In the world of lightweight and ultralight backpacking, the cottage industry is booming. From Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon, Charlottesville to Bozeman, one and two person DIY workshops churn out hand-sewn packs, tents, quilts, and everything else a hiker needs to navigate the trail with as little weight as possible on their backs. Using Instagram, Youtube, and Reddit, the community is fascinating. And one of the more exciting new brands I’ve been tipped off to is Allmansright, an ultralight “outdoor gear lab” located right here in New York City. The Bronx to be exact.
Launched in June of 2020 by artist and designer Livio Melo with the goal of diversifying the hiking community and inspiring all to better protect the environment, Allsmanright offers a modest number of innovative backpack, sling bag, and accessory designs for hikers of all experiences and abilities. As for the name, it stems from the right to roam (also known as the “freedom to roam” or “everyman’s right”) concept shared by nearly a dozen socially-minded Nordic and European countries which establishes the general public’s right to access public and privately owned land, lakes, and rivers for recreation and exercise.