The Blog

North Carolina-Made Gear Keeps on Rockin’ in the Free World

I’m so excited to share the results from the Outdoor Gear Builders of Western North Carolina’s (OGB) 2018 Outdoor Industry Manufacturing Census (census). Although it’s been several months since it was published, the primary thrust of the findings have not changed. If anything, the contribution of these local manufacturers to the local, regional, state, and [...]

2019-06-18T17:21:42-06:00The Economy|0 Comments

Outdoor Research Doubles U.S. Manufacturing Jobs

Information herein is based on a press release posted by SGB Media on May 29, 2019. Outdoor Research (OR), a very well-known apparel and outdoor brand based in Seattle, Washington, has added a new U.S. facility in El Monte, California. In doing so, it has doubled the number of employees manufacturing apparel and gear in [...]

2019-06-18T17:14:49-06:00The Economy|0 Comments

Boatgirl bags – rugged yet versatile

Boat Girl exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit this country is so well known for! Boatgirl Products A stand-out line of bags that blends durable water-resistant materials, functionality, and superior design to accompany any woman on any adventure, wherever that may be (from the boat to the grocery store and beyond!). And, 75% of their products are [...]

2019-09-09T17:16:58-06:00The Gear|0 Comments

Longevity and Americana in a Pair of American Made Socks

Wigwam Mills has been making socks in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, for a very long time. Started in 1905, this company has and will continue to make high-quality outdoor gear in Wisconsin. And, as it turns out, a dedication to your employees results in dedicated employees. According to snews, the average employee tenure at Wigwam is 17 [...]

2019-06-03T18:22:45-06:00The Gear|0 Comments

Panda Poles: Handcrafted Bamboo Ski Poles and Bamboo Trekking Poles

I’m very excited to introduce you, if you aren’t already a part of the tribe, to Panda Poles. Owned by Tanner (TanSnowMan and Chief of all things Panda Poles), and located in my home town of Pocatello, Idaho (shout out to Poky peeps), he is making Magic Wands and doing it with style. What are [...]

2019-09-09T17:18:32-06:00The Gear|0 Comments

American Outdoor Gear – hell yes, I’m in!

YEEESSS, welcome! Of all the sites out there, you made it, you’re here. What is American Outdoor Gear Hub? American Outdoor Gear Hub is a site to connect people with all the awesome outdoor gear being built right here in the United States. It runs purely on the desire to provide relevant information about this [...]