Outdoor enthusiasts and content creators in the USA have many affiliate marketing opportunities to monetize their passion. This guide breaks down the top American outdoor affiliate programs by category, covering everything from camping gear and hiking equipment to outdoor apparel, fishing gear, and extreme sports.
We’ll compare commission rates, cookie durations, pros and cons, and ideal fit (“best for”) for each program. We’ll also discuss why Amazon Associates may not be the best Amazon affiliate software for outdoor gear (with its 24-hour cookie and ~3% commissions) and introduce Algorift Marketplace as a higher-paying alternative for the outdoor niche.
Whether you’re a camping blogger, a hiking YouTuber, a fishing enthusiast, or an adventure sports influencer, this review will help you find the top 16 outdoor affiliate programs in the USA to boost your earnings. Let’s dive in!
Top American Outdoor Affiliate Programs: Features, Commission, Pros, & Cons
Now, you can explore our list of the best outdoor affiliate programs in the USA. The following platforms will work for every outdoor influencer or content creator! Let’s get started!
| Program | Commission Rate | Cookie Duration | Outdoor Type |
| Algorift Marketplace | 10-40% | 14 days | General Outdoor |
| REI Co-op | 5% | 15 days | Camping & Hiking Gear |
| Backcountry | 8-10%+ | 30 days | Camping & Hiking Gear |
| Osprey Packs | 8% | 30 days | Camping & Hiking Gear |
| Survival Frog | 12% | 30 days | Camping & Hiking Gear |
| Patagonia | 8% | 90 days | Outdoor Apparel & Footwear |
| Columbia Sportswear | Up to 15% | 30 days | Outdoor Apparel & Footwear |
| The North Face | 5% | 7 days | Outdoor Apparel & Footwear |
| Cotopaxi | Up to 14% | 30 days | Outdoor Apparel & Footwear |
| Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s | Up to 5% | 14 days | Fishing & Hunting Equipment |
| Sportsman’s Guide | 2-5% | 7 days | Fishing & Hunting Equipment |
| Pure Fishing | 10% | 30 days | Fishing & Hunting Equipment |
| Jenson USA | 3% | 30 days | Biking & Adventure Sports |
| Black Diamond Equipment | 7% | 30 days | Biking & Adventure Sports |
| Specialized | 3-12% | 30 days | Biking & Adventure Sports |
| EVO | 5% | 30 days | Biking & Adventure Sports |
Algorift Marketplace: The Best Alternative to Amazon’s Outdoor Affiliate Program
Many outdoor digital creators initially turn to Amazon Associates for monetization. While this program is a good opportunity to make money on Amazon, it comes with limitations.
Amazon’s program has notably low commissions for outdoor gear (around 3% in the Sports/Outdoors category). This means you earn little for each sale and only get credit if the purchase happens within a day of the click.
Our top alternative to Amazon Associates is Algorift, which offers a far more attractive solution for those in the outdoor niche. It’s essentially a platform that connects affiliates directly with outdoor brands and sellers, functioning as a robust alternative to Amazon Associates.
Here’s why Algorift is a game-changer:
1. Higher Commission Rates
Algorift’s commissions start at around 10% and can go up to 40%, dramatically outpacing Amazon’s 3%. For example, promoting a $200 tent could earn you $20+ via Algorift versus only about $6 through Amazon.
This higher payout makes a huge difference, especially for expensive outdoor equipment. Affiliates on Algorift often earn 3-4 times more than they would on Amazon for the same products.
2. Longer Cookie Duration (14 Days)
Algorift typically uses a lifetime (14 days), meaning your referral has two weeks to decide on a purchase, and you’ll still get credited.
Compared to Amazon’s 24-hour window, this is a breath of fresh air. In fact, outdoor gear purchases aren’t always impulse buys – a user might research a backpack or kayak for a week or two before buying. The longer cookie greatly improves your chances of earning commissions on those deliberated purchases.
3. Direct Brand Partnerships
With Algorift, you’re linking directly to outdoor brands or specialized marketplaces, not a massive everything store. This has two benefits:
- Higher conversion potential: If someone clicks an Algorift affiliate link, they land on the brand’s official store or listing, which often has targeted messaging and maybe better pricing or warranties (as opposed to a generic Amazon page).
