"Made in the USA" is a stamp of pride, quality and durability for American companies and consumers alike. Some estimates put the market for Made-in-the-USA apparel alone at over $100B. High quality, durable, locally made - there are many reasons Made-in-the-USA products are sought after. But what does it really mean, and why does it really matter?

The Good News

Choosing American-made can offer distinct advantages:

• Stricter Regulations: The US enforces higher standards for worker safety, environmental protection, and fair labor practices compared to many other countries. You can be more confident about the impact of your purchase.

• Reduced Footprint: American-made products often travel shorter distances, lowering transportation emissions and your environmental impact.

• Durability You Can Count On: American craftsmanship is renowned for quality. Built-to-last products save you money in the long run and reduce waste.

• Supporting Local Communities: When you choose American-made, you're investing in your community and creating jobs.

  
  

The Not So Great News

We've all seen the "Made in USA" stamp, but here's the surprising truth: there's no official certification. This means companies can interpret the guidelines loosely. The FTC says that only products of which all or "virtually all" of its parts are made and assembled in the USA should be labeled as such. But there is no verification process and it is essentially on companies to be honest and transparent.

And, while the "Made in USA" label offers advantages, it's not the whole story. By focusing on the country of origin alone, we may miss that the materials used or its manufacturing processes have negative impacts on people, communities and the planet. "Made in the USA" does not always mean "sustainable."

How to Find Brands You Can Trust

Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Here are some tips:

• Do your research: Look for companies that prioritize sustainability alongside American-made quality. Check their websites and certifications.

• Seek independent certifications: Look for labels like B-Corp, Fair Trade or OEKO-TEX, which verify ethical and responsible practices.

• Look for brands that tell their story: Transparency is key. Choose companies that openly share their manufacturing processes, labor practices, and materials sourcing.

• Get on the waiting list for our app: We'll help you easily navigate

Here's a starting list of Made in the USA brands producing sustainable outdoor products.

Abel Reels
Premium fly fishing reels

• Product Category: Fishing Gear

• Sustainability Focus: Durable/Reusable Products

• State: Colorado

Alpacka Raft
Packrafts for any adventure

• Product Category: Watersports

• Sustainability Focus: Durable/Reusable Products

• State: Colorado

Alpine Fit
Outdoor adventure apparel for different body shapes

• Product Category: Apparel

• Sustainability Focus: Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Materials,Carbon Reduction, Access & Inclusion

• State: Utah

Appalachian Gear Company
100% alpaca fiber performance apparel

• Product Category: Apparel

• Sustainability Focus: Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Materials

• State: North Carolina

Darn Tough Vermont
Merino Wool Socks

• Product Category: Socks

• Sustainability Focus: Durable Products

• State: Vermont

Duckworth
Source-verified Merino Wool clothing

• Product Category: Apparel

• Sustainability Focus: Responsible/Transparent Supply Chain,Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Materials

• State: Montana

ESEE Knives
American-made knives

• Product Category: Survival Gear

• Sustainability Focus: Durable Gear, Fair Labor Practices, Transparent Supply Chain

• State: Idaho

Filson
American Heritage Outerwear, Clothing, Bags & More

• Product Category: Apparel

• Sustainability Focus: Durable/Reusable Products

• State: Washington

Lava Linens
Durable travel towels

• Product Category: Blankets & Towels

• Sustainability Focus: Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Materials

• State: Colorado

Lundberg Family Farms
Organic rice and quinoa

• Product Category: Food/Beverage

• Sustainability Focus: Sustainable Food & Water Sources

• State: California

Matador
Travel Backpacks and Accessories

• Product Category: Backpacks/Bags

• Sustainability Focus: Renewable Energy, Carbon Reduction, Recycling, Sustainable Materials

• State: California

Nalgene
Resuable water bottles

• Product Category: Water Bottles/Water Filtration

• Sustainability Focus: Durable/Reusable Products

• State: New York

NoSo Patches
Gear Repair

• Product Category: Gear Repair

• Sustainability Focus: Durable/Reusable Products, Recycling

• State: Wyoming

Ornot
Climate neutral certified cycling equipment and apparel

• Product Category: Cycling Gear,Apparel

• Sustainability Focus: Carbon Reduction

• State: California

Smelly Proof
Reusable storage bags made in the USA that are odor proof with unbreakable seals.

• Product Category: Home,Camping Gear

• Sustainability Focus: Durable/Reusable Products,Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Materials,Recycling/Upcycling

• State: California

Solmate Socks
Eco-friendly, American-made socks

• Product Category: Socks

• Sustainability Focus: Recycling/Upcycling

• State: Oregon

Toor Knives
Purpose built blades made in the USA.

• Product Category: Survival Gear

• Sustainability Focus: Durable/Reusable Products,Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Materials

• State: California

ToughCutie
Premium Socks Made in the USA by Women for Women

• Product Category: Socks

• Sustainability Focus: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Materials

• State: Texas