Creative Collaborations and Meaningful Products: Cape Clasp

Cape Clasp Deep Sea Collection

Cape Clasp began as a passion project for founder Pat Clarke, evolving from geocaching adventures around Cape Cod into a brand known for its innovative collaborations and meaningful contributions to marine conservation. What started with a simple Cape Cod-shaped bracelet has grown into a business that combines creative design, impactful partnerships, and a deep commitment to purpose-driven products.

A Passion for Purpose

The heart of Cape Clasp lies in its mission to support marine life causes. Pat’s vision was clear from the start: create unique products that not only resonate with customers but also give back to the environment. This led to the brand’s nonprofit partnership model, where a portion of sales is donated to organizations such as the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

“We wanted to create something that would reflect our love for the ocean and make an impact,” Pat explains. Cape Clasp’s innovative approach to philanthropy goes beyond donations—it actively involves customers in the mission, allowing them to see the tangible effects of their support.

Innovative Collaborations

One of the defining aspects of Cape Clasp is its ability to merge creativity with cause-driven partnerships. The brand’s Tides Program exemplifies this, working closely with nonprofit organizations to design exclusive product collections for their gift shops and e-commerce stores. These collaborations are tailored to reflect each partner’s unique mission, from shark-tracking bracelets to apparel inspired by marine life.

“We give organizations everything they need to run a successful campaign,” Pat shares. Cape Clasp handles every detail, from product design and sourcing to marketing assets, ensuring that nonprofits receive high-quality items to engage their supporters.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Cape Clasp isn’t just about stylish designs—it’s about sustainability and utility. The brand incorporates ocean plastics into its products, such as its Tikós line of recycled sunglasses, turning waste into something functional and beautiful. This focus on sustainable materials underscores Cape Clasp’s dedication to protecting the ocean while providing meaningful alternatives to mass-produced goods.

Creative Design that Stands Out

From horseshoe crab bottle openers to ocean-inspired apparel, Cape Clasp’s products reflect a deep connection to the sea and the culture of Cape Cod. Each item is carefully crafted to tell a story, combining utility with creativity. The designs are not only visually appealing but also serve a purpose, like the shark bracelet that connects customers to the Sharkivity app, allowing them to track tagged sharks.

This approach extends to the brand’s packaging as well. Cape Clasp’s collaborations often include innovative designs, like the tackle-box packaging for a limited-edition apparel line with Xtratuf, showcasing their ability to blend creativity with function.

Lessons in Resilience and Growth

Over the years, Pat has experienced the ups and downs of running a mission-driven brand. From the early days of Instagram marketing to navigating copycats and rising customer acquisition costs, Cape Clasp has faced its share of challenges. However, Pat emphasizes the importance of adaptability and collaboration in sustaining growth.

One of the brand’s key strategies is leveraging partnerships to test new products and expand its offerings. These collaborations not only reduce financial risk but also foster innovation, allowing Cape Clasp to explore new ideas while remaining true to its mission.

A Brand Built to Inspire

Cape Clasp is more than a product—it’s a movement. With its unique blend of creativity, sustainability, and philanthropy, the brand inspires customers to connect with the ocean and contribute to its protection.

For Pat, it’s not just about selling bracelets or bottle openers—it’s about creating products with meaning. “Utility and purpose are at the core of what we do,” he says. Through Cape Clasp, he has found a way to combine his passion for design with a commitment to making a difference.