Epperson Mountaineering

Epperson Mountaineering makes backpacks, and it started with one man's frustration. Mark Epperson couldn't find a pack tough enough for trekking through Montana's Rocky Mountains and Great Plains, so he built his own. The first packs were handmade, and the brand grew out of a small retail shop in Libby, Montana. Yuki Matsuda now leads creative direction, and the hands-on spirit has stayed. Sonofastag describes the range as running from everyday carry bags to technical backpacks, all known for robust construction and premium materials. More than 50 years on, the bags are still made in the USA. It's a practical brand to buy from, too. There's a one year limited warranty against manufacturing defects, and a US repair service if a bag needs restoring.