About Us
The Air Down was conceived in the year 2020. Every day that passed by brought about more news suggesting the world was falling apart around us. Whether it was the threat of war, uncontrollable forest fires, or a decimated world economy, all while being stuck indoors due to a global pandemic; we were naturally growing restless. While we were maintaining social distance, we began spending a lot more time in the great outdoors, simply to escape to experience a simpler way of life for a short period of time.
One day our founder invited one of his friends to join a small group for a weekend trip up the Indian Arm - an adventure he knew was on this person’s bucket list. Unfortunately, as a result of being laid off, his friend was unable to join us due to financial reasons.
It was at this time that it really hit us, we noticed that camping and adventure gear had been steadily increasing in price, as it had become trendy in recent years. Living in Vancouver, we were sensitive to the notion that the market seemingly catered only to super wealthy individuals.
This hit us like a freight train. How can we be surrounded by the most beautiful natural environment on Earth, but not have access to the quality gear needed to explore safely.
It was at this point in time that our founder decided to unite three seemingly unrelated skills he picked up in life, his business savvy from years in the advertising industry, global connections and product sourcing experience from years working and studying in Asia, and his passion for exploring the great outdoors to try to make the wilderness more accessible.
While Overlanding (arguably the most awesome form of camping) with some friends, our founder overheard someone say, “Let’s meet up at the Air down” over the CB radio we were using to communicate. “The Air Down” is essentially another term for a trailhead, or the point where the pavement stops. It is at this location where members of the mountain 4X4 community are known to stop, get out of their vehicles, and lower the air pressure in their tires before tackling the rough forest service roads.
Some may cringe at the idea of delaying their adventure by even a second, our founder, on the other hand, relishes in it. In his mind this location and brief point in time represents a phase shift from the doldrums of daily life to the freedom only back country adventure provides. It is at this point where your connection to the city starts to fade, your cell service becomes spotty, you set your intention and mentally prepare for the adventure ahead. You’ll also likely use this time to smack talk your buddies.
We envision a future where the wonders of nature are always accessible, authentic, and full of adventure.
Nature is the magnet. Let's meet up at The Air Down.