Women’s History Month: Women taking action in the outdoor industry
The world is full of passionate and ethical entrepreneurs. For decades, men have dominated the industry of start-up businesses and new ideas. In the outdoor industry men have taken over sports, jobs and businesses and have pushed women to the side. However, women are finally gaining traction as leaders in the outdoor recreation world. That means many women-run business are popping up all over the place.
This week I researched several female-identifying owned businesses and how those individuals are striving to make CSR a priority.
Happy first day of Women’s History Month!
Good To-Go Backcountry Meals
Jennifer Scism began her cooking journey over 10 years ago. Before beginning Good To-Go she was a talented chef, but she wanted more. She wanted to connect her love with the outdoors and backpacking with her love for food. She was over the stale, bland and underwhelming backpacking freeze-dried food. Her company’s goal is to inspire healthy eating while in the backcountry and making cooking easy for outdoor enthusiasts.
During the beginning of the pandemic her company strived to teach people how to cook with minimal options. One of her latest projects has been creating emergency food boxes with a variety of different meals for those in tough situations. Her food options at Good To-Go have vegan and gluten free options, are hand-made locally in Maine, and simply only need water.
Skida
Corrine Prevot, owner of a successful winter headwear and accessory business, started her business in high school and her mother helped carry her workload throughout Prevot’s college career. Her products are made locally in Vermont and that idea is woven into their mission — local. Buying locally is better for the environment and ensures high quality products. Prevot’s company strives to create a sense of community through her products.
Skida also cares about sustainability. According to the Skida website, “When we cut our fabric, we strategize how to best use every single bit. This allows us to provide an ever-changing collection of fun, fresh prints, knowing that less than 1% of our fabric is wasted in the production process.”
Purple Rain Adventure Skirts
Purple Rain Adventure Skirts was created by an Oregonian herself. Mandy Bland’s world changed when she hiked the Appalachian Trail. After conquering that goal she set her sights on the Pacific Crest Trail. However, she wanted to conquer her next goal while wearing a skirt.
She began making her own skirt; skirts are comfortable to layer with other clothes and make it easy for women to pee while outdoors. Bland began her business after she hiked the Pacific Crest Trail and the headquarters were originally located at her dining room table in Portland, Oregon. Bland’s company is the definition of gear for women, designed by women.
Building Community
It is important to support our fellow community members as well as strong independent women with a great mission. In the world of outdoor recreation our lifestyle is impacted by the community we choose. Each of these women (and many more) have devoted their lives toward creating sustainable products, life-changing gear or nutritious meals that keep you fueled in the wilderness. Women supporting women is a powerful force.