10 Amazing Outdoor Companies in Virginia

by Cassie Pierson + · Published January 10, 2019 · Updated January 14, 2019

Virginia mountains

Alongside a rich collection of natural resources, Virginia is home to a wide variety of outdoor companies. From lightweight backpacks to handmade knives, the different gear produced, and different outdoor brands in Virginia are all inspired by the surrounding stunning landscapes, and each company enables further travel into the elevated terrain. Whether it’s biking on the Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking the Appalachian Trail or all-terrain travel throughout the Virginia wilderness, amazing outdoor companies in Virginia embody the adventurous spirit the state thrives upon.

Blue Ridge Overland Gear, Bedford
Aiding in vehicle-based adventure expeditions, Blue Ridge Overland Gear produces organization systems to help you go further in off-road and all-terrain travels. Born and bred in the Blue Ridge, this small-company specializes in rooftop tents, portable tools, and tactical first-aid kits, among other things. Built to last and expected to be put through tough environments, Blue Ridge Overland Gear promises to never you leave you stranded by the side of the road.

Man-PACK, Front Royal
Funded through Kickstarter campaigns and featured on the hit TV show “Shark Tank”, Man-PACK was created out of a need for a masculine shoulder pack that could stand a beating.

Featuring a utilitarian design, the Classic Man-PACK includes multiple obvious and secret pockets, an adjustable shoulder strap and a concealed carry feature that keeps your firearms secure and easy to access if the occasion arises. Also offering other Every Day Carry items and optional bulletproof backpack inserts, Man-PACK features everything a working man needs to go about their day.

Mountain Laurel Designs, Roanoke
Specializing in tents, tarps, bivvys, quilts and more, Mountain Laurel Designs has been producing lightweight trekking items for over 16 years. The Mountain Laurel Design philosophy revolves around concepts of simplicity, self-reliance, and adventure, and every in-house item produced by Mountain Laurel Designs exemplifies these ideals. From unique items like the Mild Apex Balaclava to standout shelters like the TRAILSTAR, Mountain Laurel Designs produces gear for hikers who want to go the distance.

KipperSticks, Stuarts Draft
Featuring custom-made fishing rods, KipperSticks are made by anglers for anglers. Began with a passion for making excellent fishing rods and spurred into a business by supporting friends and families, KipperSticks was officially created in 2006 and has since grown quite the reputation for high-quality, made-to-order fishing rods. Featuring a long list of customizable features, including grips, speeds, and reel seats, KipperSticks makes each rod specifically for you.

Parker Bows, Staunton
Headquartered in Staunton, you can find Parker crossbows and compound bows across the globe. A now industry leader, Parker started out small with a simple idea to make lighter, more affordable archery equipment. Utilizing over 300 employees in the production of their patented compound bows, Parker offers a lifetime warranty on all their products as a testament to the quality of their products.

RAGGEDedge Gear, Meadows of Dan
A self-reputed craft gear company and band of artists, RAGGEDedge specializes in sailcloth wallets, gear bags, and indestructible folders. Produced at a solar-powered facility, the carbon-fiber wallets made by RAGGEDedge are made to last for a lifetime of adventure. A six-person operation, this specialty manufacturer creates first-class gear while keeping the culture light and fun to be a part of.

Silver Tears Campers, Roanoke
Featuring lightweight, pull-behind teardrop campers, Silver Tears Campers are all about enabling excellent outdoor adventures. With a lightweight design and high emphasis on utility, Silver Tears offers four patented designs including the classic Woody and Silver Tear camper, complete with wood interiors and full or queen-size beds. Also specializing in custom orders, for some extra fun Silver Tears also features the Woodie Tailgater, also known as the Ultimate Woody Tailgater, which features a pull-out bar that will surely impress the neighbors.

Virginia Blade
Under the craftsmanship of Virginia-native Duke Dudley, Virginia Blade has made a sharp incision into the outdoor, military, culinary and medical markets with made-to-order knives. Featuring numerous patents, unique designs and a working catalog of knives to meet a variety of needs, Virginia Blade is a small business with a big impact. You can find Virginia Blade online, at expo shows, or chances are on the belt of a trusted hunting or outdoor professional.

Watkins Duck Calls, Bull Island
Handmade in Virginia, the signature duck call from Watkins is the Swamp Bore and Hybrid Swamp Bore, available in either acrylic or wood. Specially created for hunting spots that require a quieter call, these works of artwork even better than they look, which is a high bar to meet. For collectors and those interested in passing down duck calls for years to come, Watkins also features Collector Grades of their patented duck calls.

YAMA Mountain Gear, Charlottesville
Created by two hikers and a conversation on the Pacific Crest Trail, YAMA Mountain Gear aims to outfit hikers who want to take some weight off their back. While tarps and shelters have the deepest product line at Yama Mountain Gear, the two-man company also feature backpacks, reflective cords, and rain kilts. Unique to this Charlottesville business, YAMA also features DIY kits and materials to create your own net-tents and stuff sacks.

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