Inside Owl

When it comes to equipping your Van or Grenadier for serious adventure, every decision matters. You’re not simply buying storage solutions, ladders, or carriers—you’re investing in gear that needs to withstand the harshest conditions and deliver uncompromising performance mile after mile. At Owl our foundation is built on American manufacturing excellence, a level of craftsmanship that is rarely matched in today’s adventure market. What makes “American Made” matter? Let’s cut through the noise and examine why this distinction is key for anyone who values quality, reliability, and a team that stands behind every product. The Real Meaning of American Made: Quality at Every Stage It’s not just a label; it’s a process and a promise. At Owl, “American made” means every step—concept, design, fabrication, finishing, packaging—is handled by a highly skilled crew right in Mesa, Arizona. As John, our host and a driving force behind Owl laid out: “I have a building full of people who bleed blue. They care that the products that go out fit perfectly and work well… We don’t want to make parts if we can’t put our hands on them and make sure they are the best possible quality.” This is more than pride. It’s an operational standard ensuring: Hands-on craftsmanship: Each part is physically inspected and refined by our team. Direct accountability: If something isn’t perfect, it doesn’t leave the shop. End-to-end quality control: From CAD design to final packaging, every phase is managed by the Owl team. When you see an Owl logo on your rig, you know it’s been built with obsessive attention to detail. Why American Manufacturing Still Matters for Off-Road Adventurers Anyone who’s busted hardware deep in a national forest, dealt with a busted latch in the middle of Utah slickrock, or watched a cheap hinge rust out under Pacific Northwest rain knows why quality construction is non-negotiable. Here’s why buying Owl Vans gear—built right in America—delivers where it counts: 1. Rugged Durability You Can Rely On Small batch fabrication: Unlike mass-market offshore products, each item is built in controlled, small runs. Real QC, real people: Multiple, hands-on quality control stages ensure welds are clean, parts are straight, and finishes are immaculate. Tougher finishes: Each item is inspected before and after powder coating to ensure full coverage and zero flaws. 2. Faster, Smarter Innovation Close-knit teamwork: Designers, welders, and fabricators work side by side. New product ideas and improvements get implemented fast, with immediate feedback from every department. Continuous refinement: The folks building your gear are the same ones driving, testing, and using it. This feedback loop means constant real-world improvements—no outdated, static designs. 3. Lasting Value Long-term support: When your product is built in the same building it’s shipped from, customer support and replacement parts are straightforward. Resale strength: “Owl Made” means something in the overland and vanlife communities; recognized quality holds its value. Meet the Team Behind the Welds What truly sets Owl Vans apart isn’t just the tech—it’s the team Every component you order has likely been touched by half the team: Designers crafting precision digital models CNC operators cutting exact profiles Welders assembling and perfecting connections Quality control specialists ensuring flawless finishes before and after powder coating Shipping/packing pros making sure your gear arrives immaculate This hands-on, detail-driven approach means fewer errors, greater durability, and a look and feel you can count on in the backcountry or on the highway. “You can’t do this without people who are highly skilled at what they do. But the folks at OWL love what they do. I think that translates into the products the customers get.” The Finished Product: What to Expect from “Owl Made” When your Owl products arrive, you’ll notice details that set them apart: Expert Precision—no rattling, no dings, ready-to-bolt-on High Quality Welds & Finish—free from sharp edges, excessive grinding, or tool marks Consistent Fitment—everything lines up as it should, no “mass-market batch variance” Ready for The Real World—each part is designed not just for looks, but for extreme use on and off the trail “For us, American made means OWL made. It means people made. And it’s beyond the cool machines that look good on videos.” John Willenborg Off-Road Tested, Adventure Approved If you’re outfitting your Van or Grenadier for off-grid life, then durability and reliability aren’t up for negotiation. Owl delivers the next-level build quality, precision fit, and lasting toughness that serious adventurers demand. From rear tire carriers to patented storage solutions, the results speak for themselves every time you hit the dirt. You’re not just buying a carrier or a rack—you’re investing in battle-tested, expertly crafted adventure gear, built by a team that lives for the outdoors.

