Alpenflow Gear

Alpenflow / Alpenglow Gear - the story behind the brand

All Alpenglow Gear products are assembled in California.
Here's the story of how Tom went from designing electric cars to creating innovative gear for ultralight backpacking.

From pandemic idea to trail-tested gear

Alpenglow Gear was born when, during the pandemic lockdowns, one guy - Tom - tried to develop an ultralight bear-proof container. After many broken prototypes and a number of very satisfied grizzlies, the idea was eventually abandoned.

Three years later, Tom took a leave of absence from his job at Tesla Motors to hike the Pacific Crest Trail - from Mexico to Canada. Before setting off, he wanted a better (and more comfortable) way to inflate his sleeping pad. The problem? Nothing on the market was both durable enough for a five-month hike and weighed less than an ounce.

Alpenblow - born on the trail

Before the start, Tom modified a small cooling fan and built a 3D-printed casing around it. The prototype went with him to the PCT's southern start point. Shortly afterwards, Tom contracted shin splints and was forced to go home. During his recovery, he alternated between ibuprofen and further development of the inflator.

Once he was back on the trail, both hiking and product development continued.

About 2000 miles later, Tom and Alpenblow reached the northern terminus in Canada. There, Tom got his new trail name: 'Gadget'.

From desk to full-time creator

After returning to everyday life, it was clear that the desk life was no longer appealing. Three months later, Tom quit his job to work full-time on launching Alpenblow into the ultralight outdoor gear market.

Development continues today - not only of Alpenblow, but also of Alpenflow and Alpenstow.

Why Alpenflow at backpackinglight?

• Designed by hikers - tested on long trails

• Focus on ultralight, function and durability

• Assembled in California

• Innovation born from real needs on the trail