Meet Paden Sickles | Chief Executive Officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Paden Sickles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Paden, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
The concept for SickFit arose organically when I observed a gap in the military community regarding the availability of high-quality socks capable of withstanding rigorous activities, particularly while wearing combat boots. As an engineer in the Army, my instinct to address challenges kicked in immediately. The realization struck me during a grueling 12-mile ruck march for Air Assault School on a scorching day in Texas when my feet were left distressed!! 

Experiencing this firsthand ignited a determination to improve the footwear options for our service members. Hence, on 27 July 2021, SickFit was established with the mission of providing durable, performance-oriented socks that cater specifically to the unique demands of military life. 

What should our readers know about your business?
What sets us apart from other companies in the industry begins with our name; SickFit, derived from my last name Sickles, carries a dual interpretation in our slogan “Life is Sick.” This embodies a positive play on words, bold and confident branding, ensuring memorability in the minds of our customers. Moreover, our commitment extends beyond mere business, as charitable contributions are made from each purchase.

Our dedication to offering the highest quality products, with a focus on engineering and innovation, further distinguishes us.

While every successful business encounter challenges, our approach is centered around adaptation, overcoming obstacles, and consistently being at the forefront of our field. I am particularly excited about the trajectory of the company and our relentless pursuit of becoming a global leader in the industry.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
What a great question! If given the chance to spend time with my best friend, who I know loves to have a good time, I’d plan an exciting itinerary. Assuming she arrives on a Sunday, NFL Sunday, we’d kick off our adventure by attending a Falcons game. While there, I envision us catching some players, handing them some SickFit socks, and inviting them to play in them. Post-game, we’d head to Slutty Vegan, hoping to catch Pinky Cole and have the opportunity to meet her in person. I admire her message, drive, and passion, and it would be incredible to have a face-to-face conversation with her.

Throughout the week, I’d showcase different areas, highlighting some of my favorite restaurants. We’d explore Taqueria La Oaxaquena in Jonesboro, TacoMac in McDonough, Top Korean BBQ & Hot Pot in Sandy Springs, and enjoy breakfast at Barneys. To add a cultural vibe to our experience, we’d visit museums, including the Illuminarium and High Museum.

And, of course, we wouldn’t miss catching a Braves game! The week would be filled with, memorable moments, delicious food, good vibes and the joy of exploring some of the best spots in the area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to express my gratitude to numerous individuals who have played pivotal roles in my entrepreneurial journey. My heartfelt thanks go out to my mentors, friends, and my dedicated SickFit staff and Brand Ambassadors. A special acknowledgment goes to my family and siblings, particularly my parents, who not only paved the way for entrepreneurship but have been unwavering in their support and guidance throughout.

I extend my appreciation to the Savannah team, including Nadia Osman at SBDC Savannah, Ned Duffy (Score Mentor), Majorie Young of Carriage Trade Public Relations, Inc., and Mayor Van Johnson for their invaluable contributions, allowing SickFit to create impactful campaign pieces.

A profound thank you goes to my biggest cheerleaders and the extraordinary team behind me: First and foremost, the SickFit Staff, Brand Ambassadors, and the creative behind the camera, Nelson Laporte with Photography by Laporte. Everyone continually embodies, upholds, and spreads the SickFit Culture. Additionally, Monique Gibson, a Service-Disabled Marine Vet, and business consultant at JMCO Consulting, Kristi Alderson, a Service-Disabled Navy Vet, and Marla Bautista, a Military Spouse, Writer, and Author who both serve as SickFit’s publicist and more.

I am also grateful to IVMF for connecting me with Lauren Hope, Executive Director of The Second Service Foundation, Abby Ammons, Community Outreach Manager at the Second Service Foundation, and Corie Weathers, Military Clinical Consultant of Lifegiver LLC, for her insightful coaching.
Thank you all for your unwavering support and guidance on this incredible journey.

Website: https://www.sickfit.us/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sickfit.us?igshid=YzAwZjE1ZTI0Zg%3D%3D

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/public-profile/settings?trk=d_flagship3_profile_self_view_public_profile

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075492745479

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-xpqLM4jy5OpDmncgsHxQg

Image Credits
Nelson Laporte Keith Fernandez Rashawn Laurel Chris Hayes