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Kelty (company)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
KELTY
Company typeSubsidiary
IndustryOutdoor equipment
Founded1952; 72 years ago (1952)
FounderAsher Kelty
Headquarters6235 Lookout Road Suite B Boulder, CO 80301, US
ParentExxel Outdoors, LLC
Websitewww.kelty.com

Kelty is a manufacturer of backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags owned by Exxel Outdoors, LLC. The business is based in Boulder, Colorado.

History

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The company was started in 1952 by Asher "Dick" Kelty (September 13, 1919 – January 12, 2004), who was one of the first gear designers to produce and market an external-frame backpack designed specifically for civilian use.[1] He is considered to be the inventor of the aluminum-framed backpack.[2] Kelty was also the provider of gear in the 1970s cult classic TV series The Land Of The Lost.

Products

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Kelty products are widely sold by large outdoor outfitters such as Eastern Mountain Sports and REI, and Kaviso, among others. Kelty is one of a few companies that still specializes in external-frame backpacks for outdoors use. Kelty released approximately 170 products / 253 models with annual catalog updates. Tents are one of the core products of Kelty. Kelty tents are made of high-quality materials. Kelty tent fabrics are made of Polyester, which is longer-lasting than Nylon, and the poles are made of lightweight aluminum. Kelty's focus as a brand remains budget friendly outdoor gear for camping and backpacking. Kelty also maintains a tactical / military spec division for government supply needs.

Product categories

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Competing Company

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Dick Kelty's son, Richard Kelty, became one of the founders of Sierra West, a competing company.[2]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Kelty Packs and founder A.I. Dick Kelty are huge in the History of Outdoor Gear".
  2. ^ a b Elizabeth McGowan (March 1985), "Behind the Label: Sierra West", Backpacker, p. 20
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