In August 1998, the company launched with 12 simple and innovative products for the ultralight backpacker, designed by outdoors adventurer and author Ray Jardine.
[4] During 16 years of operations of the original corporation, GoLite positioned itself as an innovator in lightweight outdoor products[5] with a focus on technical performance, simplicity,[6] and sustainable business[7] practices.
GoLite designed and manufactured light and ultra-light clothing, footwear, backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, hydration packs, and accessories.
[11] In 2012, after achieving success with a growing e-commerce business, GoLite switched to a direct-to-consumer model, rapidly opening storefronts and continuing holiday warehouse sales across the country.
[14] Skurka stated that “One mistake of the original GoLite was changing their identity every year or two”[14] By 2014, the company had tied up too much cash in lifestyle apparel it couldn’t sell and moved to dissolve the business.