Marmot
United States
Marmot is an American outdoor clothing and equipment brand founded in 1974 by three university students. It has changed hands several times since 2004 and is based in Rohnert Park, California.
| Founded | 1974 |
|---|---|
| Founders | David Huntley, Eric Reynolds, Tom Boyce |
| Headquarters | Rohnert Park, United States |
| Segment | Sportswear and outdoor |
| Known for | Down jackets and shells |
| Website | marmot.com |
What is Marmot?
Marmot, legally Marmot Mountain, LLC, makes outdoor recreation clothing and sporting goods including jackets, sleeping bags and tents. It was formerly known as Marmot Mountain Works.
History
Marmot was founded in 1974 by David Huntley, Eric Reynolds and Tom Boyce, who were students at the University of California, Santa Cruz. In 1975 its Golden Mantle Parka appeared in the film The Eiger Sanction. In 1976 it was among the first companies to use Gore-Tex in sleeping bags.
Ownership
K2 Sports acquired Marmot out of bankruptcy in 2004 for a reported 84 million US dollars. Jarden bought it in 2007 for a reported 1.2 billion US dollars, and Marmot became part of Newell Brands after Newell acquired Jarden in 2016. Wikipedia still lists Newell Brands as parent, but ownership may have changed since, so no current owner is stated in this profile.
Products and positioning
Marmot positions itself in technical but accessible outdoor gear, with down insulation, waterproof shells and camping equipment as core categories. It competes with brands such as The North Face, Patagonia and Mountain Hardwear in the premium outdoor segment.
Business model and distribution
The sources consulted do not describe distribution channels. The brand is widely sold through outdoor specialty retail and online via its own website.
Why it matters
Marmot's corporate history, from a student start up to a multibillion dollar acquisition target, mirrors the consolidation that has shaped the North American outdoor industry over the past two decades.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Marmot?
Marmot has been owned by K2 Sports, Jarden and Newell Brands in turn. Ownership may have changed since, so check the brand's current corporate announcements.
Where is Marmot from?
Marmot is an American brand founded in 1974 by University of California, Santa Cruz students. It is based in Rohnert Park, California.