Alex grew up riding in New York and reentered riding when her older daughter continued to ask for lessons.  She is a mom to two girls, one of whom is horse-crazy and one who spends her days in pointe shoes. Her family is deeply involved in the equestrian community, living in Washington DC and riding in Maryland and Vermont.  Alex is keenly aware of the risks associated with riding, having broken multiple hand bones and, ever since, has been on the hunt for protective gloves.  With a child who also rides and participates in other activities, she wants to make sure they're as safe as possible. 

Riding gloves have looked the same for generations and while technology has kept pace with helmets and air vests, gloves remain stagnant while injuries continue to add up.  Thumbs Up was born out of personal experience, a lack of anything suitable available for riders, and the desire to keep both kids and adults safe.