These days, when you pick up a new waterproof jacket or base layer for hiking, you probably assume that it was produced in a factory in some far-off corner of the world, and that’s usually true. Manufacturing goods offshore is a hallmark of globalization, and as much as I want my hiking boots and fleece jacket to be made here at home to reduce my carbon footprint as a hiker, I’m all too aware that my love of exploring nature also leaves its mark.
So you can imagine my surprise when I discovered that an outdoors brand was making hiking gear just down the road from me. Keela has been quietly making clothing for the outdoors here in Scotland for over 30 years, and I recently visited their factory to meet with Marketing and Technical Coordinator Grace MacGregor and discover more about this homegrown operation. By the time my visit was over, I had the distinct impression that Keela is one of the most important outdoor brands you may never have heard of.