- Relationships and exclusives: You can sometimes chat directly with the sellers/brands on Algorift’s platform to negotiate special deals, get custom discount codes for your audience, or receive free gear for review. It’s a more personalized affiliate experience.
4. No Competition from Amazon Itself
On Amazon, your product link is surrounded by Amazon’s own upsells and other sellers. Through Algorift, you typically drive the customer straight to the source, which means no lost sales to unrelated suggestions.
Plus, many niche outdoor products might not even be easily found on Amazon; Algorift can connect you to those unique items that your audience actually wants.
In short, Algorift Marketplace is built to address Amazon’s shortcomings. You’ll earn higher commissions, have a longer attribution window, and foster closer ties with outdoor gear companies.
For U.S.-based outdoor affiliates serious about maximizing revenue, Algorift is arguably the best American outdoor affiliate platform to add to your arsenal.
It turns affiliate marketing into a more equitable partnership between you and outdoor product sellers, rather than the one-size-fits-all, low-payout structure of Amazon Associates.
Algorift Features for Affiliates & Sellers
The platform also offers additional features that make it a worthy tool for both affiliates and sellers:
- No upfront costs,
- Real-time analytics,
- Affiliate personal landing page,
- Automated commission tracking,
- Automated payouts,
- Integration with Amazon.
Camping & Hiking Gear Affiliate Programs
Camping and hiking are core outdoor niches, and some of the top American outdoor affiliate programs are those offering tents, backpacks, survival kits, and accessories. These programs typically come from reputable outdoor retailers or specialty gear brands.
They often have moderate commissions but make up for it with high average order values and a wide product selection. Below are the best affiliate platforms for camping/hiking gear, with key details:
1. REI Co-op Affiliate Program
REI, established in 1938, has built a reputation for quality and community engagement, making it an ideal partner for those passionate about outdoor activities.
One of the standout features of REI is its co-op membership model, boasting over 23 million members. This extensive community not only reflects the brand’s credibility but also enhances customer retention, leading to repeat sales—a significant advantage for affiliates aiming for consistent earnings
REI Co-op Commission
- 5% per sale
REI Co-op Cookie Duration
- 15 days
REI Co-op Pros
- Iconic outdoor retailer with a huge product range (from tents and backpacks to apparel),
- High trust and loyalty among outdoor enthusiasts (co-op membership base),
- It offers an outlet for discounted gear and free shipping on $50+ orders, boosting conversion.
REI Co-op Cons
- The commission rate is on the lower side,
- Some products (e.g., electronics) may be excluded or have lower payouts.
REI Co-op Is Best For
Camping and hiking bloggers who want a one-stop shop to recommend gear, outdoor gear review sites, and general outdoor lifestyle influencers. REI’s broad
catalog and brand recognition make it a no-brainer for U.S.-focused outdoor content.
2. Backcountry Affiliate Program
Backcountry allows you to access a comprehensive suite of marketing materials, including official banners, text links, and a detailed product data feed. One of the standout features of Backcountry is its curated selection of premium outdoor gear and apparel from top brands. This ensures that the products you promote are of high quality and resonate with your audience.
Moreover, it offers free shipping on orders over $50 and worldwide shipping to 49 countries.
Backcountry Commission
- 8% base, with a potential 10%+ for top performers.
Backcountry Cookie Duration
- 30 days.
Backcountry Pros
- It specializes in high-quality outdoor gear across countless categories – camping, backpacking, climbing, skiing, biking, and more,
- Stock major brands (Marmot, The North Face, Patagonia, etc.) so creators can promote a variety of products via one program,
- Known for excellent customer service (their expert “Gearheads” team), which can lead to higher conversions.
Backcountry Cons
- Mid-range commission (not the highest, but better than many general retailers),
- Due to their popularity, competition among affiliates can be high.
Backcountry Is Best For
Outdoor gear reviewers and niche adventure bloggers (since Backcountry covers everything from mountaineering to kayaking). It’s also great for camping YouTubers or hiking Instagrammers who want to recommend premium gear with a reliable purchasing experience.
