Durston

Durston in the index

In the August 2026 edition, Durston ranks #70 of 184 brands overall and #35 of 109 in Sports & Outdoor. Its Scale score is driven most by branded search demand, with site traffic its relatively weakest signal. Over the past year, branded search is growing strongly, with a seasonal peak in July and August, and site traffic is growing strongly. Its Momentum score of 75 says the brand is growing fast overall (50 means flat).

About Durston

Durston designs ultralight backpacking equipment, including tents, backpacks, trekking poles and related accessories, for hikers and backcountry travellers who prioritise low weight, simplicity and durability. The company is based in the Canadian Rockies and is led by Dan Durston, who developed the gear from a background as a long-distance hiker and gear designer within ultralight backpacking communities before starting the company. Products such as the X-Mid and X-Dome tent lines, and the Wapta and Kakwa packs, are designed in-house and manufactured with outdoor gear factories that also produce equipment for other established outdoor brands.

The brand sells directly to consumers through its own website, shipping internationally. Durston's approach is described as a first-principles design philosophy, developing new gear only when it is felt to meaningfully improve on existing equipment, with ongoing refinement informed by user feedback. Dan's wife, T, is also involved in the business, contributing to product development, customer support and order fulfilment.