Gregory Mountain Products is boosting inclusivity in outdoor spaces with a new collection of plus-size backpacks. There are a total of 14 packs in the collection catered to multi-day backpacking and lifestyle use, and the range supports backpackers of all shapes and sizes.
The packs share the equivalent of styles with 2x through 6x sizing and features like shoulder harness angles, extended shoulder harness lengths, and enlarged hip belts.
The new collection of backpacks was developed in partnership with the outdoor advocacy group, Unlikely Hikers, which serves the underrepresented outdoorsperson. Jenny Bruso, founder of Unlikely Hikers, says, "When gear isn't made for you, you start to internalize that message after time and it feels like you are not welcome or shouldn't be out there in the first place."
Plus-Size Backpack Collections
Gregory Mountain Products Supports Backpackers of All Sizes
Trend Themes
1. Inclusive Outdoor Gear - A trend towards creating outdoor gear that accommodates all body types, including plus-size customers, which presents an opportunity for niche brands to develop and produce outdoor gear for underrepresented consumers.
2. Partnering for Diversity - A trend towards brand collaborations with advocacy groups, such as Unlikely Hikers, to develop products that are inclusive and diverse, which presents an opportunity for outdoor gear companies to build mutually beneficial partnerships with diverse organizations.
3. Diversifying Design and Style - A trend towards the design of outdoor gear includes customization and greater style options for plus-size individuals, which presents an opportunity for outdoor gear companies to create more diverse products that cater to a wider audience.
Industry Implications
1. Outdoor Gear Industry - The outdoor gear industry has the opportunity to expand its customer base and benefit from increased revenue through the production of more inclusive and diverse products.
2. Fashion Industry - The fashion industry has the opportunity to build partnerships with outdoor gear companies to produce clothing that accommodates a wider range of body types, including plus-size options for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Advocacy Group Industry - Advocacy groups like Unlikely Hikers have the opportunity to partner with outdoor gear brands to influence the production of more inclusive and diverse products that will benefit underrepresented communities.