Thule

Although the history of the Thule brand doesn’t begin with the world’s best car racks, it still involves the smart practicality of Swedish design and a love of life in the outdoors. In 1942, a Swedish outdoorsman named Erik Thulin put his name on a pike trap he designed for local fisherman. The trap, a lethal-looking device with a spring-loaded steel hook, kicked off a growing business. Thulin continued to design practical products for his company and in 1955 Thule’s first car product was introduced—a metal grill for protecting headlights while driving on rugged dirt roads. By the 1960s, Thule had focused the majority of its business on automotive products. In 1962 the first ski rack was introduced and just two years later it debuted the roof rack with a basket—a design that was improved upon in ’68 with a fastener that made mounting the rack faster and easier. In 1977 Thule brought its first roof box (the Ski Box TB-11) to market. The TB-11 was endorsed by Swedish skiing superstar Ingemar Stenmark (the most winning World Cup alpine ski racer in history); fittingly, the boxes’ bright blue and yellow colors matched the suit of the Swedish ski team. Recognizing an opportunity to help a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts transport gear, Thule introduced surfboard carry systems in 1983, the iconic Combibox 250 in ’84, and in 1992 it debuted their first hitch-mounted bike carrier. Before the decade came to a close, Thule had become the world’s largest producer of roof boxes—a long way to come for a company that got its start making traps for fisherman. Today, Thule operates under the motto “Bring Your Life,” and with its diverse range of products designed for function, safety, and style, it’s clear the company lives up to it. Beyond versatile carry-it-all roof boxes, ski racks, and smart carry systems for both road and mountain bikes, Thule has continued to expand its line with racks designed specifically for kayaks, and it supports all of its products with a full line of accessories and parts. It can even help you get up to the mountain with its selection of snow chains. In addition, Thule Chariot strollers make it easy to run, bike, or ski with youngsters in tow. Thule even has a smart configurator tool that takes the guesswork out of finding the perfect rack for the type of car you drive. Whatever your passion, you can bet on Thule having the carry system you need to bring whatever you need along for the ride.

Check out our wide selection of Thule racks, boxes, roof rails, bike carriers and trailers. Find great Thule deals on Backcountry.com.

Thule - Roof, Hitch, & Trunk racks for Bikes, Skis, & More

To many outdoor junkies, Thule is best known for vehicle-mounted racks for sporting equipment, but the Swedish brand's history started elsewhere in the outdoors—fishing traps, to be precise. It was 1942 when Erik Thulin designed the aforementioned trap and introduced it to local fishermen; as you may expect, it was the result of an unadulterated passion for spending time outside. The shift to automotive racks didn't come until two decades later, when the first ski rack was introduced in 1962, and it was followed up shortly thereafter by a roof basket. That led the way for the 1977 introduction of Thule's roof box for carrying skis, another product whose descendants remain in production to this day. The focus on versatile, user-friendly carrying solutions led Thule to develop a strong following that has only grown with time. Through a series of acquisitions, Thule has expanded into a wide range of product categories, but despite that growth, the focus on functional products that enhance the outdoor experience remains unchanged. Of course there are the iconic ski racks, and equally beloved bike racks that adorn vehicles at trail heads and resort parking lots every weekend. The luggage line has become widely popular as well, with a range of storage and transit solutions for travelers. And in an effort to ensure that the next generation is connected to the outdoors, Thule has introduced a range of products aimed at parents. It includes joggers, strollers, and car seats, all of which are intended to make getting outside with children easier and more enjoyable. Whatever your destination or your goals when you get there, odds are that Thule offers a well-executed solution to make your journey easier, and that's backed by well over half a century of devotion to the cause of getting outside.

Although the history of the Thule brand doesn’t begin with the world’s best car racks, it still involves the smart practicality of Swedish design and a love of life in the outdoors. In 1942, a Swedish outdoorsman named Erik Thulin put his name on a pike trap he designed for local fisherman. The trap, a lethal-looking device with a spring-loaded steel hook, kicked off a growing business. Thulin continued to design practical products for his company and in 1955 Thule’s first car product was introduced—a metal grill for protecting headlights while driving on rugged dirt roads.
 