3. Osprey Packs Affiliate Program
Another great outdoor affiliate program in the USA is Osprey Packs, which has backpacks that have a strong following among hikers and adventurers, making them easier to promote. With an average order value exceeding $150, there’s potential for substantial earnings on Osprey Packs.
Osprey Packs Commission
- 8% per sale.
Osprey Packs Cookie Duration
- 30 days
Osprey Packs Pros
- Osprey is a renowned brand for backpacks, travel bags, and hiking accessories,
- Affiliates benefit from strong brand loyalty – many hikers specifically seek out Osprey packs for their quality and lifetime warranty,
- The 8% commission is solid for a single-brand program,
- The 30-day cookie is standard, giving you a decent window for referrals.
Osprey Packs Cons
- It’s only limited to Osprey’s product line (mostly packs and gear bags, some travel accessories) – you won’t earn on items outside this brand.
Osprey Packs Is Best For
Hiking and backpacking bloggers/YouTubers who often mention backpacks or travel gear. Also ideal for gear comparison sites focusing on packs or outdoor travel bloggers highlighting reliable luggage for adventures.
4. Survival Frog Affiliate Program
Survival Frog, established in 2009, is one of the top American outdoor affiliate programs. This platform lets affiliates benefit from an average sale amount of $141.31, translating to substantial earnings per referral.
Some of the main features of Survival Frog are the “6-month no-questions-asked” refund policy and free shipping on orders over $75, enhancing conversion rate.
Survival Frog Commission
- 12% base commission.
Survival Frog Cookie Duration
- 30 days.
Survival Frog Pros
- High commission rate (much higher than most general outdoor retailers) and generous program perks,
- Free shipping on $75+ orders, 6-month guarantee, etc,
- It offers a wide range of niche products (water filters, survival tools, freeze-dried food) that aren’t as readily found at big box stores, giving your audience a reason to buy here.
Survival Frog Cons
- Niche audience – appeals mostly to survivalists or very hardcore campers/preppers,
- Not as broadly recognized a brand name as REI or Backcountry (though it’s well-respected in the survival niche),
- Ships only to the USA & Canada, so its international audience reach is limited,
Survival Frog Is Best For
Outdoor survivalists and prepping bloggers, camping enthusiasts who cover wilderness survival tips, or any content creator with an audience interested in emergency preparedness gear. If your content is about off-grid living or extreme backcountry camping, this program’s high payouts are a perfect match.
Outdoor Apparel & Footwear Affiliate Programs
For hiking boots, outdoor clothing, and technical apparel, the following are the best American outdoor affiliate programs. These programs represent top outdoor fashion/gear brands known for quality.
They typically have moderate to high commissions and appeal to audiences ranging from casual outdoor lovers to serious climbers in need of performance apparel. Here are the top picks:
5. Patagonia Affiliate Program
By partnering with Patagonia, you can promote high-quality, eco-friendly outdoor apparel and gear that resonates with environmentally conscious audiences. As an affiliate, you’ll have access to a variety of marketing materials, including category-specific banners, text ads, and an automated product feed.
Patagonia Commission
- 8% per sale.
Patagonia Cookie Duration
- 90 days.
Patagonia Pros
- The 8% commission, coupled with an unusually long 90-day cookie, is very affiliate-friendly – you have a three-month window for referrals to convert,
- High average order value (often $150+ per order) and a strong conversion rate of around 5.5%,
- The brand’s eco-conscious mission (1% for the planet and sustainability initiatives) can enhance trust with your audience.
Patagonia Cons
- Only offers Patagonia products, which are premium-priced,
- Your audience needs to value quality and ethics (which many do), but bargain hunters might shy away,
- Stock can sometimes run low during sales since the brand is popular.
Patagonia Is Best For
Gear reviewers and outdoor bloggers who focus on high-end gear and care about sustainability. This platform is also great for climbing and trail-running influencers (Patagonia’s roots are in climbing, and they have a broad outdoor sports line). If your followers appreciate environmentally responsible companies, Patagonia’s program is a perfect fit.
6. Columbia Sportswear Affiliate Program
Columbia Sportswear’s affiliate program offers outdoor content creators a chance to partner with a renowned brand known for its quality and innovation. It’s worth noting that Columbia’s affiliate program is managed via CJ Affiliate, which means you can track your earnings and performance with reliable tools.
