Muff Waders, the company that created a unique wader design to keep your drinks cold during summer fishing, made an appearance on Shark Tank in early 2021. Unfortunately, the company couldn’t get a deal from any of the sharks. However, what exactly happened to Muff Waders after Shark Tank? Did they manage to succeed despite landing no deal? This comprehensive guide will answer all of your questions about the future of the company and their products!
What are Muff Waders?
If you love to fish in the hot summer season you should know how important cold drinks are to keep you going. But, when you’re out in the sun all day it’s hard to keep anything cold for very long. Especially if you don’t have a cooler with ice or access to a fridge. The Muff Waders are a great solution to keeping your drinks cold all day long while fishing or doing any outdoor activity in the heat.
Even outside of summer, carrying your drinks around with you can be a pain. If you’re going on a hike or taking a long walk, you have to either drink all your water before you leave or bring a big, bulky water bottle. With Muff Waders, you can just throw a few cans or bottles in the insulated pockets and head out without having to worry about them getting warm.
The Muff Waders are basically giant koozies that can be worn as a jacket. They have six large insulated pockets that can fit multiple cans or bottles each. There is also a zippered pocket in the front for things like keys, your phone, or snacks. And, of course, there are adjustable straps so you can make sure they fit snugly around your chest.
Despite being called “waders” these jackets are not waterproof. So, if you’re planning on being in or near the water make sure to bring a separate jacket to keep you dry. The creators of the item claimed that waterproofing it would be too costly.
This piece of clothing can also be worn as a workwear or hunting gear. It has a lot of the same features as a regular work vest with pockets and straps. But, the addition of insulation makes it perfect for hot days spent outside or for storing your lunch so it doesn’t get warm before you eat it. [1], [2], [3], [4], [5]
History of the Founders
Muff Waders was founded by two childhood friends, Taylor Nees and Garret Lamp, who are also known as Earl and Buddy. Both men have grown up together in a small town of Holstein, Iowa. And, both have always loved fishing and various outdoor activities.
The idea for this creation, surprisingly came to Taylor not while fishing but when they were sitting in a bar one evening. As they were enjoying their drinks, they started discussing how annoying it is that they can’t keep their own drinks cool while watching the games at a stadium, and the lightbulb went off. Taylor started making a rough sketch of what would eventually become the Muff Wader on a napkin. This was when they came up with a cooler & jacket hybrid they can take every time they go fishing.
So, now they had an idea on the table, they needed to find a manufacturer. This was actually the hardest part of the process. It took them months to find a company that was willing to make their vision a reality, but eventually they found one in the Twin Cities and created the first prototype.
The first prototype didn’t turn out in the perfect way they wanted so they decided to improve it before releasing it to the masses. After some more tweaking and adjustments, they had the second prototype ready which looked much better.
After testing the finished product out themselves and getting some feedback from friends, they decided to launch a Kickstarter campaign in November in order to find funds for mass production. They set their goal to $135,000.
Unfortunately, their Kickstarter campaign was not as successful as they had hoped and they failed to reach the goal. But, this did not deter them. Some time after, they managed to begin mass production and, in 2020 they finally launched their product to the public.
At first, they began advertising their product on their Facebook page. They included a video showcasing how the Muff Waders work and what they can be used for. The video soon went viral with over 100,000 views in just a few days.
Muff Waders at Shark Tank
In 2020 Taylor and Garret appeared on Shark Tank where they asked the sharks for $25,000 in exchange for a 25% stake in their company. They needed some help with supply chain logistics as well as marketing since one Muff Wader cost them $35 to make and they sold them for $55.
The duo presented how the product works, and told the sharks their own story. Sharks were impressed by the sales numbers and the main gimmick of the product managed to catch their attention.
The two friends also brought up that they are working on a new product called Muff Spenders, which will allow you to easily attach your drink of choice and enjoy it throughout the day. According to them, this analogue of Muff Waders is intended to be used in more formal settings, like a wedding. These suspenders have pockets for both cans and bottles on each side!
Despite the sharks expressing some interest, none of them decided to invest in the company. Their reasoning was simple, they didn’t think that the product had enough potential to grow into a large company. And so the duo had to leave the tank without a deal. [2], [3], [5], [6]
Muff Waders After Shark Tank
This wasn’t the result Taylor and Garret expected nor wanted, but they decided to not give up on their dream. The two entrepreneurs continued working on their business and managed to find some success.
