About the CEO
I started Down South Outdoors in my bedroom with nothing more than a love for hunting and a vision that wouldn’t let me sleep.
Growing up, hunting wasn’t just something I did — it was part of who I was. Early mornings in the woods, the quiet before sunrise, the patience, the discipline, the respect for the land — that lifestyle shaped me. I wanted clothing that represented that feeling. Not just camo or something with a deer slapped on it, but something that truly reflected the Southern outdoors culture and the pride that comes with it.
At first, it was simple. I sketched out a few ideas sitting at my desk, watching hunting videos and thinking about what I’d actually wear in the woods or around town. I didn’t have investors or a big plan. I had a small room, a laptop, and a drive to build something that meant something to me. I spent nights researching fabrics, learning about printing, figuring out how to design logos, and teaching myself the business side piece by piece.
There were plenty of moments when it would’ve been easier to quit. Orders were slow at first. I was packing shirts on my bedroom floor and making trips to the post office between everything else I had going on. But every time someone bought a shirt and sent a message saying they loved what the brand stood for, it reminded me why I started.
Down South Outdoors isn’t just clothing. It’s about the lifestyle — long sits in the stand, muddy boots, respect for tradition, and making memories with family and friends. It represents the Southern grit and the pride that comes with living close to the land.
What started in a small room with a simple idea has grown into something bigger than I imagined. And no matter how much it grows, I’ll always remember those late nights in my room — when it was just me, a dream, and a passion for hunting that turned into a brand. -Dylan Walters