Hatchet Outdoor Supply Review: Your New Go-To for Adventure Gear

Hey there, fellow outdoor enthusiast! If you‘re anything like me, you‘re always on the hunt for gear that can keep up with your active lifestyle without cramping your style. So when I discovered Hatchet Outdoor Supply, a specialty retailer that curates the best apparel and equipment for modern adventurers, I knew I had to share my experience with you.

What is Hatchet Outdoor Supply?

Before we dive into my hands-on review, let‘s do a quick overview of what makes Hatchet Outdoor Supply special. Founded in 2013 by Gene Han, an industry veteran with a passion for the outdoors, Hatchet has quickly become a go-to source for discerning adventurers who want gear that works as hard as it looks good.

With brick-and-mortar shops in Brooklyn and Los Angeles, as well as a robust online store, Hatchet offers a highly curated selection of apparel, footwear, bags, and accessories from independent designers and heritage brands. But beyond just stocking cool products, Hatchet is dedicated to building a community of like-minded individuals who share a love of nature and a commitment to sustainability.

So what sets Hatchet apart from your typical camping supply store? Here are a few key factors:

• Quality over quantity: Hatchet‘s buyers are extremely picky about the brands they partner with, focusing on craftsmanship, innovation, and ethical manufacturing. You won‘t find any cheap, disposable goods here.

• Unique, hard-to-find labels: If you‘re sick of seeing the same old Patagonia and North Face gear everywhere you go, Hatchet is the perfect place to discover under-the-radar brands that will make you stand out on the trail.

• Blending fashion and function: Who says you have to sacrifice style for performance? Hatchet specializes in gear that looks just as great as it works, so you can go from the mountains to the city streets without missing a beat.

• Sustainable and ethical practices: Hatchet partners with brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials, responsible manufacturing, and fair labor practices. So you can feel good about where your gear comes from.

• Community-driven retail experience: Shopping at Hatchet isn‘t just a transaction, it‘s an opportunity to connect with fellow outdoor lovers. Both retail locations regularly host events, workshops, and meet-ups to foster a sense of adventure and camaraderie.

Putting Hatchet Gear to the Test

Alright, now that you have a sense of what Hatchet Outdoor Supply is all about, let‘s get into the good stuff: the gear! Over the past few months, I‘ve had the chance to test out a range of Hatchet‘s bestselling apparel and accessories in the wild. Here are my honest thoughts:

Moleskin Seattle Shirt ($195)

As soon as I slipped on the Moleskin Seattle Shirt, I could tell it was something special. The 100% cotton material has a soft, brushed texture that feels amazing against the skin, while still being sturdy enough to withstand snags and abrasions on the trail.

I took this shirt on a weekend camping trip in the Catskills, and it kept me comfortable in temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s. The DWR finish also came in handy when I got caught in a light rainstorm – the water just beaded right off. After a few wears, the shirt is starting to develop a really nice patina that only gets better with age.

Pros:

• Durable cotton moleskin fabric
• Versatile enough for outdoor activities or city life
• Stylish, timeless design
• Made in the USA

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other button-ups
• Runs slightly large, so you may want to size down

Cosmos Tee ($40)

Every outdoorsperson needs a go-to tee for days when you want to keep things simple, and the Cosmos Tee from Hatchet definitely fits the bill. I love the earthy, natural vibe of the hand-dyed fabric, which is speckled with pops of color that remind me of distant galaxies (hence the name).

At $40, this might seem a little pricey for a basic t-shirt, but trust me when I say the quality is worth it. The 100% cotton material is weighty and substantial, with a perfect slouchy fit that only gets more comfortable with each wash. I‘ve been reaching for this tee on camping trips, neighborhood dog walks, and work-from-home days.

Pros:

• High-quality cotton construction
• Unique colorway
• Comfortable, relaxed fit
• Unisex sizing

Cons:

• Slightly sheer, so lighter colors may need an undershirt
• Hand-wash only

Taper Fatigue Pants ($90)

If you‘re going to invest in one pair of pants this season, make it the Taper Fatigue Pants from Hatchet Outdoor Supply. These military-inspired trousers have become my go-to for everything from short day hikes to international travel, thanks to their winning combination of style and performance.

