Mountain Hardwear

Mountain Hardwear's name undeniably tells a tale. "Mountain" is, well, for the mountains, while "Hardwear" is truly the most telling word of the pairing–every piece is, literally, built for hard wear. Combined, these two words map the plot of Mountain Hardwear's story; a story running parallel to our collective ambition outdoors. You see, you can't just show up to climb an ice face or ski a remote line on the mountain; you actually have to put the work into it. Likewise, since 1993, Mountain Hardwear has realized the necessity that innovation plays in living up to its own name. More importantly, though, its advancements supply the tools you need to conquer the seemingly unconquerable. As technologies have changed, Mountain Hardwear has never been one to simply adopt and adapt. Instead, it actually initiates the shift in trends through strategic partnerships that lead to the development of innovative new materials. Much of this is traceable back to 2001, when Mountain Hardwear partnered with W.L. Gore and Associates on the development of the venerable Windstopper fabric. Today, it's a household name, but back then, it required a truly pioneering spirit to roll the dice. The same was true when Mountain Hardwear went solo on the development of its highly breathable DryQ Elite jackets and pants or its Ghost Whisperer down insulation pieces, creating new standards in lightweight, protective outerwear. Since its early days in California, Mountain Hardwear's unyielding passion for perfection has extended itself to nearly every category of adventure and freedom. In the camping and expedition domains, Mountain Hardwear invented standards like Crossflow construction, the Tension Shelf, and the Tension Arch for its tents. For backpacking, it produced the first waterproof sleeping bags in 2003, followed up by Coolwave Suspension for its backpacks. For skiing and ice climbing, it was the first to produce both men's and women's jackets with welded seam technology–a feat that also helped to revolutionize the industry for ski jackets and ski pants. And in 2005, it adapted this technology to produce the first welded softshell and down jackets. Not surprisingly, Mountain Hardwear's innovative spirit translates into a host of patents. Sure, that's something to take pride in, but all of this was done simply because Mountain Hardwear believes that nothing should be impossible, and that anything worth having is worth some hard work. As Mountain Hardwear even says, "We think that the magnificence of the outdoors is magnified when it's shared."

Find Mountain Hardwear gear for sale at Backcountry.com. Shop a huge selection of Mountain Hardware tents, jackets, gloves & more.

Mountain Hardwear - Jackets, Pants, & Tents

Its name captures the brand's essence with clever simplicity-Mountain Hardwear. From Exum Ridge to Everest, hardcore mountaineers have relied on Mountain Hardwear to get them through the toughest conditions. Check out Gore-Tex shells, weatherproof soft shells, technical fleece jackets, pants, and more.

Mountain Hardwear's name undeniably tells a tale. ""Mountain"" is, well, for the mountains, while ""Hardwear"" is truly the most telling word of the pairing–every piece is, literally, built for hard wear. Combined, these two words map the plot of Mountain Hardwear's story; a story running parallel to our collective ambition outdoors. You see, you can't just show up to climb an ice face or ski a remote line on the mountain; you actually have to put the work into it. Likewise, since 1993, Mountain Hardwear has realized the necessity that innovation plays in living up to its own name. More importantly, though, its advancements supply the tools you need to conquer the seemingly unconquerable.
 
As technologies have changed, Mountain Hardwear has never been one to simply adopt and adapt. Instead, it actually initiates the shift in trends through strategic partnerships that lead to the development of innovative new materials. Much of this is traceable back to 2001, when Mountain Hardwear partnered with W.L. Gore and Associates on the development of the venerable Windstopper fabric. Today, it's a household name, but back then, it required a truly pioneering spirit to roll the dice. The same was true when Mountain Hardwear went solo on the development of its highly breathable DryQ Elite jackets and pants or its Ghost Whisperer down insulation pieces, creating new standards in lightweight, protective outerwear.
 
Since its early days in California, Mountain Hardwear's unyielding passion for perfection has extended itself to nearly every category of adventure and freedom. In the camping and expedition domains, Mountain Hardwear invented standards like Crossflow construction, the Tension Shelf, and the Tension Arch for its tents. For backpacking, it produced the first waterproof sleeping bags in 2003, followed up by Coolwave Suspension for its backpacks. For skiing and ice climbing, it was the first to produce both men's and women's jackets with welded seam technology–a feat that also helped to revolutionize the industry for ski jackets and ski pants. And in 2005, it adapted this technology to produce the first welded softshell and down jackets.
 
