The Toray Advantage

We field a lot of questions asking how KUIU compares to our competition, especially my old brand. The biggest differentiator is our fabrics and the direct to consumer model to keep our prices reasonable. Otherwise our product line would be cost prohibitive as our fabrics are 3 to 4 times more expensive as our competitions.  You absolutely get what you pay for in technical fabrics.

Before developing the KUIU line I met with the world’s 3 leading technical fabric suppliers, including Switzerland’s Schoeller, The United States Polartec, and Japan’s Toray.

Toray, based in Osaka, Japan leads the technical fabric industry by fusing nanotechnology into its operations, using organic synthetic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and biotechnology to solve the technical fabric industry’s most challenging problems. All of KUIU’s outerwear is made exclusively with Toray’s Primeflex fabrics, which use a patented Spiral Yarn allowing stretch and recovery without elastic. The result is a lighter, more durable, and faster drying fabric.

Founded in 1926, Toray is a leading chemical manufacture based in Osaka Japan. Toray fuses nanotechnology into its operations, using organic synthetic chemistry, polymer chemistry and biotechnology as its core technologies.  Using Chemistry to solve industries most challenging problems, Toray operates leading divisions in medical, chemical, carbon fiber and textile industries.

Toray leads the textile industry in new technology developments in all three major groups of synthetic fibers-nylon, polyester, and acrylic fibers.  Toray is setting new standards in waterproof breathable laminates and durable water repellency (DWR).

                                                                     Primeflex Spiral Yarn

Toray’s development of the patented Primeflex yarn increases fabrics durability, decreases weight, dry-time, and stretch-recovery over time. Primeflex fabrics use a patented spiral yarn technology, allowing for the yarn to stretch and recover without using elastic such as lycra or spandex.  Elastic is heavy, hydrophilic (attracts water) and has a limited life expectancy.  Toray’s Primeflex fabrics are lighter weight with much better performance and durability than competitive fabrics.

KUIU is exclusively using Primeflex fabrics for all of its outwear, which is a key ingredient to saving 4 pounds in the layering system.  The Primeflex fabric collection is a range of 100% Poly fabrics that include stretch woven, soft shell and waterproof breathable fabrics.

                                                   Waterproof Breathable

Toray has developed the highest rated 4 way-stretch waterproof breathable laminate available, which has an unmatched 20,000mmH2O/20,000g/m2 24 Hour rating.  This allows for a maximum waterproof and breathability and stretch in one package.

Kudos XR is a new DWR developed by Toray has reset the standard in durability and performance.  Kudos XR DWR performs better and last significantly longer.  DWR is critical for waterproof breathable face fabric. If DWR fails the face fabric “wets out” causing condensation build up on the inside of the garment.  As you see from Toray’s supporting data, not all DWR’s are the same.

By partnering with Toray, KUIU products have a higher performance level that weight less. Saving four pounds in KUIU’s layering system is just one result.

Jason

You are KUIU’s Pro-Staff

KUIU does not have a Pro-Staff. My vison is to build the best gear in the world, be totally transparent about the process and have our customers become the Pro-Staff.

It has worked beyond my expectations because you represent KUIU’s products with more passion and credibility than any bribed spokes person ever could.

I received a lot of recommendations from the 2012 Marketing blog post to advertise in Eastman’s Bowhunting and Hunting Journals in 2012. Listening to you, I have committed KUIU to a full page advertisement in both magazines this year.

The 2012 Eastmans advertising campaign is called “Do Your Research” inspired from KUIU’s customers doing their research and choosing KUIU and “In The Field”  photo album that shows the results. These ads, beginning next month, will feature photos from In The Field.

The 1st advertisement will feature KUIU customer and professional guide Austin Atkinson from Peroria Arizona and AAA Outdoors and two Dall rams taken in Alaska this past season.

Each month we will feature a new photo from In The Field. If you want to be in our next Eastman’s Advertisement please submit your photos to album@kuiu.com.

Please share your thoughts and ideas on our new campaign.

Jason

Day Pack Design & Development Project

Thank you to those of you who took the time to take the survey.  We had a huge response.

Enclosed a summary of the questions from the survey for your review. With the data enclosed we I will begin to get into the specifics of this pack line with you in the next series of posts.

