Arc’teryx Equipment, the global design company specializing in technical high-performance apparel and equipment, today announced a commitment of $5 million CAD over the next five years to community leaders and organizations who are advancing equitable access in climbing, as well as those who support the highest level of the sport.
Founded by climbers in 1989, Arc’teryx design legacy began in climb with its first product: the innovative three-dimensional, form-moulded climbing harness. Anchored in climbing since inception, Arc’teryx is proud to be supporting both new and experienced climbers with this programmatic investment in the sport.
The Arc’teryx NextGen Climb Commitment will continue the organization’s existing work funding organizations who are leading the way in creating access for those new to the sport, as well as those who are elite or semi-pro, across North America.
These funds are given to organizations to determine tactical investment. In the past, organizations and leaders have used these investments to provide access to indoor climbing gyms via day passes, hosting climb nights for marginalized communities, providing individuals monthly and annual memberships to climbing gyms, transportation to outdoor climbing areas and crags, belay tests and certifications, mountaineering courses, and hosting Arc’teryx climbing ambassador events.
“Over the past five years Arc’teryx has invested over $600,000 CAD in community-based, community-led climbing organizations, as well as elite, professional-adjacent climbing and training clubs,” said Jurgen Watts, Senior Director of Brand Experience at Arc’teryx. “Our origins in climbing are at the heart of what the brand is about. We are committed to supporting ways for new and elite climbers to experience the sport.”
Through the Arc’teryx NextGen Climb Commitment, Arc’teryx has and will continue to support organizations such as Flash Foxy, Colour The Trails & Brown Girl Outdoor World, whose work aims to promote access for new climbers.
“Flash Foxy is an organization whose mission is to provide accessible resources, opportunities and welcoming spaces for women and gender non-conforming folks in the climbing community through events and education programs. The climbing community is not static, and Flash Foxy has adapted over the years to meet the needs of its membership as we grow, change, and continue to self-actualize. By partnering with Arc’teryx we have been able to expand our capacity and our reach, and with continued support like that which we receive from Arc’teryx, we will be able to continue to do so over the next five years,” said Shelma Jun, Founder of Flash Foxy.
“Climbing has always been core to who we are. We firmly believe that the mountains are a special place, and that they make you better. If we can open doors or provide support for more people to get inside a climbing gym, or even better, ultimately get to a rock face, we’ve done our job,” said Karl Aarker, VP Brand.
On the elite spectrum, Arc’teryx sponsors Climbing Escalade Canada (CEC), investments that will continue, aimed at enabling CEC to invest in the next generation of climbers who will are aiming to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
When considering funding, Arc’teryx will prioritize organizations committed to delivering equitable access to climb, and in areas where we have an existing community base. This includes established climbing communities such Toronto and Vancouver in Canada, as well as San Francisco, Chicago, and New York in the US.
If you are interested in learning more, please contact media@arcteryx.com.
About Arc’teryx
Arc’teryx is a Canadian company based in the Coast Mountains. Our design process is connected to the real world, focused on delivering durable, unrivaled performance. Our products are distributed through more than 2,400 retail locations worldwide, including over 160 branded stores. We are problem solvers, always evolving and searching for a better way to deliver resolved, minimalist designs. Good design that matters makes lives better.
