Outdoor Industry Association Celebrates Bipartisan EDA Reauthorization with Recreation as a Priority

BOULDER, Colo.  (December 19, 2024) – Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) applauds the bipartisan reauthorization of the Economic Development Administration (EDA). The EDA, a federal agency focused on promoting economic growth and job creation in communities across the country, plays a crucial role in supporting the outdoor recreation economy.  For the first time, the just-passed reauthorization bill designates recreation as a priority for EDA funding, giving it special consideration when awarding infrastructure grants through the Public Works Program. Outdoor recreation is a vital driver of the U.S. economy, contributing 2.3% of GDP and generating $1.2 trillion in gross economic output in 2023. 

“OIA and its members are thrilled to see Congress elevate recreation as an infrastructure priority through the EDA for the first time. This funding will not only help Main Streets across the country better connect with recreation assets but also enable communities to build infrastructure that enhances residents’ quality of life,” said Kent Ebersole, President of Outdoor Industry Association. “We thank Senators Bennet and Schumer for championing this win-win approach—helping grow local businesses while improving people’s access to the outdoors. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking support rural America needs right now.” 

The EDA will help the outdoor industry thrive by funding projects that expand recreation infrastructure, improve access to public lands, and support rural communities that depend on outdoor tourism. Previously, the EDA has invested in trail development and park restoration projects that attract visitors, create jobs, and enhance local economies. 

We extend our gratitude to Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works Chair Thomas Carper (D-DE) and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), as well as House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Chair Sam Graves (R-MO) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), for their leadership. OIA looks forward to continuing its work with Congress to advance policies that protect public access, improve and expand recreation infrastructure, create jobs, and drive sustainability and innovation. 

About Outdoor Industry Association 

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org. 

Historic Passage of EXPLORE Act Advances Public Land Access and Outdoor Recreation Opportunities Nationwide

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, December 19, 2024

BOULDER, Colo. —  In a major step toward expanding outdoor recreation opportunities across the country, the U.S. Senate has passed the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (EXPLORE) Act. This initiative, led by Senator Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), represents a significant milestone in efforts to enhance access to public lands. Following its earlier approval in the House of Representatives, the bill now moves closer to becoming law.

Introduced by House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), the EXPLORE Act is a bipartisan package of recreation bills designed to modernize, preserve, and increase access to the public lands and waterways while supporting the 175.8 million Americans that participate in outdoor recreation. It also aims to address barriers to access for veterans, people with disabilities, and underserved populations, streamline permitting processes for guides and outfitters, and support the more than five million employees who help drive the outdoor industry forward.

“We are thrilled to see Congress pass the EXPLORE Act which will ensure each American has the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in their own community, grow the recreation economy, and advance mental and physical health benefits for all,” said Kent Ebersole, president of Outdoor Industry Association. “The outdoor recreation economy continues to soar to new levels, accounting for $1.2 trillion in consumer spending and demonstrating participant growth for the eighth consecutive year. This is an important inflection point. We must modernize, preserve, and increase access to the public lands and waterways – regardless of where someone lives or works – and support more than five million employees who help drive our industry forward.”

The EXPLORE Act’s passage is the cumulation of the momentum started by Senate companion bill, S.873, America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA), which passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in May 2023. Together, AORA and EXPLORE represent the strong bicameral and bipartisan collaboration across chambers to advance policies supporting outdoor recreation.

“We extend our gratitude to Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Joe Manchin (I-WV) and Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-WY), as well as House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) for their leadership on this bill,” Ebersole added.

“Today marks a pivotal moment for our nation’s outdoor legacy and path toward equitable access to nature and outdoor recreation. With the Senate’s passage of the EXPLORE Act, we are not only opening trails, we’re opening doors to endless adventures and opportunities for all Americans,” said Lesford Duncan, MPH, Executive Director, Outdoor Foundation. “This bipartisan achievement reflects our collective commitment to preserving our natural wonders and ensuring every individual has the chance to connect with the great outdoors. The Outdoor Foundation celebrates this milestone as we continue to champion an outdoors for all where we all thrive outside.”

