Outdoor Brands You Might Not Know, But You Should — Wild Sam.
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Blog Series: 10/11 | Wild samI love quality, well-made products. Working in advertising as a creative, from the giant agencies to the boutiques, has given me a unique perspective. It's not always about the big names you know; sometimes, it's the ones you don't that capture your eye.
Now, stepping away from agency life with Overland Girl, I'm spotlighting the brands that ignite my passion and confidence. With my creative roots and a career that's crossed paths with both the well-known and the obscure, I'm excited to share the brands that stand out—not just for their products but for their stories, commitment, and undeniable spirit. This blog is part of a series where I highlight some of the most unique and inspiring outdoor brands. Let’s dive into the world of these hidden gems, exploring what makes them tick and, perhaps, finding the one that speaks to you. You might already know these brands; if so, that’s great: Mammut, Black Crows, Wild Rye, Stio, Snow Peak, Dragon Alliance, Big Agnes, Mountain Gazette, Wild Sam, HipCamp, and Rovr Coolers. Today, I’m excited to focus on Wild Sam, a brand that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of exploration and storytelling.
Discover the USA with Wild Sam Field Guides.
Traveling isn't just about going to new places; it's about getting to know the heart of each destination—the culture, history, and hidden gems. Wild Sam Field Guides provide insights and inspiration for those who love adventure and road trips. At Overland Girl, we're all about gear that improves your travel experiences, and Wild Sam Field Guides do just that. We first discovered Wild Sam while we were visiting Yellowstone. The illustrations, design, and small pocket size drew me in. I also purchased Yellowstone's “Mystery and Marvel.” But these guides are more than that. Let's see why these guides are a must-have for every adventurer.
My copy of Wild Sam’s Yellowstone “Mystery and Marvel”
What Are Wild Sam Field Guides?
Wild Sam Field Guides are travel books packed with local knowledge, historical tidbits, and practical travel tips. Unlike typical travel guides, Wild Sam focuses on the stories and anecdotes that bring each place to life. Each guide covers a specific city or region, offering hand-picked recommendations from local experts. They are 145 pages printed in the U.S.A.
and back-pocket size, 4 x 6.5 inches.
The Story Behind Wild Sam.
Wild Sam was founded by Taylor Bruce in 2012. Taylor, a travel writer, wanted to create deeper guides, offering travelers a more meaningful connection to the places they visit. His love for storytelling and exploration led to the creation of Wild Sam Field Guides, which have become beloved companions for adventurers everywhere.
The Art of Wild Sam: Illustrations That Inspire.
One of the coolest things about Wild Sam Field Guides is their beautiful illustrations. Each guide is filled with artwork that captures the place's vibe, making the guides informative and visually stunning.
The inside of Yellowstone's “Mystery and Marvel” on the spread is about Emily B Martin.
1. Unique Illustrative Style The illustrations in Wild Sam Field Guides mix vintage charm with modern style. This unique look gives the guides a nostalgic feel while still feeling fresh and new.
Illustration of Emily B Martin by Walker Noble Studios from Yellowstone Field Guide.
2. Featured Artists Wild Sam works with talented artists to create the illustrations for their guides. Some contributors include:
Libby VanderPloeg: Known for her whimsical and detailed drawings, Libby’s work brings a playful yet informative touch to the guides.
Mikael Kennedy: Mikael’s photography and artistic sensibility add a unique visual depth, especially in guides focused on nature and landscapes.
Nathaniel Russell: His bold and engaging illustrations highlight key historical and cultural elements of each destination.
3. Maps and Diagrams: The guides include detailed maps and diagrams that are both functional and artistic. These visuals help you navigate cities and regions, pointing out key spots and areas of interest.
Illustration of Sam Gye from Chicago Field Guide. Illustration by Simone Martin-Newberry
4. Bringing Stories to Life The illustrations complement the stories and anecdotes in the guides, bringing them to life and adding depth to your travel experience.
Wild Sam’s Book Categories.
Wild Sam Field Guides offer a variety of guides tailored to different types of travelers. Whether you’re into exploring National Parks, hitting the open road, or diving into the culture of a new city, there’s a guide for you. Here’s a closer look at what each category has to offer:
1. National Parks (Overland Girl Favorite)
These guides are for those who love nature and the outdoors. They cover America’s iconic National Parks, providing tips on the best trails, wildlife spotting, and each park's history.
Popular Titles:
Great Smoky Mountains
Yosemite
Yellowstone
2. Cities
Perfect for urban explorers, these guides dig deep into the culture, history, and hidden spots of major cities. You’ll find local recommendations for food, music, and more.
Popular Titles:
Austin
San Francisco
New Orleans
3. Road Trip
Ideal for those who love road trips, these guides offer curated routes, scenic byways, and must-see stops. They’re designed to help you plan an unforgettable journey on the road.
Popular Titles:
American Road Trip
Pacific Coast Highway
Route 66
4. Towns
These guides focus on smaller towns, offering a deep dive into local culture, history, and hidden gems often overlooked in larger city guides.
Popular Titles:
Hudson Valley
Marfa
Charleston
5. Pursuits
Overview: These guides cater to activities like hiking, fishing, and bourbon tasting, providing enthusiasts with tailored insights and tips.
Popular Titles:
Fly Fishing
Bourbon Country
Texas Barbecue
6. Photo
These guides combine stunning photography with storytelling, offering a visual and narrative journey through various destinations.
Popular Titles:
American Road Trip
Pacific Northwest
National Parks
7. Digital Guides
These digital versions of Wild Sam's popular guides make it easy to access valuable insights on the go. They’re perfect for travelers who prefer digital convenience. These are at no charge to you.
Popular Titles:
Digital City Guides
Digital National Parks Guides
Digital Road Trip Guides
Introducing WILD SAM: A New Adventure in Storytelling.
Building on the success of their beloved field guides, Wild Sam has launched a new magazine, WILD SAM. This magazine expands the spirit of the field guides into a broader, more immersive storytelling experience. Each issue dives deep into the heart of a different region, blending rich narratives, striking photography, and local insights to create a magazine that’s as inspiring as it is informative. Whether planning your next trip or just looking to explore from the comfort of your home, WILD SAM brings the adventure to you, capturing the essence of America’s most fascinating places freshly and engagingly. I just subscribed to the magazine and cannot wait for my first issue.
Subscribe to WILD SAM or Purchase Back Issues
Why Overland Girl Loves Wild Sam Field Guides.
We love the concept of these back pocket-sized field guides. As an Art Director, I value the art and design that goes into each. It is very thoughtful and purposeful. Wild Sam Field Guides are more than travel books; they are companions that make your journey richer. At Overland Girl, we believe in gear that enhances your travel experience, and Wild Sam Field Guides are a perfect fit. Whether planning a road trip across the USA or exploring a new city, these guides will be your trusted travel companion. Happy exploring with Wild Sam!