• Respondents primarily plan to use the pack to hunt Elk and Mule Deer.
• Functionality is valued more than weight; noise is valued more than weight.
• Average Day Pack size preferred is 2,000ci.
• Hunters want zippered access to their Day Pack contents .
• Hunters plan to carry 20 to 29 pounds in their Day Pack.
• Approximately 4 out of 10 require a specific way to carry their rifle or bow with the Day Pack.
• Of those hunters, 60% prefer to carry their rifle or bow on their back with the Day Pack.
• A little less than two-thirds of the hunters carry a spotting and tripod.
• One-half prefer to carry their spotting scope and tripod in a side pocket.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

There has been a lot of debate, questions and concerns regarding the direction of this project and if it will detract from KUIU.  I have received numerous comments, emails, phone calls and letters concerned KUIU will become something different than a committed Mountain Hunting brand.

KUIU’s products are built for backcountry hunting with a focus on using design and technology to reduce weight and increase performance.  This will not change!  I promise you. KUIU is a Mountain Hunting Brand.

If KUIU products work well for any other type of hunting, fantastic. We have customers raving about KUIU for hunting ducks, quail, pheasants, whitetails, hogs, plains animals in africa and shooting doves in Argentina. It is easy to appreciate our great fabrics, fit and designs.  I welcome anyone and everyone who has a passion for hunting to be part of KUIU.

Thank you for your passion and concerns for KUIU.  It is what is making this brand incredibly special.

Your friend,

Jason

Design the Next KUIU Line

I was laying out a development line list of new products for KUIU and it dawned on me; I was really doing this backwards.  Why should I develop a product line that I think and hope and guess you want and need?

We have the most passionate and opinionated group of mountain hunters in the world on this blog. Why don’t we all work together to develop the new KUIU product line? With your help and input this will be the best mountain hunting line ever created.

I will enjoy taking you through the entire process. From developing a line list to design, sampling, prototyping and testing the new products. This will give you complete insight to how this process works and what goes into creating a product. 

Below I have outlined the development process.

1. To begin, we will develop a line list.
2. Then we will decide what our end goal is for these styles listed.  Weight, warmth, durability, range of motion, noise, function……etc.
3. These requirements will help us to decide fabrics, construction, factory choices, trims, zippers….etc.
4. You will help me decide how we want it designed including pockets, zippers, seams, fit and features.
5. Create a color pallet and camouflage choice.
6. Finalize the design, fabrics & trims.
7. Prototyped the product.
8. Test the products. Several of you will become prototype testers.
9. The reviews and comments from testing will drive changes next round of prototyping.
10. Prototyping
11. Testing (if needed more rounds of prototyping and testing)
12. Trims, fabrics, colors finalized
13. Factory order placed.
14. Product delivery.

I guarantee you will enjoy developing a product you get to take hunting.  List 3 to 5 products you would like KUIU to design?  Please list these below in the comments. Please have your comment posted by Wednesday December 13th.

I will create a spreadsheet of all the product recommendations to review in the next post.

I look forward to working with you all on this product line and thank you in advance for your help.

Jason

****Blog subscribers will be able to pre-order at anytime along the develop process so they get the 1st products when the arrive from the factory.

Skeleton Knife Up Date

Nathan is finishing up the knives this week and he sent me some work in progress photos to share with you.

For those of you who have ordered a knife in the 1st shipment, Nathan will be shipping the 1st run to KUIU on Wednesday.  We are expecting them by Monday the 28th.  We will inbound them and get them out to you ASAP.

If anyone else would like to order a knife please Click Here to Pre-order to ensure you get it before Christmas.  If you have someone in your life who hunts this is a fantastic christmas present.

From bottom to top, the 5 stages of knife making by nathan.

Nathan applying the Carbide edge

Nathan applying the Carbide edge

Grinding the edge

Stamp press in action

KUIU logo after the stamp press

Kestrel Logo after the stamp press

An overview of nathan’s work.

KUIU Update

New KUIU Decals 

We are now selling our new decals pictured above at kuiu.com.  I love the way these turned out and hope you agree.

Standard shipping for decals is free whether you order them on their own or along with the rest of your gear.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

Out of Stock Product Delivery Updates

The earthquake in Japan earlier this year delayed our shipment of fabrics to refill our inventory, but they have reached the factory in Vancouver and are being cut and sewn now.  Those on the wait list get priority for the first shipment, but if you don’t make the first group we’ll be in touch for the next scheduled shipment. If you aren’t on the wait list, click here or call 1-855-367-5848 to reserve your place in line now.

Products	Arrival
Attack Pant	Dec 10, Jan 10
Chugach Jacket	Dec 20
Chugach Pant	Dec 20
Guide Jacket	Dec 10
Guide Vest	Dec 20
Merino 185 Zip-T	Dec 10
Merino 250 Zip-T	Dec 15
Spindrift Jacket	Dec 15

New Outlet Inventory Available Now

We just added more product to the Outlet.  Please click here to shop.

