Boston— In a move for workplace safety and gender equity, ARX, a women-owned personal protective equipment (PPE) brand, has officially launched the first PPE line designed specifically for women. The debut marks a major shift in an industry long dominated by gear made for — and often only suited to — male bodies.
Co-founded by Dr. Hilary Gallin, a physician with a background in anesthesiology and surgical care, and Kaitlin McCarthy, CEO of Ionic Development, one of Greater Boston’s few women-led commercial real estate firms, ARX was born from firsthand frustration with ill-fitting and uncomfortable safety gear.
“We were tired of wearing PPE that didn’t fit and wasn’t made for us,” said McCarthy. “ARX was born from the need to feel safe, respected, and confident at work.”
“When women wear gear designed specifically for them, it changes how they work and how they’re seen,” added Dr. Gallin. “This isn’t just about clothing. It’s about culture, confidence, and equality on jobsites and beyond.”
ARX’s inaugural product line — including the Original Vest and Original Shirt — introduces the Multipoint Fit System, a proprietary design that delivers a tailored silhouette, breathable fabric, and unrestricted mobility. The gear maintains ANSI-107 Type R Class 2 certification, meeting updated OSHA regulations that now require PPE to properly fit the wearer.
The launch comes at a critical time, as both public and private sector employers face increased scrutiny over safety standards and inclusivity on construction sites. Early adopters such as Tocci Building Companies, NorthBridge Partners, AMCON Construction, and Build Health International are already outfitting their teams with ARX’s gear, signaling strong industry support for the brand’s mission.
While ARX’s first collection focuses on the construction industry, future product lines will extend into other sectors — including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare — where reliable, well-fitting PPE for women remains in short supply.
