Meeting the Masterminds Behind Wazoo Gear: A Personal Journey
When I first encountered Nick and Dustin at Demo Days, hosted by the Campfire Co-op, I had no idea I was meeting two visionaries who had turned a 2012 conversation over craft beers into one of the most innovative everyday carry gear companies in the outdoor industry.
The Wazoo Story
What started as a meeting between Nick (the engineer) and Dustin (the guide) outside Houston has evolved into a company that lives by the motto "Everyday Carry Wild Capability." Their unique combination of technical expertise and real-world outdoor experience created the perfect foundation for developing gear that seamlessly blends functionality with daily use.
From First Meeting to Collaboration
My introduction to Wazoo Gear through Demo Days led to more than just a business connection. Nick and Dustin's invitation to join the Campfire Co-op board opened doors to a community of outdoor industry leaders committed to mutual growth and support. Our weekly meetings and bi-annual events exemplify the collaborative spirit that makes our industry unique.
A Partnership in Innovation
One of our fun collaborations with Wazoo Gear has been working together to create the Foraging and Tracking Groundcloth. This project perfectly exemplifies Wazoo's commitment to creating gear that serves multiple purposes while maintaining practical functionality for outdoor enthusiasts.
Personal Field Testing
At PNWBUSHCRAFT, we don't just collaborate with Wazoo - we live and breathe their gear. Todd swears by the Cache Cap and Cache Belt, finding them indispensable for everyday carry situations. The ingenious design allows you to carry essential tools without compromising on style or comfort. Personally, I never hit the trails without their foraging bandanas, which have proven invaluable during our outdoor expeditions.
Want to Hear More?
If this inside look at Wazoo Gear has piqued your interest, you're in luck. I recently sat down with Nick and Dustin for an in-depth conversation on the Raise the Flag podcast. Our discussion dives deeper into their journey from that first craft beer meeting to becoming innovators in the outdoor industry. We explore their design philosophy, share some entertaining field testing stories, and discuss what "Everyday Carry Wild Capability" really means in practice. Tune in to hear the founders share their vision in their own words and discover how they're continuing to push the boundaries of functional gear design.
