(Photo courtesy of Portland Gear)
Portland Gear was founded in 2014 by Portland native Marcus Harvey. Inspired by the heart and soul of Portland, Portland Gear is made to be durable, weather-resistant, recognizable, and convenient for both short and long term travel. What began as a passion project to capture Portland’s essence has become a lifestyle brand celebrated worldwide for its authentic storytelling and innovative designs.
Recently, the company announced their first move to Bend, unveiling an Old Mill storefront that is set to open with a ribbon cutting on Saturday, May 23.
“We’re a brand that is deeply rooted in a sense of community,” said Portland Gear’s Head of People, Culture and Retail Kameesha Rose. “We’re all about togetherness and everyday functionality. Our goal is for people to go together. Whether that’s on a weekend hike or an adventure in a new country we hope to inspire you to go together, and we are excited to bring that unity to Bend.”
Portland Gear, known for their recognizable “P” logo seen on hats around the state, has since evolved to offer a wide variety of apparel and accessories, including their new Cascade line of bags: the Cascade Backpack (available in both standard and compact sizes), the Cascade Getaway, the Cascade Carry-On, and multiple other Cascade bags featuring styles like duffel bags and cross-body bags. This wide range of bags provides customers with tailored options designed to meet a diverse array of travel needs, from carry-on convenience in airports to water-resistant technology that keeps belongings safe and protected.
Portland Gear has become known for their water-resistant nature, as Portland itself is a city known for having ample rainy days throughout the year. However, Rose said that this feature does not define their products.
“Our products are waterproof, but that doesn’t define us, or defer people away,” Rose said. “In Portland, the weather is a bit different, but our second biggest demographic is in California. Portland Gear maintains a high-quality, simple and functional design that’s good for everyone. The waterproof features are there if you need them, but they won’t hold you back if you don’t.”
Aside from bags ready to take on any adventure, Portland Gear offers hats, footwear, shirts, sweatshirts, outerwear like sleek rain jackets, and accessories like luggage tags, tote bags, lanyards and bottle openers.
The expansion into Bend’s Old Mill marks the company’s first foray into Central Oregon. While the region has enjoyed Portland Gear’s product line for years, this is the first brick and mortar location to be unveiled in the region. Aside from Bend, customers can find Portland Gear locations exclusively in Portland itself.
“When I thought about expansion for the summer, Bend felt like a natural next step,” said Rose. “We share the same community values, and our goal is not to disrupt that, but to instead add to those values and help build them up.”
Rose admits that this process happened faster than anyone had anticipated. What began as a potential pop-up in Bend quickly turned into a conversation for a permanent location in the Old Mill.
“We’re so excited about this big move,” Rose said. “Bend has been at the top of our list, and the reception has been positive and welcoming.”
Bendites and tourists alike will be excited to check out the first brick-and-mortar Portland Gear location outside of Portland when it opens on May 23. The public ribbon cutting ceremony will feature raffles, giveaways, and a speech by the company CEO.
In addition, the Bend location will offer a completely new line of products that will only be sold here in Bend. Be sure to check out the store to explore this uniquely-Bend product line.
