Alta Reina
Alta Reina is a clothing brand dedicated to creating vibrant, functional apparel designed specifically for tall women. Committed to high-quality, responsibly sourced materials and U.S. manufacturing, Alta Reina delivers stylish, practical designs with thoughtful features like pockets, combining fashion and functionality for women who need more than the standard fit.
The concept for Alta Reina was born out of a personal struggle: finding clothing that fits taller frames without compromising on style or performance. Inspired by these challenges and years of experience in the outdoor apparel industry, the brand was created to address a significant gap in the market. The struggles of finding well-fitting winter gear and swimsuits for tall women became a driving force behind the launch of Alta Reina.
In 2020, Alta Reina’s founder explored the market potential at the Outdoor Retailer trade show, receiving positive feedback for the idea. Despite delays caused by the pandemic, the company persevered, enrolling in the Factory 45 mentorship program to source sustainable fabrics and partner with U.S.-based manufacturers. After overcoming challenges, Alta Reina established its manufacturing partnership in The Bronx, NY, and proudly launched its first line of base layers in Fall 2024.
Alta Reina is deeply committed to ethical production practices, standing firmly against fast fashion and prioritizing the fair treatment of workers. The brand acknowledges the environmental impact of fabric production, including polyester, but recognizes the importance of selecting materials that ensure durability, functionality, and safety in extreme conditions. Alta Reina is committed to sourcing all fabrics responsibly to balance performance with a focus on minimizing environmental harm.
Rooted in passion and a vision to empower tall women, Alta Reina delivers apparel that celebrates individuality, functionality, and ethical craftsmanship.
Suzi holds a B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences from Oregon State University, with a minor in music. A former rugby player and team president, she later became an assistant coach after graduation. Suzi has also worked as a substitute teacher in Oregon and Washington. After her time at REI, she pursued a graduate degree in Elementary Education from USC's Rossier School of Education.
Suzi’s seven-year tenure at REI gave her extensive experience across a variety of roles, including repairs, rentals, customer service, footwear, and marketing. Her marketing work involved creating promotional videos and making guest appearances on morning talk shows to promote outdoor recreation and REI products. Through her work at REI, she developed a deep understanding of how clothing and shoes fit and perform, helping customers find apparel that suits their bodies.
At 5’11", Suzi has always faced challenges finding clothing that fits her athletic frame. After years of crafting her own clothes, marrying a 6’10" partner, and raising two tall daughters, she realized the need for a brand that catered to women like her. The struggles her family faced finding well-fitting winter gear and swimsuits inspired the launch of Alta Reina (originally considered "Mountain Amazon").
In 2020, Suzi explored the market potential for a tall women's outdoor brand at the Outdoor Retailer trade show. Although the concept garnered interest, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed her plans. After recovering and caring for her family, Suzi enrolled in the Factory 45 mentorship program. Over the next two years, she sourced fabrics and U.S.-based manufacturers, overcoming setbacks like factories pivoting away from small designers. Eventually, she found a manufacturing partner in The Bronx, NY, and launched Alta Reina’s first line of base layers in Fall 2024.
Suzi is committed to ethical production, opposing fast fashion and ensuring fair treatment of workers. While polyester is used for its durability and protection, she is dedicated to responsible sourcing. Her journey is fueled by a passion for creating stylish, functional clothing for tall women.
Outside of work, Suzi continues to substitute teach and enjoys Nordic and alpine skiing, yoga, swimming, horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. She also sews and adds personal touches to her wardrobe.