Is Kelty a Good Brand for Outdoor Gear? Our Honest Review

Kelty is a brand that has been around for over 60 years, and it’s easy to see why it’s still thriving today – it’s simply a good brand. From backpacks to tents and camping gear, Kelty products are built to withstand the rugged outdoors and provide travelers with the ultimate camping experience. Their products are designed with quality materials and attention to detail, ensuring that each item is not only functional but also stylish and durable.

When you think of quality, you think of Kelty. Their products are top-notch, providing adventurers with the tools they need to make the most out of any outdoor excursion. Whether you’re backpacking through the mountains or setting up camp in your backyard, Kelty has something for you. Their backpacks are designed to distribute the weight evenly, reducing the strain on your back and neck. Their tents are built to withstand wind, rain, and harsh weather conditions, ensuring that you’re always protected and safe.

But it’s not just the quality of their products that sets Kelty apart from the rest – it’s the company itself. They prioritize customer satisfaction above all else, which is evident in their commitment to creating only the best products and constantly improving themselves. In short, Kelty is a good brand – and one that you can trust to provide you with the best camping experience possible.

History of Kelty as a Company

Kelty is a popular outdoor gear company that has been around for almost seven decades. The company was founded in 1952 by Dick Kelty, a carpenter who worked in the aerospace industry in Glendale, California. Dick Kelty wanted to create backpacks that could carry heavy loads with ease. He crafted his first backpack in his garage, and soon enough, his products became popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

Throughout the years, Kelty has maintained a reputation for creating high-quality outdoor gear, ranging from backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and more. The company prides itself on creating products that are durable, functional, and affordable, making it an excellent option for avid hikers, campers, and backpackers.

Key Milestones of Kelty’s History

  • In 1952, Kelty was founded by Dick Kelty.
  • In 1956, Kelty introduced the first aluminum frame backpack which revolutionized the backpack industry.
  • In the 1970s, Kelty expanded its product line to include tents, sleeping bags, and other outdoor gear.
  • In the 1990s, Kelty continued to innovate, releasing products such as backpacks with hydration packs and adjustable suspension systems.
  • Today, Kelty is a well-known and respected outdoor gear company with a wide range of offerings and a strong reputation for quality.

The Future of Kelty

Kelty has been around for almost 70 years, and there’s no sign that they will be slowing down anytime soon. The company continues to innovate, releasing new products each year that are designed to make outdoor adventures more comfortable and enjoyable. Kelty’s commitment to quality and value means that they will remain a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts for years to come.

Kelty’s Commitment to Sustainability

Kelty also recognizes the importance of protecting the environment and has made a commitment to sustainability. They use eco-friendly materials in their products whenever possible and have implemented efficient manufacturing processes to reduce waste. Kelty also partners with environmental organizations through its “Built for Good” program, which supports conservation efforts around the world.

Year Event
1952 Kelty was founded by Dick Kelty
1956 Kelty introduced the first aluminum frame backpack
1970s Kelty expanded its product line to include tents, sleeping bags, and other outdoor gear
1990s Kelty continued to innovate, releasing products such as backpacks with hydration packs and adjustable suspension systems
Present Day Kelty is a well-known and respected outdoor gear company with a wide range of offerings and a strong reputation for quality

Kelty’s commitment to sustainability and their dedication to creating functional and affordable outdoor gear have cemented the company’s place in the outdoor industry. Whether you are planning a weekend camping trip or a month-long backpacking excursion, Kelty has a product that will suit your needs.

Reviews of Kelty Products from Customers

Kelty is a well-known brand in the outdoor and travel gear industry. With their wide range of products, it’s no surprise that customers have a lot to say about their experiences with Kelty gear. Here are some reviews from satisfied customers:

  • “I recently purchased the Kelty Redwing 50 backpack for a multi-day hiking trip and it exceeded my expectations. The design is perfect for carrying all of my gear, including my tent and sleeping bag. The shoulder straps and back panel are well-padded, making it comfortable to wear even for long periods of time. I highly recommend this backpack for any outdoor enthusiast!” – Sarah
  • “I’ve been using the Kelty Cosmic 20 Sleeping Bag for a few months now and I couldn’t be happier with it. It’s super warm and cozy, yet lightweight enough to carry on backpacking trips. Plus, the price is unbeatable for the quality of the product. I’ll definitely be sticking with Kelty for all of my camping gear needs.” – Jake
  • “I purchased the Kelty Noah’s Tarp for a camping trip with friends and it was a game-changer. The tarp was easy to set up and provided plenty of shade from the sun and shelter from the rain. It also held up well in windy conditions. Overall, a great investment for any outdoor adventurer.” – Emily

If you’re considering purchasing Kelty gear, these reviews from happy customers are a great testimony to the quality and reliability of the brand.

