Allmansright Founders Jen Jacobsson-Melo & Livio Melo on Making Ultralight Gear in the Bronx

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Jen Jacobsson-Melo & Livio Melo, co-founders of Allmansright, an ultralight gear company located in the Bronx. We learn all about their humble beginnings, including when Allmansright's gear was made in the corner of their 500-square-foot apartment, how a serendipitous run in with a fellow backpacker in Colorado's backcountry led to their first pre-order, how they've scaled up their operation, what it's like running a gear shop in the Bronx, where they draw inspiration for their designs, other small cottage brands doing interesting and good work from around the world, and much more. 

We wrap the show with what the contents of our body and blood would be, the triple crown of the worst places to have raging diarrhea, and some teasers from our Northville Placid Trail Hike.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Hikerkind: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at hikerkind.com.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

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Interview with Livio & Jen

• allmansright Instagram
• allmansright Website
• REI Founders Story

Time stamps & Questions

00:04:55 - Reminders: Join us in Denver on December 7th! Apply to be a 2025 blogger and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:07:55 - Introducing Jen & Livio

00:08:45 - What is allemansrätten?

00:10:50 - Tell us about moving to the US from the Dominican Republic

00:12:32 - What is the outdoor culture like in the Dominican Republic?

00:14:20 - Do you prefer being in the Dominican Republic or the US?

00:18:55 - What was the journey to you starting to make your own gear?

00:22:20 - How did you know how to make items?

00:24:00 - Tell us about your trip to Colorado

00:25:50 - How did you make gear in your 500 sq foot apartment?

00:30:30 - How do you balance gear orders with regular life?

00:31:35 - Tell us about going to design school

00:35:00 - What other gear companies serve as inspiration for you?

00:41:00 - What piece of gear are you most proud of?

00:43:40 - Do you have any plans to make a larger version of the pack?

00:45:00 - Discussion about the Krafs Stuff Sack

00:49:00 - Do you have any plans to break into the shelter space?

00:50:00 - Tell us about your shop in the Bronx

00:51:30 - Tell us about the hiker community in NYC

00:53:30 - What are some of the cool hiking opportunities near New York City?

00:57:29 - Have you experimented with apparel at all?

00:59:40 - Are there any materials you’re excited about?

01:01:00 - Discussion about creating new products

01:03:52 - What is your goal around sustainability?

01:04:35 - Discussion about packs

01:06:17 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your outdoors hot take?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: 6 Gas Station Resupply Recipes for Thru-Hikers by Kimberly Fetherston

QOTD: What is your body and blood?

Triple Crown of the worst places to have uncontrollable diarrhea

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

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