Outdoor Research

Ron Gregg was a nuclear physicist and mountaineer who left his science career in 1980 in order to join an expedition up North America’s highest peak, Denali. In 1982, REI placed the Outdoor Research First Aid Kit on the back cover of its catalog. Within days, all 1,000 kits of the first order sold out. By 1984, Outdoor Research had evolved into the space of protective handwear with the Modular Mitts, one of the first gloves utilizing a layering system with a removable inner liner and external hard shell. Outdoor Research expanded even further in 1995 with the acquisition of their current headquarters at 2203 1st Ave South in the SoDo district of Seattle. This same year, Dan Nordstrom purchased the company with the intention to “build the company while at the same time retaining its reputation as an innovative maker of mountaineering equipment.” In 2007, Outdoor Research began its first foray into adventure culture community events with the sponsorship of Vertfest in nearby Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. In 2014, manufacturer of outdoor and athletic clothing Youngone Corporation acquired a strategic equity investment in Outdoor Research. == Products ==

Outdoor Research offers a product warranty that covers manufacturing defects for the lifetime of the product. The company uses the real-world testing of a group of professional outdoor athletes and ambassadors to design their gear. In 1997, the company began its ongoing product testing and development relationship with the American Mountain Guides Association. Since 2011, Outdoor Research has received 23 awards from Outside Magazine, 21 awards from Backpacker Magazine, and numerous Gear of the Year and Editor’s Choice Awards from publications like National Geographic, Runner’s World, and Backcountry. == Athletes and ambassadors ==

Outdoor Research sponsors athletes and brand ambassadors that are professionals in the company’s core sports. Examples include rock climber Beth Rodden, who is best known for her numerous first female ascents throughout the Yosemite Valley, including a redpoint of the 5.14c Meltdown. Hans Florine, also an Outdoor Research Ambassador, is one of the most accomplished rock climbers of his time, holding various speed records as well as over 100 ascents of The Nose on El Capitan. Also on the Outdoor Research Ambassador roster is professional skier and host of the hit TV series Tiny House Nation, Zack Giffin; alpine and ice climbing guide Sarah Hueniken; and Swiss-American ski mountaineering guide Martin Volken. == Non-profit alliances and partnerships ==

Outdoor Research supports various environmental preservation, climbing access, and accredited outdoor guiding organizations. Example partnerships include those with the Access Fund, American Mountain Guides Association, Leave No Trace, The American Alpine Club, among others listed on their website. == References ==