Our Story
Beginnings
Towards the end of 2021, our founder Ryan had the sudden goal to tackle one of Sydney's most popular multi day trips, the Great North Walk.
While shopping for gear for this undertaking, he discovered the realm of Ultralight backpacking and the freedom and minimal weight offered by hiking quilts.
Disappointed by the lack of options in Australia, Undercling Mike stopping production, Tier Gear having limited choices and long lead times, and the astronomical duties and shipping from the United States, Ryan decided to start making his own quilts and began by brainstorming a unique design. He sewed his first quilt in January of 2022.
Below: Overlooking Brooklyn from part of the Great North Walk
Behind the Name
With the Italian word for "snow", neve, and the "flame" logo, Neve Gear was created with the goal of providing the most capable equipment for every situation, and aims to always provide "the fire to protect against the cold", be it the best possible quilt, backpack or anything else.
Unique Design
Ryan invented the offset pad strap attachment system, which eliminates the most common problem of a hiking quilt, being draughts from cold air seeping in, while still having all of the positives of a quilt, being lighter weight, less constrictive and cheaper.
Expanding
After demand for his new design skyrocketed, Ryan ceased custom quilt production and moved the development overseas, which allowed him to substantially drop the price and further his goal of making the most capable and affordable Ultralight equipment. Neve Gear's Waratah quilts began wholesale in Wild Earth, Backpacking Light and Ultralight Hiker in October of 2023.
Affordability as a long-term goal
Neve Gear's products are manufactured in the same factories and made of the same materials as brands that charge almost 2x per unit. By utilising long-term goals and a receptive business model, we don't make any compromises in terms of manufacturing, ethics or fabrics. As a result, we're able too provide gear that isn't just easy to start with but also sustainable to continue.
We believe that offering exceptional value is the foundation to long-term business success and is the right thing to do.
Where are we now?
Using the success of his quilts and backpacks, Ryan purchased Ultralight Hiker from its old owner, Lisa Pinder in March of 2024 after poor health made it difficult for her to continue the business.
Ryan started rapidly expanding both businesses in Port Macquarie, but quickly outgrew the little store and moved to Sydney permanently in August of the same year. We now operate both ventures from two offices in Botany Road, Alexandria, with the retail store taking the forefront, allowing customers to have a full experience with our brand in person.
Where to next?
Ryan and his designers are always looking for ways to develop new, innovative gear. We are constantly looking for ways to improve existing designs and come up with brand new ones, while still making them affordable. Stay tuned for updates!