Outdoor Research Relocates Seattle Headquarters to West Seattle, Plans New Downtown Flagship

Outdoor apparel and technical gear brand Outdoor Research (OR) is packing up its historic First Avenue South footprint and relocating its corporate headquarters to a new, modern collaborative space in West Seattle. As part of the transition, the brand is also searching for a new, high-visibility city center location for its flagship retail store.

The move-in target for the new West Seattle headquarters is slated for late summer 2026.

Accelerating the Timeline

According to company statements, the decision to move came following a recent facility assessment of its long-standing building in Seattle’s SoDo (South of Downtown) neighborhood. Leadership opted to accelerate the relocation timeline to prioritize the immediate working environment, safety, and operational needs of its workforce.

The new headquarters will be situated in a 7,916-square-foot office space on the second floor of the Denali building along Harbor Avenue SW in West Seattle, directly across from the Don Armeni Boat Ramp.

The location carries a subtle nod to the brand's heritage. Outdoor Research was founded in 1981 by nuclear physicist and mountaineer Ron Gregg after his climbing partner suffered severe frostbite on Alaska’s Denali due to a failed gaiter design. That incident inspired Gregg’s inaugural product—the X-Gaiter—which launched the brand.

"The new West Seattle facility offers improved infrastructure for our workforce and a location deeply connected to the Pacific Northwest outdoor lifestyle," the company shared in a statement.

Flagship Store & Retail Strategy

While the West Seattle space will house corporate operations and collaborative team zones, Outdoor Research’s flagship retail store—which previously shared the First Avenue South building—is temporarily closing as the brand scouts a new home.

OR plans to reopen its Seattle flagship in a more central, high-visibility location within the city core. In the interim, local customers are being directed to the brand’s regional outlet locations in Des Moines and Bellingham, Washington, as well as its e-commerce platform.

The physical pivot comes as OR continues expanding its technical apparel lines—including its Ferrosi collection, rainwear, and sun protection ranges—while maintaining its "Infinite Guarantee" warranty program.