Kathmandu insulated water bottle

Kathmandu: From the Southern Cross to Global Adventure

Kathmandu is a renowned outdoor and travel gear brand that was founded in 1987 in Christchurch, New Zealand. The brand has grown from a local retailer of high-quality gear into an international powerhouse in the outdoor apparel and equipment sector. It is widely recognized for its commitment to sustainability, being one of the largest certified B Corporations in the region.

While the brand's design and heritage are rooted in New Zealand and Australia, its manufacturing operations are global. Most of their hardware, including stainless steel insulated water bottles, is produced in China to leverage specialized manufacturing capabilities in metalwork. In 2019, Kathmandu Holdings acquired the iconic surf brand Rip Curl, transforming the parent company into a major global retailer. In 2021, the parent company rebranded as KMD Brands Limited to reflect its multi-brand portfolio, which now includes Kathmandu, Rip Curl, and Oboz Footwear. The company remains headquartered in New Zealand and listed on both the ASX and NZX.