  In the world of adventure vehicles, partnerships matter. Industry leaders, innovators, and accelerators raise the standards. Today, we spotlight our exciting collaboration with Mercedes as we redefine what’s possible in Sprinter Van upgrades. Built for Real Adventure Overlanding demands more than just looks—it’s about unwavering function in unpredictable environments. Our components are built to match Mercedes-level precision, meaning that you can upgrade your Sprinter with confidence that you'll get: Precision Engineering: Mercedes sets the gold standard in performance and reliability. Owl Vans upgrades are engineered to integrate seamlessly with Mercedes’ meticulous design language. Factory Synergy: Innovations born in collaboration—from modular storage to off-road suspension—ensure upgrades feel like a factory fit, not an afterthought. Unmatched Quality: Our partnership guarantees fit, finish, and durability that match (or exceed) OEM standards. Our approach is simple—test everything, anywhere, with anyone who wants to push their rig to the limit. Key Upgrades for Sprinter Vans Owl Vans doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every adventure rig is a blend of: Flexible Storage: Racks and mounting solutions for bikes, recovery gear, and expedition essentials. Utility Enhancements: Rear tire carriers, ladders, and expedition bumpers designed specifically for the latest Mercedes platforms. Suspension Systems: Custom-tuned for added load and rough terrain, while preserving on-road performance. Bulletproof Your Build Serious about off-grid capability? Modular upgrades from Owl translate into: Rapid Gear Access: Spend less time unloading and more time exploring. Secure Storage: Peace of mind on rutted trails or remote sites. Road-Legal Additions: DOT-compliant lighting, license plate relocation, and camera integration. Why Choose Factory-Integrated Solutions? With a world-class van as your base, aftermarket upgrades need to do more than just fit. They have to function seamlessly. That’s where the Owl Vans and Mercedes collaboration shines. Our gear doesn’t just bolt on—it belongs. No warning lights or sensor faults Retained safety features and accessibility Aesthetics that complement the original design This is especially crucial as van electronics become more advanced. Trusting your upgrades to the team that works alongside Mercedes engineers is the best way to protect your investment. What’s Next? The Future of Adventure Upgrades With the Sprinter Van platforms expanding, expect even more: Lightweight, high-strength materials Integrated smart features for power management and connectivity Easier installation for DIY enthusiasts and pro builders alike Ready to Upgrade? Your Next Adventure Starts at Owl Premium hardware. Seamless integration. Uncompromising durability. If you’re planning to take your Mercedes Sprinter Van further than ever, your journey deserves gear that’s up to the challenge. Looking for advice or ready to order? We’re here to help you build the ultimate overland rig—without compromise.

Every great company begins with a story—and Owl is no exception. What started almost cliché, as a passion project in a garage, has evolved into a driving force in the van aftermarket industry. Humble Beginnings: A Need Ignites Innovation The journey started back in 2010, when John, Owl’s founder, purchased a Sprinter van to support his love for motorcycle racing. Looking to outfit his van with accessories, John quickly discovered a gap in the market. “Nobody made anything,” he recalls. “There was no Owl, no Canyon Adventure Vans… nothing.” Leveraging his background in product design, John began creating tire and gear carriers for his own vehicle and started sharing his process and results on online forums. The response was immediate and overwhelmingly positive, with the community offering valuable feedback and clamoring for their own custom products. From One-Off to Must-Have What sets John’s story apart is his openness with the process and willingness to engage the community. Thanks to early forum supporters and suggestions—like making carriers low for easy access and ensuring they open with the doors—the product continued to improve. Demand skyrocketed quickly, leading John to build a limited run of ten tire carriers which sold out in hours. That pivotal moment hinted at a potential business, and Owl was born. Building a Team That "Bleeds Blue" As demand grew, so did the team. John credits his colleagues, craftsmen, and staff for Owl's ongoing success: “It’s the folks behind me that kick butt here and make all the products,” he says. People now recognize the brand at shows thanks to John’s transparency and enthusiasm on YouTube, but he’s quick to shine the spotlight on his team. Kevin, the head of manufacturing—and employee number two—joined Owl after answering a Craigslist ad. With little manufacturing experience but a keen eye for quality, Kevin soon took over everything from hiring welders to ordering parts and prototyping. Ash, the Manager of Fabrication, ensures each product meets Owl’s high standards. From prepping materials for welding to performing meticulous final checks, Ash is integral to maintaining the brand’s reputation for durability and function. “Before they leave for powder coating, I am quality control as well. I basically check to make sure all of the welds are complete, there’s no missing products and they are cleared of all scratches and dents.” Fueling the Adventure Culture What keeps Owl's team so invested? For John, it’s the customer experience—seeing van owners fall deeper in love with their vehicles with every adventure. The energy from the community mirrors his original excitement for discovery and exploration. “People come up at shows now and they know who we are… They are so excited. And the coolest thing is, that’s the excitement I had when I started using my van and adventuring and going on trips. And that, to me, is everything.” John WIllenborg Looking Forward From backyard builds to a state-of-the-art 12,000-square-foot facility, Owl continues to grow—driven by a team deeply passionate about quality and the adventures their customers embark upon.