Appearance on live TV helped them to get more exposure and soon they were able to build a small but passionate customer base. They even started to run their own blog on their website.
They also have an Instagram account with over 4 thousand followers where they post various pictures and videos of their everyday life. Muff Waders don’t fare bad in social media presence on Facebook either with around 5 thousand likes and regular updates on their life.
Trevor and Garret seem to be happy their accidental invention got so much traction, as they continuously share the pictures of customers using their product in various creative ways.
They did struggle a bit during the pandemic since people were not going outside as much, but they managed to make a slight comeback by selling their products now that things are starting to return back to normal.
They decided to raise the price for their product to $89.99 from the initial $55.99. As of now there’s only two colors available, brown and black. The overalls are mainly popular among the fishermen and people who spend a lot of time working outside as the product makes it easier to carry all the drinks with you and enjoy them during the break. Customers can also choose one among three available sizes: Medium, Large or X-Large.
One thing we noticed is that the price for one unit on Amazon is different from the website, it’s currently set at $96.
They eventually expanded their product line to include the Muff Spenders they’ve been working on at the time of the filming.
Muff Spenders are a bit cheaper than Muff Waders and are available for $55.00. For this product, you can opt for more design options. For example, you can go with patriotic USA stars and stripes design or opt for a more formal look with black or navy blue colors. You have two choices when it comes to size: Small or Large.
Besides these two can holders, Taylor and Garret have also started selling “Muff” merchandise, such as T-shirts, hats, and even patches.
The company has also implemented a Brand Ambassador model. You can either pick commision based or reseller options. For commision based, you will receive a special code that you can share with your friends and family. For each purchase made with that code, you will receive a certain percentage of the sale. The reseller option is great for those who want to sell Muff Waders in their own store or website. You will be provided with a special login to their site where you can place orders at discounted prices and have them drop-shipped directly to your customers! [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [7]
Muff Waders Net Worth
Following the show, Muff Wader’s had reached $250,000 in sales and as of now, Muff Waders’ net worth is estimated to be around $500,000. This is a huge increase from the $50,000 they had when they first appeared on Shark Tank.
Main Competitor of Muff Waders
From what we saw, for now there aren’t any big competitors for Muff Waders. There are some other companies that make similar products, but they don’t seem to be as popular or neither do they have the same exposure.
It will be interesting to see if any new competitors emerge in the future and how Muff Waders will fare against them. For now, it seems like they are the top dog in their little niche! [3]
Great Muff Waders Alternative
This is a chest wader made by FROGG TOGGS that is an alternative to Muff Waders. It is made of 100% Nylon and is waterproof, breathable, lightweight and abrasion-resistant. The upper is constructed with DRIPORE Gen 2 material and has 4-ply nylon with fully taped seams. It also features oversized multifunctional chest pocket, zippered flip-out security chest pocket, zippered handwarmer pockets, and a horizontal zippered storage. FROGG TOGGS has been providing rainwear, waders, cooling products, footwear and accessories since 1996.
FAQ
Who created Muff Waders?
Taylor Nees and Garret Lamp are the founders of Muff Waders. The duo was sitting at the bar when they started making jokes about a jacket that can keep your beer cold. They were quick to sketch out a design on one of the napkins near them, and before too long the idea for Muff Waders was born!
They contacted around 80 manufacturers around them, but to no luck. Everyone they talked to said that it was impossible to make a jacket with built-in koozies. But, these two entrepreneurs were not about to give up that easily.
Finally, after months of searching they found a manufacturer who was willing to take on the challenge. And as you know it turned out to be a success!
What are Muff Waders?
Muff Waders are a type of overalls that have been designed to keep your drinks cold while you’re working. They have a special pocket in the front that can hold up to six cans of beer or soda. The overalls are easy to use and can be washed in a washing machine with no problem.
Did Muff Waders get a deal at Shark Tank?
Unfortunately, Muff Waders did not get a deal from any of the sharks. They were told their product is interesting from a gimmicky standpoint, but it was not something that would interest the sharks as an investment as they didn’t see much potential in this product.
