Outdoor Afro Inc. and REI Co-op have teamed up to co-create a new hiking line to fill the gaps in outdoor apparel. According to a press release, Outdoor Afro Inc. is the corporate partner of the non-profit Outdoor Afro, led for 13 years by founder and CEO Rue Mapp. Her work with the company is the inspiration for the new line.
"Nature has been, and will continue to be, a place where Black people seek connection and respite," said Rue Mapp. "Black people have always spent time outside across a variety of activities, but the community has always felt a gap in finding gear that fits, functions well, feels good, and represents their personal style. REI was the right partner to listen deeply and help us create a collection that would start to meet those needs. We are thrilled to launch this inspirational campaign, share this hike collection, and continue to elevate Black joy outdoors."
Over the years, REI and Outdoor Afro have built a relationship to make the outdoors more accessible to the Black community. Outdoor Afro Inc. takes its relationship further, providing the community with relevant products and outdoor experiences.
"Our long-time relationship with Outdoor Afro provided a natural platform to help us better understand what the outdoors means to the Black community. This partnership allowed us to authentically identify and address barriers to create more inclusive design solutions that will connect more people to the power of the outdoors," said Isabelle Portilla, divisional vice president of product strategy and design for REI Co-op brands. "All our research, design, and fit work was co-developed and co-led with Outdoor Afro Inc. Robust insights and true collaboration informed the intentionally designed collection that symbolizes connection, community, and an outdoors where all are welcome."
Currently, the 22-piece hiking collection is available in stores and on REI.com. The collection includes clothing and accessories for both men and women. It focuses on an inclusive design with various body sizes, shapes, and types for a more comfortable fit. In addition, the material is lightweight and uses some stretch fabrics for better breathability and easier care. The colors are bright and fun, with meaningful graphics. Apparel pricing ranges from $40 to $179, while accessories run from $7 to $15.
Mapp went on to say, "Although this collection is designed for the Black community, it also solves universal needs. We're creating a better outdoor product for everyone."
