SRIG 24-67: Inclusive Gear for Female Saltwater Anglers - How might I design inclusive gear for female saltwater anglers that addresses the adventure gap through a design and community based approach?

What was the issue being addressed?

This project seeks to address the critical lack of women’s-specific saltwater fishing gear. This is a gap rooted in both industry misrepresentation and broader systemic barriers. Most existing gear is adapted from men’s designs, often compromising fit, function, and safety for female anglers. This issue is compounded by a historical lack of representation and cultural inclusion, leaving women feeling excluded and unsupported in the industry. Otolith responds by designing technical, weather-protective apparel tailored to the unique needs of female saltwater anglers, with a focus on mobility, comfort, PFAS free fabrics, thermoregulation, and situational considerations. The project aims to not only fill a market gap but to enable women to succeed in the industry through thoughtful, functional design and community-centered values. 

Provide a brief, lay description of the work undertaken/initiative.

This was a design initiative focused on creating technical fishing gear for women who work in saltwater environments. The process involved in-depth research with female fishing guides, market analysis, rigorous materials testing, user testing, and numerous iterations of hands-on prototyping. The main product, a pair of weatherproof fishing bibs, was designed to solve pertinent product gaps, such as poor fit, lack of mobility, and difficulty using the bathroom while wearing gear. Through multiple design iterations and user testing, this project resulted in apparel that’s built for harsh conditions, considers the various needs of women’s bodies, and provides them with the rugged performance required for the environment. 

What is the expected impact this project will have on the community?

The expected impact of this project is to increase access, reduce barriers, and promote visibility for women in the saltwater fishing industry. By designing gear that is functional, performance-driven, free from harmful PFAS substances, and tailored to women’s real needs, the project empowers female anglers to perform their jobs safely and confidently. It helps close the gender gap in outdoor recreation by addressing both physical barriers, such as poorly fitting gear, and social ones such as underrepresentation and exclusion. Beyond the product itself, Otolith fosters a sense of belonging and community, offering women a brand that reflects their strength, resilience, and presence on the water.