Alpkit
Alpkit is a British outdoor brand founded online in 2004 by four friends, Col, Nick, Jim and Kenny. It makes clothing, footwear, camping and climbing gear, bags and, through Sonder, bikes.
| Founded | 2004 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Col, Nick, Jim and Kenny |
| B Corp | Since 2020 |
| Sister brands | Sonder, Trakke |
| Made in Britain | About 30% of products |
| Website | alpkit.com |
What is Alpkit?
Alpkit is an independent outdoor equipment and clothing brand from the United Kingdom. It was formed in 2004 by Col, Nick, Jim and Kenny and started as an online business, with its first premises a small unit at the foot of Mount Ilkeston. Its registered office is in Newthorpe, Nottinghamshire.
Products and positioning
The range spans clothing, footwear, camping gear, bikepacking and travel bags, outdoor swimming gear and climbing and running equipment. Alpkit also owns Sonder, for bikes and wheels, and Trakke, for waxed canvas bags. Around 30% of its products are made in Britain, on the edge of the Peak District.
Distribution
Alpkit sells online through UK, EU and US storefronts and has shipped to 69 countries in a year. It also runs its own stores, including in Hathersage, Ambleside, Keswick, Edinburgh, Bristol, Inverness and, since 2024, Munich.
Ownership and values
- Certified B Corporation since 2020 and Living Wage accredited
- More than 4,000 customer and staff shareholders from two crowdfunding rounds
- The Alpkit Foundation receives 10% of profit and 1% of sales for grassroots projects
Why it matters
Alpkit is a leading example of a British direct-to-consumer outdoor brand that combines online roots, local manufacturing and community ownership.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Alpkit?
Alpkit was formed in 2004 by four founders, Col, Nick, Jim and Kenny, and began as an online business.
Is Alpkit a B Corp?
Yes. Alpkit became a Certified B Corporation in 2020 and is also Living Wage accredited.