Karrimor

Overview

Karrimor is a British brand known for backpacks, outdoor equipment, clothing, and footwear targeted at hiking, walking, camping, and adventure sports. Originally renowned for durable, innovative products like the KS-100e waterproof fabric and Haston Alpiniste rucksack, it now operates under Sports Direct, producing budget-oriented outdoor and running gear sold in the UK and exported to multiple countries.¹²

History

Karrimor was founded in 1946 as the Karrimor Bag Company by Charles and Mary Parsons along with Grace Davies in Lancashire, initially producing hand-sewn cotton-duck cycle pannier bags.¹² It gained recognition in the 1970s with the Haston Alpiniste rucksack and in the 1980s with KSB lightweight fabric footwear.² Financial difficulties in the late 1990s led to receivership in 2004, after which the trademark was acquired by Sports Direct.¹

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured through licensees in regions including Japan, China, Hong Kong, and Europe.⁴ Specific details on in-house versus outsourced production are not specified, but the brand relies on external partnerships for apparel, footwear, and equipment production.

Notable Products

• Haston Alpiniste Rucksack - Iconic 1970s purple alpine sack known for durability in mountaineering.
• KS-100e Fabric - Pioneering waterproof lightweight nylon used in early rucksacks.
• KSB Footwear - 1980s lightweight fabric outdoor shoes that led footwear innovation.
• SF Rucksacks - Military-grade packs adopted for civilian outdoor use.

Reputation

Karrimor was historically praised by mountaineers and outdoor professionals for innovative, robust equipment like rucksacks and fabrics that set industry standards.¹² Post-2004 acquisition, it is viewed as a budget brand with reduced quality compared to its heritage peak, though still functional for casual hiking and running.¹ Enthusiasts note the shift from premium to mass-market positioning under Sports Direct.