The founder of Kuiu started Sitka and grew the company to large success and then sold it to Gore Inc. I have quite a bit of Kuiu gear and it is top notch. I wouldn't replace any of it with any other company's gear, not to say there isn't other good stuff out there. Their product development and customer service are exceptional and the way he runs the company is much more quality driven and personal. In my opinion Kuiu gear is equal or better than the best stuff out there for the technical, go-hard hunter. That quality also comes at a better price and you don't have to pay ridiculous retail mark-up. Of course they aren't perfect and they may make a mistake here or there like anybody else. I just haven't seen it. The only drawback I recognize is if you order something and it doesn't fit you have to send it back and exchange it, and that takes time. I am a backcountry hunting guide in Idaho so this stuff has been through the ringer. Highly recommended. Kuiu gear I own: Icon 5200 pack, Tiburon top and pant, attack pant, chugach rain jacket, merino 185 zip, merino 185 beanie.