Columbia Sportswear Commission
- Up to 15% per sale (tiered).
Columbia Sportswear Cookie Duration
- 30 days.
Columbia Sportswear Pros
- Columbia is a household name in outdoor apparel and footwear, known for accessible price points and wide availability,
- Their affiliate program can offer generous commissions (often 10% baseline, with potential up to 15% for top partners),
- Huge product range (jackets, rain gear, hiking boots, etc.) covering all seasons, which means you can earn year-round on various product promotions.
- The program also provides affiliates with frequent promotions and updated banners, which is a plus for marketing.
Columbia Sportswear Cons
- The exact commission may vary (“up to 15%” suggests many affiliates might start lower, around 5–10%).
- Columbia products are also sold through many third-party retailers, so if your link doesn’t convert, a user might buy elsewhere, though the site often has exclusive sales for members.
Columbia Sportswear Is Best For
Active lifestyle bloggers and gear reviewers who cater to a broad audience – from casual hikers to families gearing up for camping. It’s also good for deal-focused outdoor sites since Columbia often runs sales that you can promote. So, if you cover anything from winter parkas to summer fishing shirts, Columbia’s diversity works in your favor.
7. The North Face Affiliate Program
This program provides different marketing tools, including banners and text links, to help you effectively showcase products to your audience. One of the advantages of this affiliate program is the opportunity to partner with a reputable brand known for its commitment to quality.
North Face Commission
- 5% per sale.
North Face Cookie Duration
- 7 days.
North Face Pros
- The North Face has massive brand recognition,
- The affiliate program gives you an association with this top brand and a decent 5% commission on high-ticket outerwear (a single $300 winter jacket sale nets $15).
- They frequently introduce new collections (like seasonal alpine gear), which gives fresh content to talk about.
North Face Cons
- Short cookie window – only 7 days, which means referred customers need to purchase within a week for you to get credit,
- The 5% commission is on the lower end, reflecting TNF’s confidence in their brand power,
- Also, a lot of North Face sales happen via third-party stores (e.g., REI, Backcountry); directing people to the official site might take extra convincing unless there’s an exclusive deal.
North Face Commission Is Best For
Outdoor fashion influencers and gear bloggers often feature or wear North Face products. This platform is suitable for urban lifestyle bloggers who highlight outdoor-style apparel (since TNF has crossover appeal). It’s a must-have if your audience expects to see big brand names in your gear recommendations.
8. Cotopaxi Affiliate Program
Cotopaxi Commission
- Up to 14% on product sales.
Cotopaxi Cookie Duration
- 30 days.
Cotopaxi Pros
- Cotopaxi is a fast-rising U.S. brand known for its colorful, stylish outdoor gear (jackets, backpacks) and a strong social mission,
- The affiliate program stands out for a high commission (starting around 10%, up to 14%), which is significantly above average.
- Cotopaxi’s unique products (like the Del Día packs made from remnant fabrics – each one is one-of-a-kind) have a cool factor that can attract clicks, and their story of sustainable & ethical business appeals to eco-conscious consumers.
Cotopaxi Cons
- They don’t cover the full spectrum of gear that a giant retailer would,
- The brand, while popular in outdoor circles, is not as universally known as older brands (though this is changing as it grows).
Cotopaxi Is Best For
It’s a perfect match for the millennial/Gen Z audience that values style and mission-driven brands. It’s great for Instagram and YouTube gear reviewers who want something visually striking to feature.
Moreover, it fits those who like to highlight ethical shopping choices, as Cotopaxi allows you to earn money and promote a positive cause, which can resonate well with followers.
Fishing & Hunting Equipment Affiliate Programs
For content focused on fishing rods, tackle, hunting gear, and sporting goods, you’ll want affiliate programs that cater to anglers and hunters. In the American market, several large outdoor retailers dominate, along with some specialized manufacturers.
These programs tend to have slightly lower commissions but very broad product selections (especially the big-box stores), which can lead to higher volume sales. Here are the best American outdoor affiliate programs in this category:
9. Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Affiliate Program
This platform offers competitive commission rates and valuable marketing resources, making it an attractive option for creators in the outdoor niche. On Bass Pro, you’ll find various promotional tools, such as text links, banners, and exclusive discounts.
