About Us

The Chopped Collective is a UK-based brand that was founded in the Autumn of 2022 following a full fore quarter upper limb amputation. Founded by lifelong surfers and skaters, Stephen Downes (the_onearmedsurfer) and graphic designer Mark ‘Kram’ Taylor, The Chopped Collective was started in response to the loss of my left arm, shoulder, three ribs and chest wall. The idea of producing my own range of clothing came as I wanted bespoke adapted clothes that met my needs as an amputee but were also representative of my lifestyle.

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Initially conceived as an amputee brand once I started sharing prototype designs, friends began asking where they could buy Chopped. More than anything, setting up and starting this brand has been a way of pro-actively finding purpose in my post-op life, it’s given focus and has been a way of managing both mental and emotional health and well-being following the trauma of surgery that meant surfing was not possible.

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Our originally unique designs are heavily influenced by subcultures of the 70s and 80s, including surfing, skateboarding, music and art & design. Drawing on these influences to create products that are both timeless and contemporary, combining classic styles with modern functionality. It is also the aim of The Chopped Collective to offer bespoke tailored clothing to those who find themselves in situations similarly life-changing situations.

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The Chopped Collective is a brand that is dedicated to originality and quality, that also seeks to promote the brand ethos of, ‘Born to Ride: No Excuses.’ The transfer of energy through the feet when surfing and skating is a pure form of pleasure that is as enjoyable as it is beneficial as a means of proactively helping deal with the challenges life throws at us.