Outdoor Research
United States
Outdoor Research is a Seattle outdoor apparel and accessories brand founded in 1981 by Ron Gregg, a former nuclear physicist and mountaineer. It is known for technical gloves, gaiters and outerwear.
| Founded | 1981 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Ron Gregg |
| Headquarters | Seattle, United States |
| Segment | Sportswear and outdoor |
| Known for | Gloves, gaiters and technical outerwear |
| Website | outdoorresearch.com |
What is Outdoor Research?
Outdoor Research makes apparel, accessories and gear for outdoor sports. It is headquartered in the SoDo district of Seattle, Washington.
History
Ron Gregg founded the company after a 1980 expedition to Denali, where a partner's frostbite inspired him to design better cold weather footwear protection. Early products included the X-Gaiter, a first aid kit and the Modular Mitts, a layered glove system. REI featured its first aid kit in a 1982 catalogue. Its first apparel product, soft shell pants, followed in 1993, and in 1995 it acquired the building at 2203 1st Avenue South in Seattle that remains its base.
In 1986 Inc. magazine listed the business among the 500 fastest growing private companies in the United States. Gregg died in an avalanche in 2003 and Dan Nordstrom bought the company that year.
Products and positioning
Outdoor Research is positioned in technical but accessible outerwear, gloves, hats and accessories for alpine, ski and trail use. Since 2011 it has received multiple awards from outdoor publications including Outside and Backpacker.
Business model and distribution
The sources consulted give little on distribution beyond the early REI relationship. The brand is widely sold through outdoor specialty retailers and online. Its ownership has changed since 2003, but the sources consulted do not state the current owner, so none is given here.
Why it matters
Outdoor Research has grown from a single product, a gaiter, into a full apparel brand, and it remains one of the best known independent Pacific Northwest outdoor labels.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Outdoor Research?
Outdoor Research was founded in 1981 by Ron Gregg, a former nuclear physicist and mountaineer, in Seattle.
Where is Outdoor Research from?
Outdoor Research is an American outdoor brand based in the SoDo district of Seattle, Washington.