KAILAS
KAILAS is a Chinese outdoor brand founded in 2003 by Baggio Zhong and named after Mount Kailash in Tibet. It makes technical mountaineering equipment, trail running footwear and packs, and outdoor apparel.
| Founded | 2003 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Baggio Zhong |
| Name origin | Mount Kailash, Tibet |
| Core categories | Mountaineering, trail running |
| Website | kailasgear.com |
What is KAILAS?
KAILAS is an outdoor equipment and apparel brand from China, founded in 2003 by mountain biker, skier and outdoorsman Baggio Zhong. Its name comes from Mount Kailash, a Tibetan pilgrimage mountain.
History
The company started with camping and trekking gear before moving into technical mountaineering equipment. Around 2012 it produced trail running shirts and hoodies for the Vibram Hong Kong 100km, released its first trail shoe, the Fuga, in 2016, and had a full trail running line of shoes and packs by 2018. In 2019 it signed New Zealand ultrarunner Scotty Hawker.
Products and positioning
- Mountaineering gear such as ice screws, ice axes, harnesses and climbing packs
- Trail running shoes, including the ISPO award winning Fuga Pro
- Hydration packs and outdoor apparel
Distribution
In China the brand operates more than 350 company owned stores and sells through more than 650 other outdoor shops. Internationally it sells online, through Amazon and via dealers and distributors.
Why it matters
KAILAS has built credibility through climbing: it has sponsored the Chinese Mountaineering Association guide school and has run the Unclimbed Peak Project since 2006, supporting first ascents on more than 30 peaks. It is one of the Chinese outdoor brands now competing for international trail running customers.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded KAILAS?
KAILAS was founded in 2003 by Baggio Zhong, a mountain biker, skier and outdoorsman.
What does KAILAS make?
KAILAS makes technical mountaineering equipment, trail running shoes and packs, and outdoor apparel.