Entrepreneurship can take many forms. For us, it started as a dream and a vision to make a difference, to give hunting a voice that everyone could understand and appreciate. Our goal with Hunt & Hike was always clear: we wanted to tell the good stories and give the hunting world a platform where passion and craftsmanship could shine through. But as the months passed, we became something more – we became a brand.
Suddenly, we were ambassadors for something bigger than ourselves. As a new and different face in a world where traditions are often passed down and change can take decades, we quickly became a breath of fresh air. The offers started pouring in. Companies saw an opportunity to associate their products with us and buy into the red tresses and twin theme – all it took was a few posts and stories a week. A simple deal, you might think.
But here we come to a crucial point: should we be influencers or should we stay true to our passion?
From holey running shoes to solid equipment
Our journey, like so many others, started small and without much money. Our first trip across Scotland’s wastelands was done in holey running shoes and with a “drybag,” which was really just a Netto bag. The sleeping bag was barely suitable for a festival and we barely knew the difference between wool and synthetic materials. We learned the hard way the difference between equipment that works and that which fails – a lesson we have never forgotten.
200 km through Scotland
After spending countless hours in extreme weather, from gale-force winds on mountaintops to icy nights in valleys where gear failed, we have a keen eye for what works. Our gear must be able to withstand the harsh elements because it can be crucial to our safety and comfort.
As a hunting client once said to us: “Hunting can be uncomfortable, but never miserable.” We have taken this phrase to heart. It means that we set high standards for the equipment we choose – not only for our own comfort, but also for our followers and customers. We have a responsibility to those who look up to us and believe that the products we recommend are worth the money and trust. Our gear should be a silent support for our hunting adventures – but it shouldn’t steal attention or put us in danger. That’s why we often turn down partnerships where the products don’t live up to our standards. For us, it’s not enough that it looks good in pictures. It has to be able to withstand a night in the mountains in sub-zero temperatures and be functional on horseback in the pouring rain without failing.
Authenticity above all
When we share our experiences and recommend gear on social media, we do so because we stand behind the products. We didn’t choose our partners at random – many of them represent brands that our ancestors and family have sworn by for generations. From grandpa’s old Sako rifle to dad’s trusty 7 mm Rem Mag, which was the first one we were allowed to carry when we got our hunting license. It’s gear with history and soul, and it’s our favorite choice.
With clothes and shoes, we are also old-fashioned. What worked for our ancestors often still works. Wool remains our first choice, especially after spending time in Canada with old outfitters and rednecks who know the harshness of nature better than most. That’s why we’ve also started using fur and other natural materials – if animals can survive icy winters, why can’t we?
Staying true to your passion takes courage and patience. We could have said yes to many of the offers that came in, but it would not have been authentic. We are hunters and we are in an industry where respect and authenticity matter. For us, maintaining our integrity is more important than filling our feed with sponsored content. We want to be able to stand behind every product we post and show our followers that what we recommend actually works and can stand the test of nature. So when we say yes to a deal, it’s because we know that the brand in question meets our standards and can help create great experiences – not just for us, but for all those who choose to follow in our footsteps. Our mission is to show that gear can make the difference between a good and a bad experience and that hunting should never be miserable.
When passion becomes a brand, and the temptation to become an influencer lurks, it’s important to remember why you started. For us, it’s about the real experience, the true adventure and honest gear that lasts. We’re not here to sell at any cost – we’re here to live our dream and inspire others to do the same.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read along.
Best regards,
Rikke and Trine
Mountain Goat hunting, 2024