With today’s passage in the Senate, the EXPLORE Act will soon become law poised to deliver enhanced outdoor recreation opportunities, improved public land access, and economic growth in rural communities. As the legislation heads to President Biden’s desk for final approval, bipartisan collaboration and stakeholder engagement remain critical to realizing its transformative potential for individuals, businesses, and the environment.

About Outdoor Industry Association 

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org. 

DPS Skis Introduces Pisteworks® Carving Skis

SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 11, 2024) — DPS Skis, the U.S.-based ski manufacturer known for pioneering aerospace-grade carbon technology, announces Pisteworks®, a dramatic redefinition of the alpine carving ski. Pisteworks® represents the first, full carbon fiber on-piste ski from the carbon ski experts, DPS. The characteristics of carbon—lively recovery, efficient energy transfer and tremendous durability—are ideal for a high-performance carving ski. Pisteworks® utilizes premium proprietary carbon fibers and when combined with state-of-the-art lab and on-snow testing, these skis push the boundaries of high-performance carving ski design, manufacturing, and performance.

“For decades, frontside carving skis have relied on metal and fiberglass in the construction for stability and comfort. Our goal was to challenge this norm by delivering the same stability with carbon while also utilizing carbon’s inherent agility,” says Thomas Laakso, Senior Vice President at DPS Skis. “Carbon represents the pinnacle of performance material in every other high-performance application and carving skis are no different.”

An extremely limited release of the first Pisteworks® model, the Pisteworks® 79, is available today for pre-order in 160, 167, 174 and 181cm lengths at https://www.dpsskis.com/products/pisteworks-79, shipping in February 2025. The Pisteworks® 79 comes standard with the revolutionary base treatment, PHANTOM Glide, that provides a permanent snow-glide solution without wax. Pre-ordering the 13.5 meter turn radius Pisteworks® 79 is the only way to guarantee early delivery for this ski season. Additional Pisteworks® models will be available ahead of the 2025/2026 ski season.

The new Pisteworks® carving skis were developed utilizing both static lab testing and dynamic, on-snow data acquisition to fine-tune ski performance throughout every turn. Four-time Olympian and World Cup ski champion, Ted Ligety, spearheaded design and testing for the Pisteworks® skis. DPS also engaged the world’s preeminent carbon fiber lab to enhance its already-proven carbon fiber technologies used in its all-mountain, powder and touring skis.

“Skis that can handle high G-Force turns while maintaining maximum traction and responsive feel have always been the goal of high-performance carving skis,” says Ted Ligety, DPS Ski’s Head of Product Performance. “By analyzing real-time data during turns and optimizing the feedback loop, we’ve developed a ski that delivers a planted yet thrilling ride throughout the entire turn.” To learn more about Pisteworks®, please visit https://www.dpsskis.com/products/pisteworks-79. For more information on DPS, contact account manager Ryan Silven at ryan.silven@rygr.us

About DPS Skis:

Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Salt Lake City, Utah, DPS designs the world’s most advanced ski products by fusing space-age carbon technology with groundbreaking shapes. DPS is responsible for the world’s first and only pure pre-impregnated carbon fiber sandwich ski, the first 120mm-waisted powder pintail, the first rockered ski with sidecut, and PHANTOM, a paradigm-shifting permanent, one-time application base-coating that forever eliminates the need for waxing skis and snowboards. DPS products are sold on five continents and are the trusted brand of choice for serious skiers worldwide. www.dpsskis.com

Media Contact:

Ryan Silven Ryan.silven@rygr.us

970-924-0704 ext. 2114

Outdoor Diversity Alliance 1st Catalyst member, Keen

(December 10, 2024) — The Outdoor Diversity Alliance is happy to announce our first Catalyst Member, KEEN – a 21-year-old family-owned and values-led shoemaker with purpose. As a Catalyst member, KEEN is committing $25,000 to ODA in 2025. With their support along with our other members, we will be able to move forward in our efforts to further engage the outdoor industry and underrepresented communities in collaborative diversity, equity, and inclusion work.