However, it’s important to note that not all reviews of Kelty products are positive. Some customers have reported issues with certain products, such as zipper malfunctions or fabric tearing. It’s important to thoroughly research any product before making a purchase and to consider reviews from a variety of sources.

If you do experience any issues with a Kelty product, the company has a great customer service team that can assist you with repairs or replacements. They pride themselves on their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

Overall, Kelty is a reputable brand that has earned a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts. While not every product may be perfect, the majority of customers have had positive experiences with Kelty gear. Consider the specific needs of your outdoor adventures and make an informed decision when choosing gear from Kelty or any other brand.

Comparison of Kelty to other outdoor gear brands

Kelty has been a leading brand in the outdoor gear industry for over 60 years. They are known for their high-quality and durable products that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and backpackers. However, how does Kelty compare to other outdoor gear brands in the market? Let’s take a closer look.

  • The North Face: The North Face is a well-known brand in the outdoor gear industry. They offer a range of products, including backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and clothing. The North Face products tend to be more expensive than Kelty’s but are often made with higher-quality materials.
  • Osprey: Osprey is another brand that offers a range of outdoor gear products. Osprey backpacks tend to have more features and are designed for specific outdoor activities. They are also known for their custom-fitting backpacks, ensuring the perfect fit for each individual. However, Osprey products tend to be more expensive than Kelty’s.
  • REI Co-op: The REI Co-op brand offers a range of outdoor gear products, including backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags. They are known for their affordable pricing while still maintaining good quality products. REI Co-op products tend to cater more towards beginner and intermediate outdoor enthusiasts.

In comparison, Kelty products offer a good balance between affordability and quality. They offer a range of products, from backpacks to sleeping bags, that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Kelty products are often made with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor living.

Furthermore, Kelty offers a lifetime warranty on their products, ensuring that customers are satisfied with their products even after purchase. Overall, Kelty is a good brand that has stood the test of time in the outdoor gear industry.

Below is a table summarizing the comparisons made between Kelty and other outdoor gear brands:

Brand Pros Cons
Kelty Affordable; range of products; durable materials; lifetime warranty Not as high quality as some brands
The North Face High-quality materials; range of products Expensive
Osprey Custom-fitting backpacks; range of products Expensive
REI Co-op Affordable pricing; good quality products May not cater towards advanced outdoor enthusiasts

Ultimately, the brand you choose to go with will depend on your budget, preferences, and outdoor needs. However, Kelty is a strong contender in the outdoor gear market that offers good quality products at an affordable price.

Sustainability efforts by Kelty

Kelty is a well-known brand in the outdoor gear industry and has been around for over 60 years. Over the years, the brand has made significant efforts towards sustainability, both in their products and practices.

  • Materials: Kelty is committed to using sustainable materials in their products. They use Recycled Polyester, Organic Cotton, and PFC-Free DWR (Durable Water Repellant) among other environmentally friendly materials in their product line. This commitment to sustainability reduces the impact on the environment and promotes better practices in the industry.
  • Reduced Waste: Kelty is an advocate for the environment and is dedicated to reducing waste. They have implemented programs to minimize waste during the production process and actively seek eco-friendly alternatives to the traditional ways of doing their business. Kelty also encourages consumers to do their part, and their products come with instructions on how to care for them and dispose of them responsibly.
  • Partnerships: Kelty works with multiple organizations and Non-Profits dedicated to sustainability initiatives. Some of their most notable partnerships are those with Leave No Trace, an organization that educates people on how to preserve the outdoors, and The Conservation Alliance, an organization supporting efforts to protect and restore wild places. Through these partnerships, Kelty makes an impact beyond their products and positively contributes to the outdoors communities.

Kelty’s passion for sustainability is evident through their efforts towards sustainability. They continue to make strides in the right direction and are dedicated to always improving their sustainability initiatives. As a consumer, I enjoy purchasing from a brand that upholds ethics that align with mine, and I can trust the impact of my purchase on the environment.

Conclusion

Kelty is a brand that is conscious of their impact on the environment, and they work hard to minimize it. They showcase sustainable practices in their product creation, reduce waste, and actively participate in initiatives that will positively impact the outdoors. As a consumer, making a conscious effort to purchase from brands like Kelty is the first step in preserving our planet.

Sustainability Efforts by Kelty
Use of Sustainable materials in their products.
Reduced Waste through product creation and encouraging consumers to dispose of products responsibly.
Partnerships with organizations such as The Conservation Alliance and Leave No Trace to support outdoor conservation efforts.
Continual dedication to improving their sustainability initiatives.