Bass Pro Commission
- Up to 5% per sale.
Bass Pro Cookie Duration
- 14 days.
Bass Pro Pros
- Through their affiliate program, you gain access to a massive inventory – from fishing rods and bass boats to hunting apparel and firearms accessories,
- A 14-day cookie is decent, and a 5% commission applies across most product categories,
- You can confidently link almost any fishing lure, rifle scope, or camping gadget and know Bass Pro/Cabela’s probably sells it.
Bass Pro Cons
- The commission rate is modest, and there may be lower rates on certain categories (some reports showed 1–3% on select items historically, though 5% is standard for most),
- Also, because Bass Pro/Cabela’s have physical stores nationwide, some users might window-shop online and then buy in-store (which wouldn’t earn you a commission).
Bass Pro Is Best For
Fishing bloggers and hunting YouTuber influencers – if you create content about angling techniques, deer hunting gear, or outdoor cooking, these stores have all the products you mention.
This program is also great for general outdoor sporting sites and survivalist bloggers since Cabela’s especially caters to a broad outdoor audience. Essentially, if your U.S. audience is into any kind of fishing or hunting, Bass Pro/Cabela’s affiliate links will feel natural and trustworthy.
10. Sportsman’s Guide Affiliate Program
The Sportsman’s Guide partners with both Commission Junction and AvantLink, allowing affiliates to have access to resources tailored for outdoor retailers. This platform is the worldwide leader in military surplus, sourcing rare and high-quality gear from Europe, Asia, Russia, and beyond.
Sportsman’s Guide Commission
- 2% – 5% per sale (most items ~5%).
Sportsman’s Guide Cookie Duration
- 7 days.
Sportsman’s Guide Pros
- The program offers around 5% commission on most products (and 2% on firearms/ammo),
- They frequently run member-only deals (Buyer’s Club) and big sales on ammo, etc., which you can promote to drive quick conversions,
- This is a niche-focused store, so the audience targeting is excellent – your referrals will find specialized items (e.g., tree stands, crossbow bolts, etc.) in one place.
Sportsman’s Guide Cons
- The cookie lasts only 7 days, shorter than many competitors,
- The site’s focus on hunting/firearms means it’s not as broad as Bass Pro; if your content is purely fishing, Sportsman’s Guide might have less to offer than others,
- Also, new customers might need to understand the Buyer’s Club concept (a paid membership for discounts), which could be a slight hurdle.
Sportsman’s Guide Is Best For
Hunting bloggers, shooting sports forums, and tactical gear reviewers. If your content leans into firearms, archery, or hunting tech, Sportsman’s Guide aligns perfectly with your audience’s interests.
It’s also suitable for survival/prepper content creators who recommend things like generators, ammo cans, or MREs – SG carries those niche items that mainstream stores might not.
11. Pure Fishing Affiliate Program
Pure Fishing is the parent company behind many famous fishing brands (Abu Garcia, Berkley, PENN, Shakespeare, etc.). Their affiliate program essentially lets you earn on purchases across multiple top fishing brands’ official online stores in one place.
Pure Fishing Commission
- 10% per sale.
Pure Fishing Cookie Duration
- 14 days.
Pure Fishing Pros
- A strong 10% commission rate is a big plus – significantly higher than general outdoor retailers,
- The 14-day cookie is reasonable,
- Plus, this program is laser-focused on fishing gear, which means if you deliver fishing-centric traffic, the conversion likelihood is high (the user is literally shopping from a fishing specialty source).
Pure Fishing Cons
- It’s fishing only – no hunting or broader outdoor products. So this program won’t cover a hunting rifle scope or camping tent (you’d use other programs for those).
- Also, some of the individual brand sites (like Abu Garcia) might not have as wide a selection as Bass Pro would, but Pure Fishing’s umbrella is large enough for most needs.
Pure Fishing Is Best For
Anglers and fishing content creators. If you run a bass fishing YouTube channel, fly-fishing blog, or even a general fishing tackle review site, this program is gold.
It’s also great for tournament fishermen or local fishing influencers who have dedicated followers looking to buy quality fishing gear online. By promoting Pure Fishing’s network, you’re effectively recommending pro-trusted brands with a nice commission upside for you.
