Rumpl, the outdoor blanket brand known for its high-performance, eco-friendly designs, has become a massive success despite walking away from a Shark Tank deal. Founded by Wylie Robinson, the company aimed to revolutionize traditional blankets by incorporating materials used in premium outdoor gear.
Today, Rumpl is valued at over $100 million, proving that strategic decision-making can sometimes outweigh accepting an investor’s offer.
Since its appearance on Shark Tank in Season 12, Rumpl has expanded its product line, secured major retail partnerships, and driven impressive revenue growth. But how did a company that rejected a Shark Tank deal become so successful?
Let’s dive into the numbers and key decisions that led to Rumpl’s dominance in the outdoor gear market.
Who’s Behind Rumpl?
Wylie Robinson, the founder and CEO of Rumpl, came up with the idea for the brand during a ski trip gone wrong. Stranded in freezing temperatures due to a stalled vehicle, Robinson found warmth in his sleeping bag and realized traditional blankets lacked the same durable, insulating qualities.
This moment sparked the creation of Rumpl, which combines lightweight, weather-resistant, and sustainably made materials to create innovative blankets.
Before launching Rumpl, Robinson worked as an architect and designer, giving him a deep understanding of materials and aesthetics. He started the company with a Kickstarter campaign in 2013, raising over $216,000, proving early demand for high-performance blankets.
His background in design and marketing helped position Rumpl as a premium lifestyle brand, rather than just another blanket company.
Image Source : Crunchbase
The Shark Tank Pitch: A Deal That Didn’t Close
Rumpl entered Shark Tank seeking $600,000 for a 4% equity stake, valuing the company at $15 million. The Sharks, including Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, and Robert Herjavec, were impressed with the product and its sustainable mission, but some expressed concerns about the high valuation.
Key Highlights from the Pitch:
- Sales at the time: Over $8 million in annual revenue.
- Retail & online presence: Sold in REI, Amazon, and direct-to-consumer.
- Sustainability focus: Each blanket is made from 60 recycled plastic bottles.
- Strong margins: Cost per blanket was $25 and retailed for $100.
Despite the Sharks’ interest, Robinson ultimately declined an offer from Kevin O’Leary, choosing to maintain full control over his brand. His decision was based on the confidence that Rumpl could scale without giving up equity at a lower valuation.
Rumpl Pitch on Shark Tank (Quick Info Card)
| Company name | Rumpl |
| Product | Environmentally friendly blanket for the outdoors |
| Episode | Season 12 Episode 1 |
| Founder | Wylie Robinson |
| Asked for | $600,000 for 4% equity |
| Final deal | None |
| Shark | None |
| Location | Portland |
What Happened After Shark Tank? Rumpl’s Explosive Growth
Turning down a Shark Tank deal didn’t slow down Rumpl, instead, it fueled its growth. In the years following the show, Rumpl:
- Expanded into 1,000+ retail stores, including REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Backcountry.
- Launched new product lines, including ponchos, ground covers, and home blankets.
- Increased annual revenue to over $20 million by 2023.
- Secured $3.2 million in funding from private investors and venture capital.
- Grew its direct-to-consumer business, leveraging digital marketing and e-commerce.
- Maintained high product quality while addressing customer concerns about pricing and durability.
Rumpl also built a strong brand community by aligning itself with outdoor enthusiasts and sustainability advocates. The company’s commitment to offsetting 100% of its carbon footprint and donating 1% of revenue to environmental causes resonated with consumers, further boosting its success.
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Rumpl Reviews: What Do Customers Say?
Rumpl blankets have received mostly positive reviews, praised for their warmth, durability, and lightweight design. However, some customers have raised concerns about:
- Price point: Many consumers feel that the $100 price tag is high for a blanket.
- Material wear over time: Some users report minor pilling or reduced insulation after extended use.
- Slippery texture: Due to the synthetic material, some customers find it slides off beds and couches easily.
Despite these minor criticisms, Rumpl continues to receive strong ratings and remains a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
How Much Did the Sharks Miss Out On?
Had the Sharks invested in Rumpl, their stake would have skyrocketed in value. If Kevin O’Leary had secured a 10% stake for $600,000, that investment would now be worth at least $10 million, based on the company’s latest valuation estimates.
When compared to other Shark Tank successes like Bombas ($100M+ annual revenue) and Scrub Daddy ($300M in sales), Rumpl ranks among the show’s most valuable post-Tank brands—even without a Shark deal.
Investor’s Other Businesses
Although Rumpl declined a deal, Kevin O’Leary has successfully invested in other Shark Tank brands, including Wicked Good Cupcakes, Lovepop, and Honeyfund. His focus on royalty-based deals has helped him build a diverse portfolio of profitable businesses.
How Much Has Kevin O’Leary Earned from Shark Tank Investments?
Kevin O’Leary, known for his sharp business acumen, has made millions from his Shark Tank deals. While he did not invest in Rumpl, his investments in companies like Squatty Potty ($200M+ in sales) and Plated (acquired for $300M) have earned him significant returns. His strategic royalty deals have also allowed him to make steady passive income from multiple businesses.
Business Lessons from Rumpl’s Journey
Rumpl’s success story highlights key entrepreneurial takeaways:
- Know Your Worth: Robinson turned down a deal because he believed in the company’s potential—and he was right.
- Brand Positioning Matters: By focusing on sustainability and performance, Rumpl differentiated itself in a crowded market.
- Retail & DTC Balance: The company thrived by maintaining a strong direct-to-consumer presence while expanding into major retailers.
- Sustainability Sells: Consumers increasingly value eco-friendly brands, and Rumpl capitalized on this trend.
Conclusion
Despite walking away from Shark Tank without a deal, Rumpl has built a $100M+ brand, proving that not every success story requires a Shark. Through strategic growth, strong branding, and a commitment to sustainability, Rumpl has become a leader in the outdoor industry.
Would accepting a Shark deal have changed Rumpl’s trajectory? Perhaps. But as Wylie Robinson’s journey shows, sometimes the best investment decision is the one you make for yourself.
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TL;DR
Rumpl Net Worth in 2025 is over $100M! Despite rejecting a Shark Tank deal, the brand thrived with major retail expansion, strong sales, and eco-friendly innovation.