Kelty’s efforts to promote sustainability in the Outdoor gear industry are commendable, and they remain a brand committed to doing their part in preserving our planet for generations to come.

Kelty’s Warranty and Customer Service Policies

As an outdoor enthusiast, you would want a backpack that can withstand the unpredictable elements and rough terrains, not to mention, one that would last for years. Kelty is a well-known brand that produces high-quality backpacks that offer excellent durability and functionality. In fact, many of their products come with a lifetime warranty, making them a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to get the most out of their gear.

  • Lifetime Warranty: Kelty offers a lifetime warranty on all their products. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and other issues that might arise during normal use of the backpack. It’s important to note that the warranty is only valid for the original owner of the product.
  • Easy Claims Process: Kelty’s customer service team is always ready to assist you with any issues related to your backpack. They offer an easy claims process that ensures you get a quick resolution to any issues you might have with your backpack.
  • Responsive Customer Service: Kelty’s customer service team is known for their responsiveness and helpfulness. They are always ready to answer any questions you might have and provide suggestions on how to resolve any issues you might be facing with your backpack.

Aside from their lifetime warranty, Kelty also takes pride in their customer service policies. They value their customers and strive to ensure that they have a great experience with their products. Here are some of Kelty’s customer service policies:

  • 30-Day Return Policy: Kelty offers a 30-day return policy for their products. If you’re not satisfied with the backpack you’ve purchased, you can return it for a full refund within 30 days of purchase.
  • Secure Online Shopping: Kelty’s website is secure, ensuring that your personal information and payment details are protected. You can shop with ease, knowing that your information is safe and secure.
  • International Shipping: Kelty offers international shipping to over 50 countries, making their products accessible to outdoor enthusiasts all over the world.

Overall, Kelty’s warranty and customer service policies are some of the best in the industry. With their lifetime warranty and responsive customer service team, you can trust that you’re getting a quality product that will last for years. And with their customer service policies, you can shop with confidence, knowing that you have the freedom to return the backpack if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

Pros Cons
Excellent durability and functionality The lifetime warranty is only valid for the original owner
Responsive customer service team Some products can be pricey
Easy claims process

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a backpack that will last for years, Kelty is a great brand to consider. With their lifetime warranty, great customer service, and durable products, you can trust that you’re making a sound investment for your outdoor experiences.

Overview of Kelty’s Product Line

Kelty is a reputable brand that specializes in the production of high-quality outdoor gear. They aim to make outdoor adventures accessible to everyone by creating reliable and affordable products. Kelty’s product line includes a range of outdoor gear for backpacking, camping, and hiking, as well as child carriers and tents.

One of Kelty’s most popular product lines is their backpacking gear. They offer a wide range of packs suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. Their backpacks are designed to make long hikes more comfortable, with features like adjustable suspension, padded hip belts, and ventilated back panels.

Kelty’s camping gear is also top-notch. They offer everything needed to make a camping trip comfortable, including tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads. Their tents range from small one-person shelters to large family-sized models. Their sleeping bags are rated for different temperature ranges and come in mummy and rectangular shapes.

For parents who love the outdoors, Kelty offers a range of child carriers. Kelty’s child carriers are safe, comfortable, and easy to use. They are designed to keep both the parent and child comfortable during long hikes. Kelty’s child carriers come in different sizes, so parents can find the right fit for their child.

Kelty also has a line of tents designed for backpackers. These tents are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for long hikes. Kelty’s backpacking tents come in different sizes and styles, so backpackers can find the right fit for their needs.

Lastly, Kelty offers a range of accessories to complement their product line. These accessories include trekking poles, camping chairs, and coolers. These accessories can make outdoor trips more comfortable and enjoyable.

Overall, Kelty’s product line offers everything needed for a successful outdoor adventure. Their products are high-quality, durable, and designed to make outdoor trips more enjoyable. Whether you’re a novice hiker or an experienced backpacker, Kelty has the gear you need to make your next adventure a success.

Best-selling Kelty Products

Kelty is a well-known brand in the outdoor gear industry. They have been around for over 60 years and have developed a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable products. Here are some of their best-selling products:

  • Redwing 50 Backpack – This backpack is perfect for weekend trips and has a capacity of 50 liters. It has a comfortable suspension system and plenty of pockets for organization.
  • Grand Mesa Tent – The Grand Mesa tent is a great choice for backpackers as it is lightweight and easy to set up. It comes in a variety of sizes and can accommodate anywhere from one to four people.
  • Cosmic Sleeping Bag – The Cosmic Sleeping Bag is a popular choice for campers. It has a temperature rating of 20 degrees Fahrenheit and is filled with 600-fill power down for maximum warmth.