The Outdoor Diversity Alliance (ODA), which launched late last year, sits in a unique position to carry on the work of diversity within outdoor brands, organizations, and foundations. ODA is a group of outdoor industry businesses and organizations working together to build the outdoor industry of the future. We hope to catalyze the outdoor industry by addressing systemic issues related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through collective action and centering historically underrepresented communities across gender, race & ethnicity, physical ability, and sexual orientation.

This work can only be done with financial backing, and with the recent political pushback on diversity, equity, and inclusion, we’re afraid that funding will be increasingly difficult to come by. We welcome other industry companies to join ODA as a Catalyst member. As a Catalyst member, your $25,000 tax deductible yearly membership dues will help continue funding for community advisors, co-directors and a part-time program manager.

We cannot afford to sit on the sidelines and expect the work of diversity to remain relevant on its own. We must work diligently to ensure that it does.

 

HEADLINERS KHRUANGBIN AND LORD HURON TO PERFORM AT THE SECOND ANNUAL OUTSIDE FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY CAPITAL ONE AND REI CO-OP, MAY 31 – JUNE 1, 2025

DENVER, Colo. – December 10, 2024 – Following the overwhelming success of last year’s event, the Outside Festival with presenting sponsors Capital One and REI Co-op will return to downtown Denver’s Civic Center Park, May 31-June 1, 2025. Bigger and better, this year’s event will feature a top shelf music lineup, films, speakers, outdoor sports, and much more. Tickets officially go on sale starting this Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. Mountain Standard Time.

Khruangbin, Lord Huron, Sylvan Esso, Trampled by Turtles, Neal Francis, Waxahatchee, Husbands, Hazlett, and other artists to be announced will perform on Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1. In addition to live music, the Outside Festival has two full days of events with adventure film screenings, athlete panels and signings, climbing experiences, yoga classes, workshops, gear demos, a kids’ zone, exciting food options, and a variety of immersive brand engagements. The Outside Summit, a precursor to the Festival and the outdoor industry’s premier networking event attended by over 500 influential leaders, will return on Thursday, May 29, with a full day of programming on Friday, May 30, plus exclusive gatherings and Festival access over the weekend.

“We’re beyond excited to bring the Outside Festival and Summit back to Denver in 2025,” said Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. “Last year’s festival was a resounding success and we’re thrilled to once again spotlight Denver’s vibrant community and culture as one of the nation’s best cities to work, play, live, and visit.”

Last year’s inaugural Outside Festival attracted over 18,000 people and generated an estimated $16 million for Denver’s local economy. With a larger footprint in 2025, organizers this year are expecting more than 25,000 attendees. In addition to Civic Center Park, the event will expand to include Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park, as well as spaces inside the Denver Art Museum and the newly renovated Denver Public Library.

“Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy accounts for $66 billion annually, and is a core part of what makes our city and state so successful and vibrant,” said Conor Hall, Director of the Outdoor Industry for the State of Colorado. “Bringing this event back to Colorado cements our place as a leader in this industry, and we’re thrilled to see everyone this spring.”

The event is managed by Boulder-based Outside Interactive Inc. with support from The State of Colorado’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Office and Visit Denver, and executive production by Groundswell Experiential, an industry-leading event and festival agency, and Superfly.

“Outside’s mission has always been to encourage more people to get outdoors, discover, learn, and engage fully with all that nature provides,” said Robin Thurston, CEO of Outside Interactive Inc. “The Outside Festival and Summit will continue to embody that same ethos, offering a space where people can engage and deepen their appreciation for the outdoors alongside others who share the same passion. We hope you’ll join us in 2025 for a weekend of adventure, growth, and community.”

