The outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing industry in the US encompasses a wide variety of companies dedicated to producing gear that enhances outdoor experiences. These include manufacturers of outdoor apparel, camping gear, bicycles, and all-terrain vehicles. Popular brands offer innovative products while addressing consumer trends toward sustainable and eco-friendly materials. As outdoor activities gain momentum post-pandemic, the industry is expected to continue growing, driven by rising interest in hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits. This shift reflects a broader cultural movement favoring a lifestyle connected to nature, resulting in a burgeoning market for quality adventure equipment.


In this listing, you'll find 18 prominent investors active in the outdoor adventure equipment space. Ranging from venture capital firms like 500 Global to corporate giants like Polaris Inc., these investors represent various backgrounds and strategies. Companies are headquartered in key locations, including New York, San Francisco, and Elkhart, while their sizes span from small to large firms. With a combined total of 2024 investments that showcase a diverse approach to growth, these investors are making significant strides across the industry.


Top 18 Outdoor Adventure Equipment Manufacturing Investors in the US


1. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses, particularly in underserved communities. Their investment strategy includes flexible capital solutions aimed at helping entrepreneurs grow and thrive. Notably, Advantage Capital has been involved in several transactions relevant to the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing sector, including investments in Drake Waterfowl Systems, which raised $4 million in debt financing, and Excel Boats, which has received multiple rounds of debt financing. These transactions highlight Advantage Capital's engagement with companies that manufacture outdoor equipment, reinforcing their role as a potential investor in this industry.


2. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios. With a network of over 10,000 investors, the firm focuses on connecting them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notably, the fund has been involved in several transactions relevant to the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing sector, including an investment in Klymit, which raised an undisclosed amount in a venture round in January 2014. Klymit is known for its innovative outdoor gear, making this investment particularly relevant. Additionally, the fund has invested in Lightship, which, while not directly related to outdoor equipment, indicates a broader interest in innovative technologies that could intersect with outdoor activities. Overall, the fund's diverse portfolio and past investments suggest a potential interest in the outdoor adventure equipment market.


3. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, they invested in AllTrails, which raised $400K in seed funding to enhance its digital network focused on outdoor activities. This investment highlights 500 Global's engagement with the outdoor sector, indicating their potential interest in outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing. Other transactions include investments in various startups across different industries, showcasing their broad investment strategy while still maintaining a foothold in sectors related to outdoor activities.


4. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions and strategic guidance to smaller middle-market businesses. Founded in 1988, Riverside manages a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Notably, Riverside has made significant investments in the outdoor adventure sector, including the acquisition of Bike24, a prominent German retailer specializing in cycling and outdoor products. This acquisition, along with a previous investment in Bike24, highlights Riverside's commitment to the outdoor adventure equipment market. Their strategic focus on transformative growth for their portfolio companies positions them as a relevant player in the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing industry.


5. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored investment solutions to institutional and individual clients. The firm has a diverse portfolio, with notable transactions in the outdoor adventure equipment sector, including the acquisition of Academy Sports Outdoors, a major outdoor retailer, and Mills Fleet Farm, which operates in the outdoor and home goods space. Additionally, KKR's acquisition of Accell Group, a Dutch bike manufacturer, further emphasizes their commitment to the outdoor adventure market. These strategic investments reflect KKR's intent to support growth and innovation in the outdoor equipment industry, while leveraging their extensive expertise to enhance the operational capabilities of their portfolio companies.


6. Northstar Capital

  • Website: northstarcapital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: northstar-capital

Northstar Capital is a private equity investment management firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1993. The firm specializes in junior capital investments and equity co-investments for lower middle market companies, providing tailored financing solutions to financial sponsors, business owners, and management teams across various industries. With nearly $2 billion raised since inception, Northstar Capital has a strong track record in the consumer goods sector, which includes outdoor adventure equipment. Their relevant transactions include investments in Drake Waterfowl Systems, a company focused on waterfowl hunting gear; Weaver Leather, known for its leather products used in outdoor activities; Classic Accessories, which produces outdoor gear covers; and Rite in the Rain, specializing in weatherproof paper products for outdoor use. These investments highlight Northstar Capital's engagement in the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing space.


