A Look Inside Spirit Of 1876
By Mike Gentile. Photos by Spirit of 1876
An interview with Mike Gentile at Spirit of 1867.
What is your background?
Sold software for 10 years, both big agencies and start ups. In 2016 I bought a shitty old house and an even shittier 1985 land cruiser, I knew nothing about either. My wife and I flipped a few houses and I was researching how to get back outdoors with the fam while trying to figure out what I wanted to do next. I used to camp, kids and work put a stop to it temporarily but I was looking for ways to get back outside. I ended up wanting to start a trailer company because the solution I was looking for didn’t exist, but learned quickly it was a big undertaking so ended up working for one instead. I headed up sales and marketing, it was fun growing a brand but manufacturing had it’s challenges. I’d partner with rooftop tent brands to pop up at different shows to display our products, basically splitting the cost of entry. That’s what originally led me to rooftop tents, overland gear and this space. I traded my equity in for trailers and started strictly as a rental company, outfitting the trailers with a lot of the gear I sell today.
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What year did you open your company?
Late 2018, but didn’t officially open doors until early 2019.
What drove you to be a part of the Overland and/or Van Life community?
My love for the outdoors, combined with inability to get back out there. If you got kids, you know getting out the door to do anything is a challenge. Heading out for an adventure seemed overwhelming. I became fascinated with products that helped you get out faster, safer and better than ever imaginable. More importantly as I began educating myself in these areas, i met this amazing community of people that shared the same passion.
What are the reasons you started producing/selling the products you do?
Shopping for gear virtually is tough, you’ve got availability and compatibility questions, add in accessories, total cost, and looks, and it’s virtually impossible. We’re here to help minimize that decision fatigue. We know this gear isn’t cheap. By offering the top brands in the industry on display, we give our customers an experience that can’t be found any where else outside of Overland Expo. Furthermore, our staff knows their stuff. Not just because they work here, but because they get out, test and review the gear we sell. By offering multiple brands, we understand your camping needs and make recommendations based on a number of factors. In the end, you decide which gear is best for you, we’re just here to show you all your options.
What do your customers enjoy most about your products?
The ability to see, touch and experience the products first hand.
Where is the majority of your customer base located?
Colorado and our surrounding states, however California is huge market for us as well.
Where do you see your company going in the next few years or so?
Bringing the unique in store experience you get in person online.
What is Spirit of 1876?
Colorado’s born on date was August 1st 1876, our born on date was August 1st 2018. Our main goal is to help individuals and families get outside while giving back to this beautiful state we call home. That’s the Spirit of 1876.
We offer a judgement free zone. Do we joke? A lot! But we truly care about our customer and are here to educate and inform, not criticize or sell you gear you won’t use. There’s a lot to take in, no matter what level your experience is, we want you to feel comfortable.
Want to learn more about Spirit of 1876?
Reach out to Mike Gentile
