Marmot: Gear Built for Adventure

Marmot isn't just a brand—it's a story of passion, innovation, and a love for the outdoors. Born in 1974 in Grand Junction, Colorado, by University of Santa Cruz students Dave Huntley and Eric Reynolds, along with Tom Boyd, Marmot's journey began with a simple goal: to create top-notch mountaineering equipment.

Testing out early prototypes

From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood Heights

The company's roots are deeply embedded in the spirit of adventure, with the founders initially crafting gear they trusted for their own expeditions. A significant turning point for the fledgling company came when Marmot was tapped to design and produce the Golden Mantle Parka for Clint Eastwood's film, "The Eiger Sanction.” This project not only showcased Marmot's craftsmanship, but also catapulted them into the spotlight.

Marmot's Golden Mantle Parka was featured in the Eiger Sanction

Pioneering Innovation in Outdoor Gear

Marmot has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in outdoor apparel and equipment. In 1976, they made history by becoming the first outdoor apparel company to integrate GORE-TEX into their gear. This commitment to cutting-edge technology was vividly illustrated when Reynolds and Huntley spent seven nights in a frozen meat locker to rigorously test the performance of their sleeping bags. Their dedication paid off, as GORE-TEX soon became an industry standard for waterproof material. Marmot didn't stop there, introducing groundbreaking features like pit zips, elasticized storm skirts, and Velcro sleeve cuffs, further solidifying their reputation for innovation. Recognizing the diverse needs of outdoor enthusiasts, Marmot also pioneered the industry's first women-specific styles in 1982.

Marmot was first in the outdoor industry to launch women's specific styles In 1996, Marmot launched its own proprietary waterproof technology, MemBrain, featured in the Denali Jacket and later, the popular PreCip Jacket. The PreCip Jacket, launched in 1999, has become a perennial favorite, including at Outdoor Gear Exchange.

Conquering the Extremes

Marmot's gear has always been designed to perform in the most challenging conditions. The development of the 8,000-meter suit in 1987 is a testament to this; it was created to protect mountaineers in the harshest environments on Earth. This suit has accompanied adventurers to the summit of nearly every major mountain in the world!

An early iteration of the 8K suit Continuing their tradition of innovation, the 8K Suit was updated with WarmCube technology in 2020 - the warmest insulation ever made.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Marmot's focus extends beyond performance to encompass environmental responsibility. In 2009, they introduced the EcoPro Sleeping Bag, a revolutionary example of sustainable design using recycled insulation and a PET Polyester shell. Their commitment has only deepened over time, with the development of the EVODry Collection, featuring eco-friendly production and upcycled fibers, eventually leading to the PreCip Eco in 2019. Marmot actively seeks to minimize its environmental footprint by using recycled materials, bluesign-certified fabrics, PFC-free technologies, and responsibly sourced down. Marmot also partners with organizations that OGE supports, such as the Conservation Alliance, Access Fund, Leave No Trace, and the American Alpine Club.

Marmot and OGE: Gear for Every Adventure

Marmot's philosophy aligns perfectly with OGE's commitment to providing quality gear for all. Marmot's affordability and accessibility make it a popular choice for those taking their first steps into the world of outdoor adventure. At the same time, their high-performance gear meets the needs of seasoned mountaineers and hardcore adventure seekers. From weekend campers to serious climbers, Marmot offers a full spectrum of gear and clothing, a selection proudly carried by OGE.

Shop Marmot Today!

Pertex Minimalist Jacket