How I Built This with Guy Raz Osprey Packs: Mike Pfotenhauer
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Feb 20, 2023 Mike Pfotenhauer, founder of Osprey Packs, turned a passion for design into a global outdoor brand. He shares how his bespoke backpacks evolved from his Santa Cruz shop in the 1970s to encompass innovative designs. Mike recounts overcoming production challenges, relocating to Colorado and then to Southeast Asia, while grappling with the emotional impacts on local workers. He reflects on transformative experiences, including meaningful interactions with the Navajo community, and the proud journey of building a multimillion-dollar enterprise driven by quality and craftsmanship.
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Lost in the Sierras
- As a teen, Mike Pfotenhauer got lost hiking in the Sierras after refusing a five-hour car ride.
- He navigated through Manzanita brush, slept in a clearing, and woke up back on the trail.
DIY Gear
- In the 70s, outdoor gear options were limited, leading many to make their own.
- Mike Pfotenhauer's mom taught him to sew, enabling him to create his gear, from backpacks to bicycles.
Humble Beginnings
- Mike Pfotenhauer started Osprey with his girlfriend in a rented house for $150/month.
- Relying on word-of-mouth, he built custom gear and repaired items, leading to a five-week waitlist.