7. L Catterton

  • Website: lcatterton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm specializing in investment management, focusing on consumer brands across various sectors. Founded in 1989, the firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. Notably, L Catterton has made strategic investments in the outdoor adventure equipment sector, including the acquisition of Taxa Outdoors, a manufacturer of lightweight mobile habitats for outdoor adventures, aimed at expanding its distribution and product offerings. Additionally, they have invested in Storyteller Overland, further demonstrating their commitment to the outdoor adventure market. Their acquisition of West Marine, a leading omni-channel platform in the marine aftermarket, also reflects their engagement with outdoor-related consumer brands. With a strong emphasis on consumer insights, L Catterton aims to drive growth and innovation within its portfolio companies, including those in the outdoor adventure space.


8. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on driving long-term value for its clients, Carlyle serves a diverse range of institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds. Among its notable transactions, Carlyle acquired Dainese, an Italian manufacturer of protective apparel for outdoor sports, for €630 million in 2022, showcasing its commitment to the outdoor adventure equipment sector. Additionally, the acquisition of the European Camping Group in 2014 further emphasizes Carlyle's involvement in outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing. These strategic investments highlight Carlyle's capability to identify and capitalize on opportunities within the outdoor adventure market, aligning with their broader investment strategy.


9. Patrick Industries, Inc.


Patrick Industries, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Elkhart, Indiana, specializing in the manufacturing and distribution of component products and building materials for various markets, including Recreational Vehicles, Marine, Manufactured Housing, and Industrial sectors. Founded in 1959, the company has established a robust network of brands and operates across multiple states, providing high-quality materials to manufacturers. Notably, Patrick Industries has made significant acquisitions that enhance its portfolio in the outdoor adventure equipment sector. In 2024, they acquired RecPro, an aftermarket e-commerce platform for outdoor enthusiasts, which is expected to generate approximately $80 million in revenue. This acquisition aligns with Patrick's strategy to expand its presence in the outdoor enthusiast market. Additionally, their acquisitions of Marine Accessories Corporation and SeaDek Marine Products further demonstrate their commitment to the marine and outdoor sectors, making them a relevant player in the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing industry.


10. Platinum Equity

  • Website: platinumequity.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: platinum-equity

Platinum Equity is a private equity firm based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in mergers, acquisitions, and operations management. Founded in 1995, the firm manages over $48 billion in assets and has a portfolio of approximately 50 companies across various industries. Notably, Platinum Equity has made significant strides in the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing sector with their acquisition of GSM Outdoors, the parent company of several fishing brands, aimed at supporting growth in the outdoor recreation market. Additionally, they acquired Pelican Products, a leader in protective cases, which can be essential for outdoor equipment. Their investment in Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment also highlights their interest in manufacturing sectors that may overlap with outdoor activities. These transactions demonstrate Platinum Equity's commitment to enhancing growth and innovation in the outdoor adventure equipment space.


11. Polaris Inc.

  • Website: polaris.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Medina, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1954
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: polarisinc

Polaris Inc. is a leading automotive manufacturer based in Medina, Minnesota, specializing in motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and snowmobiles. Founded in 1954, the company has established itself as a key player in the recreational vehicle market, catering to consumers and outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality products designed for various terrains. Polaris operates manufacturing facilities in the United States, ensuring the production of American-made vehicles. The company has made significant acquisitions to bolster its presence in the outdoor adventure equipment sector, including KLIM Technical Riding Gear, which enhances their offerings in parts, garments, and accessories for outdoor activities. Additionally, Polaris acquired Timbersled Products, known for its innovative snow bikes, further integrating outdoor adventure products into its portfolio. Other notable acquisitions include Pro Armor, which specializes in accessories for performance side-by-side vehicles and ATVs, and Hammerhead, a manufacturer of go-karts and light utility vehicles. These strategic investments reflect Polaris's commitment to expanding its influence in the outdoor adventure equipment market.


12. Vista Outdoor Inc.


Vista Outdoor Inc. is a corporate investor based in Anoka, Minnesota, founded in 1916. The company designs, manufactures, and markets a wide array of sporting and outdoor products, catering to outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality and innovative solutions. Vista Outdoor has made significant strides in the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing sector through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of CamelBak Products LLC for $412.5 million, enhancing their presence in the outdoor sports market with a focus on hydration solutions. They also acquired Jimmy Styks, a designer of stand-up paddle boards, for $40 million, allowing them to tap into the growing water sports market. In 2022, Vista Outdoor acquired Fox Racing for $540 million, a brand synonymous with outdoor cycling, and Simms Fishing Products for $192.5 million, which aligns with their strategy to diversify into fishing gear. Additionally, they acquired QuietKat, further expanding their portfolio in outdoor adventure equipment. These transactions highlight Vista Outdoor's commitment to the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing industry.