While Muff Waders are still a small company, they still have managed to find some success in the market even without a deal. Who knows, maybe one of the sharks will regret passing on this opportunity!
How much money has Muff Waders made?
Since the company’s initial pitch, the company valuation has risen to $125,000 and is still operating today. Consequently, the net worth has likely increased as well.
Muff Waders’ net worth is estimated to be around $500,000. As the pandemic subsides and people return to their normal lives, they believe that Muff Waders will have a successful year based on sales this year.
Where is Muff Waders from?
The company is based in Holstein, and the two founders affectionately refer to their 30-year-old van as their “corporate office”. The Muff Waders are offered through their own website and from the van, which they take to various events such as fairs, parties, and tailgating.
Lamp and Nees thought of another great idea in September 2020, after their Muff Waders became a hit.
The Muff Spender is a pair of black suspenders with pockets on each side big enough to carry a beer or bottle of water. The pants accessory is meant for fancier occasions, like weddings.
The idea for Muff Waders was sparked when Lamp and Nees were tailgating for a football game in September 2018. They realized that there wasn’t a convenient way to carry their beverages around without spilling them or holding onto them with their hands. This led to the creation of Muff Waders, which feature an insulated pocket on each side big enough for a can or bottle.
How much does the Muff Waders cost?
You can find the latest offers and deals for Muff Waders products on their official website. The Classic Muff Wader set typically costs $90, but there are sometimes discounts available.
The Shark Tank pitch revealed that it costs $35 to make one unit, which is then sold for $85. With total sales of around $54,000 [4], the company is doing well.
How to use Muff Waders?
Muff Waders is a company known for its unique bib overalls that have an insulated cooling pouch in the front pocket – perfect for keeping your drinks cool.
The pants have insulated side pockets to store more bottles, and the front can hold up to six cans. The Muff Mug is detachable and attaches to the front with a magnet that also opens bottles. Plus, there’s another pocket for storage.
Its target market is the working guy who appreciates a refreshing beer after a hard day. It is available in two colors (black and brown). Also, the Muff Spender suspenders are a great addition for those who want to incorporate the pouch into their outfit.
To use, simply place your drinks in the insulated pockets and enjoy them at your leisure without having to hold onto them or worry about spills. The convenient design allows for easy access and storage of beverages.
What are the advantages of Muff Waders?
These overalls feature an insulated six-pack cooler near the chest, which can hold 12 oz. cans and bottles, as well as two side pockets that can each hold 1/5 of a liquor or wine bottle. This product provides users with a simple way to enjoy both work and leisure time, by storing chilled beer for themselves and their friends.
The Muff Waders have a detachable Muff Mug on top that attaches to the metal bottle opener, so you can go hands-free. This is extremely useful for those in construction, electrician, and farming areas because they don’t have to worry about their beverages getting warm or being stolen.
The hidden pocket easily conceals your valuables, like cash and credit cards. You can wear it socializing with friends at events like tailgating or snowmobiling, available in black and brown colors.
As it stands, Muff Waders have the majority of the market share for beer-storing and cooling apparel due to a lack of competition. This product is durable, and functional, and allows for convenience in a fun way. Whether you’re at the beach, on the job site, or simply enjoying some backyard BBQ with friends, Muff Waders provide an easy solution to carrying drinks without spilling them or constantly having to hold onto them. Plus, they make for a unique conversation starter and party accessory.
Pros of using Muff Waders:
- Made with sturdy materials;
- Best for work and play;
- A great amount of beer storage;
- Comes with its detachable Muff Mug;
- Great cooling apparel for your beverages;
- Has a concealed pocket for valuables;
- The magnet on the back of the Muff Mug doubles as a metal bottle opener;
The Muff Waders have an insulated pouch in them that is big enough to hold a pack of six beers, soda, water, or any energy drink of your choice. The Muff Waders are a cool pair of sturdy bob overalls made with an insulated cooler pouch that is securely sewn into the chest area. It helps keep your beverage cool throughout the day while you’re working outdoors. Makes life easy for outdoor working men.
The insulated pouch comes with a detachable Muff Mug. The mug has a magnet on its back that sticks to metal, which also acts as a bottle opener. There is also a hidden pocket inside the overalls that can fit various items.
What are the disadvantages of Muff Waders?
