YETI, known for its iconic coolers, announced today that it has purchased Mystery Ranch, a manufacturer of load-bearing backpacks, bags, and pack accessories. Mystery Ranch core operations will continue to operate out of Bozeman, Montana, and media materials note that work will be done over the next several months to integrate teams and functions between the brands.
“Mystery Ranch packs have earned a global reputation within the most demanding communities by building load-bearing equipment that delivers in the harshest environments. Their ethos, passion and people not only align with the YETI team, but also connect well with our commitment to innovation and our customers,” said Matt Reintjes, President & CEO at YETI. “Their communities, ambassadors and obsession with quality make it a natural fit with YETI.”
Mystery Ranch’s pack have been popular among hikers and hunters, and the brand has had a niche with search and rescue personnel. Founders Dana Gleason and Renée Sippel-Baker brought decades of industry experience to bear when they launched the brand in 2000, furthering their longtime goal of making backpacks better, stronger, more flexible and durable — and, above all, more comfortable to carry when loaded.
“YETI’s passion for innovation and the outdoors aligns closely with our founding vision,” Gleason said. “They are a perfect partner to build upon our long history of making the best load-bearing equipment in the world for the most extreme users as well as the everyday mission.”
The terms of the sale were not disclosed.
A report by The Daily by Outdoor Retailer noted that the parent company of YETI competitor Hydro Flask also acquired an outdoor backpack company, Osprey, in 2021. Helen of Troy paid $414 million in cash for the maker of outdoor backpacks and daypacks. The deal was seen as complementary to Hydro Flask in growing Helen of Troy’s reach in the outdoor space.