Outside Festival presenting sponsor Capital One is running an exclusive Capital One cardholder presale, giving eligible cardholders –including REI Co-op® MasterCard® customers– 48-hour early access to tickets beginning Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. MST, and ending at 10 a.m. MST on Friday, Dec. 13.

Capital One and REI Co-op MasterCard® cardholders will enjoy benefits leading up to and during the festival, such as early-bird pricing throughout the entire Outside Festival ticket sales window, 15% merchandise and concessions discounts, express entry lines, and exclusive access to the Capital One cardholder lounge on-site during the festival for a premium experience. Festival attendees will also have access to the REI Village, featuring emerging brands, product demos, and more!

Immediately following the Capital One cardholder presale, all tickets will be released to the general public at 10 a.m. MST on Friday, Dec. 13, starting at $99 for the full weekend. VIP packages will start at $150 for a single day and $275 for the full weekend, with access to a premium VIP viewing area, exclusive food vendors, private bar access, expedited entry, and more. Outside+ members have access to early-bird pricing throughout the entire sales window on single-day general admission tickets and all VIP ticket types, plus members have the opportunity to purchase GA+ tier tickets at general admission pricing. Two-day GA+ tickets start at $175 and include perks like express entry, private bathrooms, additional food and beverage options, and access to the Outside+ Lounge. Children ages 12 and under enter free. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit theoutsidefestival.com.

Sponsors for the Outside Festival include Capital One, REI Co-op, the State of Colorado, Visit Denver, UCHealth, and the Denver Art Museum.

For more information, please visit theoutsidefestival.com

# # #

Media Contact:

Rachel Weiss rachel.weiss@backbone.media

2024 Festival: ICYMI

Photo and Video Assets (Credit Outside)

About the Outside Festival and Summit

The second annual Outside Festival and Summit will take place in downtown Denver from May 29-June 1, 2025. The Outside Festival presented by Capital One and REI, May 31-June 1, is a celebration of everything outdoors, featuring music, films, speakers, gear, and more. The event is driven by a partnership between Outside Interactive Inc., The State of Colorado’s Outdoor Recreation Office, and Visit Denver—all with a shared vision to make the outdoors more accessible and more inclusive. The Outside Summit, May 29-30, is the outdoor industry’s premier networking conference. For more information, including tickets, please visit theoutsidefestival.com.

About Outside Interactive Inc.

Outside Interactive, Inc. is the premier destination for outdoor inspiration, activation, and celebration. Each year, Outside reaches over 300 million unique users and has over 100 million registered users across its network of 25 media, service, and utility brands, including Outside Magazine, Velo, Yoga Journal, Pinkbike, GaiaGPS, Trailforks, MapMyFitness, athleteReg, and more. Outside’s mission is to get everyone outdoors, experiencing healthy, connected, and fulfilling lives by creating an experience for both longtime adventurers and those just getting started. Outside’s membership offering, Outside+, bundles best-in-class storytelling, videos, gear reviews, mapping apps, online courses, discounted event access, magazines, and more. Learn more at www.OutsideOnline.com.

About Capital One

At Capital One we’re on a mission for our customers – bringing them best-in-class products, rewards, service, and experiences. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation, and interaction to provide consumers with products and services to meet their needs. Through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment, we provide our rewards cardholders with access to unforgettable experiences in the areas they’re passionate about, including dining, music, and sports and the arts. Learn more at capitalone.com/dining and capitalone.com/entertainment.

About REI

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 24 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. More than a retailer, REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.

 

BIG AGNES x ACM TRADE PRESS ANNOUNCE

Award-winning American Outdoor Equipment Brand Big Agnes has teamed up with UK creative outdoor marketing specialists All Conditions Media to help with its expansion into Europe.

