Hilltop Packs is a hiker-owned Pennsylvania company that began in Ben McMillen’s basement in 2019 and has grown into a small, hands-on crew in Waynesburg. Its unusual signature is custom printing that turns ultralight backpacking gear into something personal, while the team still makes each piece in its own shop and backs its manufactured gear with a five-year warranty.
Regnas LLCFounded by Larry Sanger in 2020, Buffalo-based Regnas LLC grew from his effort to solve the everyday packing problems he experienced with family and friends. The company designs travel backpacks and everyday-carry bags for people who want organized, durable gear that works equally well on journeys and daily commutes. Regnas offers a lifetime warranty on its backpacks.CHEEKTOWAGA, NY
Skog Å KustPennsylvania-based Skog Å Kust, a small family-owned and operated company, designs outdoor travel gear built around all-weather protection, including its waterproof BackSåk backpacks. Named for the Swedish words for “forest, creek, coast,” the company makes practical gear for adventures ranging from hiking and camping to kayaking and coastal travel. Its products are 100% vegan, and the company backs them with a satisfaction guarantee and a warranty against manufacturing defects.HUNTINGDON VALLEY, PA
DutchWare GearAfter founder Thom “Dutch” Ressler thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail with a hammock in 2003, he began making the minimalist camping gear he could not find elsewhere. Today, DutchWare makes American-made hammocks and suspension hardware, including its Chameleon Hammock and invented Dutch Clip, while supplying DIY builders with outdoor fabrics and components. The Lancaster company also provides contract sewing, laser cutting and custom printing for other gear businesses, with a focus on recycled and repurposed materials where possible.LANCASTER, PA
RockHound ApparelRockHound Apparel grew from Nate’s basement printing shirts in 2010 into a Robesonia shop that produces custom apparel in-house for schools, teams, businesses, and community groups. Its small-shop approach emphasizes handmade production and close client relationships, while custom online stores let organizations sell spiritwear or raise funds without managing orders and fulfillment themselves. RockHound also offers full-color direct-to-garment printing with no minimums, alongside its established apparel decorating work.ROBESONIA, PA