We interviewed Claire Thomas—an online health and fitness coach—to see what it takes to maintain a healthy lifestyle while living and working out of a van. The best part? Her recent upgrades from Owl seamlessly integrate with her daily workouts. Meet Claire: Fitness Pro & Van Life Enthusiast Claire Thomas’s journey started with a passion for travel and an opportunity to work remotely. With her partner Jared—who works for a supplement company—they hit the road, turning their van into a comfy, mobile home and a portable fitness studio. “Naturally, working remotely, I wanted to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to travel…That’s what inspired the van for me.”– Claire Thomas The Ultimate Van Kitchen Claire’s kitchen is truly a van life marvel! She opted for a spacious L-shaped countertop (perfect for food preps), a beautiful copper sink, and clever uses of space with pull-up tables and lots of storage—think overhead cabinets, drawers, and even under-the-cushion compartments. A few of her van life hacks include using Velcro to keep essentials in place and using a pull-out faucet for sandy feet or makeshift showers—since there isn’t a full shower inside. Storage Solutions Van life means mastering storage. Claire showed off hidden spaces everywhere: keeping clothes in sliding trays, appliances tucked in cabinets, and even a special spot for hiking gear. Shoes and weights have their dedicated zones, and she uses a curtain rod with clips to neatly hang her collection of hats. Claire chose our Van Storage Box : Expedition Large to add to her van—providing her with more  Fitting in Fitness—No Matter Where You Are Staying fit on the road is all about creativity and flexibility. Claire and Jared carry dumbbells for strength training, and with Owl Vans’ help, they installed a pull-up bar right on their van. Most recently, they added a Sprinter Bike Rack and Box Carrier : Rear Door B2 (originally meant for bikes!) which also doubles as sturdy workout equipment for dips and resistance exercises. “We love to showcase how to stay fit and healthy on the road. It’s not always easy, but we make it work.”– Claire Thomas Taking Their Home—and Gym—Everywhere Perhaps the best part of van life for Claire and Jared is waking up in a new place every day but always sleeping in the same comfy bed. Their story is proof that adventure and a healthy lifestyle really can go hand in hand—even in a tiny, mobile space.

