Our Innovation

Radical Thinking. It's why we were founded and what drives us every day. We continually invent (and re-invent) the most functional and innovative gear available, and are proud that we've changed the industry as a result. Here are some of our highlights.

On the Trail with KOA Backpacks
Clean, lightweight, highly functional - for weekend backpackers as well as far, fast and light travelers. The Koa packs combine a mesh, trampoline backpanel with a traditional lumbar pad to transfer loads effectively while offering unsurpassed ventilated comfort. With a clean design and options for carrying extra gear, these packs balance carrying comfort with durability and weight savings.

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A History of Innovation

Year	Innovation	Awards
2009	Introduced MicroClimate Zoning™ in aerobic apparel Pioneered industry-leading 100 Wash DWR finish on Expedition Down sleeping bags. Five times more durable than conventional DWRs. Developed Advanced Fit-Lock™ hipbelt to maximize load transfer and comfort on long haul backpack trips
2008	Launched the Red Savina Heated Glove - the next generation of heated glove technology with Aevex® Intelligent Heat™ Developed Terra Shell fabric - 3 Layer Conduit™ with an industry-leading 40,000 MVTR breathability rating and a 20,000mm waterproof rating Introduced MicroClimate Zoning™ within Baselayer product line Developed ultralight Hollowcore 25D nylon rainfly Introduced the weight-saving, variable diameter Atlas UL tent pole Developed superlight grommet tab system for Tents Evolved the FitLock harness into a unique full-torso weight distribution system
2007	Thermic Micro™ Insulation Partnered with Gore to develop the world's first women's-specific WINDSTOPPER® fabrics Pioneered Pro Shell with Micro-Grid Backer and the use of 8 mm seam tape Revolutionized waterproof/breathable with Incite™ fabric and the Quark and Stimulus Jackets Introduced fully-welded, waterproof glove
2006	Exodus™ Backpack System Torch Jacket with z-Weld seam wins MicroClimate Zoning
2005	First fully welded soft shell garment featuring our z-Weld seam Atlas Poles Welded down garments
2004	Hybrid construction soft shell
2003	Crossflow tent construction (patent) First waterproof sleeping bags Superlight equipment and apparel Exterior taping on soft shells
2002	Pioneered "Weatherprotective" soft shell garments with Windstopper®
2001	PowerClip for tents Partnered with Gore® to develop Windstopper® next-to-skin garment fabric
2000	Pioneered Gore-Tex® XCR®
1999	Conical Waists (patent) on pants and rotated seams on shirts for backpacking Conduit SL introduced in sleeping bags and down outerwear
1998	Simplex zipper closure Welded technology first used in apparel
1997	Tension Shelf and Tension Arch for tents (patent) Conduit 3-layer windproof, breathable fabric
1996	Weather protection tent innovations Pioneered Windstopper® Fleece
1995	First window use in tent flys Upgrade zipper system for sleeping bags (patent)
1994	Ergonomic Hood with single hand draw cord
1993	Mountain Hardwear founded