Ep. 150 - Wooden Pack Frames?! Hear Him Out.

What happens when a blacksmith becomes obsessed with making backpacks? In this episode, Ethan Goss of Goss Handmade shares the unconventional ideas, hard-earned lessons, and creative rabbit holes that have shaped his approach to designing packs that blend heritage aesthetics with modern performance.

In This Episode, We Cover:

  • Why some vintage backpack designs still outperform modern alternatives—and which features deserve a comeback
  • Ethan's surprisingly effective wood frame stays and what they taught him about comfort, durability, and pack design
  • The anatomy of a great shoulder strap, from foam selection and fit to the small details that make packs more comfortable under load
  • How classes, community, and studying other makers can dramatically accelerate your growth as a gear maker

Listen in and lend a few ideas from Ethan's playbook. You might just find your next rabbit hole. 

Guest:  Ethan Goss from Goss Handmade

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