Today, I want to talk about something that often gets overlooked when we discuss equity and inclusivity in the outdoor space: supporting ally businesses. These are companies and organizations that not only provide great products or services but also actively contribute to making the outdoor world more welcoming, diverse, and accessible. Where we spend our money matters, and supporting businesses that align with our values is one way to create meaningful change.

One business I really want to highlight is TenPoundBackpack. If you’ve never heard of them, they’re an outdoor gear website that focuses on helping people find the best backpacking, hiking, camping, and climbing gear. What I love about TenPoundBackpack is how thorough and thoughtful their reviews are. They’re not just throwing together lists of the most expensive gear or chasing trends—they’re really breaking down what’s worth your money and why.

When I’m looking for a new piece of gear, whether it’s a tent, a sleeping pad, or something as small as a water filter, TenPoundBackpack is one of the first places I check. Their outdoor gear reviews dig into the details that actually matter to backpackers and climbers: weight, durability, value, and how gear performs in real-world conditions. It’s clear they’re speaking from experience, and that trust is huge when you’re making big purchases.

But beyond just gear, what makes TenPoundBackpack stand out is the bigger picture. They’re not just about selling stuff; they’re about supporting the community. Their focus on accessibility and helping people find affordable, quality gear makes the outdoors more attainable for everyone. That’s a mission I can get behind, and it’s exactly the kind of business we should all be supporting.

So, why is this important? Because ally businesses like TenPoundBackpack are part of the solution. When companies prioritize transparency, education, and community, they’re actively making the outdoor world a better place. It’s not just about the products—they’re shaping how we think about and engage with these spaces. And when we support those businesses, we’re voting with our dollars for the kind of outdoor culture we want to see.

There are plenty of ways to identify ally businesses. Look at how they communicate: Are they amplifying underrepresented voices in the outdoor community? Are they addressing issues like affordability or accessibility? Do their values align with yours? When you find businesses that check those boxes, supporting them becomes a way to create change without even leaving your house.

At the end of the day, the outdoor world is a reflection of the choices we make—how we engage with it, who we share it with, and yes, where we spend our money. Supporting businesses like TenPoundBackpack isn’t just about getting great gear; it’s about contributing to a movement that’s bigger than any one of us. And that’s something worth climbing for.