A potential downside to purchasing bibs is that the price tag can be significantly heftier than traditional overalls or waders.
Some people find the cooler a bit bulky and uncomfortable. Additionally, it may not work well in extremely hot temperatures as insulation have difficulty keeping beverages cold in those climates.
Lastly, the insulated liner of the Muff Waders could break down over time with constant use.
While some people may be turned off by the drawbacks of this product, others who appreciate having their drinks nearby while they’re out and about will find that the Muff Waders offer a practical solution.
What are some alternatives to Muff Waders?
Because they are the only company that sells Muff Waders, they had no competition in the market. Although companies like Amazon sell beer vests and belts, none of them have a product or commercial strategy as successful as theirs.
Their product has been featured in magazines and on television, gaining us a loyal customer base and increasing sales. They are always looking to enhance their designs and broaden our market appeal so that we become the top provider of beverage coolers for people who work outdoors.
How long does it take to ship Muff Waders?
Your order will be processed and shipped within 2-3 business days. They do not ship orders on weekends or holidays. If they experience a high volume of orders, there may be slight delays in shipping. However, you will always be contacted via email or telephone if there is going to be a significant delay in your shipment. Shipping charges are automatically calculated at checkout.
What is the return policy of Muff Waders?
If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, let us know within 30 days and we’ll process a refund or exchange for you.
If you want to return an item, it must be unused and in the same condition as when received. The packaging can’t tamper with either.
Several types of goods can’t be returned including food, flowers, newspapers, and magazines. Other products that are not accepted include intimate or sanitary goods, hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gasses.
You will receive an email notification from us once they have received and inspected your return. You will be notified of the approval or rejection of your refund via this email. If approved, your refund will be processed and a credit applied to your credit card or original method of payment within a few days. We only replace items if they are defective or damaged.
Was Muff Waders a popular product?
Though they only raised $10,000 from their Kickstarter after appearing on Shark Tank, Taylor and Garrett consider it a success. Their goal had been $135, 000.
Muff Waders is a company that sells its product from a van. You can find them at traditional trade shows, parties, and football games.
Not only do they sell their product at trade shows, but also at parties and football games – all from the comfort of their “office” van.
The Muff Waders, based in Holstein, are selling their product online through their official store. You can choose between three sizes- medium, large, and XL. The colors available for the Muff Waders are black and brown.
The Muff Spender is a new product that was introduced when the company got funding from a Kickstarter campaign. The Muff Spender is a suspender that can hold your drinks, and it is specially designed for events like weddings.
Are Muff Waders still in business?
Even though the pitch failed to close the deal, this episode was rerun only four months after its initial airing. The company is still in business, but its Facebook page hasn’t been updated since a few days after the show aired.
Amazon indicates that they are “now unavailable” (most likely due to the number of sales made during the show). In an April 2021 press release, Stevia Nutra Corp., a maker of Hemp apparel, announced their acquisition of Muff Waders for an undisclosed sum.
Thanks to their successful sales, they were able to generate over a quarter-million dollars in revenue. For the Fourth of July in 2021, they released a patriotic “Stars and Stripes” version of Muff Spenders.
Useful Video: Shark Tank US | Muff Waders Pitch Their Handy Product To The Sharks
Conclusion
After their appearance on Shark Tank, Muff Waders managed to gain some exposure and popularity. Yes, they may have failed to land a deal but this didn’t make them abandon their ambitions. The story of Taylor Nees and Garret Lamp serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere that it is possible to make your dreams a reality with enough dedication and perseverance.
It’s clear that Muff Waders have come a long way since that fateful night when Taylor and Garret first came up with the idea while sitting in a bar. And they are not planning on stopping anytime soon!
References:
- https://allsharktankproducts.com/shark-tank-products-fashion/muff-waders-beer-cooler-overalls/
- https://moneyaves.com/muff-waders-shark-tank-update/
- https://geeksaroundglobe.com/muff-waders-current-net-worth-after-shark-tank/
- https://thecinemaholic.com/update-on-muff-waders-from-shark-tank/
- https://www.sharktankrecap.com/muff-waders-update-shark-tank-season-12/
- https://househomeandgarden.com/muff-waders-net-worth/
- https://www.muffwaders.com/