The Kelty brand also offers a range of other products, including backpacks for kids, cooler bags, and camping chairs. One of their newer products is the Low Loveseat Chair, which is great for couples who want to relax together in the great outdoors.

If you are looking for a top-quality tent, the Kelty Dirt Motel is worth considering. It is a spacious three-season tent that can fit up to four people. It has a high-quality rainfly that will keep you dry in even the wettest of conditions.

Here is a table summarizing some of the key features of these products:

Product Capacity/Size Temperature Rating Features
Redwing 50 Backpack 50 liters N/A Comfortable suspension system, plenty of pockets
Grand Mesa Tent 1-4 people N/A Lightweight, easy to set up
Cosmic Sleeping Bag 1-2 people 20 degrees Fahrenheit 600-fill power down, compression sack included
Dirt Motel Tent Up to 4 people 3-season High-quality rainfly, spacious interior

Overall, Kelty is a reliable brand that produces high-quality outdoor gear. Their best-selling products are popular for a reason – they are durable, functional, and designed with the needs of outdoor enthusiasts in mind.

Innovations in Kelty’s designs

Kelty is a well-known brand in the outdoor industry for its high-quality and durable outdoor gear. The brand has been around for more than 60 years, and in that time, they have introduced many innovative designs to improve the user’s outdoor experience.

One of the most notable innovations in Kelty’s designs is its use of lightweight and durable materials in their products. The brand uses high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber in their tent poles, reducing the weight of their tents without compromising on durability. Kelty also uses ripstop nylon in the construction of their backpacks, ensuring that the bags can withstand rough handling without tearing or breaking.

  • Kelty’s Stargazing Fly: One of the most notable and unique innovations in Kelty’s designs is the Stargazing Fly. This feature allows users to lie on their back and gaze up at the stars, making camping all the more enjoyable. This design is typically found in Kelty’s backpacking tents and greatly enhances the user’s experience.
  • PerfectFIT Suspension System: Kelty’s PerfectFIT Suspension System is an innovative feature that allows users to adjust the backpack’s torso length to fit their specific body type. This adjustment is crucial for proper weight distribution and can help prevent injury or discomfort during long hikes. With this system, Kelty backpacks can fit a wider range of body types, making them more accessible to hikers of all shapes and sizes.
  • Intuitive Storage Solutions: Kelty’s backpack designs are equipped with intuitive storage solutions that make organizing and accessing gear a breeze. These backpacks typically have various pockets, compartments, and attachment points, making it easy for users to find what they need quickly.

Kelty also utilizes innovative design features in their sleeping bags, including their ThermaPro Insulation. This insulating material is designed to regulate body temperature, keeping users warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. Additionally, Kelty’s sleeping bags feature a patented Zipper Garage, which keeps the zipper from snagging and tearing the sleeping bag’s fabric.

Kelty’s Innovations in Camping Gear

Kelty’s camping gear also features several unique innovations. Among them are their Linger High-Back Armchair and Low-Love Seat. The chairs combine comfort and functionality, with a sturdy frame and comfortable seating. The Linger High-Back Armchair has an adjustable headrest that can be moved up or down, ensuring that users can find the perfect level of comfort. The Low-Love Seat has a built-in cooler, making it the perfect addition to any camping trip or outdoor event.

Innovations Details
Stargazing Fly Allows users to lie on their back and gaze up at the stars, making camping all the more enjoyable. This design is typically found in Kelty’s backpacking tents and greatly enhances the user’s experience.
PerfectFIT Suspension System Allows users to adjust the backpack’s torso length to fit their specific body type. This adjustment is crucial for proper weight distribution and can help prevent injury or discomfort during long hikes.
ThermaPro Insulation Designed to regulate body temperature, keeping users warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot.
Zipper Garage Keeps the zipper from snagging and tearing the sleeping bag’s fabric.
Linger High-Back Armchair Combines comfort and functionality, with a sturdy frame and comfortable seating. The Linger High-Back Armchair has an adjustable headrest that can be moved up or down, ensuring that users can find the perfect level of comfort.
Low-Love Seat Features a built-in cooler, making it the perfect addition to any camping trip or outdoor event.

Kelty’s continuous innovations in their designs have made them a brand that many outdoor enthusiasts trust and rely on. Their high-quality gear, intuitive designs, and attention to detail all contribute to making the outdoors more enjoyable and accessible to people of all experience levels.

