Is Kifaru still American made?

[Eastonsgrandpa]

Maybe I’m missing something, but was on the Kifaru site and I don’t see where the packs are made any longer. It seems that information used to be a point of pride and much was said about every stitch, buckle, and part being sourced and made right here.

Has something changed?

 

[Tradchef]

Says it right on the packs page

 

[sshhh]

Maybe I’m missing something, but was on the Kifaru site and I don’t see where the packs are made any longer. It seems that information used to be a point of pride and much was said about every stitch, buckle, and part being sourced and made right here.

Has something changed?

Definitely missed somethin hahaha : D

 

[Macintosh]

They are still missing even the most basic info about any of their products—like, pack volume? Cant say I understand that. But yeah, made in usa.

 

[Tradchef]

It’s all still there. Just the page layouts aren’t as user friendly as they once were. I’m not a kif user but it’s all there and the descriptions are on point so it seems

 

[Macintosh]

Good, thats new. Was looking a while back and nothing was online. Even called their cs and the person was like “I know, right??” .

 

[Eastonsgrandpa]

Hm. Maybe that’s it. The website isn’t familiar from the last time I visited and my old brain was not braining. Good to know that didn’t change.

 

[GaryT1776]

I've spent a small fortune on their stuff starting in September 2024 and ending in January 2026. Everything I've received ... and it is ... A L O T ... has been completely USA.

 

[TradLife406]

Was rumors of them to start shipping some stuff over seas.

 

[GaryT1776]

I just ordered ten more items from them. I’ll report back after delivery.

I will pay a premium price for AMERICAN MADE products but will not pay Gucci prices for imported gear.

Companies like LBT, KELTY and GORUCK are transparent about having two lines (higher priced USA and lower priced foreign).

Other companies are more gray with “TAA compliant”.

Others are dishonest and transition without informing consumers.

 

[GaryT1776]

I would be disappointed if Kifaru started offering non-100%-US gear. It would result in me looking elsewhere like SG.

 

[samhelmer]

I would be disappointed if Kifaru started offering non-100%-US gear. It would result in me looking elsewhere like SG.

But I’m pretty sure SG isn’t 100% American made anymore, so that wouldn’t benefit your movement.

 

[GaryT1776]

But I’m pretty sure SG isn’t 100% American made anymore, so that wouldn’t benefit your movement.

I hadn't researched SG so thank you for the info. A colleague swears by them.

For the sake of clarity: my willingness to pay extra for American made isn't political. I am blessed and can afford to do so, but often chose the imported when I don't see a lot of difference in the products.

For example, I am not willing to spend $576 on a Kelty US made Strike 2300 when the imported TAA compliant version is $210. I own both and have found ZERO difference in quality. ZERO. Lesson learned with this specific product.

My decision making is largely based on perceived value (which is totally subjective). If I think there is added value I may chose to spend more. I prefer US made products (especially more unique or boutique items vs mass produced) but it is a case by case. I carry a mass produced (albeit lightly customized) Glock with a Trijicon RCR every day, but also rotate my Staccato P DPO DLC with Trijicon SRO periodically. Is the Staccato 4x better than the Glock? NO. Do I like it? Yes.

First world problems, haha.

 

[GaryT1776]

Also, my position is largely self-serving. I want to maintain the "niche" or "panache" of brands like Kifaru. I remember (A LONG TIME AGO) when North Face was "premium". It is now "commodity".

Patagonia? Sorta?

Beyond? Premium.
Outdoor Research? Premium.
Sitka? Premium.

When the products hit production rates that allow them to be sold in Big Box Stores they appeal to me less.

Gosh, I feel like I need to buy a LV purse to go along with my mindset. (NOTE: my wife does not have a LV). Hahahaa.

 

[Tradchef]

SG is on their packs. The clothing isn’t but not many people are in that regard.

 

[Tradchef]

But I’m pretty sure SG isn’t 100% American made anymore, so that wouldn’t benefit your movement.

SG is on packs. The clothing isn’t but not many people are. The Exo guys did a podcast some time ago on this. Steve had mentioned the zippers on the bags being outsourced. He had found the quality far superior at a good price point to keep their prices what they are. Their packs are outstanding. SEEK Outside in another to look at. Kifaru and SG are on their packs larger production end and EXO and SEEK are cottage compared to them. All make great stuff just matters what you need and what’s important to you. It’s funny to me that guys talk about this but are head to toe in first lite, kuiu or Sitka