Welcome to Near Zero, home of THE DEAN backpack. THE DEAN, named after founder Scott Jensen’s late father, not only honors his father’s passion for the outdoors, but has been a labor of love for Scott in his quest to make getting into nature accessible to anyone with the desire. His goal? To make quality, lightweight, and affordable gear to help others enjoy the healing and calming influences of nature as much as he does. Scott proudly offers THE DEAN as a stand-alone pack or as a bundle with all the necessary backpacking essentials, giving even novice hikers the confidence to Get Out and Go. 

Scott’s love for the outdoors stems from fond memories of spending countless nights under the stars as a Boy Scout, as well as adventuring with his father and five brothers. An avid outdoorsman and backpacker, his father Dean, was known to religiously weigh each piece of equipment before an outing and to hike a mile from his home for impromptu overnighters in the Arizona desert, just to test out new gear.

For years, Scott and Dean dreamed of starting their own outdoor gear company. Then in June 2018, Dean unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. After his passing, that dream became Scott’s passion and Near Zero was born. 

As Scott’s business and product line grew, he realized making lightweight, quality equipment that could unlock access to the outdoors for anyone willing to strap on a pack was paramount. 

He made sure his tents were constructed with the highest quality fabrics and designed them so you could see unobstructed views and the night stars. Sleeping bags and camping accessories all had to pass the test his father would have put them through. 

Then, in 2022 Scott introduced Near Zero’s newest backpack. THE DEAN backpacking system not only honors his father’s legacy, it inspires confidence in those seeking a respite from nature. It empowers and encourages everyone to get outside and experience the magnificence and simplicity of the great outdoors. Just like Dean did. 

Near Zero’s gear is so lightweight that getting far into nature has never been easier. From independent toddlers to adventurous retirees and everyone in between, no one should be sidelined from getting into nature.

Break from the burden of family pressures and fortify your family’s peace. Find serenity in a new setting far from the campground and city lights. Go deep into the outdoors and be free of devices to truly connect, interact, and unite with family and friends. Silence daily demands and savor the solitude only nature can provide.

With Near Zero, it’s never been so easy to Get Out and Go.