product line management, forecasting, material sourcing, PO placement, packaging design, merchandising, ads, product photography, financial tracking, customer service, order fulfilment, SALES!..... the list goes on and continues to grow more complex each day.

I'm super thankful for all the opportunities, the lessons, the mentors, and the connections I’ve made along my career so far! 

If you're interested in learning more about me or have a desire to work together- I'd love to hear from you! 

Please feel free to get in touch with me via email:
ianhughesdesign [at] gmail.com