Our history

The best stories begin off the beaten path.

Take your phone with you. KOALA will keep it safe.

We didn't create KOALA so you would constantly stare at the screen. We created it because mountains, trails, or via ferratas are even better when you don't have to constantly clutch your phone in your hand. Get outside. Take your phone. Don't lose it.

Koala Founder

Haj Khalsa

Founder, climber. Skier. Dad. Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The creation of the KOALA phone harness was born out of necessity. I was tired of losing my phone on chairlifts, during climbs, and hikes. I needed a solution that would be secure, easily accessible, and wouldn't get in the way of the adventure.

Thus KOALA was born, designed for everyone who lives an active lifestyle, spends time outdoors, and wants to capture every moment without worry.

Haj Khalsa
How we got here

The Story of KOALA

2016
Santa Fe, New Mexico — HANGTIME begins as a hammock brand

From the very beginning, the company's mission was to make outdoor adventures more accessible.

2017
The Idea — KOALA was born on a chairlift

A better way to secure your phone during any activity.

2019
Indiegogo Launch — raised $479k, 15,224 backers

The outdoor community showed tremendous support.

2020
The New York Times — Featured in the skier's essentials

Recognition for KOALA in the USA.

2021
Henry Ford Innovation Nation — national television

Featured on the Emmy-winning show.

2022
KOALA 2.0 — recommended by NYT Wirecutter

The improved KOALA gains top-tier gear status.

2026

KOALA 2.0 conquers Europe

Rafał, a via ferrata and outdoor enthusiast, was looking for a reliable way to secure his phone in the field. That's how he found KOALA.

He tested it on demanding via ferratas in Italy, Austria, and Spain. He quickly appreciated its simplicity, functionality, and the confidence it gives on the move.

Intrigued by the product, he contacted its creator. In the meantime, he checked visually similar solutions available on the market, but none matched KOALA in terms of quality and durability.

Collaboration with Hangtime was the natural next step. This is how Squirrel was born — a company named after Rafał's surname, with a squirrel in its logo.

Rafał
What we believe

We created Koala for those who don't want to stay at home.

We believe the best moments begin where everyday life ends.

Get outside

Wild places make us better people. The more time you spend close to nature, the more you start to appreciate and want to protect it.

Play more

Play is not a trivial thing. It's an antidote to a world that never stops. Getting outside and being physically active are some of the best things you can do for yourself.

Find your crew / Be part of the adventure

The outdoor community is one of the most welcoming and friendly groups in the world. You show up — and you're part of it. It's really that simple.

Take your phone

Your phone keeps you safe. It captures moments worth remembering. And it allows you to stay in touch with others. Don't leave it at home – just make sure it's securely attached.

Follow us
@squirrelgear