Frustration with online outdoor retailer Backcountry.com is rising on social media using #boycottbackcountry on Twitter and Instagram because the retailer has reportedly been taking legal action against small business owners who use the word “backcountry” as part of their name. The Colorado Sun broke the story late last week, listing several of the businesses that have been impacted.

Utah bikemaker Backcountry eBikes settled in May and changed its name to Backou eBikes. Jordan Phillips rebranded his jeans company from Backcountry Denim to BDCo after his trademark for Backcountry Denim was canceled.

My feeling is that nobody should have the right to the term ‘backcountry.’ It’s like trying to trademark ‘road’ or ‘beach’ or ‘mountain.’

– Jordan Phillips of BDCo to the Colorado Sun

If only Specialized had a “Backcountry” bike. They could sue each-other to death. This is where I mention that Competitive Cyclist, Steep and Cheap and Canyon bikes fall under the same ownership as Backcountry.com, spend wisely.