Has any company ever made the transition from an outdoor themed apparel company to a semi-respectable manufacturer of actual performance gear (jackets,backpacks)?
I don't have the money to start designing and producing real gear, but I think I could try my luck at T-shirts and such. I would use this money to work my way up and become a respectable company, hopefully. I don't want to become just another "outdoors" company like Hippy Tree that just makes crap for college kids.
Any good examples?
>>660381
>I don't want to become just another "outdoors" company like Hippy Tree that just makes crap for college kids.
But that's where the money is. Besides, the performance outdoors equipment market is pretty oversaturated.
>>660671
Southern Utah, I think it was Salt Creek near/in Canyonlands NP.
>>660381
You start doing something, not everything. Like backpacks OR clothes. Personally I'd like to see more options for external frame packs, mid size and simple construction.
Most people just charge more and try to make higher price point goods. Practically all low production knife makers work this way. Also what The Hidden Woodsmen does http://thehiddenwoodsmen.com/ and I forget the name but there is a pretty popular military/tactical gear company that does the same thing.