OUR STORY

Atlas Outfitters began in 1987 when our founder Larry Atlas, a firefighter, EMT and PADI divemaster saw the need for specialized training and equipment for technical rescue.  Too many public safety agencies were operating by the "seat of their pants" for lack of comprehensive and affordable training.  Too many agencies did not know where to find properly designed and certified rescue, as opposed to recreational, equipment.  By 1991, we were focused in on the highly specialized field of ice rescue and it has remained our focus. 

No one has been more influential in the design updates to ice rescue suits.  We are product advisors and field testers for all the major manufacturers.  We work closely with Stearns, Mustang Survival, Survitec and First Watch.  Over the past three decades, we have influenced the design and field tested nearly every new ice rescue suit that has come to market.

For over a decade, Stearns had us conduct ice rescue technician training classes, which they have sponsored free of charge.  Over 700 students have received training through that program.

Our White Bear "PRACTICAL ICE RESCUE" Train-the-trainer classes are conducted every year.  We supply all of the equipment for classes, free of cost.  Our "TRY BEFORE YOU BUY" philosophy allows students to decide what equipment works best for their department .

We were the first to publish an Ice Rescue textbook for professionals.  Our "Ice Rescue Handbook" is in its third version since 1999.  It is used by public safety agencies on three continents.  It is even the basis of the Norwegian Red Cross Ice Rescue Class. 

Atlas Outfitters is also the largest distributor of the Oceanid RDC Rapid Deployment Craft in the country!  No other distributor comes close to the number of boats that we have sold.  We use the RDC extensively in our Ice Rescue and Swiftwater classes. 

Atlas Outfitters is truly unique among the technical rescue equipment companies.  We actually use the rescue equipment we sell.  We train with it continually.  We take pride in working with our customers to guarantee they get the proper equipment for their needs.

"I wanted to thank you for your time this morning and the honesty in the evaluation of the products you sell.  I spoke with a couple of our guys and told them how nice it was to talk with someone who really understood the business and the products they have - not your typical "sales person" approach."  Steve (MO)

"Thank you so much.  I really appreciate your willingness and effort to take the lead on addressing our issue, especially given that it was not even your fault.  No 'I'll see what I can do and let you know' type of response.  Instead 'We'll take care of it and you should have them in a week.'  This is the type of above and beyond customer service that you just don't see anymore.  It is obvious as to why your company is as successful as it is." Gary (WI)