Osprey Brand Spotlight

Osprey has been in business for fifty years. To celebrate this history, and their continued partnership with Outdoor Gear Exchange, Osprey is this month’s Brand Spotlight. Let’s take a look at Osprey’s history, major innovations, and learn more about how the company is doubling down on sustainability and innovation.

Origins in Santa Cruz, California

At just 16 years old, Mike Pfotenhauer had already grown tired of ill-fitting, uncomfortable packs. His passion for exploration would not be stifled by equipment coming up short. Instead he created his own custom pack. From there, a legacy of innovation, quality, and environmental stewardship had begun.

In 1974, Osprey opened its first retail shop in Santa Cruz, California, and the legend of Mike’s custom-fit packs grew among backpackers & travelers through word of mouth alone. 

For a decade, Mike and a small team repaired and crafted made-to-order gear for adventurers. From personalized packs to specialized gear - like a harness case for climbers rescuing Peregrine falcon eggs from a wall in Yosemite - word of Osprey’s quality grew, and the business expanded.

Scaling Up Without Compromise

As 1990 approached, Mike Pfotenhauer knew Osprey would need to begin wholesaling packs to support the growing team. While operating out of their 2,500 square foot shop, and struggling to find reliable employees, Osprey hustled to deliver on small wholesale orders. Osprey found a larger working space, and skilled seamstresses in the Navajo population of Dolores, Colorado.Despite having more space and skilled workers, Osprey still felt pressure to move their production offshore. While retaining their headquarters in Dolores, Colorado, Mike made the decision to move production to Vietnam—and moved there with his family to ensure quality stayed high.

Osprey's Major Innovations & Accomplishments

1979 - Osprey’s Ariel Backpack is Introduced 
Innovative for its integrated hipbelt and raincover, the Ariel quickly became a favorite among backpackers.
1993 - Osprey Introduces the First Women’s-Fit Backpack
Osprey continued to innovate, beginning a legacy for creating customized anatomical fit packs.
1998 - StraightJacket Compression
Innovation strikes in unexpected ways - the StraightJacket pack compression system, Osprey’s innovative solution to compressing your pack, came to Mike Pfotenhauer in a dream.
1999 - ErgoPull Crossbody Hipbelt Adjustment System
The ErgoPull hipbelt system allows hikers to quickly shift weight into the lumbar. This key innovation changed backpack hipbelts forever. 
2001 - Erik Weihenmayer Climbs Everest
Erik developed juvenile retinoschisis at just 15 months - rendering him totally blind. With Osprey’s support, he became the first blind climber to summit Mt. Everest. 
2007 - Talon Series Pack is Launched
Osprey’s award-winning Talon pack was immediately celebrated, and became one of the world’s most celebrated pack designs.
2009 - All Mighty Guarantee Program Introduced
35 years since Osprey’s inception, the All Mighty Guarantee program makes the promise to increase the usable life of all Osprey products. Osprey promises to repair any damaged or defective product - at no cost. Whether your pack was purchased in 1974 or last week.

2015 - AntiGravity Suspension System Unveiled 
A continuous backpanel made from breathable mesh reinforced Osprey’s belief that packs should be worn, not carried.

Osprey's Commitment to Sustainability

Osprey has always been a champion for environmental stewardship. By encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to repair their gear, as opposed to replacing it, they have extended the useful life of countless packs. In recent years, Osprey has doubled down on its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

In 2021, Osprey became a Bluesign System Partner - signaling the organization’s commitment to designing a sustainable supply chain from end to end. Osprey’s roadmap commits to innovating on its manufacturing strategies to reduce its carbon footprint, securing outdoor adventures for generations to come. 

Osprey's Mission is Simple:

"WE RELENTLESSLY INNOVATE TO EASE YOUR JOURNEY AND INSPIRE ADVENTURE"

Osprey & Outdoor Gear Exchange

As Osprey continues to innovate, and commits more unwaveringly to sustainability, their products are guaranteed to be the best companions available for backpacking adventures. We at Outdoor Gear Exchange are thrilled to supply you with Osprey packs, and everything else you need for getting outside.