By the 1960s, Thule had focused the majority of its business on automotive products. In 1962 the first ski rack was introduced and just two years later it debuted the roof rack with a basket—a design that was improved upon in ’68 with a fastener that made mounting the rack faster and easier. In 1977 Thule brought its first roof box (the Ski Box TB-11) to market. The TB-11 was endorsed by Swedish skiing superstar Ingemar Stenmark (the most winning World Cup alpine ski racer in history); fittingly, the boxes’ bright blue and yellow colors matched the suit of the Swedish ski team.
 
Recognizing an opportunity to help a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts transport gear, Thule introduced surfboard carry systems in 1983, the iconic Combibox 250 in ’84, and in 1992 it debuted their first hitch-mounted bike carrier. Before the decade came to a close, Thule had become the world’s largest producer of roof boxes—a long way to come for a company that got its start making traps for fisherman.
 
Today, Thule operates under the motto “Bring Your Life,” and with its diverse range of products designed for function, safety, and style, it’s clear the company lives up to it. Beyond versatile carry-it-all roof boxes, ski racks, and smart carry systems for both road and mountain bikes, Thule has continued to expand its line with racks designed specifically for kayaks, and it supports all of its products with a full line of accessories and parts. It can even help you get up to the mountain with its selection of snow chains. In addition, Thule Chariot strollers make it easy to run, bike, or ski with youngsters in tow. Thule even has a smart configurator tool that takes the guesswork out of finding the perfect rack for the type of car you drive. Whatever your passion, you can bet on Thule having the carry system you need to bring whatever you need along for the ride.

Picture Organic

Shop Picture Organic Clothing at Backcountry. Find quality snowboard, surf, yoga, and all types of outerwear from a brand that aims to fight climate change.  

Picture Organic Clothing 

DAKINE

DAKINE was founded by Rob Kaplan in 1979 to produce surf leashes that could stand up to the beatings dished out by Maui’s North Shore. His first product was, as Rob put it, "the first leash you could pull a car with." The development of this ultra-tough leash actually opened a few unsurfed breaks because of the reduced risk of losing a board. It was a great start for a brand that, like its products, would stand the test of time. By the early '80s, Rob and DAKINE were leading the windsurfing industry with its first adjustable footstrap, seat harness, and waist harness. Its Coffin board bag became a favorite for surfers who travelled to events, beaches, and breaks around the world. In 1986 DAKINE moved its office, manufacturing facility, and warehouse to Hood River, Oregon, which was at the time the mainland epicenter of windsurfing. It also happens that Hood River is home to world-class mountain biking, kayaking, kiteboarding, hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. Because of its year-round snow, Mt. Hood hosts summer ski and snowboard clinics that attract pros from around the world. By 1989, DAKINE had invested heavily in the snowboard market with board bags, gear bags, and jackets, as well as an accessories line including hats, beanies, and wallets. In 1993 DAKINE began manufacturing gloves and mittens. The Heli Pack, the original dedicated, low-profile backcountry snowboard-specific backpack, was developed soon thereafter. The Heli Pack was so successful that it was followed with several different versions, included men’s and women’s versions. There were also countless colors and patterns. Since the '90s, DAKINE has become involved with just about every action sport. It produces bags, clothing, and accessories for snowboarding, skiing, surfing, windsurfing, mountain biking, skateboarding, kiteboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. There is also a full line of DAKINE luggage and bags for just about any occasion or purpose, from beach totes to photo backpacks. After more than 35 years, DAKINE continues to make durability its first priority. It’s not uncommon to see the original DAKINE Heli Pack backpack in the tram line or slowly making its way up a boot-pack in the backcountry. That’s because these packs, like everything else DAKINE makes, were built to withstand many years of harsh weather and abuse and keep going.

Shop DAKINE backpacks, gloves, luggage, clothing & snowboard bags at Backcountry.com. Find great deals, consumer reviews, and a 100% satisfaction gear guarantee.

DAKINE - Backpacks, Luggage, & Snowboard Bags

Unlike other brands, DAKINE actually understands the core of the culture. Andrew Shandro, Matt Hunter, and the rest of DAKINE's solid crew of riders give input for on every piece of gear. Anyone from  cross-country riders to freeriders and dedicated trail builders can find a tool in the DAKINE lineup to help get the job done. 