Not surprisingly, Mountain Hardwear's innovative spirit translates into a host of patents. Sure, that's something to take pride in, but all of this was done simply because Mountain Hardwear believes that nothing should be impossible, and that anything worth having is worth some hard work. As Mountain Hardwear even says, ""We think that the magnificence of the outdoors is magnified when it's shared.""

Hestra

Martin Magnusson began producing durable leather gloves for lumberjacks in 1936, in the small town of Hestra in southern Sweden. However, it wasn’t long before he branched out into new markets. Only a year later, a ski slope was built nearby, and as ski tourism grew rapidly in the area Magnusson realized that skiers needed good gloves, too. Taking his knowledge of glovemaking and applying it to this new, rapidly growing sport, Magnusson created one of the leading international glove brands for skiing, outdoor recreation, and leisure. Hestra was guided along this path by Martin Magnusson’s sons, dedicated alpine skiers who took over the company in 1963. Hestra became increasingly associated with skiing success; Ingemar Stenmark, the legendary Swedish racer, skied to fame while wearing Hestra ski gloves. Hestra has equipped the Swedish national ski team since 1975, and Norwegian national ski team since 1981. Over the last decade, the company has undergone significant growth, both in economic terms and in the breadth of its product lines. In addition to gloves for cross-country and alpine skiing, Hestra now makes gloves for a growing number of activities such as biking, water sports, and mountaineering. In addition to its men’s gloves, it offers products designed specifically for women and kids. Hestra gloves are known world-wide for both quality and the near-exclusive use of fine leather in its gloves. Protective yet breathable, durable yet supple, leather is the ultimate glove and mitten material. Hestra uses eight different kinds of leather in its products, matching the material to its intended use. In fact, Hestra sources all its own leather, textiles, wool, and other materials to give it complete control of the entire production chain and ensures high quality at every stage. Several models of Hestra gloves are handmade by some of the most experienced glove makers in Europe. In addition to top-quality materials and construction, Hestra products are renown for their design. Design and development is done in cooperation with some of the world’s top pro skiers and adventurers to ensure real-world relevance. Some Hestra signature designs and features include the three-finger glove, the Hestra ‘handcuff’ retainer leash, and removable liner gloves. Models for cross-country skiing and biking emphasize fit, grip, and protection from the wind, while those made for mountaineering are notably versatile. And Hestra’s casual gloves are uniformly supple and elegant. In this age of company diversification and brand dilution, Hestra has stuck by its original mission and even its original ownership. The company still only produces gloves and mittens, and is still run by the Magnusson family. And its commitment to quality has never wavered in its nearly 80-year history. Now that’s focus.

Hestra has a long history of making the finest ski gloves from the finest materials. Find Hestra gloves & mittens at Backcountry.com.

Hestra - Gloves for Men, Women, & Kids

Martin Magnusson began producing durable leather gloves for lumberjacks in 1936, in the small town of Hestra in southern Sweden. However, it wasn’t long before he branched out into new markets. Only a year later, a ski slope was built nearby, and as ski tourism grew rapidly in the area Magnusson realized that skiers needed good gloves, too. Taking his knowledge of glovemaking and applying it to this new, rapidly growing sport, Magnusson created one of the leading international glove brands for skiing, outdoor recreation, and leisure. 

Hestra was guided along this path by Martin Magnusson’s sons, dedicated alpine skiers who took over the company in 1963. Hestra became increasingly associated with skiing success; Ingemar Stenmark, the legendary Swedish racer, skied to fame while wearing Hestra ski gloves. Hestra has equipped the Swedish national ski team since 1975, and Norwegian national ski team since 1981. Over the last decade, the company has undergone significant growth, both in economic terms and in the breadth of its product lines. In addition to gloves for cross-country and alpine skiing, Hestra now makes gloves for a growing number of activities such as biking, water sports, and mountaineering. In addition to its men’s gloves, it offers products designed specifically for women and kids. 

Hestra gloves are known world-wide for both quality and the near-exclusive use of fine leather in its gloves. Protective yet breathable, durable yet supple, leather is the ultimate glove and mitten material. Hestra uses eight different kinds of leather in its products, matching the material to its intended use. In fact, Hestra sources all its own leather, textiles, wool, and other materials to give it complete control of the entire production chain and ensures high quality at every stage. Several models of Hestra gloves are handmade by some of the most experienced glove makers in Europe. 

