Built on Trails
Not in Boardrooms
We’re Explore Gears, born in Boulder in 2020 by a crew of grad students who wanted lighter footprints and tougher gear.
Our Story
In 2020, several of us were deep into a multi-day trek in Colorado’s Front Range, high winds, sideways snow, and miles from the nearest trailhead. By day three, our trekking poles were bent, locks slipping, and grips tearing. Every failure meant more strain on sore knees and slower progress through rough terrain.
That trip changed everything. We didn’t just want poles that were lighter—we needed poles that could survive the worst weather and the longest days. Back home, we started sketching, prototyping, and testing until we built the pole we wished we’d had out there.
So we started small. One prototype, then another. We hiked the same steep pitches until the foam, locks, and carbon told us what to fix. We learned that great gear is designed outside first—then refined at the workbench with muddy boots and better ideas.
Design it on the trail. Prove it in the storm.
01
Trail-First Design
We test gear where it’s meant to live on trail, in storms, under real weight. Our process starts with field notes, not CAD models. Prototypes get hiked, scraped, soaked, and frozen before they ever see a production line.
02
Sustainability in Practice
We believe the most sustainable gear is the gear you don’t have to replace. That’s why we make fewer products, choose materials that last, and avoid disposable trends. Every pole, grip, and lock is built to outlast seasons.
03
Materials & Make
We work closely with suppliers to vet every component and adhesive. If a part can’t survive a shoulder season squall, it doesn’t make the cut.
About Explore Gears Team
A dynamic group of graduate students hailing from universities in the United States including Harvard, MIT, UIUC, CU-Boulder, Penn State, and Clark University.
United by our shared love for the great outdoors, we’ve come together to redefine and enhance the outdoor experience.
Throughout our outdoor adventures, we’ve faced challenges and identified real pain points experienced by outdoor enthusiasts like ourselves. In response, we’ve used these insights to create innovative solutions, turning problems into opportunities for improvement and fun.
Discover Our Lab
Step inside our lab, where curiosity meets craftsmanship. From the drawing board to the trails, every product is born from hands-on research and a commitment to making your next journey safer and more enjoyable.
Mission & Vision
Discover Nature
To empower more people to connect with the outdoors, discover new adventures, and live life to the fullest.
Our Aspiration
We aim to create durable and reliable outdoor gear that you can truly depend on, no matter where your adventures take you.
It's Good to be Green
Our products are crafted from 100% recycled materials, and collaborating with ethical manufacturers, and minimizing waste.
Our method for Sustainability
At Explore Gears, we are committed to protecting the planet while fueling your adventures. All of our outdoor products are made from 100% recyclable materials, ensuring durability, performance, and a reduced environmental impact. Enjoy the great outdoors.