About RIPT
The RIPT concept was born between close friends Paul, TJ, and Matt, who knew each other since childhood and through their graduation from Iowa State University. Additionally, the three men were in the pop-punk band 2nd Best, who toured the Midwest in the early 2000s. After a few years apart, they all found themselves living in Chicago and decided to collaborate on RIPT due to their complementary skill sets. One of RIPT’s founders, Matt, said, “Starting a business is exciting. Taking a risk and devoting our time and money to RIPT Apparel is one of the most satisfying things I’ve ever done. I’m confident in what we are doing, and feel that we can showcase new and upcoming artists that haven’t had a chance to make a big splash yet.”
RIPT Team
TJ Mapes
- Position: Co-Owner / Web Director
- Position: Born: December 2nd, 1981
- Twitter @tjmapes
- http://www.tjmapes.com
- http://tjmapes.tumblr.com/
TJ Mapes is the Web Director for RIPT Apparel. Born and raised in Iowa, currently residing in Chicago, IL.
Matt Ingleby
- Position: Co-Owner / Marketing & Logistics
- Position: Born: December 1st, 1981
- Twitter @mattingleby
My name is Matt. I’m a fan of sports, music, and business. I live in Chicago and love every minute of it! I run the day to day business aspects of RIPT Apparel.
Paul Friemel
- Position: Co-Owner / Design Director
- Position: Born: September 26th, 1981
- Twitter @diablien
- www.paulfriemel.com
Paul has been designing and creating artwork since he was learning to walk. He has been using the internet since his early days on Prodigy and AOL chat rooms. Since then he has created work for many bands including Hawthorne Heights, Taking Back Sunday and The Smashing Pumpkins. He currently RULES.