13. Plug and Play Tech Center


Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They connect startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. While their primary focus is on the technology sector, they have also invested in companies related to outdoor adventures, such as 10Adventures, which raised funds in 2024, and Adventure Bucket List, which raised funds in 2014. These investments highlight their engagement in the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing context, showcasing their versatility in supporting diverse industries.


14. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. They provide capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. With over 1,000 companies in their portfolio, many of which have achieved unicorn status, FJ Labs has demonstrated a strong track record in supporting startups. Notably, they invested in Angell, a France-based smart bike manufacturer, which raised €12 million to accelerate its development and commercial launch. This investment highlights FJ Labs' engagement in the outdoor adventure equipment sector, as smart bikes are increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, their involvement with SidelineSwap, a marketplace for buying and selling sports equipment, further emphasizes their interest in the outdoor and adventure space.


15. Blackstone

  • Website: blackstone.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a prominent investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for its extensive portfolio and investment strategies across various sectors, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Notably, Blackstone has made significant investments in the outdoor adventure equipment sector, including the acquisition of Jack Wolfskin, a leading German outdoor retailer, for approximately 700 million euros (around $1 billion) in 2011. This acquisition highlights Blackstone's strategic interest in the outdoor adventure market. Additionally, Blackstone has engaged in other transactions such as investments in Billabong International and Crocs, which, while not exclusively outdoor equipment manufacturers, are associated with lifestyle and outdoor activities. These transactions reflect Blackstone's capability and willingness to invest in companies that align with outdoor adventure themes.


16. Norwest Equity Partners (NEP)

  • Website: nep.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1961
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: norwest-equity-partners

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP) is a private equity investment firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1961. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic guidance to businesses across various sectors, focusing on building industry leaders through long-term partnerships and sustainable growth. NEP has been involved in several notable transactions relevant to the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing industry, including investments in Christy Sports, a retailer of outdoor sports equipment, and Bowtech, a manufacturer of archery equipment. Additionally, their acquisition of United Sports Brands, which produces a range of sports products, further highlights their commitment to the sports and outdoor sectors. In 2021, NEP also invested in recteq, a company known for its pellet grills, which appeals to outdoor cooking enthusiasts. These investments reflect NEP's active role in supporting companies that cater to outdoor adventure and sports enthusiasts.


17. The Middleby Corporation

  • Website: middleby.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1888
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: middleby-corporation

The Middleby Corporation is a prominent manufacturer specializing in commercial and residential cooking and industrial process equipment, founded in 1888 and based in Elgin, Illinois. With a workforce of over 5,000 employees, the company is committed to providing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and quality in food preparation. Their diverse product range serves various sectors, including restaurants and residential markets. Notably, The Middleby Corporation has made significant strides in the outdoor cooking market through strategic acquisitions. In December 2021, they acquired Kamado Joe, a well-known brand in outdoor cooking, alongside Masterbuilt Manufacturing, which further solidifies their presence in this niche. Additionally, their acquisition of Lynx Grills in 2015 also highlights their focus on outdoor cooking equipment. These transactions demonstrate Middleby's commitment to expanding its portfolio in areas that cater to outdoor cooking enthusiasts, aligning with the outdoor adventure equipment manufacturing sector.


18. BRS & Co.


BRS & Co. is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in managing assets for lower middle market consumer companies since its founding in 1995. The firm provides strategic advice and operational support to management teams, focusing on driving sustainable growth through investments and acquisitions. Notably, BRS has made significant investments in the outdoor adventure equipment sector, including the acquisition of Royal Robbins, Inc., a brand known for outdoor apparel, and Gamo Outdoor, a manufacturer of outdoor sporting products. Additionally, they acquired Daisy Outdoor Products, a leading manufacturer of youth airguns, and New Archery Products, which specializes in archery equipment. These transactions highlight BRS's commitment to the outdoor adventure equipment market, making them a relevant player in this industry.



Outdoor Adventure Equipment Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
Northstar CapitalMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019931
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
Patrick Industries, Inc.Elkhart, Indiana, United States (USA)10001+19593
Platinum EquityBeverly Hills, California, United States (USA)201-500199520
Polaris Inc.Medina, Minnesota, United States (USA)10001+19540
Vista Outdoor Inc.Anoka, Minnesota, United States (USA)1-1019160
Plug and Play Tech CenterSunnyvale, California, United States (USA)501-10002006253
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
Norwest Equity Partners (NEP)Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019611
The Middleby CorporationElgin, Illinois, United States (USA)5001-1000018885
BRS & Co.New York, New York, United States (USA)11-5019950


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