The relaxed fit through the thigh keeps things comfortable, while the tapered leg offers a modern silhouette that works just as well in town as it does on the trail. I especially appreciate details like the deep pockets (great for stashing trail maps and snacks) and the durable cotton ripstop fabric, which has held up to plenty of abuse.

Pros:

• Versatile, modern style
• Durable cotton ripstop construction
• Plenty of pockets for storage
• Available in multiple earthy colorways

Cons:

• Lengthy inseam, so you may need to get them hemmed
• No stretch, so not ideal for climbing or cycling

875 Moc Toe Boots ($280)

A reliable pair of boots is the foundation of any outdoor kit, and I can confidently say that the 875 Moc Toe Boots from Red Wing Heritage (stocked by Hatchet) are a worthy investment. These American-made beauties are built to last, with Goodyear welt construction, durable full-grain leather, and a grippy Vibram sole.

I‘ve been breaking in my pair for a few weeks now, and while they were pretty stiff at first, they‘re starting to mold to my feet like a second skin. I‘ve worn them on muddy trails, city streets, and even to a wedding (yes, they look that good). I have no doubt that these boots will be in my regular rotation for years to come.

Pros:

• Goodyear welt construction for durability
• High-quality leather breaks in beautifully
• Classic style works for a range of occasions
• Made in the USA by a heritage brand

Cons:

• Expensive at nearly $300
• Relatively heavy compared to hiking boots
• Requires a lengthy break-in period

What Other Customers Are Saying

Of course, you don‘t just have to take my word for it. I scoured the web for feedback from other Hatchet Outdoor Supply shoppers, and the vast majority of reviews are glowingly positive.

On Yelp, the brand‘s flagship store in Brooklyn has a solid 4-star rating based on 24 reviews. Customer Jessica G. writes, "I love this store! They have a really well curated selection of outdoor gear that is both functional and stylish. The staff is also incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. I always leave with something new that I‘m excited to use on my next adventure."

Similarly, the Los Angeles location has earned a 4-star average rating from 10 reviews. "This is my go-to spot for unique, high-quality gear," says David R. "I appreciate that they carry a lot of smaller, independent brands that you don‘t see everywhere else. The owners have a great eye for style and are always happy to offer recommendations."

And over on NiceLocal, Hatchet boasts a stellar 4.3-star average rating from over 45 reviews. "I‘ve been shopping at Hatchet for years and have never been disappointed," shares Mark L. "Their gear is top-notch and built to last. Yes, it‘s a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for. I always keep an eye out for their sales to score some great deals."

The only real critique I saw from customers was that Hatchet might not be the best choice for highly technical gear like ultralight tents or climbing equipment. But for most casual adventurers who want products that balance performance and style, Hatchet is a go-to destination.

The Final Verdict

So, is Hatchet Outdoor Supply worth the hype? Based on my personal experience testing out their gear and the overwhelming amount of positive customer feedback, I‘m inclined to say absolutely. No, Hatchet isn‘t the cheapest option out there, but in my opinion, the quality, curation, and commitment to ethical practices justify the price tag.

What really sets Hatchet apart for me is the unique product assortment that you simply won‘t find at big-box retailers. As someone who appreciates discovering under-the-radar brands and supporting small makers, I love that Hatchet gives these independent designers a platform. And with the brand‘s cool, contemporary aesthetic, I feel confident rocking their gear whether I‘m summiting a peak or meeting friends for brunch.

Another big draw for me is Hatchet‘s focus on community building. I‘ve already met some great people at events hosted by my local shop, and I love feeling like I‘m part of something bigger than just another transaction. In a world where many retailers feel soulless and generic, it‘s refreshing to find a company that prioritizes connection and shared values.

At the end of the day, if you‘re looking to build a timeless, high-quality wardrobe for your outdoor (and indoor) adventures, I highly recommend checking out Hatchet Outdoor Supply. Between the curated selection, sustainable ethos, and engaged community, it‘s become one of my personal favorite gear destinations. I know my closet – and my adventures – are better off for it.