Cotoopoaxi was founded in 2023 on a muddy hiking path in the Blue Ridge Escarpment, just a short drive from where our warehouse now stands in Moore, South Carolina. The idea was simple: three friends—a geologist, an industrial designer, and a former outdoor retail manager—were frustrated that the outdoor gear they loved was either prohibitively expensive or failed after a single season. They decided to build a brand that puts lasting quality, fair pricing, and environmental responsibility on equal footing.
Our name reflects that mission. “Coto” hints at community and cooperation, while “poaxi” evokes the paths and axes we navigate on maps and in life. Together, Cotoopoaxi stands for shared exploration—the belief that the outdoors should be accessible to everyone, supported by equipment that doesn’t let you down.
What We Make
Our catalog spans technical daypacks, weather-resistant apparel, and essential accessories designed for weekend campers and through‑hikers alike. Before any product reaches our site, prototypes are tested for months in the foothills of the Appalachians, in rain, mud, and blazing summer heat. If a stitch fails or a zipper catches, we don’t ship it. This field‑testing philosophy means everything you buy from us has already proven itself where it matters most.
Our Commitment to People and the Planet
Sustainability isn’t a marketing label for us; it’s built into how we operate.
- Products that endure: Designing for durability reduces replacement cycles and keeps gear out of landfills.
- Responsible materials: We prioritize recycled fabrics, PFC‑free water repellents, and bluesign®‑approved components wherever possible.
- Climate action: We donate 1% of every purchase to nonprofit organizations focused on reforestation and public land preservation through our membership in 1% for the Planet.
- Minimal‑waste operations: Our packaging is plastic‑free, and we continuously audit our supply chain to reduce carbon emissions.
The Team Behind Your Order
When you contact Cotoopoaxi, you aren’t routed to an offshore call center. Our tight‑knit team—customer experience, warehouse, marketing, and design—works under one roof at 1068 Appalachian Dr, Moore, SC 29369. The same people who answer your emails also pack your boxes and scrutinize returns. That end‑to‑end control lets us deliver a consistent, personal experience.
Join Our Community
Cotoopoaxi is more than gear—it’s a growing collective of hikers, campers, climbers, and wanderers who believe in protecting the places we play. Whether you’re bagging your first 14er or just finding a quiet spot by the lake, we’re honored to equip your journey. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook at @cotoopoaxi, tag your adventures, and be part of a brand that’s rooted in real trails and real people.
Got a story to share or a question? Visit our Contact page or write to info@cotoopoaxi.sbs. We’d love to hear from you.