In Part 3 of our David Gensler interview, the founder of Vanish Outdoor Magazine looks ahead—sharing insights on global expansion, creative inspiration, and the future of outdoor culture.
From launching the magazine internationally to building long-term cultural impact, Gensler reflects on what it takes to create a brand that lasts.
Why Launch Vanish Outdoor Magazine Now
Q: Over the last year we’ve seen the debut of Vanish Outdoor Magazine. Why now?
The goal is the same as day one—to inspire people to engage with nature.
Right now, we’re focused on showcasing cutting-edge, avant-garde creators who are pushing the boundaries of design and culture. It’s an honor to work with these people and share their vision.
Fashion is a big part of that because it’s such a personal and intimate form of design—but we’re also expanding beyond that. Overlanding, hospitality, food, art—anything that connects back to culture and the outdoors.
Building a Global Outdoor Culture Platform
Q: Vanish has been very active globally. How important is that physical presence?
It’s everything. The world is too digital.
You can see photos of Paris or Tokyo online all day, but it will never compare to actually being there. Vanish is a brand built on real-world experience—feet on the ground.
We launched in Florence at Pitti Uomo, then moved through Paris Fashion Week and six other European cities—Berlin, Copenhagen, Antwerp, Rome, Milan, and London. From there, we went to New York, then Japan, China, and Korea.
If you want to be a global brand, you have to physically be global.
I’m also lucky to have an incredible team. None of this happens without them.
A Brand Built for the Long Term
We’re focused on creating timeless issues—not chasing trends or hype, but highlighting the work of people who are genuinely pushing culture forward.
Vanish is a slow-built brand. We care about reality over hype. Digital platforms help us connect with people, but the goal is always deeper—real experiences, real engagement with nature.
What’s Next for Vanish Outdoor Magazine
Q: What’s next for Vanish?
We have new issues coming out and some big surprises planned.
We’re working on high-level collaborations across Asia and Europe, and expanding into new markets with strong partners.
At this point in my career, I’ve learned to say less and deliver more.
Stay tuned.
Sources of Inspiration
Q: What inspires you the most today?
First, my daughter, Zoe. She’s incredibly creative, and it’s inspiring to watch her grow into her own person.
My mother, Sharon, is about to turn 80, and her strength and grace have always been a huge influence on me.
Beyond that—love. It can give you energy one moment and break you the next, but it’s essential to everything I do.
Creatively, I’m constantly inspired by the brands and people we feature. I feel lucky to be part of this culture, and I’m always thinking about how I can contribute something meaningful back to it.
Who Vanish Is For
Q: Who is Vanish Outdoor Magazine for?
We want to speak to everyone, but naturally we attract a very visual and creative audience—people who care about aesthetics and what’s next.
Our audience is curious. They value quality, craftsmanship, and time in nature. They travel, they explore, and they’re interested in culture beyond trends.
It’s not about chasing fashion—it’s about understanding design and utility at a deeper level.
Brands and Culture on the Radar
Q: What brands are inspiring you right now?
There are so many that it’s hard to narrow it down.
I’m always inspired by Jeff and Karina Griffin and what they’ve built, as well as Hiroshi Nozawa and Norbit. There’s an incredible amount of innovation coming out of China right now—brands like Uppervoid, Raxxy, Hamcus, and others are really pushing things forward.
Japan continues to set the tone globally. Brands like Comfy Outdoor Garment, Nanga, White Mountaineering, Mountain Research, Kapital, and Visvim—there’s just an incredible energy coming out of Tokyo.
I’m also inspired by retailers that create real experiences. That’s something New York is missing right now—retail that authentically represents this culture and pushes it forward.
Dream Collaborations
Q: Are there brands you’d love to work with?
Definitely Nike ACG. The level of innovation and cultural impact is undeniable.
I’m also really interested in Ineos—their vehicle platform has huge potential to expand into a broader overland ecosystem.
And Leica. I’d love to revisit what I started there years ago and take it even further.
Outdoor Culture in New York City
Q: What does outdoor culture look like in NYC?
It’s more real than people think.
Sure, there’s a lot of people dressing like they’re heading to Everest just to grab coffee—but there’s also a real outdoor community here.
There’s surfing, kayaking, boating, and an incredible fishing scene. Spring bass fishing in Jamaica Bay or along the Hudson and East River is next level. Even Central Park has its own ecosystem.
It’s all there—you just have to look for it.
Career Highlights
Q: Looking back, what are some of your proudest career moments?
Rebuilding Leica was a big one. It meant a lot to people, and we were able to bring it back in a meaningful way.
Working on projects with Hennessy, Roc-A-Fella, and early collaborations in music and fashion also shaped my perspective.
Helping bring Mystery Ranch into new cultural spaces, building the Borderlands project, and creating FishThing during COVID—those are all moments that stand out.
But honestly, the most meaningful moments are the ones where you see the impact on people and culture over time.
This concludes our three-part David Gensler interview exploring the origins, philosophy, and future of Vanish Outdoor Magazine.