DAKINE was founded by Rob Kaplan in 1979 to produce surf leashes that could stand up to the beatings dished out by Maui’s North Shore. His first product was, as Rob put it, ""the first leash you could pull a car with."" The development of this ultra-tough leash actually opened a few unsurfed breaks because of the reduced risk of losing a board. It was a great start for a brand that, like its products, would stand the test of time. By the early '80s, Rob and DAKINE were leading the windsurfing industry with its first adjustable footstrap, seat harness, and waist harness. Its Coffin board bag became a favorite for surfers who travelled to events, beaches, and breaks around the world. In 1986 DAKINE moved its office, manufacturing facility, and warehouse to Hood River, Oregon, which was at the time the mainland epicenter of windsurfing. It also happens that Hood River is home to world-class mountain biking, kayaking, kiteboarding, hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. Because of its year-round snow, Mt. Hood hosts summer ski and snowboard clinics that attract pros from around the world. By 1989, DAKINE had invested heavily in the snowboard market with board bags, gear bags, and jackets, as well as an accessories line including hats, beanies, and wallets. In 1993 DAKINE began manufacturing gloves and mittens. The Heli Pack, the original dedicated, low-profile backcountry snowboard-specific backpack, was developed soon thereafter. The Heli Pack was so successful that it was followed with several different versions, included men’s and women’s versions. There were also countless colors and patterns. Since the '90s, DAKINE has become involved with just about every action sport. It produces bags, clothing, and accessories for snowboarding, skiing, surfing, windsurfing, mountain biking, skateboarding, kiteboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. There is also a full line of DAKINE luggage and bags for just about any occasion or purpose, from beach totes to photo backpacks. After more than 35 years, DAKINE continues to make durability its first priority. It’s not uncommon to see the original DAKINE Heli Pack backpack in the tram line or slowly making its way up a boot-pack in the backcountry. That’s because these packs, like everything else DAKINE makes, were built to withstand many years of harsh weather and abuse and keep going.

Patagonia

Patagonia's founder Yvon Chouinard started climbing in 1953 at the age of 14. By age 18 he was manufacturing climbing gear, and by 1970 Chouinard Equipment had become the largest supplier of climbing gear in the U.S. Before long, Chouinard realized that the standard climbing gear of the time was damaging popular climbing routes, so he developed an entirely new type of climbing gear—nuts instead of pitons—and started all over again. Patagonia, originally a clothing division under the Chouinard Equipment brand name, was created in the mid-'70s and stayed true to the brand's spirit of environmental awareness. Through organizations such as the Conservation Alliance and 1% For The Planet, Patagonia has since led an environmental charge in the world of outdoor clothing. Patagonia jackets, pants, shirts, board shorts, T-shirts, and other men's and women's apparel feature goods designed and manufactured using recycled materials, organic cotton, and low-impact construction methods. Patagonia is more than an environmentally friendly clothing manufacturer, however. It has led the way in technical apparel with moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics and other industry-changing innovations. Its timeless designs and legendary durability have made Patagonia one of the most widely respected names in ski and outdoor clothing. Patagonia has also expanded its manufacturing to include everything from backpacks to belts, hats, shoes, and even beanies. Patagonia has also had a huge influence on the outdoor industry from the fashion perspective. Chouinard believed that perfection in design was achieved 'not when there is no longer anything to add, but when there is no longer anything to take away'. Minimalism has been a guiding principle in Patagonia design from the very beginning, allowing form to follow function. This wisdom is recognized and appreciated throughout the outdoor industry. In the early '80s, Patagonia made a bold move that would change the industry forever. It drenched its outerwear in vibrant colors at a time when all men's outerwear was strictly tan or forest green. Soon cobalt, teal, French red, aloe, sea foam, and iced mocha became standard colors for outerwear, and the look of the outdoors changed forever. These days, Patagonia is everywhere. Although it never strove to influence fashion, you can't go to the grocery store, the movies, or the local pub without seeing Patagonia's influence on what we wear every day. Unlike many manufacturers, however, Patagonia put its stamp on the outdoor clothing industry forever while to staying true to its roots and its promise to environmentally conscious ideals.

Shop Patagonia clothing, shoes, & outerwear at Backcountry. Find the latest gear for your next climbing, skiing, fly fishing, and running adventure.

