Indie Outdoors Brands in NYC: Blazing a Trail of Thoughtful and Inventive Gear
From a jacket inspired by a beetle’s shell to a hand-sewn hiking backpack, indie outdoors brands in New York City are making a name for themselves with their unique and innovative products that strike the perfect balance between rugged and refined. Labels like William Ellery, FSP Outdoors, and allmansright are not only tasked with creating gear that can withstand the elements, but also appeal to the aesthetic standards of their customers.
These brands are not just selling products, they are building a community. By inviting customers on hikes, sharing their design processes, and promoting transparency and environmental responsibility, they are blurring the line between buyer and community member. And as nature lovers demand gear that truly represents them, these brands are rising to the challenge.
William Ellery: Redefining Outdoor Gear from the Heart of NYC
At the helm of William Ellery is Trevor Davis, who runs the brand out of his studio in East Williamsburg. His collection of apparel and accessories is centered around the concept of “boyhood sentimentality,” offering a nostalgic twist on outdoor gear. Meanwhile, Blair Kemp of FSP Outdoors creates durable and stylish fanny packs, backpacks, and chalk bags from his Bushwick abode. And in the Bronx, husband-wife duo Livio Melo and Jennifer Jacobsson of allmansright specialize in ultralight gear made from sustainable and waterproof materials.
While these brands may not want to be associated with the term “gorpcore” (a lazy catch-all for outdoor-inspired goods), they are still rooted in the same foundation. They prove that high-performance gear can also be visually appealing. But unlike mass-produced brands, these indie labels are pushing the boundaries of traditional outdoor gear by experimenting with designs, promoting transparency in their production processes, and building a loyal community of customers.
New York City may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the great outdoors, but for these brands, it’s the perfect home base. Davis, who grew up in Tennessee, explains that New York is actually a very outdoorsy city, with easy access to diverse natural landscapes. He also points out that the city is home to the UN Headquarters, where important discussions on climate change take place.
For these indie outdoors brands, New York City is not just a place to live and work, it’s a source of inspiration and a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world. And with their unique and innovative products, they are proving that outdoor gear can be both functional and fashionable.
