Kathmandu outdoor apparel and equipment

Founded in 1987 in Christchurch, New Zealand, Kathmandu has grown from a local retailer into a prominent global brand specializing in high-quality outdoor and travel gear. The brand began by designing and manufacturing its own equipment to meet the needs of adventurers in the rugged landscapes of Australasia.

While the brand's design and heritage remain rooted in New Zealand and Australia, its manufacturing is distributed across multiple countries, including Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, ensuring a diverse and resilient supply chain. The company is known for its commitment to sustainability, being a certified B Corp since 2019.

In 2019, the parent company, Kathmandu Holdings Limited, underwent a significant expansion by acquiring the iconic Australian surf brand Rip Curl. Following this merger and a subsequent corporate rebranding in 2022, the ultimate owner became KMD Brands Limited. Headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, KMD Brands operates as a global outdoor, lifestyle, and sports company managing a portfolio that includes Kathmandu, Rip Curl, and Oboz Footwear.