Outdoor Research was founded in 1981 after nuclear physicist and mountaineer Ron Gregg realized that better gear can mean the difference between success and rescue. His research-led approach to solving real problems in the mountains sparked our first innovation—the X-Gaiter™—and set the foundation for how we design today. From technical protection to award-winning apparel, every piece we build is made to perform and help people stay out there longer.

Four decades later, we’re still designing, testing, and refining gear alongside the athletes and communities who shape how our products evolve. Responsible innovation, performance-driven design, and expanding access to the outdoors remain at the core of who we are—proof that better design really does lead to better experiences outside.