UKE is more than just a brand — it’s a bond between a mother and her son, stitched together with love, purpose, and the drive to solve a real problem.

We’re a small, homegrown business based in Queens, New York City, built by a mother-son duo who believe in turning challenges into innovation. I’m Matthew, and this all started when I fell in love with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

As someone with long dreadlocks, I quickly realized there was no product out there that could protect my hair, stay secure during intense training, and still look and feel good. I was constantly battling sweat, mat grime, and tangled hair — and it took a toll on my performance and my confidence.

I had a vision for a dream compression bonnet: something that would firmly hold my hair down, shield it from bacteria and sweat, be gentle on the inside, and sturdy enough to stay on no matter how much rolling or friction I faced.

I turned to the person I trust most — my mom. She’s a wizard with a sewing machine, and I asked her to bring my idea to life. We worked side by side to create the first prototype. It wasn’t perfect at first, but we kept iterating, testing, and improving. After countless prototypes (and a new industrial sewing machine I surprised her with), we finally created the perfect fit.

What started as a solution for Jiu Jitsu grew into something so much bigger. We realized this compression bonnet could help anyone— from athletes and construction workers to chefs, dancers, and everyday people who just want to protect their hair while staying comfortable and stylish.

We make every UKE bonnet by hand, right here in Queens, and we pour our care and craftsmanship into each one. For us, this is more than just a product — it’s a tool of empowerment. It’s about feeling confident, protected, and seen, no matter your lifestyle or hair type.

We hope UKE changes your life like it changed ours.
With love,
Matthew & Estella
Founders of UKE