Purpose

Outdoor Afro Inc. established in 2021 by Rue Mapp – also founder and CEO of national not-for-profit Outdoor Afro. Revisiting her fashion and art background, Mapp formed the “Inc.” enterprise to solve the unmet needs and design barriers in outdoor industry gear and equipment. For the past decade, she noticed how fit, fashion, and functionality were missing features from the outdoor apparel market in her community, making it harder for more outdoor enthusiasts to find comfortable clothing without compromising style.

 

 

Projects

Pioneering the way for Black community-informed design insights in the outdoor industry, Outdoor Afro Inc. develops products that serve as stylish solutions for anyone who loves to get outside.

Its first co-branded collection launched September 2022 with REI Co-op, an outdoor retailer that seeks to connect every person to the power of the outdoors. Working with and for the Black community, the hike collaboration focuses on a truer fit, celebratory colors, and materials that complement more textured hair. Shop the entire 22-piece collection. 

 

 

PHILANTHROPY

Outdoor Afro Inc. is committed to supporting not-for-profit Outdoor Afro through grantmaking. Additionally, Outdoor Afro Inc. seeks to support other organizations and program champions of outdoor access.

“No one was truly creating accessible and stylish options that actually spoke to the insights we learned about Black body fit while delivering on performance needs to make outdoor experiences more accessible. Exactly why this Black outdoor lifestyle brand is so important today.”

– Rue Mapp