Patrik Orcutt 09.19.25
The introduction of new tariffs by the U.S. government is reshaping the economics of outdoor gear, driving up prices for consumers who have already been hit by an alarming amount of inflation the the past 5 years. These tariffs, taxes imposed on imported goods, target key manufacturing hubs like China, Vietnam, and Taiwan, where much of the outdoor industry’s production occurs. As a result, the cost of importing gear such as hiking boots, backpacks, and technical apparel is rising, and these increases are often passed on to buyers. As GI JOE once taught me, knowing is half the battle, and understanding how these Tariffs work and can affect us will help keep you informed and up to date on how our world’s economy works.
Pricing Coverage on AllOutdoor
Understanding Tariffs and Their Scope
Tariffs increase the cost of goods entering the U.S. from foreign countries. Historically, former President Donald Trump implemented tariffs on Chinese imports, starting with a 10% rate on all goods, which later escalated. Recent policies have pushed these rates higher, with some reports citing combined tariffs on Chinese goods reaching up to 145%. Additional tariffs, such as a 10% baseline on imports from all foreign countries introduced in April 2025, further complicate the trade landscape. Although tariffs on Canada and Mexico have been paused, and a 90-day negotiation period with China began on May 12, 2025 (still ongoing as of July 2025), the current duties are already a burden on the outdoor industry.
Most outdoor gear relies on global supply chains. Countries like China lead in producing technical fabrics and lightweight materials essential for items like tents and jackets. When tariffs hit these imports, manufacturers face higher costs, disrupting an industry already operating on slim margins.
Rising Costs for Manufacturers
The outdoor gear sector depends heavily on specialized manufacturing, not easily replicated in the U.S. For instance, precision equipment and innovative composites often come from Asia. Tariffs disrupt this trade ecosystem, forcing brands to either absorb costs or raise prices. Many companies, such as Black Diamond, have publicly acknowledged price hikes to offset a 10% universal tariff and a 25% tariff on aluminum, an incredibly critical material for climbing gear and bike frames.
Clarus, Black Diamond’s parent company, estimated a $7.5–8 million hit from tariffs without price adjustments. After implementing increases by May 5, 2025, this dropped to $3.5–4 million, showing that price hikes are a necessary buffer. Similarly, Specialized added a 10% surcharge to its Turbo Levo 4 e-bike starting May 1, 2025, reflecting immediate tariff pressures.
Consumer Price Increases
With manufacturers passing on costs to the customers, we are facing higher prices across all outdoor product categories. A $50 pair of athletic shoes, for example, could rise to $59–$64, depending on the tariff rate—a potential 28% increase. Industry voices, as reported by Outside, predict “drastic” rises, with brands like Black Diamond and Specialized already acting.
The scale of these hikes varies. A tariff jump from 14% to 46% on a purchase order, as one source estimated, could translate to significant retail increases if fully passed on to the customer. However, not all costs are directly transferred; some brands absorb a portion or cut expenses elsewhere. Still, the consensus is pretty clear: tariffs inflate prices, and consumers usually are the ones to bear the brunt.
Industry Adaptation Efforts
But not all hope is lost! Some brands are exploring alternatives to mitigate tariff impacts. Diversifying supply chains to countries with lower duties is one option, though shifting production is slow and costly. Others, like FORLOH, have turned to U.S. manufacturing, claiming competitive pricing despite higher domestic labor costs. Yet, this isn’t viable for all. Wild Rye’s founder, Cassie Abel, has found U.S. production challenging due to missing infrastructure for technical apparel.
Materials pose another hurdle. Even U.S. made gear often uses imported fabrics or components, still subject to tariffs. The Outdoor Industry Association warns that this dependence, paired with a lack of domestic alternatives, leaves the sector vulnerable to an unpredictable future, and speaking of future.
The Future?
Tariff policies remain pretty fluid, adding uncertainty to an already uncertain time for the outdoor industry. The paused tariffs on Canada and Mexico could resume, and negotiations with China might alter rates post-August 10, 2025. President Trump’s inconsistent trade stance is delaying reciprocal tariffs in April 2025 while hiking Chinese duties does nothing but complicate the current situation. If high tariffs persist, some brands warn of unavoidable price surges. The long-term impact hinges on trade outcomes. A resolution could ease costs, but prolonged or escalated tariffs might push prices even higher, potentially dampening demand for premium outdoor gear. For now, the trend is upward, with immediate effects already visible at your local REI.
Wrap Up
New tariffs are undeniably raising the price of outdoor gear by increasing import costs from key manufacturing regions like China. While some brands adapt through domestic production or supply chain shifts, most must raise prices to stay afloat. Examples like Specialized’s surcharge and Black Diamond’s adjustments illustrate this reality, supported by industry estimates and consumer feedback. Though tariff rates and policies may shift, their current trajectory suggests that people like you and me who enjoy the outdoors will continue paying more for their gear.
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