Do not forget to check the specials list and call quickly as these items sell quickly.

Good luck.

Jason

2012 Marketing Plan

Hi Everyone,

I need your help and advice for KUIU’s 2012 marketing plan. Below is a summary of the current marketing placements and up coming trade show schedule to give you an idea of our current plans.  I have also provided a list of questions to spur conversation.

I am looking forward to hearing your comments and ideas for KUIU’s marketing and want to thank everyone advance who takes the time to comment. Your input on the direction to take this brand on product and marketing is incredibly valuable.

KUIU is currently advertising in:

• Huntin Fool
• Traditional Bowhunter
• Relentless 365 (California Hunting Publication)
• South Pacific Bowhunter
• Extreme Elk (2012 commitment)
• Bowsite
• Tradgang

Tradeshow Schedule 2012:

• Wild Sheep Foundation- Reno, NV
• Safari Club International- Las Vegas, NV
• Western Conservation- Salt Lake City, UT

A few questions for you:

• Where else should we be advertising in 2012?
• Are there any other consumer trade shows you recommend?
• Is Print media a waist of money or does it help you learn about new products and brands?
• Do ads in magazines give brands credibility?
• Do you believe editorials about new products?  Are editorials credible or just another paid spokesman/prostaffer?
• How and where do you find out about new gear? magazine ads? forums? television programs or ads? word of mouth/recommendations from others? blogs?
• How do we continue to spread the word about KUIU?

I LOVE hearing new marketing ideas!  Please be as creative, I am open to any and all ideas.

Thank you for your continuing help to build KUIU.

Jason

KUIU Prototype Gaiter

I am excited about the new gaiter prototype I have been testing since receiving it in September.  It is bomber.

The fabric is better than I expected, durable and darn quiet for a 3-layer shell fabric. Plus, it is a Toray Primflex fabric which will save weight because of their patented spiral yarn.

As I mentioned in my 1st gaiter post, I want to design and build the best sheep hunting gaiter on the market. I have used the OR Crocodile and Black Diamond Front Point Gaiter in the past with good results. In my opinion each design has it’s short comings.

My goal is to take what I have learned from these products over the years to create a design that excels for demanding mountain hunting. Reliability, durability and function are paramount.

I want to share a sneak preview of the new design and list some of the changes I am sending off to the development room to get your feedback and opinions.

• Reduce the width by 2 inches to give it a more streamlined fit.
• Shape the lower seam for a better fit over the boot.
• Move the lace clip to the inside of the gaiter versus on top. Needs reenforcement.
• Move the strap adjustment buckle hypalon tab to the inside of the gaiter and add 3 additional bar tacks.
• Add an elastic section to the webbing going around the upper calf for a more comfortable fit.
• Change nylon webbing loop to hypalon for added durability.
• Add silicone gasget to inside bottom to help create a seal for water crossings.  1″ in width.

They will be available in Vias Camouflage and a solid color.

If you are interested in guaranteeing yourself a set of these new KUIU Gaiters please click on the link below to reserve a set when they arrive in late spring.  There is no obligation.  Please note Gaiter Pre-order in the notes.

Gaiter Pre-order

I look forward to hearing your thoughts, opinions and ideas for additional changes and improvements to this design.  Please let me know your recommendation for a solid color for the gaiters and what we should name them.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Jason

Alaska Goat Hunt Gear List

 

Jason asked me to put together a quick list of what I took my Chugach Goat hunt this past August.  We were limited to about 50 pounds of personal gear including our bow and optics. Transportation into the hunt was by super cub.    Obviously, some of the gear listed below I wore (boots, bino’s, pants, etc.) and was not in my pack.  Other items on my list (sat phone, video camera, spotting scope, tent, stove) were split between the three of us. I generally add 24 ounces of food per day for myself, and depending on water availability (not a concern on this hunt) 60 ounces of water.

This hunt was what I consider a modified backpack trip, where we had a main base camp, and had the option to spike camp out on our backs depending on where we found goats.

Some of my kit I chose for the weight, and other things are specific to the needs on this hunt. All of these items have been verified on my scale and are accurate to my size. It is a constant battle deciding what is worth the weight and what is not. As you can see on this trip my bow, optics, and specialty gear needed for this hunt were the real curve killers.