Born, raised, and repeatedly tested in Colorado, Big Agnes has maintained its rich outdoor heritage while gaining a strong cult following on the other side of the Atlantic, with technical brand icons like its Copper Spur HV UL tent range helping it live up to its “Mother of Comfort” tagline.

The partnership adds yet another global outdoor brand to All Conditions Media’s growing client list, which currently includes Arc’teryx, YETI, Peak Performance, Danner, Finisterre, GORE-TEX Brand, Fjällräven, H&M Move, and Vibram.

The agency will be responsible for media communications, authentic growth within the social and outdoor communities, and advising Big Agnes as it navigates its new territory with best-selling products and new innovations.

“ACM brings huge experience and insights within the UK and EU outdoor industry,” says Mark Flanagan, International Director at Big Agnes. “Our 2025 range will be hitting stores very soon, and features HYPERBEAD™, our new waterproof technology created after years of development with our exclusive fabric manufacturer. Partnering with the ACM team will help us better inform our retailers and consumers on our innovative products.”

The news comes alongside the announcement of Big Agnes’s hiring of Matt Jordan – the brand’s new UK and Ireland sales agent.

“As a long-time fan, I’m excited to help build and grow awareness for Big Agnes in the UK,” he says. “It has a unique and inimitable mix of authentic outdoor credentials and modern innovation in its DNA. With ACM on board, I know we’ll be bringing the brand into this new territory without leaving behind any of its deep-rooted Colorado heritage.”

About Big Agnes: Named for a peak in the nearby Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, Big Agnes®, Inc. is located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and was founded there in 2001. The company produces award-winning sleeping bags, pads, tents, packs, insulated apparel, camp furniture and backpacks. For more information, visit www.bigagnes.com or call 1-877-554-8975.

For more information, contact:

Brandon Martinez

brandon.martinez@backbone.media

 

 

La Sportiva Extends Relationship with Iconic Life Time Leadville Race Series

BOULDER, Colo. (Nov.  5, 2024)— La Sportiva announced today that it is extending its relationship with the Life Time Leadville Race Series for another three years. The Italian brand will be the presenting sponsor and official footwear sponsor for all of the running events in the series, including the legendary Leadville Trail 100 Mile Run.

“The Leadville 100 Trail Run isn’t just a race—it’s a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance,” said Jonathan Lantz, President of La Sportiva North America. “Each year, Ken Chlouber, the event’s founder, sends runners off with a rallying cry: ‘You are tougher than you think you are. You can do more than you think you can.’ These events offer a physical embodiment of hope that encourages others to keep going when they feel they don’t have anything left to give. We have loved becoming a part of the Leadville family these last seven  years and are excited to continue to support the amazing community that makes this historic series possible.”

The series includes five running events: the Leadville Run Camp, the Leadville Trail Marathon and Heavy Half, the Silver Rush 50 Run, the Leadville Trail 10K, and the Leadville Trail 100 Run. Together, the Leadville Race Series and La Sportiva will provide resources for participants of all levels at each event, from gear demos and community events, to on-site experiences and activations that enhance the overall race atmosphere.

“La Sportiva shares our passion for the mountains and has been a tremendous sponsor over the past seven years,” said Kimo Seymour, President of Events and Media at Life Time. “Their team is dedicated to crafting the best products for alpine environments, making the ideal footwear for traversing the rugged terrain that runners encounter in the mountains that surround Leadville.”

The Leadville Race Series holds a special place in trail and ultrarunning history. Founded in 1983 to support Leadville’s local economy after the decline of the mining industry, the events have grown into a symbol of resilience, drawing athletes and supporters from around the world. Beyond running and cycling, the series has become a source of hope and economic revitalization for the Leadville community.

For more information on the Leadville Race Series and to register for upcoming races, visit www.leadvilleraceseries.com/run/

About La Sportiva
With over 90 years of heritage, La Sportiva has unrivaled experience in building the world’s finest performance mountain footwear. Creating innovation through passion, La Sportiva now offers the most versatile technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking shoes on the market as well as ski mountaineering hardware and apparel. For more information on La Sportiva visit www.lasportivausa.com or visit their Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/LaSportiva.