In addition to top-quality materials and construction, Hestra products are renown for their design. Design and development is done in cooperation with some of the world’s top pro skiers and adventurers to ensure real-world relevance. Some Hestra signature designs and features include the three-finger glove, the Hestra ‘handcuff’ retainer leash, and removable liner gloves. Models for cross-country skiing and biking emphasize fit, grip, and protection from the wind, while those made for mountaineering are notably versatile. And Hestra’s casual gloves are uniformly supple and elegant. 

In this age of company diversification and brand dilution, Hestra has stuck by its original mission and even its original ownership. The company still only produces gloves and mittens, and is still run by the Magnusson family. And its commitment to quality has never wavered in its nearly 80-year history. Now that’s focus.

Fjallraven

From the beginning, Fjällräven has been driven by the mission of offering timeless, functional and durable equipment for getting outdoors and enjoying nature. A necessary part of this is finding innovative solutions to problems. The company’s origins can be found in such an act, when a 14-year-old Swedish boy named Åke Nordin, decided to come up with a comfortable rucksack to carry his gear on an overnight trek. Most backpacks of the 1950s were shapeless, uncomfortable sacks; using his mother’s sewing machine and applying his research into carrying loads, he fashioned a better pack out of cotton canvas, leather, and a wooden frame. Later, during his military service at the FJS Parachute Ranger School in Karlsborg, he noticed that not even the equipment used by the most elite unit in the service made the grade. Inspired by these experiences and by a passion for the outdoors, Nordin founded Fjällräven (Swedish for arctic fox) in 1960. Its goal was to create durable and functional outdoor equipment; its registered office was the family’s one-room flat just outside Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. The workshop was in the cellar, which served as a factory and R&D department during the first year. The first products were backpacks with aluminum frames; in 1968, the first Fjällräven jacket was introduced. Made from tough G-1000 fabric, it was named the Greenland Jacket after a successful expedition to Greenland, and soon became a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.  Another iconic product was the Kånken backpack, launched in 1978. Åke Nordin created this lightweight, basic, durable backpack to give Norwegian schoolchildren a simple, ergonomically correct way to carry their necessities to and from school. Since then it has become one of Fjällräven's most popular products; over the decades the basic design has remained the same, with changing colors and variations (like a laptop version) that reflect the times.  Over the years, Fjällräven's product lines have expanded slowly and thoughtfully. It doesn’t tinker with tried-and-true designs and instead focuses on quality, convinced that products that last longer are better for the environment than trendy items that are only good for one season. So whether you’re looking for a weatherproof jacket, a thick flannel shirt, a beautiful sweater, functional hiking pants, or a sturdy bag or pack, you’re assured of getting an heirloom piece that’s designed to work well and built to last.

Like the name suggests, Fjallraven means Arctic Fox in Swedish. Shop outdoor clothing and bags by Fjallraven on Backcountry.com.

Fjallraven - Outdoor Apparel & Rucksacks

From the beginning, Fjällräven has been driven by the mission of offering timeless, functional and durable equipment for getting outdoors and enjoying nature. A necessary part of this is finding innovative solutions to problems. The company’s origins can be found in such an act, when a 14-year-old Swedish boy named Åke Nordin, decided to come up with a comfortable rucksack to carry his gear on an overnight trek. Most backpacks of the 1950s were shapeless, uncomfortable sacks; using his mother’s sewing machine and applying his research into carrying loads, he fashioned a better pack out of cotton canvas, leather, and a wooden frame. Later, during his military service at the FJS Parachute Ranger School in Karlsborg, he noticed that not even the equipment used by the most elite unit in the service made the grade.
 
Inspired by these experiences and by a passion for the outdoors, Nordin founded Fjällräven (Swedish for arctic fox) in 1960. Its goal was to create durable and functional outdoor equipment; its registered office was the family’s one-room flat just outside Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. The workshop was in the cellar, which served as a factory and R&D department during the first year. The first products were backpacks with aluminum frames; in 1968, the first Fjällräven jacket was introduced. Made from tough G-1000 fabric, it was named the Greenland Jacket after a successful expedition to Greenland, and soon became a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
 
Another iconic product was the Kånken backpack, launched in 1978. Åke Nordin created this lightweight, basic, durable backpack to give Norwegian schoolchildren a simple, ergonomically correct way to carry their necessities to and from school. Since then it has become one of Fjällräven's most popular products; over the decades the basic design has remained the same, with changing colors and variations (like a laptop version) that reflect the times.
 