Not included on the list are a few things I bring for travel that will not be going on the hunt with me.  I generally pack my optics and bow and most of my clothes into a hard sided locking bow case.  The rest of my gear is either in my pack as a carry on or in a large checked duffel that has enough room to get my frozen cape, meat, and head back with me on the return trip.  I always have my jacket, hunting pants, and boots on or in my carry on in case my luggage gets lost. I could get by for a couple of days with shared gear if it came down to it, but good fitting boots are not something I can live without for any period of time.

If this had been a solo hunt I would have brought a backup bow and left it at the main air strip, but because we both had a bow I did not bring a spare.  If something were to happen to my bow, I have extra cams that would allow me to shoot Matt’s bow and vice versa (we shoot the same bow with different draw lengths). Although not ideal, in an emergency we could make it work.  This is definitely something to consider on a hunt like this. It would be pretty easy to damage your bow in a fall or busting brush.

No gear list is end all, including mine. Personal preference plays a huge role in deciding what you need and what you can live without.  Trying out new products is half the fun of getting ready for a hunt. On this hunt there was nothing I did not use and nothing I would have left at home.

Below are five products that were essential on this trip:

Petzl Snowscopic Ice Axe/Trekking pole-  In steep country having an ice axe to catch you if you slip could save your life.

Spindrift Jacket- When you have to sleep out unplanned you need this jacket. Weighs nothing and makes a normally miserable night out bearable.

Chugach Rain gear- Being completely dry all the time in ALASKA  is awesome.

Schnees Granite Boot-Breathes better than any boot I have ever worn.

Zeiss Diascope 85 spotting scope- 75 power saved us alot of walking.  I was able to identify Billies from Nannies at great distances.  Great piece of glass.

Function	Spec	Weight in oz.
Pack, shelter and sleep system
Backpack	KUIU ICON 6000	91
Pack cover	Sea to Summit (large gray)	4
Sleeping bag/ w waterproof stuff sack	Mountain Hardware Ultra lamina 15 (synthetic)	53
Sleeping pad	Exped Synmat UL 7	16
Stuff sack/ pillow	Thermarest	2
Tent	Hilleberg Jannu	90
Clothing- Skin to Shell
Underwear	2 pair Smartwool merino	4
Base layer top	KUIU 185 zip	9.6
Base layer bottom	KUIU 185	9
Mid layer top	KUIU 250 zip	12.5
Pant	Attack pant	18.5
Vest	KUIU Guide vest	11.2
Micro insulation	KUIU Spindrift	13.5
Soft Shell Jacket	KUIU Guide Jacket	18.5
Rain Shell top	KUIU Chugach Jacket	17.3
Rain Shell bottom	KUIU Chugach Pant	13.3
Gaiter	OR Crocodile	9.6
Ball cap	KUIU	2.5
Lighweight beanie	KUIU merino 185	1
Heavy beanie	KUIU Guide beanie	1.3
Gloves	KUIU Guide glove	7
Gloves 2	Rubber Crabbing gloves	5
Lightweight socks	4 pair -Smartwool fine merino	2
Mid weight socks	2 pair -mid weight Smartwool	2
Boots	Schnees Granite	74
Camp shoes	Nike Free 2	12.2
Gear
Bow	Hoyt Carbon Matrix w/ release and 4 hunting arrows	99
Arrows	12 extra w/ 4 practice heads and arrow tube	33
Binoculars	Zeiss Vicory 10-45 rf	37
Rangefinder	Nikon riflehunter 550( angle compensated)	6
Spotting scope	Zeiss Diascope 85mm   20-75 power	69
Tripod	Outdoorsmans medium with rc 700 head	55
Satellite phone	Motorolla 9555 (Iridium)	10
Camera	Sony Nex 5	12
Video Camera	JVC Everio  HD 40 optical zoom	6.2
Headlamp	Petzl Tikkina 2	3
Knife	Havelon Piranta w/ 12 blades	3
Sunglasses	Smith	1
Ice Axe/ trekking pole	Petlz Snowscopic	16
Crampons	Kahtoola kts	19
Water container	Nalgene 1 liter	3
Eating utensil	Titanium spork	1
Personals
Small item storage	2-Sea to Summit 4 liter bags	1
Hygiene	1 pack wet wipes	2
Fire starter	1 storm proof lighter	1
First Aid Kit	Tape/blister kit/	2
Medication/ prevention	Advil/immoduim/ emergency pain/ ect	2
Wind checker		1
Lens cleaner
Watch		2
Extra batteries	For camera/headlamp/ video/sat phone	4
		Total
	OZ	888.2
	LBS	55.5125

 

Let me know if you have any specific questions or if I can help you put together a gear list for a specific hunt you have coming up.

 

Brendan Burns
KUIU Guides & Outfitters Services