Meet Shane Petersen | Founder of Glacial Gear

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shane Petersen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shane, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Six years ago, after reigniting my passion for backpacking, I encountered a simple yet frustrating dilemma: the absence of a suitable sweat towel that could effortlessly attach to my backpack strap. My ideal towel was nowhere to be found in the market—it had to be lightweight, durable, and crafted from merino wool for its exceptional moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties. Unwilling to compromise, I crafted my own solution. What began as a personal project, a mere extension of my hobby, gradually morphed into something much larger. Encouraged by a friend deeply rooted in the industry, I realized the potential impact and demand for such a product. About a year after my initial creation, I decided to take the leap; I started producing these towels to sell online. What started as a pursuit fueled by personal need and passion seamlessly transitioned into a burgeoning business and a second career. This journey from backpacker to entrepreneur underscores the organic transformation of a simple idea, born out of necessity, into a viable business venture.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My professional journey to where I am today has been an extensive one, rooted in a comprehensive career within the construction industry. This initial career laid the foundational principles of how I balance work, life, family, and personal hobbies. The construction sector, known for its demanding schedules and complex projects, instilled in me a profound respect for hard work, resilience, and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life equilibrium. These life lessons, though challenging, were deliberately embraced and allowed to sculpt my character for the better. Transitioning from this traditional industry to follow my passion was not a decision made lightly. It required a significant leap of faith to turn a deeply ingrained hobby into a growing business. Yet, it was a step I felt compelled to take, driven by a vision to create something meaningful and sustainable. Central to our brand and story is our unwavering commitment to sustainability. We focus diligently on ensuring our products are crafted from materials that are not only kind to our environment but also beneficial to the people who use them. This commitment to sustainability is not just a part of our business model; it is an integral part of our identity, reflecting our values and the legacy we wish to leave behind.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a friend were visiting my area, I’d ensure their trip was unforgettable, filled with the quintessential experiences that define my hometown’s spirit. First on the agenda would be catching a Cubs game; as my favorite baseball team, I believe there’s no better way to soak in the local culture and energy. The exhilarating atmosphere of the game is something I insist every visitor should experience. Next, we’d shift gears from the urban buzz to the tranquil beauty of nature by taking a hike on the nearby stretch of the Ice Age Trail. This national scenic trail offers breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat into the wilderness. Finally, I’d show them the unique charm of the Midwest by exploring the quaint towns scattered across northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. We’d cap off their visit with a serene waterfront meal, enjoying the local cuisine at one of the many excellent restaurants nestled along the picturesque lakes in our region. This blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and regional charm offers a comprehensive taste of life here, ensuring memories that last a lifetime.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Family and close friends have been the cornerstone of my entrepreneurial journey, providing an invaluable blend of emotional support, insight, and practical assistance. From the moment my business idea took root, they have been by my side, offering encouragement, critical feedback, and diverse perspectives that helped shape and refine my initial concept. Their contributions went beyond mere words; they actively participated in the evolution of my product, from prototype testing to spreading the word through their networks. This circle of loved ones stood by me through the rollercoaster of startup challenges, their faith unwavering even when faced with obstacles and setbacks. Their combined efforts were not just supportive but transformative, turning a personal passion project into a successful business. More than just supporters or cheerleaders, my family and close friends were integral to every phase of the business’s development, their roles pivotal in transforming a simple idea into the business it has become. Their collective belief and hands-on help have been instrumental to my success, exemplifying the power of community in bringing a dream to fruition.

Website: www.glacialgear.com

Instagram: @glacial.gear

Linkedin: Shane Petersen

Twitter: @glacialgear

Facebook: Glacial Gear

Image Credits
Shane Petersen Jocelyn Smith Chelsea Klinger