 

 

Striker® and Coors Light Team Up for Limited Edition Ice Fishing Suit

December 5, 2024 – Hudson, WI – Striker, a trusted leader in premium ice fishing apparel, proudly announces the launch of the Limited Edition Coors Light Suit, a collaboration with Coors that blends legendary branding with cutting-edge ice fishing performance technology. This exclusive gear is designed for anglers who embrace icy adventures and delivers unmatched functionality, safety, and style.

“The Coors Light Suit is a true celebration of the angler lifestyle, combining the best of Striker’s innovation with the iconic Coors Light brand,” says Richard Pata, Striker Marketing Manager. “Whether you’re dropping a line or raising a can, this suit lets you fish in style while keeping you warm, safe, and ready for any frosty adventure.”

The Coors Light Suit jacket is equipped with Sureflote® flotation assist technology, PrimaLoft® Black insulation for warmth, and Hydrapore® waterproofing. It includes fleece-lined pockets, reflective elements for low-light safety, adjustable cuffs and hood, pit zips for ventilation, and magnetic storm flaps for easy wear. Functional additions like Line Cutterz™ zipper pulls, bottle openers, and D-rings make every outing convenient.

The Coors Light Suit bibs feature Sureflote® flotation assist, reinforced knees and seat panels for durability, and adjustable suspenders for a secure fit. They also include fleece-lined pockets, snap-on hand wipe towels, magnetic storm flaps, and an inseam adjustment system for optimal sizing. Built to withstand the elements, they offer warmth with PrimaLoft® Black insulation and Hydrapore® waterproofing. MSRP: Jacket: $299 | Bib: $299

Available in limited quantities, the Coors Light Suit combines premium materials with iconic branding, ensuring both safety and standout style. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind collaboration—once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.

For more information, visit Striker Coors Light Suit or email kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About Striker:

Striker was founded in 2009 to provide premium technical apparel for snowmobilers before shifting its focus to the fishing industry. Known for introducing the first ice fishing suits with Sureflote® flotation assist, Striker has since expanded to offer a wide range of apparel for all fishing and marine activities. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and comfort, Striker continues to serve anglers nationwide with industry-leading products designed for every adventure. You can learn more at https://strikerbrands.com/ or follow on social @strikerbrands.

 

 

Outside Interactive Inc. Introduces Four Executive Team Members

Boulder, Colo. — December 4, 2024 — Outside Interactive, Inc., the world’s leading creator of outdoor content, services, events, and experiences, is pleased to welcome four executives to its leadership team. The new hires include Kurt Mueller, Chief Revenue Officer, Heather Dietrick, Chief Media Officer, Joel Armijo, Chief Financial Officer, and Lauren Bertolini, Chief Product Officer.

The new C-suite hires at Boulder-based Outside follows the company’s August announcement of its acquisition of MapMyFitness from Under Armour, Inc., the launch of a new social activity feed on all its media platforms, and the upcoming second annual Outside Festival and Summit in Denver this spring.

“This executive team brings a diverse wealth of experience and expertise to Outside, and positions us to continue our growth and leadership in the media and the outdoor industry,” said Robin Thurston, Founder & CEO of Outside Interactive Inc. “Their proven track records in scaling businesses, driving innovation, and delivering exceptional results make them invaluable additions as we continue to expand Outside’s product offerings and deepen our connection with a growing audience.”

New Executive Team Members

Kurt Mueller, Chief Revenue Officer
Kurt Mueller, Outside’s Chief Revenue Officer, brings over 20 years of experience in media sales and operations across digital media, CTV, branded content, and data solutions. A proven leader, Kurt has driven revenue growth and transformative change as both a COO and CRO. In his new role at Outside, Kurt will be responsible for leading the company’s advertising sales revenue strategy and execution, and lead a team of 80 sales representatives and operators.