Over the years, Fjällräven's product lines have expanded slowly and thoughtfully. It doesn’t tinker with tried-and-true designs and instead focuses on quality, convinced that products that last longer are better for the environment than trendy items that are only good for one season. So whether you’re looking for a weatherproof jacket, a thick flannel shirt, a beautiful sweater, functional hiking pants, or a sturdy bag or pack, you’re assured of getting an heirloom piece that’s designed to work well and built to last.

Oakley

To call Oakley an industry leader is an understatement; Oakley has been reinventing the outdoor products we use for nearly 40 years. Oakley blends science and art to make eyewear, clothing, and accessories that routinely exceed the current standards for performance. It all started in 1975, when Jim Jannard had an idea to develop a motorcycle handgrip using an ergonomic design and a new, hydrophilic material that made the grips stickier with sweat. Immediately, pro riders noticed. Jim’s next design was the O-Frame MX goggle. Pros like Mark Barnett, Marty Smith, Johnny O‘Mara, and Jeff Ward championed its clarity and wide peripheral view. O-Frames put Oakley on the map, and it wasn’t long before Oakey’s sunglasses designed specifically for sport and goggles for ski, snowboard, mountain bike and BMX pursuits were showing up on the faces of professional athletes and fans alike. Oakley has revolutionized these industries with ground-breaking innovations in polarization, optical clarity, molding, materials, impact resistance, and fit. Radically new designs like the Blade, Razor Blade, and M Frame altered our expectations of how sport sunglasses should look and perform. In addition to advanced optics and industrial-strength protection, the cutting-edge design of Oakey eyewear is now enhanced with crystal-clear sound. Sunglasses and goggles with built-in MP3 and Bluetooth capabilities enable users to rock out and stay connected no matter where they are. Oakley has made innovative leaps in other categories as well. Its outerwear incorporates technology like Reversible Heat Storage, which was developed for the space program. Oakley’s Pro Rider series of jackets, pants, and baselayers was designed to meet the specifications of leading professional skiers and riders. Unlike traditional flat cutouts, Oakley sport clothing is designed with CAD/CAM digital sculpturing for perfect fit and comfort. This technology is also used in the design of its footwear to integrate all of the components of the shoe for a better fit. Oakely watches combine Old World craftsmanship with New World technology to deliver unexpected results. Even Oakley backpacks are famous for their design—at once sleek, stylish, and extremely functional. Since it was founded, Oakley’s approach has been both innovative and artistic; decades later, Oakley has been awarded nearly 600 patents, and its products are sold in over 100 countries worldwide. These innovations have earned Oakley a reputation for reinventing the products that we use every day; this reputation makes the iconic “O” logo as in-demand as any in the world.

Shop the best selection and greatest prices on Oakley goggles, sunglasses, snowboard jackets, & outerwear on Backcountry.com.

Oakley - Sunglasses, Apparel, & Accessories 

Oakley understands what it means go get out there and ride like it's your last day on Earth. that's why riders like Brian Lopes wear Oakley whenever they hit the trail. This isn't gear for roadies who happen to ride mountain bikes, this is gear for die-hard freeriders and downhillers who let it hang out on every ride and need gear that can keep up. 

To call Oakley an industry leader is an understatement; Oakley has been reinventing the outdoor products we use for nearly 40 years. Oakley blends science and art to make eyewear, clothing, and accessories that routinely exceed the current standards for performance.
 
It all started in 1975, when Jim Jannard had an idea to develop a motorcycle handgrip using an ergonomic design and a new, hydrophilic material that made the grips stickier with sweat. Immediately, pro riders noticed. Jim’s next design was the O-Frame MX goggle. Pros like Mark Barnett, Marty Smith, Johnny O‘Mara, and Jeff Ward championed its clarity and wide peripheral view.
 
