Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear (CTUG) was founded by Austin Gongos and Nathan Ackerman, who met in school in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula - a place where nature is close at hand. Since the beginning of their friendship, they dreamed of starting a business together with the goal of being their own bosses. 

After a life-changing thru-hike on the Pacific Crest Trail their dream became clear. Leading up to the trip, Austin struggled to find the perfect backpack. Unable to find a comfortable pack that also had the right features, Austin began to research how to build his own.

Their shared passion for the outdoors and hiking community and their frustration with existing gear led them to start making their own. What began as a personal project quickly evolved into a business, with a mission to provide top-tier gear for ultralight backpackers.
Their background in mechanical engineering influences their design process, resulting in innovative and practical solutions for hikers. Their products are handcrafted in Michigan, USA, ensuring high quality and attention to detail.