Interview With William Of Bowman Gear

We’re always on the lookout for new Canadian companies that make canoeing or camping gear and recently one has caught our eye that is really creating some innovative pieces. Bowman Gear caught our eye with intricate designs with reinforced seams, what’s not to love? We caught up with the owner William to learn a little more about his growing business…

Traversing: When did it occur to you to start making outdoors gear?

Will: So the reality is I only started half considering making my own gear about 2 years ago but didn't start playing around and actually doing it until around a year ago. I've been designing stuff in my head and on paper for many years though. There has been so much to learn, but I'm very much enjoying the journey and find it very encouraging that people seem to like what I'm doing. 

Traversing: Your designs look more intricate than just square bags. Do you dream in 3D space and think of how everything will nest together with your sewing?

Will: In short, yes, I definitely design and create in a relatively old school manner, more with a pencil and paper ( and trial and error approach). There are a lot of good computer programs out there that I'm sure would make my life much easier, though I do really enjoy the problem solving aspect. Mind you, it can certainly take some extra time as I try and sort out the best ways to do things in my head before cutting or stitching anything.

Traversing: Have you always had the skills to create things?

Will: Well "skills" may be a bit relative, I have certainly always enjoyed creating things through problem solving. As a kid I really enjoyed drawing and creating different cartoon characters as well as playing with lego but hated using the instructions that would come with a set. I love working with my hands and I've always had a job doing so, currently working at a restoration woodshop.

Traversing: Any favourite places to canoe trip/camp?

Will: When it comes to camping/canoe tripping I'm very open to exploring new places and challenges..as long as there's good fishing. It's really difficult to say what my favorite would be because I feel like there's still so much to see. I would certainly get into doing more multi week trips sooner rather than later, but it can be difficult to coordinate with work and friends with growing families. I really have my eye on Woodland Caribou or Wabakimi. A fly-in trip is definitely on my bucket list!

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