Hiking Backpacks Made in the USA
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Ever found yourself in a seemingly never-ending quest for the one hiking backpack that ticks all the boxes? Ever scratched your head wondering where on earth your backpack was made?
I get it, the importance of a reliable backpack for your wanderings into the wilderness can’t be overstated. It ain’t just a pretty little accessory—it’s a crucial piece of gear that can either add to the charm of your trail experience or rob you of it. And what could be more reassuring than knowing your hiking backpack is made in the USA?
That’s why I’ve spent countless hours researching and finding brands that offer American-made hiking backpacks.
So without further ado, let’s look at top hiking backpacks made in the USA.
Are there any Hiking Backpacks Made in the USA?
Absolutely, yes! There are several reputable companies that design and produce high-quality hiking backpacks right in the United States. These brands include CiloGear, Hyperlite Mountain Gear, Topo Designs, Elemental Horizons, ULA Equipment, MIS, and Tough Traveler.
American Made Hiking Backpacks (Check These Brands)
CiloGear
Graham Williams, a mountaineer with a love for quality gear, foundedCiloGear in 2004 in Turkey but later moved to Portland, Oregon. Currently, the company is purely owned and operated in the USA and has made a name for itself with its minimalist backpacks designed for serious alpinists.
CiloGear is dedicated to keeping its manufacturing process in the USA to ensure high quality and durability. Each backpack is manufactured in Portland, Oregon mostly by using recycled materials to withstand the rugged environments. The result is a range of reliable products that withstand the harshest conditions, embodying the essence of American craftsmanship.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear
Hyperlite Mountain Gear is an outdoor sports products company based in Biddeford, Maine.
It was founded in 2010 by Mike and Dan St. Pierre with the aim of creating durable, lightweight gear for adventure and sports enthusiasts.
The company specializes in making rugged multi-sport backpacks using Dyneema Composite Fabrics, known for their strength-to-weight ratio. Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s backpacks, including the Windrider, Southwest, and Porter models, are renowned for their durability, lightweight design, and high performance making them the best hiking backpacks.
The company is committed to minimalist design while meeting the needs of its customers. All of their products are made with materials sourced from the United States.
Topo Designs
Topo Designs is a Colorado-based company that specializes in backpacks, bags, apparel, and accessories. It was founded in 2008 by Jedd Rose and Mark Hansen, starting as a basement shop.
They offer a range of products, including hiking backpacks and vintage rucksacks, most of which are made in the USA with domestically sourced materials. While some of their products, such as the Topo Designs Travel Bag, are manufactured in Vietnam.
Topo Designs’ products are hand-crafted in Colorado using durable canvas and leather. Their backpacks are renowned for their simplicity, functionality, and durability, making them suitable for desert trekking adventures or mountain camping trips. The company places a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing and offers a lifetime warranty on its products.
Elemental Horizons
Elemental Horizons, a North Carolina-based brand, was founded in 2007 by Matthew Lagas-Rivera, an experienced outdoorsman. The company is relatively small and it specializes in ultralight and lightweight backpacks and accessories, offering a range of products designed for comfort and efficiency on the trail.
Their headquarters and manufacturing location are both based in Southport, North Carolina, where every backpack is meticulously crafted in their workshop. Elemental Horizons takes pride in its made-in-USA manufacturing process, reflecting its passion for the outdoors and commitment to quality.
The company’s backpacks are highly regarded for their durability, storage options, adjustability, and versatility. They feature numerous straps, buckles, elastic, clasps, and loops that allow for carrying large amounts of gear and weight, both inside and outside the pack. One of their standout products is the Kalais XT, an adjustable frame ultralight backpack with a sophisticated hip belt and spacious side bottle pockets.
ULA Equipment
ULA Equipment is an American company based in Logan, Utah, that specializes in producing lightweight backpacking equipment, particularly backpacks. The company was founded in 2001 by Brian Frankle, a Pacific Crest Trail hiker who recognized the need for durable and lightweight gear.
ULA Equipment started in Frankle’s garage but has now grown to have a total manufacturing space of 9,000 sq ft facility.
ULA Equipment is committed to keeping 100% of its manufacturing in the USA, ensuring strict quality control. Their backpacks are designed to be comfortable, durable, and lightweight, utilizing a blend of ultralight fabrics and robust product designs.
The most popular model offered by ULA Equipment is the ULA Circuit backpack, which weighs just over two pounds.
In addition to the Circuit, ULA Equipment offers several other backpack models, including the Catalyst, Ohm, CDT, Photon, Epic, and Kid’s Circuit backpacks.
These backpacks come with various features such as stretch mesh front pockets, adjustable side pockets, hip belt pockets, internal pad holsters, contoured padded hip belts, and suspension hoops.
MIS
MIS, an acronym for “Make It Simple,” is a backpack manufacturer based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2008. The company specializes in producing military-grade bags and accessories, adhering to Military Specification (Mil-Spec) standards.
All materials, including fabrics, metals, webbing tapes, and zippers used in MIS products are Mil-Spec certified and made in the USA.
Their manufacturing process takes place in a factory that also manufactures American military products. Notable for their simplicity and ease of use, MIS backpacks such as the MIS Roll Up Backpack and the MIS Calif 3-Way Brief Bag are durable, water-resistant, and designed for long-lasting usage. The company is committed to creating functional, durable backpacks that embody its philosophy in every product.
Tough Traveler
Tough Traveler, founded in 1970 by Nancy Gold in Schenectady, New York, is a renowned company that designs and manufactures a variety of products such as luggage, hiking backpacks, dog carriers, and guitar bags.
All of their products are made in the United States of America, showcasing high-quality craftsmanship and durability, with a special focus on sustainability and ethical manufacturing.
The company is particularly known for its durable and comfortable backpacks, which range from small daypacks to large internal frame backpacks. They also offer services like customization and bag restoration.
Tough Traveler has received numerous positive reviews and testimonials, thanks to their product quality and commitment to customer satisfaction.
How to know if a backpack is made in America?
Identifying a backpack made in the USA involves a few key steps. Firstly, look for a label stating the country of origin – this is typically sewn inside the pack.
Secondly, research the company’s manufacturing process through their official website or contact them directly.
Finally, consider the quality and craftsmanship of the backpack. American-made products often prioritize durability and functionality, reflecting the ethos of quality over quantity.
Conclusion
American-made hiking backpacks are more than just products – they’re a testament to a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to local economies.
Each brand mentioned in this article offers hiking backpacks made in the USA.
As you choose your next hiking backpack, I hope this exploration of USA-made hiking backpacks not only helps you find a bag that suits your needs but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and values behind it.
