Summer is the perfect season to fire up the grill, hit the lake, take a road trip, upgrade your camping gear or simply enjoy an iced coffee on the porch. It’s also a great time to support the entrepreneurs who continued serving long after they hung up the uniform.
Veteran-owned businesses represent the leadership, resilience and mission-first mindset developed through military service. From coffee roasters and apparel companies to outdoor gear manufacturers and American-made craftsmen, these businesses are creating outstanding products while giving back to the military community through hiring, charitable partnerships and advocacy.
Whether you’re looking for your next favorite T-shirt, a backpack built to survive years of adventure or a Father’s Day gift that supports a fellow veteran, these companies deserve a place on your shopping list.
Here are 25 veteran-owned brands worth supporting this summer.
Coffee & Food
1. Black Rifle Coffee Company
Website: https://www.blackriflecoffee.com
Founded by former Army Green Beret Evan Hafer, Black Rifle Coffee Company has grown from a small veteran-owned coffee business into one of America’s best-known premium coffee brands. The company roasts high-quality coffee while employing thousands of veterans and supporting organizations that serve military members, first responders and their families.
Whether you prefer whole bean, ground coffee, ready-to-drink cans or coffee subscriptions, BRCC has something for every caffeine lover.
Best for this summer: Ready-to-drink iced coffees, coffee club subscriptions and camping-friendly instant coffee packets.
2. Fire Department Coffee
Website: https://www.firedeptcoffee.com
Fire Department Coffee was founded by Navy veteran and firefighter Luke Schneider with a mission of producing exceptional coffee while supporting injured firefighters and first responders.
The company is known for its smooth blends, creative spirit-infused coffees and commitment to charitable giving through the Fire Department Coffee Foundation. Every purchase helps support those who have sacrificed in service to their communities.
Best for this summer: Cold brew coffee, Spirit Infused Coffee and seasonal flavored blends.
Apparel
3. Grunt Style
Website: https://www.gruntstyle.com
Few veteran-owned brands are as recognizable as Grunt Style.
Founded by Army veteran Daniel Alarik, the company built its reputation on comfortable, patriotic apparel that blends military humor, American pride and everyday style. While the graphics often celebrate military life, plenty of designs appeal to anyone who loves the outdoors, freedom and classic Americana.
Grunt Style also supports veteran nonprofits and employs numerous veterans across its operations.
Best for this summer: Graphic T-shirts, polos, shorts and Fourth of July collections.
4. Ranger Up
Website: https://rangerup.com
Created by Army veterans, Ranger Up has become a favorite among military history enthusiasts, active-duty service members and veterans alike.
Its apparel combines military heritage with clever humor and historical references, making it a fun conversation starter whether you’re at a barbecue or traveling this summer. Ranger Up also produces documentaries and educational content highlighting America’s military history.
Best for this summer: Lightweight T-shirts, military history collections and patriotic hats.
5. Nine Line Apparel
Website: https://www.ninelineapparel.com
Named after the military’s nine-line medevac request, Nine Line Apparel was founded by Army veterans who wanted to create clothing that celebrates service while supporting those who continue serving.
Beyond apparel, the company actively raises money for veterans, first responders and families facing hardship through numerous charitable initiatives. Their products emphasize American manufacturing whenever possible and proudly reflect military values.
Best for this summer: Patriotic shirts, beachwear, tumblers and American-made accessories.
6. Zero Foxtrot
Website: https://www.zerofoxtrot.com
Zero Foxtrot has carved out a unique place in veteran culture by blending military history with vintage-inspired apparel and artwork.
Founded by veterans, the company produces high-quality shirts, jackets, posters and collectibles inspired by legendary units, historical campaigns and military aviation. Their understated designs appeal to veterans who appreciate subtle references over flashy graphics.
Best for this summer: Vintage-style T-shirts, hats and limited-edition historical collections.
Outdoor Adventure & Travel
7. GORUCK
Website: https://www.goruck.com
Former Green Beret Jason McCarthy founded GORUCK after recognizing that military rucksacks were nearly indestructible while most civilian backpacks weren’t.
Today, GORUCK builds some of the toughest backpacks, footwear and fitness equipment available. Their products are trusted by travelers, hikers, first responders and endurance athletes around the world, and every piece of gear is designed with durability in mind.
The company also hosts GORUCK Challenges—team-based endurance events inspired by Special Forces training that have become popular nationwide.
Best for this summer: Travel backpacks, hiking daypacks, training shoes and waterproof gear.
8. Combat Flip Flops
Website: https://www.combatflipflops.com
Founded by former Army Rangers, Combat Flip Flops proves that business can be a force for good.
Instead of producing products in conflict zones through traditional supply chains, the company works with artisans in countries like Afghanistan, Colombia and Laos to create sustainable jobs that help build peaceful communities. Their mission is simple: “Business, not bullets.”
Their footwear, apparel and accessories are built for travel while telling a much bigger story about entrepreneurship and global impact.
Best for this summer: Leather flip-flops, casual shoes, travel accessories and lightweight apparel.
Grooming & Everyday Essentials
9. Bravo Sierra
Website: https://www.bravosierra.com
Created by a team that includes U.S. military veterans, Bravo Sierra set out to build high-performance grooming products that can keep up with active lifestyles. The company develops deodorants, body washes, hair care and skin care products that are tested with military personnel and designed to perform in demanding conditions.
Bravo Sierra also partners with organizations that support service members and veterans, making it easy to upgrade your daily routine while supporting a military-connected business.
Best for this summer: Aluminum-free deodorant, body wash and face moisturizer that stand up to heat, humidity and long days outdoors.