O-Frames put Oakley on the map, and it wasn’t long before Oakey’s sunglasses designed specifically for sport and goggles for ski, snowboard, mountain bike and BMX pursuits were showing up on the faces of professional athletes and fans alike. Oakley has revolutionized these industries with ground-breaking innovations in polarization, optical clarity, molding, materials, impact resistance, and fit. Radically new designs like the Blade, Razor Blade, and M Frame altered our expectations of how sport sunglasses should look and perform.
 
In addition to advanced optics and industrial-strength protection, the cutting-edge design of Oakey eyewear is now enhanced with crystal-clear sound. Sunglasses and goggles with built-in MP3 and Bluetooth capabilities enable users to rock out and stay connected no matter where they are.
 
Oakley has made innovative leaps in other categories as well. Its outerwear incorporates technology like Reversible Heat Storage, which was developed for the space program. Oakley’s Pro Rider series of jackets, pants, and baselayers was designed to meet the specifications of leading professional skiers and riders. Unlike traditional flat cutouts, Oakley sport clothing is designed with CAD/CAM digital sculpturing for perfect fit and comfort. This technology is also used in the design of its footwear to integrate all of the components of the shoe for a better fit. Oakely watches combine Old World craftsmanship with New World technology to deliver unexpected results. Even Oakley backpacks are famous for their design—at once sleek, stylish, and extremely functional.
 
Since it was founded, Oakley’s approach has been both innovative and artistic; decades later, Oakley has been awarded nearly 600 patents, and its products are sold in over 100 countries worldwide. These innovations have earned Oakley a reputation for reinventing the products that we use every day; this reputation makes the iconic “O” logo as in-demand as any in the world.

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 on Backcountry.com including gear for climbing, skiing, fly fishing, and running.

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.

Marmot

The Marmot story began in 1971. While traveling through Alaska's Juneau Icefield, University of California Santa Cruz students Eric Reynolds and Dave Huntley were struck with the idea of starting a mountaineering social club. They dubbed their group the Marmot club, and over the next few years, they fashioned prototypes of vests, sweaters, parkas, and several sleeping bags in their dorm room. It wasn't long before the two, along with friend Tom Boyce, took the leap into business and opened a retail and rental shop in Grand Junction, Colorado under the name Marmot Mountain Works. Marmot was born. 2014 marks Marmot's 40th anniversary. The brand has come a long way since its humble beginnings in Grand Junction. Marmot is now one of the premier manufacturers of technical jackets, pants, and extreme weather suits, as well as accessories, tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags for all season, conditions, and activities. You'll see the 8000M suit on the world's highest peaks, the Precip jacket and pant on hikers everywhere, the Limelight tent stashed in the packs of backpackers and campers, and the Guide vest on skiers, snowboarders, and winter enthusiasts of all types. Once a mountaineering brand, Marmot has since expanded into interests like urban exploration, trail running, and more. It was in 1974 when Marmot got its first big break in designing its own product. Tom Boyce was contacted by filmmaker Mike Hoover who needed 108 'very puffy' jackets for a shoot for the Clint Eastwood movie The Eiger Sanction. In response, Marmot delivered the Golden Mantle down jacket--its largest order on record at that time, and one that spurred Marmot into a future of creating many of its own in-house designs and technologies. Synthetics like Hollow Core, insulations like Thermal R, and materials like PreCip can all be attributed to Marmot production innovations. Another milestone in Marmot's history occurred a few years later when Eric met Joe Tanner of W.L. Gore & Associates, who introduced him to Gore-Tex fabric. Intrigued, Eric made a few sleeping bags with the new laminate. He and Dave spent seven nights in the bags in a commercial frozen meat locker and tested the bags under fire sprinklers. They were so impressed with the results that they changed over the entire Marmot line to Gore-Tex fabrics, making it the first W.L. Gore customer in the outdoor industry. Marmot continues to partner with leading brands like Gore-Tex, Primaloft, and Polartec to create top-quality products for a wide range of conditions and uses. Today, the Marmot name is stronger than ever. It has grown a lot and evolved, particularly in the direction of more and more ecological sustainability in both its materials and its processes. But one thing has never changed—Marmot's commitment to designing and manufacturing the highest quality performance outdoor clothing and equipment.

Marmot is known for its top-quality jackets, tents, packs, bags, gloves, base layers, and more. Find a wide selection from Marmot at Backcountry.com.

