It's funny how some people become enamored by a company...and I include myself in that group. Love Kifaru, I do. Their stuff changed my backcountry experiences for the better. But Kuiu? Not so much. Not because of their products or QC or the "normal stuff" but because of the odd way they operate. I've owned product-based businesses and things like inventory control, maintaining a website and providing superior customer care are really not that difficult. You don't even need to "think" about it...the path is already cleared and if you can read a book you can learn how to run any product-based business by the numbers. It only becomes complicated when you lack funds and must cut corners.
I think the fact that Kuiu continues to make the same mistakes demonstrates there's an amatuer at the helm. Website crashing every sale, always backordered on products but more telling is the shift from quality camos to private label goods and experimental spinoffs like sleeping bags, tents, etc. The company saw what they believed to be a movement in the sporting industry and sought to capitalize on it. Branding the logo and look of Kuiu became more important than providing a decent inventory of clothing. This is a fanboy-driven model. I understand it but again, it sure looks like a company that is under-funded to me. But they managed to get people to buy new, untested products far in advance so bully for them. But I question the Kuiu leadership's integrity. When the tent leaked there was no recall. If you post something on the Kuiu forum that paints them in a poor light or reveals something that could injure their bottom line, it is censored. This from a founder who posted a public letter promising transparency. Is Kuiu's moment over? We'll see. I have never seen anyone called a First Lite douche. Or Kryptek douche. Or even a Sitka douche.
I have a far bigger problem...I keep buying camo I don't need. I'm a gear ho with more patterns and pieces than a Chinese puzzle manufacturing plant. I love trying different brands, patterns, materials, cuts and I blame you guys for all the friggin' hype and rave reviews! End of rant, gotta go order some of this new Sitka Core nonstink Polysomethingereother.
[video=youtube;F-dJmU__lmI]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-dJmU__lmI[/video]