When it comes to pushing the boundaries of adventure, a well-outfitted Sprinter van is more than just a vehicle—it's your access pass to remote landscapes, spontaneous surf sessions, and the untethered freedom to roam. Adam, co-founder of Alt Camp Camper Van Rentals in Costa Mesa, California, understands this ethos inside and out. In his recent tour of the “Everest” build, he shares how combining ultra-luxury comfort with hardcore trail capability is the game-changing formula behind his fleet. And at the core of that formula? Purpose-built upgrades from Owl. If you live for off-grid getaways, crave rugged reliability, and expect your van to handle both the wild and the refined, this deep-dive tour is for you. Here’s what you can learn from Adam’s Everest setup—and why Owl's proven accessories deserve a spot on your adventure rig. Why the Modern Sprinter Van is the Perfect Adventure Platform The Mercedes Sprinter 4x4 is legendary for its blend of drivability, cargo capacity, and factory off-road chops. But what transforms it from a stock workhorse into a true “beach house on wheels” is the clever application of best-in-class gear: Ultra-Luxury Interior: Think parachute bedding, Williams Sonoma cookware, induction cooktops, and hot water on demand—every comfort considered. Versatile Sleeping Options: Queen bed below, rooftop tent above, four-adult capacity—ideal for families or groups. Self-Sustaining Power: Comprehensive solar systems and distributed outlets ensure you’ll never run out of juice, even off-grid. Climate Control: Hot air heaters and advanced airflow management keep you comfortable year-round. This fusion of serious comfort with trail-ready DNA lets you chase swells or summit peaks without missing the luxuries of home. Form Meets Function: Wheel Carriers and Storage by Owl Vans One of the standout upgrades in Adam’s Everest build, as highlighted in the tour, is the integration of Owl Vans’ rear tire carrier and gear solutions. Non-Negotiable: A Rear Tire Carrier Ask any off-road veteran: a flat tire on the trail is a matter of “when,” not “if.” Relying on the factory under-mounted spare is a liability—it’s vulnerable, hard to access, and eats into crucial underbody clearance. That’s why Adam (and countless pros) turned to the Owl 's Sprinter Tire Carrier + Ladder: Quick Access: Change a tire swiftly, even in the mud or sand. Increased Clearance: No more dragging your spare while cresting ruts or negotiating rocky paths. Peace of Mind: As Adam puts it, Owl’s carrier gives both him and his clients “peace of mind being on the road just in case...they get a flat tire.” This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about ensuring your adventure continues, no matter the terrain. Modular Utility: The Sherpa  Alongside the tire carrier, Adam added another critical Owl accessory—the Sprinter Cargo Carrier : Rear Door Sherpa giving you 'Swiss Army Knife' capabilities on your rig: Universal Mounting: Haul bikes, recovery boards, Rotopax cans, or cargo boxes. Customizable Layouts: Adaptable for overland, surf, mountain bike, or family travel setups. Heavy-Duty Construction: Engineered for serious off-road abuse, without rattle or flex. “Our favorite part,” Adam notes, “is that the Sherpa allows us to mount whatever we want on the van. We have this on a number of our vans—absolutely love it.” Building the Best: Balancing Luxury With Rugged Performance Adam’s philosophy with Alt Camp is to offer not just a camper van, but a “Newport Beach home inside a van—rugged enough outside to get down and dirty, luxury of home inside.” The right upgrades make that possible: True Home Comforts: Luxury bedding, hot water, and top-tier kitchen equipment mean you’re not roughing it. Legendary Mercedes Reliability: Combined with upgrades, Sprinters aren’t just stylish—they’re unstoppable. Off-Grid Confidence: Solar, battery, and smart heating/cooling mean you’re at home anywhere. But none of that matters if a mechanical issue—like a flat tire—can end your trip. That’s why build partners like Owl Vans are central to Alt Camp’s fleet. Their gear doesn’t just add style; it’s engineered for dependability under real-world use, whether you’re halfway up a mountain, camped on the coast, or deep in the desert. Choosing the Right Upgrades: What Sets Owl Apart Not all van accessories are created equal. Ours lead for a reason: Designed for Adventure: Every mount, rack, or carrier is built for real trails, rough weather, and actual use—not mall crawling. Fit-and-Finish: Clean installs, burly hardware, outstanding powder-coat finishes. Your van won’t just function better; it’ll look purpose-built. Community Tested: Trusted by expedition guides, vanlifers, and professional rental fleets alike. Adam’s experience with Owl gear captured in the tour makes it clear: choosing proven components isn’t about marketing hype—it’s about real reliability when it counts. Transform Your Sprinter with Owl & Hit the Road with Confidence When it comes to unleashing the potential of your personal ride, your Sprinter needs to deliver on two fronts: capable at the trailhead, comfortable every night. The right gear doesn’t just make life easier—it opens up whole new worlds of adventure. As Adam and Alt Camp demonstrate, investing in proven, expertly engineered upgrades make the difference between a good trip and a great one.