Smartwool took centre stage this past weekend in London, throwing its weight behind diversity in the outdoors with the vibrant event, Healing with Nature and Embracing Diversity.
Joined by not-for-profit changemakers OUTO and veteran retailer Ellis Brigham, the initiative underscored Smartwool’s dedication to inclusivity and equitable access to nature.
The day kicked off in the fresh air of Hampstead Heath, with a community hike led by OUTO Changemaker and seasoned adventurer Tinuke Oyediran.
Participants—an eclectic mix of creatives, community leaders, and those simply hungry for a breath of green—ambled across the Heath’s rolling trails.
Games like nature journaling and photo bingo spurred laughter, while moments of reflection under ancient oaks reminded everyone that time in the outdoors is more than a stroll—it’s a lifeline.
Post-hike, the group convened in Covent Garden for a warm lunch and honest talk about the challenges and joys of embracing diversity in the outdoors.
From there, the conversation deepened with a powerful panel discussion featuring Oyediran and Toni-Ann Murphy, founder of TouchGrassCIC. They cut through the niceties and tackled what true inclusion in nature really looks like, from emotional well-being to the stubborn barriers that still stand in the way for too many.
“Each of us brings a unique story to the trailhead,” Murphy said, driving home the point that connection and belonging are not mere buzzwords—they’re the cornerstones of a healthy outdoor culture.
The panel wrapped up with a spirited Q&A, where participants shared perspectives and challenged each other to do more than just talk. It was a reminder that the work of making the outdoors welcoming is far from finished.
Attendees didn’t leave empty-handed. Each was gifted a Smartwool tote bag brimming with Smartwool gear and an Ellis Brigham voucher—a small but meaningful push to keep them heading outside.
The event was no mere publicity stunt. Smartwool, in lockstep with OUTO and Ellis Brigham, is doubling down on its promise to amplify underrepresented voices and champion a more inclusive outdoor experience. It’s about more than products—it’s about forging a culture where everyone can find their place under the open sky.
As the event wound down, it was clear that Smartwool, OUTO, and Ellis Brigham aren’t just selling gear—they’re rewriting the rules on who belongs in the wild. And in doing so, they’re creating a future where every hike, every summit, and every patch of green belongs to us all.
For more information on Smartwool’s innovative Merino wool range, visit www.smartwool.co.uk.
