Episode 23 Superior Wilderness Designs - a podcast by Emory R. Wanger

Superior Wilderness Designs is a cottage company out of Michigan that builds ultralight backpacks for the Thru Hiking crowed.  Brandon McIntyre and Ashley Thick started SWD early in 2016 and promptly left to hike the Pacific Crest Trails with their handmade packs.  

I asked Brandon to come on the podcast to talk about his company, but what we ended up doing is having a far more in depth conversation.  We touch on his pack designs, how he got started and why, and what backpacking means to him.  I found Brandon to be a pleasure to talk to and immediately felt like I was in the presence of someone who loves what backpacking can do for people.

I really think you're going to enjoy this episode with Brandon.  He's laid back, passionate, and sincere about what he does at SWD.  If you're looking for a company to connect with on a personal level, SWD is where you should begin looking.  I personally learned a number of things from my chat with Brandon so I know you will too.

Enjoy!



By Land,
Emory Ronald


THANKS FOR LISTENING!!

Taking the time to listen to this podcast is greatly appreciated!  If you have questions or comments, feel free to reach me at emory@byland.co or leave a comment below.  I'd love to hear from you.  

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SHOW NOTES

Introduction to Brandon and SWD
Superior Wilderness Designs - customized packs!
How Brandon got into backpacking
Brandon’s first backpacking trip
How and why Brandon started SWD
Brandon’s DIY gear creations and background with sewing
Lessons learned in pack design
Durability in a pack - what is needed and what is not 
The Thru Hiking pack design - where did this stem from?
How Brandon feels about being a part of someone’s backpacking story
SWD pack designs
Materials - Cuben versus X-Pac
When Cuben fiber makes sense and when it doesn’t 
X-Pac fabric explained
Weather proofing a pack
Pack liners versus pack covers
Stretch fabric versus netting for an outside pack pocket
What customers can expect from contacting SWD
The culture around Thru Hiking and how SWD is carrying on that culture
The future offerings from SWD
How to find SWD
Brandon’s advice to backpackers
Saved rounds:  The emotional connection to Thru Hiking and how the trail can change your life
LINKS

www.swdbackpacks.com

Further episodes of The By Land Podcast

Further podcasts by Emory R. Wanger

Website of Emory R. Wanger