Patagonia - Jackets, Down Coats, Shoes, & More

Patagonia's founder Yvon Choiunard started climbing in 1953 at the age of 14. By age 18 he was manufacturing climbing gear, and by 1970 Chouinard Equipment had become the largest supplier of climbing gear in the U.S. Before long, Chouinard realized that the standard climbing gear of the time was damaging popular climbing routes, so he developed an entirely new type of climbing gear—nuts instead of pitons—and started all over again.
 
Patagonia, originally a clothing division under the Chouinard Equipment brand name, was created in the mid-'70s and stayed true to the brand's spirit of environmental awareness. Through organizations such as the Conservation Alliance and 1% For The Planet, Patagonia has since led an environmental charge in the world of outdoor clothing. Patagonia jackets, pants, shirts, board shorts, T-shirts, and other men's and women's apparel feature goods designed and manufactured using recycled materials, organic cotton, and low-impact construction methods.
 
Patagonia is more than an environmentally friendly clothing manufacturer, however. It has led the way in technical apparel with moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics and other industry-changing innovations. Its timeless designs and legendary durability have made Patagonia one of the most widely respected names in ski and outdoor clothing. Patagonia has also expanded its manufacturing to include everything from backpacks to belts, hats, shoes, and even beanies.
 
Patagonia has also had a huge influence on the outdoor industry from the fashion perspective. Chouinard believed that perfection in design was achieved 'not when there is no longer anything to add, but when there is no longer anything to take away'. Minimalism has been a guiding principle in Patagonia design from the very beginning, allowing form to follow function. This wisdom is recognized and appreciated throughout the outdoor industry. In the early '80s, Patagonia made a bold move that would change the industry forever. It drenched its outerwear in vibrant colors at a time when all men's outerwear was strictly tan or forest green. Soon cobalt, teal, French red, aloe, sea foam, and iced mocha became standard colors for outerwear, and the look of the outdoors changed forever.
 
These days, Patagonia is everywhere. Although it never strove to influence fashion, you can't go to the grocery store, the movies, or the local pub without seeing Patagonia's influence on what we wear every day. Unlike many manufacturers, however, Patagonia put its stamp on the outdoor clothing industry forever while to staying true to its roots and its promise to environmentally conscious ideals.

Shop Patagonia clothing, shoes, & outerwear on Backcountry.com including gear for climbing, skiing, fly fishing, and running.

Vans

Since 1966 Vans has been putting shoes on the feet of skaters and surfers. Their canvas shoes with gum rubber soles gripped onto slick piers and skinny skate decks like nothing else before it. In short time their waffle pattern sole and colorful uppers became synonymous with southern California board riding culture. Throughout the '70s and '80s skatedecks grew bigger, surfboards got smaller, and music got louder. It was during these fast times that Vans solidified their reputation with legendary skateboarders and original punk rockers, Tony Alva and Steve Caballero. To this day, Vans shoes have been worn to more skate missions, mosh pits and surf breaks than any other.

Browse a wide selection of Vans shoes, clothing, and accessories at Backcountry.com. Find the latest Vans jackets, pants, dresses, hats, and more.

Vans - Shoes, Clothing, & Accessories

The North Face

When you think of movements born in San Francisco in the late ‘60s, the high-performance outerwear movement probably isn’t at the top of your list. That is, however, exactly when and where it all began. Back then, Alpinists were forced to use equipment they picked up from the local Army surplus store. There were hardly any manufacturers focused on outdoor equipment in the private sector. That was about to change in a big way. In 1966, Doug Tompkins and his wife Susie decided to open a high-end ski and camping gear storefront at 308 Columbus Avenue in San Francisco's North Beach. They called their shop The North Face, a nod to the storied face of the Eiger and one of the most difficult climbs in the Northern Hemisphere. The store quickly became a hangout for local outdoor enthusiasts, and the legend was born. In 1968, Kenneth ‘Hap’ Klopp acquired The North Face and shifted the company’s focus from retail sales to the design and manufacture of outdoor clothing and equipment. The first manufacturing facility was squeezed into the back of The North Face store in Berkeley. Just a year later, a full-blown factory was opened to produce specialized gear and outerwear. Having established itself as a leader in outdoor apparel and equipment, The North Face began to sponsor expeditions to far flung, untouched locations at every corner of the globe. This launched a proud tradition of exploration that has continued for more than 50 years and solidified the brand’s standing as a leader in the outdoor industry. By the early ’80s, The North Face had expanded its product offering to the world of extreme skiing. Jackets, pants, gloves, and even beanies from The North Face were designed to withstand the harshest weather on the most unforgiving peaks in the world—a far cry from the mostly basic offerings from other manufacturers. By the end of the decade, The North Face became the only supplier in the United States to offer a comprehensive collection of high-performance outerwear, skiwear, sleeping bags, backpacks, and tents. The North Face entered the sportswear market in the ‘90s with its Tekware line. This innovative collection was designed to provide rock climbers, backpackers, hikers, trail runners, and outdoor enthusiasts with the ultimate fit and function. As the ‘90s drew to a close, the Half-Dome logo was a common sight at ultra-marathons. In response, The North Face launched its own line of trekking and trail-running shoes to complement its hiking, backpacking, and winter boots and to outfit the outdoor enthusiast from head to toe. Today, almost 50 years since its humble beginnings in San Francisco, the North Face offers an extensive line of men’s and women’s outdoor gear and clothing. Whether you’re looking for a hat, a windbreaker, a down jacket, or even an expedition shelter for a month at basecamp high in the Himalayas, The North Face can provide you with gear built to meet your needs and much more.

