Kokatat’s American Made Outdoor Gear Awards takes hiatus

November 17, 2017

Program honored

ARCATA, California – Since 2013, Kokatat has pioneered and hosted the American Made Outdoor Gear Awards – a celebration of brands in the outdoor industry committed to domestic manufacturing. Through the program, we have been introduced to, and worked with, exceptional people and companies. We have been awed by the diligence of an impressive number of companies that take seriously their obligation to making outdoor products in the United States.

Today, with deep regret, we announce that we are suspending the AMOGA program as we reevaluate its scope and effectiveness.

Each year of the AMOGA program, we have given a “Sassy Award” to the one company we judged to have the most compelling story to tell about its commitment to American manufacturing and sourcing in the outdoor market. The Sassy serves as a testament to the  quality, craftsmanship and creativity in the outdoor world.

A number of companies have inquired as to how they might be the next Sassy recipient. It is possible the AMOGA program will be refocused and restarted at a later date, but there are a number of practical, logistical decisions that must first be made.

We know American-made products are essential to the outdoor industry. They are the cornerstone of Kokatat. We will continue to celebrate and collaborate with brands that place a high priority on domestic manufacturing. Moving forward, we will explore other options to highlight the inspiring work being done throughout the outdoor industry.

About Kokatat Inc.

Kokatat has been manufacturing paddling gear in Arcata, California more than 45 years. At a time when many technical apparel brands were moving manufacturing offshore, Kokatat continued to invest in infrastructure in the United States. Kokatat founder Steve O’Meara was committed to the development of the finest and driest paddling apparel in the world and recognized the need to control and continually evolve the development of our dry wear. In the early days, Kokatat worked closely with W.L. Gore & Associates, makers of GORE-TEX®, to refine the sewing and sealing techniques required for full immersion suits and tops. Today, our hands-on approach to manufacturing continues to set the standard in paddling apparel. Into the water with Kokatat! Learn more at www.kokatat.com