Osprey

Osprey Packs, also known simply as Osprey, is an American outdoor company known for its high-quality, innovative backpacks. The company was founded in 1974 by Mike Pfotenhauer and his wife Diane Wren, initially operating under the name Santa Cruz Recreational Packs. In the early days, they were based in Santa Cruz, California, creating custom-fitted packs for backpacking enthusiasts​​.

The company relocated to Dolores, Colorado, in 1990, where the majority of their workforce was comprised of Navajos. A few years later, in 1994, they moved production from Dolores to Cortez, Colorado, and by 1999, all operations had transitioned to Cortez​​.

Osprey's products have been recognized and celebrated in the outdoor community. An iconic moment for the company was when their Osprey Aesther 60 pack was featured on the cover of Time magazine in 2001, worn by Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind climber to summit Mount Everest​​.

Over the years, Osprey has expanded its operations globally. In 2015, the company established a headquarters for Osprey Europe in Poole, England. By 2021, the company had about 300 employees and generated between $155-160 million. In the same year, Helen of Troy Limited purchased Osprey for $414 million. The year 2022 saw the release of the Osprey Unltd line, which boasted features such as patented 3D printed back padding, demonstrating the company's commitment to innovation​.

Osprey is not only committed to producing quality backpacks but is also dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. Each year, the company supports a member of its staff in a fundraising event for the Breast Cancer Prevention Partners. The employee raises $6,000 for cancer research and climbs Mount Shasta, with Osprey donating backpacks for the event. In 2021, they supported 90 organizations worldwide and donated over $32,000 in cash and over $51,000 in products​.

Moreover, Osprey is an active advocate for environmental preservation. In 2017, they fought to maintain the size of Bears Ears National Monument against a proposed reduction, leading to the withdrawal of Osprey and other outdoor companies from a twice-yearly trade show in Salt Lake City​​.

Overall, Osprey is a company with a rich history, a commitment to innovation, and a dedication to social and environmental causes. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a casual hiker, their products are designed with the intention of enhancing your adventures while their community efforts strive to make the world a better place.