Shop the latest The North Face jackets, coats, clothing & gear at Backcountry.com. Check out popular lines such as the Osito, Denali, Venture, and more.

The North Face - Outdoor Apparel & Gear

The North Face, like the athletes who wear it, represents strength and endurance. The North Face is the most venerable and ubiquitous brand in outerwear and equipment. Like a protected stash of powder, here are The North Face goods: waterproof shells, plush fleece jackets, warm down coats, winter boots, tents, packs, and much more. We are a preferred The North Face seller. So if you seek The North Face gear, we have the largest selection anywhere online. Shop here first to find the outerwear and equipment you're looking for.

When you think of movements born in San Francisco in the late ‘60s, the high-performance outerwear movement probably isn’t at the top of your list. That is, however, exactly when and where it all began. Back then, Alpinists were forced to use equipment they picked up from the local Army surplus store. There were hardly any manufacturers focused on outdoor equipment in the private sector. That was about to change in a big way.
 
In 1966, Doug Tompkins and his wife Susie decided to open a high-end ski and camping gear storefront at 308 Columbus Avenue in San Francisco's North Beach. They called their shop The North Face, a nod to the storied face of the Eiger and one of the most difficult climbs in the Northern Hemisphere. The store quickly became a hangout for local outdoor enthusiasts, and the legend was born.
 
In 1968, Kenneth ‘Hap’ Klopp acquired The North Face and shifted the company’s focus from retail sales to the design and manufacture of outdoor clothing and equipment. The first manufacturing facility was squeezed into the back of The North Face store in Berkeley. Just a year later, a full-blown factory was opened to produce specialized gear and outerwear.
 
Having established itself as a leader in outdoor apparel and equipment, The North Face began to sponsor expeditions to far flung, untouched locations at every corner of the globe. This launched a proud tradition of exploration that has continued for more than 50 years and solidified the brand’s standing as a leader in the outdoor industry.
 
By the early ’80s, The North Face had expanded its product offering to the world of extreme skiing. Jackets, pants, gloves, and even beanies from The North Face were designed to withstand the harshest weather on the most unforgiving peaks in the world—a far cry from the mostly basic offerings from other manufacturers. By the end of the decade, The North Face became the only supplier in the United States to offer a comprehensive collection of high-performance outerwear, skiwear, sleeping bags, backpacks, and tents.
 
The North Face entered the sportswear market in the ‘90s with its Tekware line. This innovative collection was designed to provide rock climbers, backpackers, hikers, trail runners, and outdoor enthusiasts with the ultimate fit and function. As the ‘90s drew to a close, the Half-Dome logo was a common sight at ultra-marathons. In response, The North Face launched its own line of trekking and trail-running shoes to complement its hiking, backpacking, and winter boots and to outfit the outdoor enthusiast from head to toe.
 
Today, almost 50 years since its humble beginnings in San Francisco, the North Face offers an extensive line of men’s and women’s outdoor gear and clothing. Whether you’re looking for a hat, a windbreaker, a down jacket, or even an expedition shelter for a month at basecamp high in the Himalayas, The North Face can provide you with gear built to meet your needs and much more.

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