Burgeon Outdoor — Local services in Lincoln

I first heard about Burgeon Outdoors when they offered me a free face mask to assist in my volunteering job. Thank you!! Their products are made right here in New Hampshire, so I had to give them a try.

Since then I have purchased a Washington soft-shell and a Flume base layer, and as a long-time hard-shell fan I was a bit skeptical at first. A week into owning both I am rapidly becoming a convert. The base layer is super soft, comfortable and warm. The shell's fit is "just right": not baggy, but loose enough to allow for layering. It has plenty of pockets that stash everything from a water bottle to lip balm and your car keys. The hood is an easy way to keep head and ears warm. I usually wear it over a baseball cap. On a recent hike in the low twenties, the shell kept me nice and dry on the uphills, but was warm enough on the windy summit. The soft performs well in foggy weather and a little drizzle but, obviously, I wouldn't pick it in a sustained downpour. All the gear is extremely well-made. I expect it to last me for a long time. Highly...

I have spent countless hours online searching for ethically sourced and crafted activewear, and there I was in Lincoln, NH casually passing through the Village Shops when I discovered Burgeon Outdoor. What do we have here? There are sewing machines in this store! Yup, right there in the shop, stitchers are busily sewing garments together. I was approached by the store manager who explained most of their materials are organic, sustainable fabrics made in the US, and hand sewn at this very shop. I returned to the store three times within as many weeks. Every employee is passionate about their work and it shows in the quality of their products. The Powerwool Beanie is perfect. Just the right weight, fit and warmth. Not too hot or tight, but snug enough to stay in place and dries in a flash. The Bond Quarter zip is cozy and warm. Roomy enough for a base layer underneath, and warm enough for a cool fall hike. LOVE this store and can't wait for more...

My experience at Burgeon was amazing. I wandered into the Lincoln shop and saw local employees in the process of stitching the clothing together right then and there. Talking to Rudy, he explained how Burgeon is committed to providing the highest quality of technical apparel for playing in the mountains, and simultaneously to improving the community by hiring locals, donating proceeds, and (I learned on the website) stewarding trails. I bought two shirts, one an everyday tee which Rudy printed a cool wolf design on right there, one a lightweight wicking long sleeve. I LOVE them - the long sleeve is super light and breathable and could serve as a base layer or a crossover outer for the times of year when weather is mild and rapidly changing. This is an awesome - and different - outdoor apparel retail experience in which you feel like your purchases are actually contributing to compassionate action in the...