2024 Year in Review: Redefining Adventure and Overlanding Gear

Last year was a huge milestone for Freespirit Recreation. We celebrated 10 epic years of revolutionizing outdoor recreation. From our humble beginnings to becoming a go-to name in the overlanding community, we've spent a decade dialing in easy-to-use gear that's built to last.

With 2024 in the rearview, we can't help but look back at what an unreal year it's been. We dropped 32 new products (yeah, you read that right!), upgraded some fan favorites, traveled countless miles on unpaved roads, supported meaningful causes, and stayed connected with our community every step of the way.

The last 12 months have been about growth, adventure, and purpose. But before we look ahead to what's on the horizon, let's take a minute to relive the moments that made 2024 one for the books.

More Gear Made for Better Adventures

2024 was a banner year for FSR in terms of new product launches. We didn't just add a couple of new items to the lineup—we dropped 32 products in total! From upgraded rooftop tents and hub tents to brand-new kitchen gear and lighting, cozy bedding, and fresh awning options, we covered it all to make camping easier and more comfortable.

We're talking serious product upgrades, too. Like the introduction of the 6" Aircore Mattress, which allows you to customize the comfort of your sleeping experience. Add in the Cloud Comforter and the Warming Blanket, and we clearly staked our claim as the kings of comfort.

We also introduced the Ultimate Camp Kitchen Set, which has everything you need to prep a full meal before you even hit the road, making campsite cooking more convenient. To keep the good vibes going, we brought in LED/Speaker String Lights to set the mood at camp, whether you're kicking back with friends or chilling solo. 

But we didn't stop there. Our upgraded awning lineup with new awning walls helps you make your campsite into a full-on basecamp ready to take on any weather.

Last year's product launches weren't just about quantity. They were about listening to our customers and pushing the envelope with new innovations that make every part of your adventure better. We took your feedback to heart and crafted gear that helps you set up camp faster, sleep better, and make the most of your time in nature.

Inspiring Through Overlanding Podcasts

The FSR Podcast is where we have real-world conversations and pull back the veil on the overlanding industry. It's a behind-the-scenes look into Freespirit Recreation, a place to chat with industry experts, outdoor enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs who share our passion for spending time outdoors. Each episode is packed with stories, insights, and laughs. Listen in on either Spotify or Youtube.

Exploring the Overlanding Lifestyle

We chatted about everything from rooftop tents to mental health. No topic was off-limits on the FSR Podcast. We kicked things off with a bang in Episode 1, Why Rooftop Tents SUCK (Probably Not What You're Thinking), where we got honest about what works—and what doesn't—when it comes to rooftop tents across the industry.

We covered a variety of topics in Episode 2, It's NOT Just About Overlanding w/ Will from Sherpa Equipment Co. Will shared his journey as an entrepreneur and racer with Sherpa Motorsports and how the overlanding lifestyle is about so much more than hitting the trail.

We dove into why camping means more than just pitching a tent and how those memories last a lifetime. Episode 3, Why Is Camping Better Than Disneyland?, was a nostalgic look at why we do what we do. While Episode 4, Gear Talk & Social Overlanding w/ Mike from LLOD, got into the nitty-gritty of gear and how the overlanding community is evolving.

We also tackled some big questions, like in Episode 8, Is Overlanding Dead?, where we debated the state of the industry with Okie Overland and went in-depth about new products from FSR.

Stories That Inspire

Fly fishing enthusiasts Episode 5, Fly Fishing & Catching a Fish A Day w/ Alec Lucas, was for you. Alec recounted wild fish tales, exploring Baja, and how he even rescued a few pups along the way.

Some episodes were all about resilience and community. Episode 6, Urban Camping in Fallujah w/ Ryan Foster, and Episode 7, Bin Laden Raids, Winter Camping & Supporting Our Veterans w/ Pupperunner aka Spencer, featured powerful stories from veterans who've found healing and purpose in the great outdoors.

In Episode 9, Nature as Therapy, Havilande Lodge unpacked the mental health benefits of spending time in the wild. She covered everything from the constant dopamine hits we're getting every day to why we need to detox through nature.

Leveling Up Your Rig

We wrapped up a year of podcasts with Episode 10, How to Build the Perfect Overlanding Rig w/ Talon Sei, a can't miss episode for anyone looking to balance practicality and a touch of luxury while building their dream rig.

Connecting with the Overlanding Community

Last year, we hit the road and the trail to connect with the overlanding community. We hosted events like the FSR Garage Sale, Rigs N Coffee, and Happy Hour at our Golden, Colorado headquarters. We also set up shop at major events like Destination Outdoor, Overland Expo Mountain West, and Elevation Everest.

These events were more than just product showcases. They were a chance to connect with the people who make up the overlanding world. From swapping trail stories, showing off new gear, or sharing a laugh around a campfire. We met everyone from weekend warriors to die-hard off-roaders, the people who make the overlanding industry what it is.

Mixing Work and Play on Content Trips

At FSR, work doesn't always feel like work. Especially when it involves loading up rigs, hitting the road, and heading to stunning locations to capture content while camping. Last year, our content trips took us across Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona, where the landscapes are as much a part of the story as our gear.

These trips are about more than just capturing epic shots. They're about storytelling through authentic experiences. It takes the whole crew to make a content trip successful, from sharing tips on the best campsites and trails with breathtaking views to collaborating with ambassadors who help bring our vision to life.

Traveling in a large group with multiple vehicles and a laundry list of to-do's to check off has its challenges. But at the end of the day, when work is done, we always find time for fun. Content trips bring our crew closer and remind us why we love our work.

Giving Back to the Community

Giving back isn't just a box we check; it's a way we stay grounded. In 2024, we were proud to give back to causes that matter to us and our community.

We partnered with Sherpa Equipment Co. at their Overland Expo Mountain West After Party to raise funds for HerschX and VOX, two incredible organizations focused on sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene projects in rural Africa. We helped contribute to the fight for clean water through donated raffle items.

Closer to home, we dedicated Giving Tuesday to providing comfort and warmth to pups in no-kill shelters around Denver. Every purchase of a sleeping bag or adaptive memory foam mattress made that day became a donation to local animal shelters, including Foothills Animal Shelter.

If you've visited our showroom, you might have met one of our four-legged employees—our Chief Treat Tester or Mattress Expert. As a team of dog lovers supporting shelters that work to give these pets a second chance is something close to our hearts. 

We can't say it enough – thank you for supporting Freespirit Recreation in 2024! We hope you created as many unforgettable moments on and off the trail as we did. We're more inspired than ever to keep pushing the boundaries (have you seen our new tent lineup yet?) while delivering the quality you've come to expect. We can't wait to share what's next. Here's to the road ahead!