top of page

Gear Up for Adventure: Discover Maine’s Best Outdoor Brands & Outfitters

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • Nov 10
  • 4 min read


Gear Up for Adventure: Discover Maine’s Best Outdoor Brands & Outfitters

Gear Up for Adventure: Where Adventure Meets Craftsmanship

In Maine, the wilderness isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a way of life. From the rugged peaks of the Maine Highlands to the sparkling waters of Moosehead Lake and the Bold Coast, Maine’s landscape inspires innovation. Many of the state’s most beloved outdoor gear brands were born right here, crafted by people who live and breathe the outdoors so gear up for adventure.


Whether you’re gearing up for a backcountry camping trip, paddling through pristine lakes, or hitting the slopes, you’ll find authentic Maine-made gear and trusted outfitters to make every adventure unforgettable.


🪓 Maine-Made Outdoor Gear Brands You’ll Love


Brant & Cochran — South Portland

Forged from 1050 carbon steel, the Allagash Cruiser Axe is a nod to Maine’s logging history — a perfect blend of rugged function and craftsmanship. Brant & Cochran proudly carries on Maine’s ax-making legacy, producing tools that are built to last for generations.


Good To-Go — Kittery

Handmade, healthy, and adventure-ready, Good To-Go’s dehydrated meals are a must-have for backpackers and explorers. From Herbed Mushroom Risotto to Thai Curry, every meal is cooked up in Kittery and packed with real flavor. Available online and at retailers statewide.


Hyperlite Mountain Gear — Biddeford

Minimalist design meets maximum durability. Crafted from Dyneema® fabric, Hyperlite’s ultralight backpacks, tents, and shelters are engineered for serious adventurers. Visit their Biddeford mill showroom for a custom fitting or exclusive in-store finds.


L.L.Bean — Freeport

Since 1911, L.L.Bean has been synonymous with Maine’s outdoor heritage. Its flagship store in Freeport is open 24/7 and offers everything from the iconic Bean Boots to fly rods, snowshoes, and apparel for every season. Don’t miss the in-store outdoor discovery programs and adventure courses.


Old Town Canoe — Old Town

Built for paddlers, by paddlers — Old Town Canoe has been crafting world-class canoes and kayaks since 1898. Each boat is made in Maine and designed to handle the lakes, rivers, and rapids that define the state’s wilderness.


Shaw & Tenney — Orono

Established in 1858, this heritage brand handcrafts wooden paddles and oars that are as beautiful as they are functional. Whether you’re paddling across Moosehead Lake or hanging a piece on your camp wall, Shaw & Tenney’s products embody Maine craftsmanship.


Winterstick Snowboards — Carrabassett Valley

Co-owned by Olympic gold medalist Seth Wescott, Winterstick Snowboards produces handcrafted boards at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain. Their custom splitboards, swallowtails, and vibrant snowboards are made for carving through Maine’s best powder.


🏕️ Top Maine Outfitters & Outdoor Retailers

Get ready for your next trip north with these trusted local outfitters and retailers — perfect for grabbing last-minute essentials or upgrading your adventure gear.



🧭 Where Outdoor Spirit Meets Maine Tradition

From handcrafted tools and snowboards to sustainably sourced clothing and local retailers, Maine continues to inspire gear that’s built for real adventure. Every product tells a story — forged in rugged mountains, tested on icy lakes, and made by people who call this wild place home.


So whether you’re hiking the Appalachian Trail, paddling across Sebago Lake, or skiing at Sugarloaf, Maine’s outfitters have you covered — naturally, locally, and authentically.


📍 Explore More Maine Outdoor Brands

Find even more local makers and outfitters at Maine Outdoor Brands — your complete directory for gear, apparel, and adventure inspiration made right here in Maine.


What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions

Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.

Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:

  • 🛶 Boating & paddling routes

  • 🎣 Fishing hotspots

  • 🏕️ Wilderness camping sites

  • 🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks

  • 🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure

Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:

  • Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7

  • Free WiFi & TV

  • Backup Generator

  • Easy driveway access for trailers & ATVs

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the river, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River









From the rugged peaks of the Maine Highlands to the sparkling waters of Moosehead Lake and the Bold Coast, make every adventure unforgettable

bottom of page