Biking & Adventure Sports Affiliate Programs
If your content revolves around mountain biking, rock climbing, or extreme adventure sports, you’ll want affiliate programs that offer specialized gear for these high-adrenaline activities. The best programs here include both niche retailers and specific gear brands.
These cater to everything from bikes and climbing ropes to ski and snowboard gear. Below are the top outdoor affiliate programs in the USA for biking and adventure sports:
12. Jenson USA Affiliate Program
Jenson USA is one of America’s leading online retailers for bicycles (especially mountain and road bikes) and cycling components. They carry a huge array of bike parts, gear, and apparel and boast a robust inventory with over 30,000 SKUs.
Their website maintains a solid 2.5% conversion rate, indicating effective customer engagement.
Jenson USA Commission
- 3% per sale.
Jenson USA Cookie Duration
- 30 days.
Jenson USA Pros
- The 30-day cookie is nice and long, giving potential bike buyers time to decide, which is important because big bike purchases can have a longer consideration period,
- Jenson’s prices are competitive, and they often have clearance deals on bike components, which can entice your audience,
- They also stock major cycling brands (Shimano, SRAM, Fox, etc.), so serious cyclists trust them.
Jenson USA Cons
- Commission is only 3%, reflecting the slim margins in bike retail. Bikes and parts are expensive, so 3% of a $2,000 bike is $60 – not terrible, but on small accessory sales, your earnings are modest,
- This program is very specialized; it’s not useful unless your content is cycling-focused.
Jenson USA Is Best For
Mountain biking influencers, cycling bloggers, and YouTubers reviewing bikes or components. If you run a bike gear review site or a mountain biking technique blog that frequently mentions specific bike parts, Jenson USA is a natural affiliate partner.
The platform also perfectly matches outdoor adventure bloggers who occasionally cover biking and want a trusted bike source to link to.
13. Black Diamond Equipment Affiliate Program
Black Diamond is a premier brand for climbing, mountaineering, and skiing gear – from carabiners and cams to headlamps and alpine skis. They also provide a dedicated in-house affiliate manager to support your promotional efforts.
Black Diamond Equipment Commission
- 7% per sale.
Black Diamond Equipment Cookie Duration
- 30 days.
Black Diamond Equipment Pros
- A 7% commission on their high-quality gear is solid, and the 30-day cookie gives a good window,
- They have a strong reputation among climbers – if you recommend a BD climbing harness or a set of quickdraws, climbers know it’s legit equipment,
- They also produce apparel and backpacks, providing some product diversity,
- Affiliates get the benefit of a dedicated in-house affiliate team and regular creative assets, which can help with marketing.
Black Diamond Equipment Cons
- Being a single-brand program, you’re limited to Black Diamond’s product line. So, if you need to link, say, climbing shoes from another brand, BD’s program won’t cover it,
- Also, the audience is somewhat niche – mainly climbers, backcountry skiers, etc.- not general outdoor folks.
Black Diamond Equipment Is Best For
Climbing bloggers, mountaineering vloggers, and alpine adventure influencers. If your audience is into rock climbing, ice climbing, or ski mountaineering, Black Diamond’s gear is likely already on their radar (or on their wishlist).
Besides, this program is best for those who frequently discuss climbing hardware, backcountry ski gear, or hardcore trekking equipment where BD’s reliability shines.
14. Specialized Affiliate Program
Founded in 1974 by riders, Specialized has a strong commitment to cycling advocacy and innovation. This affiliate platform enables affiliates to promote Specialized’s latest product launches and seasonal sales promotions, providing fresh content and offers to their audience.
Specialized Commission
- 3% to 12% per sale.
Specialized Cookie Duration
- 30-days.
Specialized Cookie Pros
- With commission rates reaching up to 12%, affiliates have the opportunity to earn substantial returns, especially on higher-priced items,
- Specialized is renowned for its innovative and high-quality bicycles and gear, appealing to a broad audience of cycling enthusiasts,
- The program emphasizes creative collaboration, offering partners the chance to work on special projects, product launches, and custom content development.
