Made By Mountains and the Outdoor Business Alliance of WNC have joined forces to celebrate Western North Carolina’s vibrant and resilient outdoor industry and community through a collaborative campaign – “Made by Mountains, Loved by Locals” – that shines a spotlight on the region’s local outdoor gear makers and retailers.
The campaign features an online local gear hub that showcases WNC brands in action together, and makes it easy for outdoor enthusiasts to find the best gear for their next outdoor trip by providing a shortcut to the products featured, and listing a directory of brands and retailers.
The Outdoor Gift Guide
In addition to the online hub, we’re excited to kick off the Holiday Season with the hugely popular Outdoor Gift Guide that points holiday shoppers to outdoor gear and experiences to help check off their gift lists.
“It’s about driving the outdoor economy, amplifying brand awareness, and inviting folks to get outdoors and discover the natural beauty of our mountains that provide the perfect terrain for all manner of adventures,” says Outdoor Business Alliance Executive Director, Matt Godfrey.
Nationally, outdoor recreation is a $1.2 trillion economic driver, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). In 2023, outdoor recreation accounted for a $16.2 billion industry in North Carolina alone – 2.1% of North Carolina’s GDP – and included 145,433 jobs. The outdoor recreation economy in North Carolina grew 9.6% from 2022. It’s a key driver, and why we’re known as the Great Trails State.
“Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of our economy, generating jobs, supporting entrepreneurship and small businesses, and providing essential opportunities to engage with our natural surroundings for physical and mental health, and quality of life,” says NC Outdoor Economy Office Director, Amy Allison.
Building Back Stronger with Your Help
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene ripped across Western North Carolina, leaving devastating scars across homes, communities, businesses, and public lands. Among the first responders and helpers were many outdoor industry folks who put aside their own fears and losses and used their skills and gear to help people escape and survive. Looking out for one another is an Appalachian way of life. It’s what has kept people going in the weeks since the storm, and it’s how communities will build back to a better future in the years ahead.
As WNC’s outdoor industry builds back stronger, the support of those who exercise their purchasing power for good is vital. Shop locally with WNC gear brands and retailers, make plans to visit and book trips with local guides and outfitters, and support the businesses who work with conservation partners to build and maintain trails, crags, and waterways.
A Celebration of WNC
Mark your calendars now for the 10th Anniversary Get in Gear Fest, the annual gathering of WNC’s outdoor industry companies, taking place April 26th, 2025 at the Adventure Center of Asheville and Kolo Bike Park. In addition to celebrating its 10th Anniversary, the theme of this Get in Gear Fest is resilience and revival. Join us to welcome spring, enjoy WNC’s natural beauty, and celebrate a season of growth in our outdoor communities.
From innovative designs crafted with passion and purpose, to unwavering commitment to people and planet, WNC’s outdoor brands embody the spirit of these mountains. Look for participating brands including ENO, Tsuga USA, SylvanSport, Cognative MTB, Pirani, Tentrax, Cane Creek Cycling Components, RecoverBrands, Cactus to Pine Goods, Misty Mountain Threadworks, Defeet International, Rockgeist Bikepack USA, Astral, LiquidLogic Kayaks, Farm to Feet and many more.
Visit madexmtns.com/local-gear to learn more and madexmtns.com/giftguide to explore the full list of gear for your holiday gifts and beyond.
