Why Symbiosis Gear?
The outdoor industry is saturated with gear designed primarily for stereotypical male bodies. At Symbiosis Gear, we’re doing something different. We prioritize comfort, functionality, and performance for those with femme bodies, understanding that our bodies have a lot of variables and our gear needs to be designed differently so that it fits in a way that’s freeing, not restrictive.
Our Values:
- Fit for Femme Bodies: Gear that’s built to complement the natural shape and movement of femme bodies.
- Designed with Purpose: We don’t just pink it and shrink it — we start from scratch to meet your specific needs.
- Sustainability & Integrity: As people who love the outdoors, we take responsibility for protecting it. Our designs are made to last, reducing waste and the need for replacements.
What’s in a Name: Why I Chose Symbiosis Gear
When deciding what to name my business, I kept returning to trees and their incredible symbiotic relationship with mammals and the planet. Trees use resources—sunlight, air, water, soil, and nutrients—and, in turn, they give back abundantly. They provide habitats for birds, squirrels, and insects, clean the air for us, offer shade, and in some cases, produce food like nuts and fruit.
I wondered: could a business operate in a similar way? Could it form a symbiotic relationship with people and the planet? I knew creating gear would require resources—fabric, transportation, human effort, and time. My aspiration, however, is that the positive impact Symbiosis Gear brings to the world matches or even outweighs the resources we consume.
If our gear empowers femme-bodied individuals to experience joy, adventure, and freedom in the outdoors, that contribution is deeply meaningful. It’s a bold step toward healing the harm caused by patriarchy and creating a more inclusive world.
I’m also deeply inspired by the lessons trees teach us when we slow down to observe and listen. This connection to trees is why all of our packs are named after them—they remind us of resilience, generosity, and interconnectedness.
We’re not there yet, but striving toward this lofty goal is what drives me every day.
Thank you for being part of this journey. 🌲
- Sarah “Mellow!” Berkeley, founder
Join Our Mission for Inclusive Gear
Our vision is to see the outdoor industry filled with gear options that reflect a commitment to inclusivity, helping foster greater diversity on the trails. We’re proud to be one of the first outdoor gear companies focused entirely on the mission of serving femme-bodied adventurer, and we’re thrilled to have you on this journey with us.
Let’s make the outdoors a place for everyone. Welcome to Symbiosis Gear: where it’s not just about what it looks like, but how it feels.