Kurt played a pivotal role in The Onion’s transition from print to digital, scaling its operations and developing new revenue streams through its branded content division, Onion Labs. He was part of the leadership team that oversaw The Onion’s acquisition by Univision as part of Fusion Media Group, where he redefined business models and go-to-market strategies.

After nearly a decade at The Onion and FMG, Kurt served as Chief Revenue Officer at Ranker, shifting the company’s focus to first-party data solutions for networks and streamers.

Beyond his career, Kurt lives in Chicago and serves as an advisor and board member at Inkshares. He’s an active skier, biker, golfer, and triathlete and holds a BA from Western Michigan University and an MBA from the University of Notre Dame.

Heather Dietrick, Chief Media Officer

Heather Dietrick is the Chief Media Officer at Outside Interactive Inc., where she leads the company’s media brands, such as Outside Magazine, Outside Studios, OutsideTV, Backpacker, Velo, Pinkbike, Yoga Journal, and more. Heather oversees all aspects of the media business including revenue, membership, and traffic growth, in addition to other corporate initiatives.

Before Outside, Heather was the CEO of The Daily Beast, where she spent over six years building a successful membership business, driving record traffic, and diversifying revenue through expanded affiliate and advertising products. Prior to that, she served as President and General Counsel at Gawker Media, overseeing overall business strategy, advertising, e-commerce, and editorial. In an earlier career, she was a First Amendment litigator, defending journalists for their stories at places like Hearst and Heller Ehrman.

An outdoor enthusiast, Heather lives in Whitefish, Montana where she is an avid skier and hiker, aligning with Outside’s mission to inspire active lifestyles. She also serves on the boards of The Montana Free Press,as well as the media company Found.

Joel Armijo, Chief Financial Officer

Joel Armijo is a seasoned financial leader with extensive experience in scaling businesses and driving financial results, holding CFO roles at companies ranging from startups to Fortune 100 companies. Armijo serves as Outside’s Chief Financial Officer and will be instrumental in overseeing all financial aspects of the company, including financial planning and analysis, accounting, investor relations, and M&A.

Joel has extensive expertise in subscription and targeted advertising business models, serving as CFO at the country’s largest Pay TV advertising platforms and sports-centric streaming platform, FuboTV. Before joining Outside, Joel was the CFO/COO of Univision’s Local Media Group, the country’s largest Hispanic TV and Radio broadcaster.

Joel’s prior roles include CFO at Comcast Cable’s advertising group and AT&T AdWorks. In addition, Joel served in various corporate finance and strategy roles with the country’s leading Entertainment companies including, DIRECTV, Cablevision Systems, and Time Warner.

Joel also brings an investor perspective to Outside as a former equity analyst at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch within the firm’s Media & Entertainment group.

Joel has an MBA from UCLA and a BA in American History from Wesleyan University. Joel resides in New Canaan, Connecticut with his wife Deb, and teenage daughter Anna Marie. The Armijos enjoy year-round outdoor adventures in Vermont’s Green Mountains.

Lauren Bertolini, Chief Product Officer

Lauren Bertolini is an accomplished leader with expertise in digital media, product development, and operational strategy. Most recently, she served as General Manager of Dwell and Domino at Recurrent Ventures, overseeing editorial, sales, marketing, and product teams. At Outside, Lauren will lead the development of the company’s media sites, core user architecture, and Outside social media platform.

Previously, Lauren spent five years at The Daily Beast, rising from Chief Product Officer to President in 2022, where she led revenue operations, subscriptions, and technology. Her career also includes leadership roles as Head of Product for Fusion Media and Gawker’s Kinja platform and as Chief Operating Officer of Gizmodo (now G/O Media).

Lauren holds a BA in Newspaper Journalism and is based out of Rhinebeck, New York, where she is an active hiker, snowboarder and swimmer, and enjoys any time she can get outside with her husband and son.

