Hemp carries a stigma around it. The mind automatically goes to illicit substances or stoners. While there is reason for those connections, that’s not all hemp is. It’s a natural fiber that can be used to make clothing, lotions and cooking oils.
The fiber itself also carries a bad reputation when it comes to clothing — it’s thought of as scratchy and uncomfortable to wear. However, since the ‘80s, new processing technology has emerged that makes it more comfortable. In terms of texture, it’s similar to linen, except it doesn’t wrinkle easily. In addition, it’s more durable than other materials and has antibacterial properties so the clothing doesn’t stink as much.
The typical market for hemp looks remarkably similar to a lot of the people who live in Salt Lake. Outdoorsy, eco-friendly, health-conscious people are some who frequent hemp stores and own hemp products, such as clothing or body oils. There’s only one hemp store in Salt Lake to satisfy your hemp needs. Opened two years ago, SLC Hemp sells an assortment of hemp products, including clothing, notebooks, cooking oils and various other merchandise.
“The goal of the store is first and foremost to educate people and show them all the products that can be sustainably made,” owner Adam Wong said. “Nearly any petrochemical product can be made with industrial hemp.”
Wong became fascinated with hemp after traveling to Hawaii and buying a book about it. Soon he began acquiring clothing made of the material before returning home to Utah and realizing there was nowhere local he could buy it. Wong began to sell hemp clothing at booths at farmers markets and outdoor festivals. After graduating from the U, Wong realized he had too many products to sell in a tiny booth, so he opened SLC Hemp on 1117 E. 2100 South, the store’s current location.
According to Wong, the body care and clothing products are the best sellers. Not all the clothing is made of hemp, however. A small number of clothing items are made from bamboo, which is incredibly soft and comfortable to wear.
Hemp products are a niche market, and since there is only one store in Salt Lake that sells these products, SLC Hemp doesn’t have any immediate competitors. The store’s lease is up next year, however, so Wong is considering moving to either Washington or Colorado because the people in both states are more open to hemp products and there is a stronger market there.
If you have any interest in all-natural and eco-friendly products, the store is worth checking out before it’s gone. Plus, U students can get a 10 percent discount with their student ID. For more information, go to slchemp.com.
@carolinemoreton