Specialized Cons
- As a premium brand, Specialized carefully selects affiliate partners who align with its mission and values, which may limit eligibility,
- While a 30-day cookie duration is standard in the industry, some affiliates might prefer longer durations to accommodate longer decision-making processes for high-ticket items.
Specialized Is Best For
This program is ideal for cycling enthusiasts, content creators, and influencers who are passionate about promoting high-quality cycling products. It’s particularly suited for those interested in collaborative projects and creating unique content that resonates with the cycling community.
15. EVO Affiliate Program
EVO is a leading retailer for action sports gear – think skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, skating, surfing, plus the associated apparel and accessories. They blend outdoor adventure with urban lifestyle, appealing to a younger, style-conscious outdoor crowd
EVO Commission
- 5% per sale.
EVO Cookie Duration
- 30 days.
EVO Pros
- The 5% commission is decent and applies to a wide range of gear,
- With a 30-day cookie and frequent seasonal sales (for example, end-of-season ski clearance), affiliates can find timely promotions to boost engagement,
- EVO’s site is well-designed and conversion-friendly, and they offer free shipping thresholds, which can encourage larger orders.
EVO Cons
- The product focus is on adventure sports; if your niche is strictly hiking or hunting, EVO won’t have much for your audience.
- Also, some of the big-ticket items like skis or bikes have fierce competition (many retailers sell them), so you’ll want to create strong content to capture those sales.
- Commission is flat (no tiers mentioned), so small and large sales alike are 5%.
EVO Is Best For
Adventure sports influencers – e.g., a mountain biking YouTuber who also hits the slopes in winter or a snowboarding Instagrammer who occasionally surfs or skates.
EVO is perfect if your audience crosses over multiple adrenaline-fueled hobbies. It’s also great for gear review bloggers in the ski/snowboard niche or those covering youth outdoor culture, where style and sport mix (since EVO sells trendy apparel alongside gear).
FAQs: American Outdoor Affiliate Programs
Now, let’s answer some FAQs about the topic:
1. Can I Join These American Outdoor Affiliate Programs If I’m Not Based in the USA?
Yes, most outdoor affiliate programs accept international affiliates, but they primarily target the U.S. market. Products are priced in USD, and many only ship within the U.S. or North America. If your audience is mainly American outdoor enthusiasts, you’re set.
However, if your traffic is international, check if the retailer ships to those regions; otherwise, conversions may be low.
2. Which Outdoor Affiliate Program Has the Highest Commission Rates?
Among individual brands, programs like Survival Frog (12%) and Cotopaxi (up to 14%) offer very high commissions for outdoor gear. But these are exceptions. If you’re looking for across-the-board high rates, Algorift Marketplace can give you access to commissions as high as 20–40% on select outdoor products, which dwarfs traditional programs.
3. Why It’s Not a Good Idea to Use Amazon Associates for Outdoor Gear?
In short, Amazon’s low commission (approximately 3% for the outdoor category and 24-hour cookie make it suboptimal for outdoor content creators. Outdoor products can be expensive, and customers often compare options over days or weeks.
4. Can I Join Multiple Outdoor Affiliate Programs at the Same Time?
Absolutely. There’s no rule limiting you to only one program. Successful outdoor bloggers often join several affiliate programs to cover all their content needs – this way, you can always link the “best fit” retailer or brand for a given product.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Outdoor Affiliate Programs for Your Niche
Selecting among the top American outdoor affiliate programs that we explored depends on your niche and audience:
- Camping & Hiking: REI and Backcountry offer a wide selection, while Survival Frog is great for survival and ultralight gear.
- Outdoor Apparel: Patagonia stands out for its ethics and 90-day cookie, while Columbia, The North Face, and Cotopaxi offer a mix of mainstream and eco-conscious options.
- Fishing & Hunting: Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s dominate this space, but pairing them with Sportsman’s Guide (hunting) and Pure Fishing (tackle) helps maximize earnings.
- Biking & Adventure Sports: Jenson USA is ideal for cycling, while Black Diamond, Specialized, and EVO cover climbing and extreme sports.
If you rely on Amazon Associates, consider switching to these programs or Algorift Marketplace for better commissions. The outdoor industry is growing, and choosing the right affiliate partners can turn your passion into a strong revenue stream.
