Trango
ActiveOverview
Trango is a climbing equipment brand established in 1991, known for producing climbing holds, gear, and serving as the US distributor for Tenaya climbing shoes. It operates under Great Trango Holdings, which also owns eGrips for climbing holds, Stonewear Designs for women's climbing and athleisure clothing, and FRD for descender equipment. The brand focuses on innovative, purpose-specific products for climbers from gyms to mountains.
History
Trango was established in Boulder, Colorado in 1991 as an athlete-driven brand initially focused on distributing climbing products. It later developed its own line of unique climbing gear and acquired Stonewear Designs in 2001, a company founded by Sari Nichols in 1996 for female climbers. Under Great Trango Holdings, it has expanded to include other climbing-related brands like eGrips and FRD while maintaining growth in a competitive market.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Climbing Holds (eGrips) | indoor and outdoor climbing grips | $50 - $200 |
| Climbing Gear | carabiners and mountaineering hardware | $20 - $150 |
| Protection Devices | camming and passive protection | $60 - $180 |
| Women's Climbing Apparel (Stonewear) | climbing, yoga, athleisure | $40 - $120 |
| Descender Equipment (FRD) | military-grade rescue gear | $200 - $500 |
Manufacturing
eGrips climbing holds are produced in Colorado, USA. Stonewear Designs apparel is made in the US. Most Trango climbing gear is internationally sourced, with distribution handled in the US.
Notable Products
- eGrips Holds - Rock-climbing holds manufactured in Colorado for indoor and outdoor use.
- Trango Carabiners - Standard and specialized carabiners for climbing and mountaineering.
- Protection Cams - Camming devices for crack protection in trad climbing.
- Phase Stone - Iconic climbing hold design popular in gyms worldwide.
- FRD Descenders - Military-grade equipment for rope descent and rescue.
Reputation
Trango is regarded by climbers for reliable, innovative gear trusted from gyms to peaks, with eGrips holds praised for quality in US production. Professionals value its athlete-driven development and community support. Some note a shift from distribution to manufacturing, competing in a crowded market with steady growth under current leadership.