Big Agnes started by sketching plans on beer-stained napkins. 20 years later, the gear company is a local hero.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS — Bill Gamber, co-owner, co-founder and president of tent, sleeping bag—and now, pack—maker Big Agnes, stoops over and picks up an empty Diet Coke can from a willow bush next to the bike path, just a block away from the company’s new headquarters. It’s a small gesture, really, but one that’s symbolic of his company’s role and fondness for the community, where it’s been based since its founding 20 years ago. 

We’re on our way to the skateboard park at the city-owned Howelsen Hill ski area, where he’ll watch Fritz, the youngest of his three sons, skate the ramp while, as usual, multitasking; he might as well also use the time to host an interview. When he takes Fritz to Steamboat Springs’ bigger skate park, he “watches” him while fly fishing his beloved Yampa River. 

Such multitasking, and that of his partners Rich Hager and Len Zanni, is largely what has led the company to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year, a milestone for any outdoor gear company, let alone one that has managed to remain in a ski town all along. Over two decades, the entrepreneurs have learned the fine art of work-life balance, juggling kid shuttles with supply chain issues, recreation with R&D efforts, and personal lives with P&L statements. Throughout it all, they’ve also all continued to give back to the community they love.