OUR STORY

3 Donkeys® began in the mud, rain and reality of daily farm and stable life — not in a boardroom. Like so many women working in agriculture, equestrian and outdoor roles, I relied on traditional all-in-one boiler suits. They were tough — but they weren’t designed for women. The fit was wrong, the function was wrong, and the practicality simply wasn’t there. Even basic things like comfort breaks were awkward and time-consuming.

After one particularly long lambing season, it was obvious: women needed something better. Better design. Better shape. Better function. So instead of waiting for it to appear — I created it.

That idea became the 2to1® women’s coverall — a purpose-designed, female-fit overall with a unique waist zip system that transforms how women work outdoors.

HOW IT STARTED

Before launching, I spoke to women across farming, equestrian, gardening, dog handling, trades and yard work. The feedback was consistent — existing workwear simply wasn’t built with women in mind. There was a genuine gap in the market and real demand for something purpose-built.

Design began in 2017, with a clear brief: practical, adaptable, flattering, durable, and genuinely useful in the real world. Designs were registered, prototypes were tested in the field, and in winter 2018 the first 3 Donkeys Classic 2to1® coverall launched.

From day one, every garment has been tested in real working environments — farms, yards, shows, events and workshops — not just on paper.

GROWTH, INNOVATION & INDUSTRY RECOGNITION

What started as a solution to a personal problem quickly grew into a full-time, family-run business serving women across the UK and beyond.

Since launch we have expanded the range to include multiple 2to1® models and specialist variations, including hi-viz and premium performance designs. Our most advanced model, the Exmoor 2to1® coverall, launched in collaboration with Leo Workwear at Burghley Horse Trials and marked a major step forward in technical performance workwear for women.

The Exmoor went on to win BETA International New Product of the Year — Clothing & Footwear, with judges recognising it as innovative, high-quality and genuinely practical work clothing.

Alongside product awards, the business journey itself has been recognised nationally. I’ve been named Businesswoman of the Year at the Women’s Business Awards and have been a multi-time finalist in major UK entrepreneur awards — recognition not just for the garments, but for innovation in a traditionally male-dominated sector.

MORE THAN JUST WORKWEAR

3 Donkeys has grown through community — rural, equestrian and trade networks — and through listening closely to the women who wear our garments every day. Feedback directly shapes product improvements and new designs.

We remain proudly independent, family-run, and values-led. From trade shows and field demos to social media and customer testing, everything we do stays grounded in real use.

LOOKING AHEAD

Our mission hasn’t changed: design serious workwear for women who do serious work outdoors.

Every 2to1® coverall is built around female function, comfort and durability — without compromise. We continue to refine, improve and expand the range so that more women can work cleaner, drier and more comfortably in all conditions.

We’re incredibly proud of how far the journey has come — and even more excited about what’s next.

— Amanda Marshall
Founder, 3 Donkeys®