Most of the innovation in outdoor gear these days comes from cottage companies. These companies are often founded by enthusiasts like you and me who stay close to their customers because they share the same activities and because they sell directly to them, not through a wholesale channel, like larger manufacturers.  I've been a champion of small cottage companies since SectionHiker's inception in 2007 (my background is new product development), which is why I list them for free in the Cottage Gear Directory on my website. Here are six standout companies that don't get much visibility, make cool stuff, and are worth checking out.

Alpine Luddites

Founded by John Campbell in 2013, Vermont-based Alpine Luddites creates durable, made-to-order packs and bags for climbers, cyclists, skiers, and other outdoor travelers who need gear tailored to their bodies and objectives. Blending traditional craftsmanship with practical modern design, the company makes custom technical backpacks, bikepacking bags, expedition duffels, and alpine packs built for demanding adventures.

I met John at a trade show years ago. He's a character. In addition to backpacks and bags, he sells this great coffee mug, which I've given to many friends over the years.

Argali Outdoors

Founded by Brad Brooks, Argali Outdoors grew from a storytelling project about wild places and hunting into a family-owned brand dedicated to helping people explore the backcountry. Drawing on real-world hunting experience, Argali designs lightweight, purpose-built gear—including tents, trekking poles, knives, game bags, and other backcountry essentials—for adventurers seeking durable equipment that performs in demanding conditions.

Argali appeared on the ultralight hunting scene just last year and has taken the market by storm. They make a full range of modular tap and mid systems that go toe-to-toe with leading ultralight backpacking companies.

Flat Cat Gear

Founded by avid hiker and engineer Jon Fong, Flat Cat Gear creates compact, dependable cooking systems for backpackers who want efficient performance without unnecessary bulk. Its products include ultralight stove kits, windscreens, and cookware systems designed to pack flat, nest neatly, and support practical trail cooking from boiling water to simmering and baking.

The thing I admire about Jon is his rigorous testing protocols and apparatus. He's singlehandedly taught the backpacking community about the impact of wind performance on stove efficiency. That's pretty amazing since he's a one-man band. Jon is also a valued and frequent commenter on SectionHiker stove reviews.

Hang Tight

Founded by Steve Hazel in 2015, Hang Tight Gear began as a home-based venture creating affordable down hammock gear for campers and backpackers. Sold through Etsy and its online shop, the brand makes lightweight quilts featuring reflective foil insulation, along with related camping equipment designed to provide warmth, comfort, durability, and easy packability while helping more people enjoy the outdoors without overspending.

Hilltop Packs

Founded by Ben McMillen in 2019, Hilltop Packs is a family-owned outdoor company based in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, that creates lightweight, customizable gear for hikers, backpackers, and campers. The brand offers backpacks, bear bags, food-storage bags, stuff sacks, zipper pouches, and other accessories, many of which can be personalized with custom prints, photos, logos, and trail designs. Its products combine practical organization, durability, low weight, and personal style for people exploring the outdoors.

I just started reviewing Hilltop's Gear, particularly their Dyneema and Ultra stuff sacks and drysacks, and I am suitably impressed. Their product range is huge for such a small company. Check them out.

Outdoor Herbivore

Founded by Kim Safdy in 2010, Outdoor Herbivore makes wholesome vegetarian and vegan trail food for hikers, backpackers, and other outdoor adventurers. Focused on organic, whole-food ingredients, thoughtful sourcing, and minimal processing, the company offers no-cook meals, entrees, snacks, and other lightweight provisions designed to make healthy, satisfying outdoor eating simple. 00

I've been eating Outdoor Herbivore meals for the past decade. If you like to eat clean, they are the ticket. Check out their large cold-soak selection too.

Neve Gear

Neve Gear is an Australian ultralight outdoor brand that designs lightweight sleeping systems for hikers, backpackers, campers, and bikepackers. Known primarily for its down quilts, including the Waratah and Feathertail, the company focuses on combining low weight, compact packability, quality materials, and accessible pricing in gear made in Australia from imported materials.

I reviewed Neve Gear's innovative Waratah Quilt and have been impressed with their products ever since.

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