NEMO Equipment, founded in 2002 by Cam Brensinger, designs innovative outdoor gear focused on enhancing adventure experiences. Driven by a "Design Like You Give a Damn" ethos, NEMO creates high-performance, sustainable products like their Endless Promise® collection, prioritizing recyclability and eco-consciousness.
Spikeball is a new sport played by two teams of two players. Opposing teams line up across from each other with the Spikeball net in the center. The ball is put in play with a serve—a hit by the server from behind the service boundary into the net to an opposing player.
Rains is a modern outerwear brand known for their minimalistic rainwear and lifestyle products inspired by Scandinavian design. Their products range from sleek, waterproof jackets and bags to travel accessories, all crafted with a contemporary take on traditional rain gear. Rains focuses on form and function and brings urban-inspired, unisex collections and a signature coated fabric to customers worldwide.
All Things Barbecue (ATBBQ) is your one-stop destination for everything outdoor cooking, offering a wide array of high-quality BBQ grills, smokers, accessories, and fuels. Since 2009, ATBBQ (Wichita-based) has been passionate about spreading the joy of grilling.
Poncho Outdoors makes high-quality, functional shirts and outdoor gear for people who love to explore. They focus on comfort and durability with gear that’s perfect for adventure, whether it’s flannels, hoodies, or performance wear. Backed by a lifetime guarantee and free shipping, Poncho Outdoors is all about making sure you’re prepared for whatever comes next in style.
Hunter Boots has been a British icon since 1856, known for high-quality waterproof footwear crafted to withstand the elements. Using a 28-part construction over three days, each Original Rain Boot is hand-assembled for durability and style. Beyond functionality, Hunter's boots are designed with timeless appeal, making them suitable for various weather conditions and loved by adventurers worldwide.
Fresh Clean Threads delivers comfortable, stylish basics for men and women at affordable prices. Known for their high-quality tees, hoodies, polos, and more, the brand offers customizable packs and a subscription service for convenience and savings. Their mission is to help everyBODY look and feel great in classic essentials, without breaking the bank.
Alder makes outdoor recreation apparel for womxn. Inclusive sizing, sustainable and ethical production and a playful brand that starkly contrasts with the performance-driven that dominate the outdoor space.
Veloretti believes a city bicycle should be simple, timeless and without worthless features.
Direct-to-consumer outdoor brands have revolutionized the way outdoor enthusiasts shop for gear and apparel. Bypassing traditional retail outlets, these brands offer products directly to consumers through online platforms, providing not just convenience and cost-effectiveness, but also a closer relationship between the brand and its community. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and quality, D2C outdoor brands are catering to a new generation of adventurers who value transparency and ethical manufacturing as much as the performance of their gear. From camping equipment and hiking apparel to eco-friendly travel accessories, these brands are setting new standards in the outdoor industry.
Among the vanguard of D2C outdoor brands, companies like Patagonia, Cotopaxi, and REI Co-op stand out for their commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer engagement. Patagonia leads with its eco-conscious apparel and activism for environmental causes. Cotopaxi distinguishes itself with colorful, durable gear and a business model that includes giving back to global communities. REI Co-op, although a bit different as a member-owned cooperative, aligns closely with D2C principles through its direct engagement with customers, high-quality gear, and sustainability efforts. These brands have not only garnered a loyal following but have also raised the bar for ethical business practices in the outdoor industry.
The direct-to-consumer outdoor market is witnessing several key trends that reflect broader shifts in consumer behavior and technological advancements. Sustainability is at the forefront, with an increasing number of brands committing to environmentally friendly materials and production methods. There's also a growing trend towards gear customization and personalization, allowing consumers to have a say in the design and functionality of their equipment. Moreover, the integration of technology in outdoor gear, from advanced GPS systems to wearables that monitor health metrics, is enhancing the outdoor experience. Additionally, community-driven marketing and engagement strategies are fostering brand loyalty and creating vibrant online communities of outdoor enthusiasts. These trends illustrate a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector that continues to push the boundaries of innovation and customer engagement.
Everything you need to build a better D2C brand, business and tech stack.
