Kelty

DICK KELTY MADE HIS FIRST BACKPACK IN 1933, AT AGE 14, TO HAUL BLANKETS AND FOOD FOR OVERNIGHT HIKES WITH HIS FATHER IN THE SIERRAS.

As a young man, while overseas outfitting aircraft during WWII, he learned about durable, lightweight aviation materials—and an idea took root and grew. Upon his return to Glendale, California, Kelty set out to

build a better pack: lighter, more comfortable, and BUILT FOR PLAY®. He spent nights meticulously handcrafting frames in his garage while his

wife, Nena, lovingly sewed packs in the couple's tiny kitchen. That first year, 1952, they sold 29 packs—and an outdoor legend was born.