###

About Outside Interactive Inc.

Outside Interactive, Inc. is the premier destination for outdoor inspiration, activation, and celebration. Each year, Outside reaches over 300 million unique users and has over 100M registered users across its network of 25 media, service, and utility brands, including Outside Magazine, Velo, Yoga Journal, Pinkbike, GaiaGPS, Trailforks, MapMyFitness, athleteReg, and more. Outside’s mission is to get everyone outdoors, experiencing healthy, connected, and fulfilling lives by creating an experience for both longtime adventurers and those just getting started. Outside’s membership offering, Outside+, bundles best-in-class storytelling, videos, gear reviews, mapping apps, online courses, discounted event access, magazines, and more. Learn more at www.OutsideOnline.com.

For more information, contact:
Rachel Weiss
Rachel.weiss@backbone.media

 

 

Jogology® Announces Winner of Inaugural Future Leader Award at The Running Event

Wake Forest, N.C. (Dec. 3, 2024) – As part of its ethos to support and give back to the run specialty community, Jogology® proudly announces Harry Chandler of Charlotte Running Company, as the 2024 Future Leader of the Year. The award was presented on November 21 during the Future Leaders of Specialty Retail gathering at The Running Event 2024 in Austin, Texas.

Created in partnership with The Running Event, Jogology’s Future Leader of the Year Award recognizes an individual who has been a driving force in the run specialty industry – championing innovation and leadership. The Future Leader Award celebrates a person who not only excels in their role, but also someone who inspires and mentors others, driving positive change and shaping the future of run specialty retail.

Chandler’s passion for running began during a high school summer when he fell in love with running after a memorable run in 100-degree heat. Later, his connection with Donny Forsyth and mentorship from John Benedict and Scott Dvorak led him to join the Charlotte Running Company. Chandler’s dedication stems from the support and mentorship he received in the run industry and his desire to give back to the Charlotte running community.

“Harry absolutely exemplifies a future leader of the running industry,” said Tanya Pictor, co-founder of Jogology. “Harry embodies Jogology’s core brand values by inspiring and mentoring others and by giving back to his community. We couldn’t be more excited to present this year’s Future Leader Award to Harry.”

Partnering with and supporting organizations within the running community is a key pillar of the Jogology brand. Through its REACH cause platform and moral proposition, Jogology supports its community of store ambassadors who are the boots on the ground at retail and who make a daily difference in their local communities working in areas of need.

“This award means community and evolution as a summation of past, present and future,” said Harry Chandler. “The community that helped shape my path, the community I’m blessed to be able to pour into and their communities to follow. We are the reflection of our community and that is what Run Specialty has taught me; our values, actions, and successes are shaped by the people who support us, the lives we impact, and the connections we nurture.”

As the recipient of the Future Leader of the Year Award and to support the Future Leaders initiative and Chandler’s ongoing growth, Jogology presented a $4,000 cash prize along with $1,000 in Jogology product for Chandler’s store, which can be used for education, personal development, or community improvement.

Chandler noted, “I plan to use this award as a springboard to explore grant writing and nonprofit initiatives, with hopes of bringing a fitness foundation to Charlotte that will create opportunities for underprivileged youth to participate in sports, benefit from mentorship programs, and experience fitness as a right, not a privilege.”

About Jogology®

Started in 2023, Jogology® is a performance running sock brand made by runners, for runners. One unique design, one sustainable moisture-management yarn, all the bells and whistles you need to perform at your best. Our socks provide comfort, performance and value all in equal measures. They’re designed to help you go the distance, whatever that may be for you. Partnering with and supporting organizations that reach out and connect with the running community is a key pillar of this new brand. Our aim is that Jogology® becomes a vehicle for all runners, each with their own unique social interests, to be able to reach out and connect where it matters to them most. To learn more about the brand, please visit: jogology.com.