Outdoor Research

Seattle-based manufacturer of equipment and apparel for outdoor sports, Outdoor Research’s roots lie in the story of its founder, a nuclear physicist with a passion for mountain exploration. In 1980, after months of careful planning, Ron Gregg's ascent of the Denali mountain in Alaska was cut short halfway to the summit. The cause? A failed pair of gaiters and a frostbitten climbing partner. After refusing a seat on the rescue helicopter, Ron spent the next two weeks descending the mountain alone, contemplating the events that had occurred. By the time he got home to Seattle, his path forward was clear; he would devote his life to fixing the “gear problem” to ensure that future explorers needn’t be impeded by similar failures. Applying this determination alongside his research-led approach to problem-solving, Ron created his flagship product, the functional, insulated X-Gaiter, and Outdoor Research was founded the following year. The Outdoor Research Tactical range was generated through a close and longstanding partnership with on-the-soldier equipment specialists, Brigantes. As is so often the case with the best working relationships, the Brigantes-Outdoor Research partnership began as a friendship. One founded upon a joint passion for extreme outdoor pursuits and shared intrinsic values. At its core, the Outdoor Research Tactical range is more than just a collection of products; it represents a shared mission to empower military personnel with the tools they need to overcome the toughest challenges. Whether on the battlefield or in training, Outdoor Research Tactical ensures that military personnel are equipped to perform at their best, no matter the environment.