Pennsylvania-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.
Hilltop Packs LLCHilltop 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.WAYNESBURG, PA
Vennskap GmbH & Co. KG (SKOTTI Deutschland)Born from angler Christian Battel’s frustration with open-fire restrictions, SKOTTI develops compact, plug-in outdoor grills and cooking equipment designed to travel in a backpack. Founded in 2018 in a Meerbusch garage, the company’s signature stainless-steel grill sets up without tools and can be used for grilling, cooking or frying wherever outdoor meals happen. SKOTTI says its products have reached 150,000 customers, with the line now including the original grill, the wood-and-charcoal SKOTTI Mini and the phone-sized Booster stove.NEW YORK, NY
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
Coalcracker Bushcraft LLCFrom its Pennsylvania base, Coalcracker Bushcraft LLC makes outdoor field gear and teaches bushcraft and survival skills through its Appalachian Bushman School. The company cuts and sews much of its own equipment in-house, including oilcloth shelters and sleep systems, and also provides OEM sewing for heavyweight textiles and wool—materials many production facilities avoid. Its gear is made in the USA and designed around practical use in the field.FRACKVILLE, PA