Marmot - Outwear, Backpacks, Tents, & More

The Marmot story began in 1971. While traveling through Alaska's Juneau Icefield, University of California Santa Cruz students Eric Reynolds and Dave Huntley were struck with the idea of starting a mountaineering social club. They dubbed their group the Marmot club, and over the next few years, they fashioned prototypes of vests, sweaters, parkas, and several sleeping bags in their dorm room. It wasn't long before the two, along with friend Tom Boyce, took the leap into business and opened a retail and rental shop in Grand Junction, Colorado under the name Marmot Mountain Works. Marmot was born.
 
2014 marks Marmot's 40th anniversary. The brand has come a long way since its humble beginnings in Grand Junction. Marmot is now one of the premier manufacturers of technical jackets, pants, and extreme weather suits, as well as accessories, tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags for all season, conditions, and activities. You'll see the 8000M suit on the world's highest peaks, the Precip jacket and pant on hikers everywhere, the Limelight tent stashed in the packs of backpackers and campers, and the Guide vest on skiers, snowboarders, and winter enthusiasts of all types. Once a mountaineering brand, Marmot has since expanded into interests like urban exploration, trail running, and more.
 
It was in 1974 when Marmot got its first big break in designing its own product. Tom Boyce was contacted by filmmaker Mike Hoover who needed 108 'very puffy' jackets for a shoot for the Clint Eastwood movie The Eiger Sanction. In response, Marmot delivered the Golden Mantle down jacket--its largest order on record at that time, and one that spurred Marmot into a future of creating many of its own in-house designs and technologies. Synthetics like Hollow Core, insulations like Thermal R, and materials like PreCip can all be attributed to Marmot production innovations.
 
Another milestone in Marmot's history occurred a few years later when Eric met Joe Tanner of W.L. Gore & Associates, who introduced him to Gore-Tex fabric. Intrigued, Eric made a few sleeping bags with the new laminate. He and Dave spent seven nights in the bags in a commercial frozen meat locker and tested the bags under fire sprinklers. They were so impressed with the results that they changed over the entire Marmot line to Gore-Tex fabrics, making it the first W.L. Gore customer in the outdoor industry. Marmot continues to partner with leading brands like Gore-Tex, Primaloft, and Polartec to create top-quality products for a wide range of conditions and uses.
 
Today, the Marmot name is stronger than ever. It has grown a lot and evolved, particularly in the direction of more and more ecological sustainability in both its materials and its processes. But one thing has never changed—Marmot's commitment to designing and manufacturing the highest quality performance outdoor clothing and equipment.

Smith

Smith Optics was founded in the early 1960s by Bob Smith, a hard-charging skier with a problem—his goggles kept fogging up. An orthodontist by trade, he put his skills to work and created the first goggle with sealed double lens and breathable, ventilating foam lining. Since this beginning, Smith has continued to lead the industry with not only innovative technology, but with cutting-edge style; its mission, in its own words, is to “make great days better.” Smith’s factory in Clearfield, Utah, focuses on three product lines: sunglasses, goggles, and helmets. Smith sunglasses combine leading technology with the latest fashion to create the ultimate eyewear. Lens materials range from Techlite polarized glass, the lightest-weight glass on the market, to Carbonic TLT, the most impact-resistant, optically correct polycarbonate. All Smith lenses feature a multi-layer lens construction, and many also include built-in polarization that filters out 99% of glare off reflective surfaces. Polarchromic sunglasses combine this polarization with UV sensitivity that enables them to automatically adjust its tint in response to changing light conditions. Smith’s ChromaPop technology offers the ultimate color definition—after you Pop, you’ll never go back. Smith’s innovations extend to its frames, too, in both materials and design. Smith’s groundbreaking Pivlock and Interlock interchangeable technology allow for easy lens swaps for different settings and conditions. Its Evolve frames are 53% bio-based, made in part from easily renewable castor plants. Other frame materials include light and flexible Grilamid nylon, rich handcrafted acetate, and lightweight, durable metals. Smith’s goggles for snow and moto sports offer different levels of performance to meet all needs and budgets. Leading the way is Smith’s growing I/O line of goggles with interchangeable lenses that offer the ultimate in flexibility. Polarchromic technology accommodates changing conditions over the course of a day or a week, from stormy mornings to sunny bluebird afternoons. As in its sunglasses, Smith’s goggles offer exceptional distortion-free optics and reliable impact resistance. True to its roots, Smith’s goggles continue to emphasize fog-free vision. Whether utilizing impeccably designed ventilation or battery-powered Turbo fans to clear moisture, Smith goggles enable you to see clearly no matter how hard you’re working. The ventilation systems are enhanced by innovative tech like the Fog-x lens treatment that's etched into the lens, so it won't wear off like other anti-fog coatings. First and foremost, Smith ski and snowboard helmets are designed with safely in mind. But as might be expected, the helmet-goggle interface is also a significant focus. Helmets are designed to match curve of a goggle frame, which allows precise alignment with ventilation channels in goggle and helmet. And for those who like to rock out when they’re making turns, Smith offers the latest in audio options from Skullcandy. These days you’ll see Smith helmets on bikers, too. Its cutting-edge, award-winning Forefront mountain bike helmet uses Aerocore construction and Koroyd to create one of the lightest, most protective helmets on the market.

