Verde’s 2025 thru hiking gear sponsorship

 
 

There’s no question that quality outdoor gear is expensive, and getting ready to embark on a few months-long hike is no small commitment — financially, mentally, or physically. Verde, alongside our amazing clients, aims to take away the financial burden for a few lucky hikers.

Verde’s clients make, hands down, some of the best outdoor and thru-hiking gear available today. To support the growing and very active thru-hiking community, we invite individuals who are planning for a long-distance hike in 2025 to apply to win a head-to-toe thru-hiking kit (valued between $3-5K).

Three hikers will be selected and kitted out in (mostly) everything they’d need to have a successful hike - whether that be on the PCT, AT, CDT, or another long-distance hike of their choosing.

HOW IT WORKS:

We’re looking for the following in exchange for this gear support. Specifics can be negotiated, but in general, we want to share your story! Updates can be in the form of social media posts or blogs, with permission for the supporting brands to share your content. We know sharing content while on the trail can be a challenge and we also recognize that one reason you’re hiking is probably to unplug from technology. We will work with you to figure out what works best to send us updates - whether it’s texting, emailing, phone calls, etc.

  1. In a general sense, we will ask for hikers’ feedback about the products they are sent as well as content (photo, video, testimonials, etc.) to share with the participating brands. This includes:

    1. 3 “before the trail” updates on preparation and packing.

    2. Bi-monthly updates from the trail, including photos.

    3. Tag participating clients (when possible/applicable) in social media posts on an ongoing basis. If you do not plan to be on social media during your hike, that’s fine; we just ask that you share photos and product reviews/testimonials with us directly to pass along to the brands.

  1. Applications will be reviewed based on brand fit and enthusiasm, thru-hiking plans and accomplishments, and social media and community audience.

  2. The Verde team will coordinate directly with the selected hikers for all logistics from start to finish, including ongoing communication, sending products to the hikers before/during their hikes, and post-hike follow-up with the hikers. 

Below is a list of participating brands (specific products to be determined on a case-by-case basis based on each hiker’s preferences and needs):

 

The application window is open now through March 31, 2025. Applicants must reside in the United States (or have a U.S. address for shipping). You must be 18 years old to enter. Winners will be notified via the email address they provide in the application form by April 15.