Collaborations or Partnerships with Other Companies or Organizations

When it comes to collaborations and partnerships, Kelty surely doesn’t fall short. The brand has continuously collaborated with other companies and organizations to bring forth innovative concepts and designs that cater to every adventurer’s needs.

From outdoor gear and accessories to environmental sustainability, Kelty has worked hand in hand with various brands and organizations to provide the best products and services to their customers. Here are a few notable partnerships and collaborations that Kelty ventured in:

  • Big Agnes: Kelty collaborated with Big Agnes, a brand known for their sleeping pads and tents, to develop the Kelty Dirt Motel, a double-walled tent that showcases the best features of both brands.
  • REI Co-op: Kelty has worked with REI Co-op, a retail corporation that provides outdoor-oriented merchandise, for a long time now. The partnership allowed Kelty to feature their products in REI Co-op stores, while REI Co-op plays a vital role in promoting Kelty’s brand and products.
  • National Parks Foundation: Kelty’s collaboration with the National Parks Foundation is a testament to the brand’s commitment to environmental sustainability. With this partnership, Kelty donated a portion of its sales to the National Parks Foundation and, in turn, helped preserve the nation’s natural and cultural heritage.

Aside from the collaborations mentioned above, Kelty has also worked with other brands such as Sierra Designs, NEMO Equipment, and Paddlesports Retailer.

Kelty’s collaborations and partnerships are proof of their constant effort to improve and expand their product line, all while upholding their brand’s standards and commitment to their customers and the environment.

Kelty’s Involvement with Outdoor or Environmental Advocacy Causes

Kelty is a popular brand among outdoor enthusiasts who value quality camping and hiking gear. However, it’s not just the quality of their products that make them stand out, but also their commitment to protecting the environment and promoting outdoor advocacy causes. Here are some examples of how Kelty is involved with outdoor or environmental advocacy causes:

  • Kelty is a member of the Conservation Alliance, which is a group of outdoor companies that work together to protect wild places for their habitat and recreation values. The Alliance has been instrumental in protecting millions of acres of land and water in the U.S. and Canada.
  • Kelty partners with Leave No Trace, an organization that teaches people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly and minimize their impact on the environment.
  • Kelty supports the Access Fund, which is a nonprofit organization that works to protect climbing areas and preserve climbing access.

Kelty also puts a lot of effort into producing eco-friendly products. For example, they use sustainable materials in their tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks. They also have a program called “Built to Wander,” which focuses on creating products that are durable and long-lasting, so you don’t have to replace them as often, ultimately reducing waste.

Furthermore, Kelty gives back to the community through initiatives like their “Up for Grabs” program, which donates gear to nonprofit organizations that are working to get more people outside.

Advocacy Causes Organizations
Protecting Wild Places Conservation Alliance
Enjoying the Outdoors Responsibly Leave No Trace
Preserving Climbing Access Access Fund

Overall, Kelty is a brand that not only provides high-quality outdoor gear, but also makes an effort to protect the environment and promote outdoor advocacy causes. Their commitment to sustainability and community giving makes them a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors while also leaving a positive impact.

Is Kelty a Good Brand? FAQs

1. Is Kelty a reliable brand?

Kelty has been in the outdoor gear industry for over 60 years, and they have built a solid reputation for quality and reliability.

2. Are Kelty backpacks comfortable?

Yes, Kelty backpacks are designed with comfort in mind. They feature padded shoulder straps, back panels, and hip belts to ensure a comfortable fit.

3. Does Kelty offer a warranty?

Yes, Kelty offers a limited lifetime warranty on their products. This means that if there are any defects in materials or workmanship, they will repair or replace the item.

4. Are Kelty products affordable?

Kelty offers a range of products at different price points, but overall they provide good value for the money. They are not the cheapest brand, but they are not overly expensive either.

5. Are Kelty tents waterproof?

Yes, Kelty tents are designed to keep you dry in wet conditions. They use durable materials and waterproof coatings to prevent water from getting into the tent.

6. Does Kelty sell camping gear besides backpacks and tents?

Yes, Kelty offers a wide range of camping gear, including sleeping bags, camp chairs, coolers, and much more.

7. Where can I buy Kelty products?

Kelty products are available at many outdoor retailers and online stores. You can also purchase directly from their website.

Closing Thoughts

Thank you for taking the time to read about Kelty as a brand. As you can see, they offer reliable, comfortable, and affordable outdoor gear for all types of adventurers. Whether you are backpacking, camping, or simply exploring the great outdoors, Kelty has something to suit your needs. We encourage you to visit their website and explore their products further. Thanks again for reading, and we hope to see you back here soon for more great content on outdoor gear and adventures.