Find good deals on a great selection of Smith optics eyewear and helmets at Backcountry.com. Including Smith goggles and sunglasses for ski and snowboarding.

Smith Optics - Sunglasses & Goggles

Smith produces high-end eyewear for demanding and stylish athletes. Smith is as well known for its diverse line of fashion and performance sunglasses as it is for its goggles. Their innovative Slider Series was the first interchangeable lens to show up en masse at bike race start lines and Spring skiing lift lines. Smith snow goggles are technically advanced to meet the needs of different lighting conditions.  Smith's continuous innovation and style has made their eyewear the choice of action-sport athletes worldwide.

Smith Optics was founded in the early 1960s by Bob Smith, a hard-charging skier with a problem—his goggles kept fogging up. An orthodontist by trade, he put his skills to work and created the first goggle with sealed double lens and breathable, ventilating foam lining. Since this beginning, Smith has continued to lead the industry with not only innovative technology, but with cutting-edge style; its mission, in its own words, is to “make great days better.”
 
Smith’s factory in Clearfield, Utah, focuses on three product lines: sunglasses, goggles, and helmets. Smith sunglasses combine leading technology with the latest fashion to create the ultimate eyewear. Lens materials range from Techlite polarized glass, the lightest-weight glass on the market, to Carbonic TLT, the most impact-resistant, optically correct polycarbonate.
 
All Smith lenses feature a multi-layer lens construction, and many also include built-in polarization that filters out 99% of glare off reflective surfaces. Polarchromic sunglasses combine this polarization with UV sensitivity that enables them to automatically adjust its tint in response to changing light conditions. Smith’s ChromaPop technology offers the ultimate color definition—after you Pop, you’ll never go back.
 
Smith’s innovations extend to its frames, too, in both materials and design. Smith’s groundbreaking Pivlock and Interlock interchangeable technology allow for easy lens swaps for different settings and conditions. Its Evolve frames are 53% bio-based, made in part from easily renewable castor plants. Other frame materials include light and flexible Grilamid nylon, rich handcrafted acetate, and lightweight, durable metals.
 
Smith’s goggles for snow and moto sports offer different levels of performance to meet all needs and budgets. Leading the way is Smith’s growing I/O line of goggles with interchangeable lenses that offer the ultimate in flexibility. Polarchromic technology accommodates changing conditions over the course of a day or a week, from stormy mornings to sunny bluebird afternoons. As in its sunglasses, Smith’s goggles offer exceptional distortion-free optics and reliable impact resistance.
 
True to its roots, Smith’s goggles continue to emphasize fog-free vision. Whether utilizing impeccably designed ventilation or battery-powered Turbo fans to clear moisture, Smith goggles enable you to see clearly no matter how hard you’re working. The ventilation systems are enhanced by innovative tech like the Fog-x lens treatment that's etched into the lens, so it won't wear off like other anti-fog coatings.
 
First and foremost, Smith ski and snowboard helmets are designed with safely in mind. But as might be expected, the helmet-goggle interface is also a significant focus. Helmets are designed to match curve of a goggle frame, which allows precise alignment with ventilation channels in goggle and helmet. And for those who like to rock out when they’re making turns, Smith offers the latest in audio options from Skullcandy. These days you’ll see Smith helmets on bikers, too. Its cutting-edge, award-winning Forefront mountain bike helmet uses Aerocore construction and Koroyd to create one of the lightest, most protective helmets on the market.

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