The people have spoken and elected their favorite outdoor gear brands in the Gearzy Awards on Outdoorzy.com—the first social networking website for outdoor enthusiasts. After thousands of votes, the winners are:Gear Maker of the Year – Patagonia Backpacks - High Sierra Tents - Sierra Designs Sleeping Bags - The North Face Lights - Energizer Mountain Bikes - Trek Climbing Gear - Black Diamond Clothing - Patagonia Shoes - Merrell Socks - Smartwool Watches - Suunto Gear Maker of the Year Patagonia won over REI, Merrell and Smartwool for bragging rights and a month of free advertising on Outdoorzy.com. Voting for the Gearzy Awards started in November, and was open to anyone.

Every voter who cast a ballot had a chance to win prizes from Merrell, Coghlan’s, Bridgedale, Oboz Footwear, Timex and more. Outdoorzy.com’s panel of gear testing bloggers chose the slate of nominees—four in each category. “Our first-ever Gearzy Awards was a great success,” said Jason Heflin of Outdoorzy.com. “Thanks to all the nominees who make such fine gear and to everyone who cast a vote for companies they believe are the best." Resources:PatagoniaHigh SierraSierra DesignsThe North FaceEnergizerTrekBlack DiamondMerrellSmartwoolSuunto

Related Links:Gearzy Awards ResultsOutdoorzy.com