Gemma McCaw Hopes To Reduce Barriers For Women With New Partnership

From camping trips as a child to adventure racing through rugged terrain and spearheading her Ladies Who Venture group, Kiwi icon Gemma McCaw has always been deeply connected to the outdoors.

Gemma’s journey is one of inspiration—a Black Sticks Olympian, a strong advocate for women’s wellbeing, and now, a champion for empowering women to adventure outdoors and embrace the positive impact spending time in nature has on our lives.

That’s why when New Zealand’s most iconic outdoor brand, Kathmandu, reached out to Gemma to join forces, it was an easy yes.

“My goal is to break down barriers that prevent women from experiencing and embracing the outdoors,” Gemma says.

The mother of three knows first-hand how the right gear can help women to feel confident and empowered.

"As women, we’re all at different ages and stages. I want outdoor experiences to be accessible to everyone, whatever is going on their lives. Whether it’s your first hike or a multi-day trek, the key is feeling confident and comfortable."

Kathmandu and Gemma have a shared vision to inspire women to connect with the outdoors, embrace exploration, and overcome barriers that have held them back.

Kathmandu Chief Executive Megan Welch says partnering with Gemma felt natural.

"At Kathmandu, everything we do is purpose-led. We are in the business of improving the wellbeing of the world through the outdoors and clearly, so is Gemma, who is doing so much to help more women get outdoors. She embodies the values we champion: authenticity, courageousness, community, and the belief that getting out there changes our lives for the better.”

During the three-year partnership, Gemma will be actively involved in the design phase of Kathmandu’s Outdoor Active range.

Gemma will get out there and test the products herself, provide practical advice, and give honest feedback to ensure the gear meets the needs of women outdoors.

"Getting outdoors looks different for everyone. It’s all about pushing your own boundaries and embracing the challenge to take that first step into nature," Gemma says.

“Kathmandu’s commitment to using responsible materials is so important to me, and I’m proud to be part of this. With their innovative designs, I can’t wait to help shape gear that makes a difference to how women feel,” Gemma says.

Having led Ladies Who Venture, a group that guides women to tackle New Zealand’s Great Walks in a single day, Gemma understands the importance of building confidence through education and practical advice.

Kathmandu’s General Manager of Product Karinda Robinson says she is really looking forward to working with Gemma.

“We’ll have Gemma working alongside us during the design process of the Outdoor Active range. While all Kathmandu product is made for performance, our goal is to design gear that supports women in all forms of outdoor adventure, both casual and technical.

“Every garment is robustly tested for quality, a standard practice for Kathmandu gear. We use some of the most sustainable materials available and we do not compromise on performance. Having Gemma directly involved in this will be invaluable, as we work to support more women getting out there.”

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