Founded in 1986 by retired Green Beret Capt. Jim Markel Sr., Red Oxx began with humble roots in a Montana basement, crafting fitness gear from military surplus webbing. His son, Jim Markel Jr., a fellow military rigger, later joined to help lead the brand’s growth. What started with weight belts soon expanded into rugged, hand-crafted bags, all made in Montana. Red Oxx now operates out of its eighth factory in Billings, with a direct-to-consumer model and a brick-and-mortar store just blocks away. The mission remains: American-made gear built to last.