Based in Duluth, Minnesota, Frost River Trading Co. is a premier American manufacturer specializing in heritage-quality waxed canvas softgoods and reliable outdoor gear. With a steadfast commitment to traditional craftsmanship and American-made excellence, the company produces a diverse range of products including professional business bags, rugged luggage, canoe packs, and specialized bushcraft gear. Every item is handcrafted in their Duluth workshop, where skilled artisans combine time-tested techniques with premium materials to create goods that are guaranteed for life.
The company’s manufacturing process emphasizes durability and ethical sourcing. Frost River utilizes Martexin Original Wax canvas, a material with a legacy of outfitting American explorers since 1838, alongside authentic leather reinforcements from the renowned SB Foot Tannery in Red Wing, Minnesota. To ensure maximum longevity, all hardware—including buckles, snaps, and D-rings—is constructed from 100% solid brass rather than plated alternatives. This dedication to material integrity ensures that every pack and satchel develops a unique patina over time while maintaining its structural performance in extreme outdoor environments or professional settings.
For B2B buyers and retail partners, Frost River offers a unique value proposition rooted in domestic reliability and sustainable production. The company maintains a regional supply chain, sourcing raw materials and components from North American partners to ensure consistent quality and shorter lead times. Their facility in Duluth serves as the central hub for assembly and finishing, allowing for rigorous quality control across their entire catalog of totes, garment covers, and daypacks. By prioritizing “built-to-last” construction over disposable trends, Frost River provides high-performance softgoods that represent the pinnacle of American manufacturing and artisanal heritage.
