Black Diamond Equipment Partners with The Mountain Guides to Advance Mountain Education and Gear Innovation

[Jackson Hole, Wyoming]February 11, 2025 Black Diamond Equipment, a global leader in mountain sports gear, is proud to announce a partnership with The Mountain Guides (TMG) which operates mountain guiding operations specializing in technical rock and mountain climbing and backcountry skiing. TMG locations are found throughout the American West with Jackson Hole Mountain Guides (JHMG) being the oldest and most notable. Begun in 1968, JHMG is the second oldest guide service in the United States and the only American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) accredited Institution in the Tetons.

Key Black Diamond retail locations will host outdoor education programs and events led by The Mountain Guides. Stores will be meeting points, a source for program information and serve as the primary outfitter for classes and trips. These locations include the Jackson Hole store in Wyoming, the Boulder and Denver stores in Colorado’s Front Range and the home store in Salt Lake City,

This collaboration solidifies Black Diamond’s commitment to expanding its role in the industry beyond equipping adventurers with the proper gear for safe and successful endeavors by leveraging its retail locations as hubs for fostering outdoor education, adventure and accessibility.

“Black Diamond has always been committed to equipping and inspiring outdoor adventurers,” says Neil Fiske, President of Black Diamond Equipment. “Partnering with The Mountain Guides allows us to connect with the guiding community and their clients in a meaningful way, providing the tools, education, and support they need for success.”

The partnership will improve access to mountain programs. Black Diamond will provide gear for guides and guests, scholarship funding for guides to advance their education through the AMGA, and opportunities for product testing among TMG guides who can offer unique insights on how gear performs in extreme environments at high volumes of use.

Integrating professional guides into gear development is a key component of Black Diamond’s commitment to continuous innovation. Guides put equipment through rigorous, real-world testing in some of the world’s most demanding conditions, providing invaluable feedback that helps refine and improve product design. By working closely with JHMG guides, Black Diamond can ensure that their gear meets the highest standards of durability, performance, and safety to deliver solutions that support both professional guides and everyday outdoor enthusiasts in pushing their limits with confidence.

“We could not be more pleased about our new relationship with Black Diamond.” said Phil Powers, President of the Mountain Guides and former CEO of the American Alpine Club. “This allows us to put our guides and their guests in the best possible equipment. It’s been a pleasure to see our trips launch from the Black Diamond store in Jackson where people can easily round out their kits before launching into the mountains.”

With this initiative, Black Diamond and The Mountain Guides aim to make technical mountain sports more accessible while reinforcing safety and best practices within the outdoor community.

About Black Diamond Equipment

Black Diamond Equipment is a global leader in designing innovative outdoor-engineered equipment and apparel for climbing, skiing, and a wide range of other year-round outdoor activities. Headquartered in Salt Lake City at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Black Diamond is synonymous with performance, innovation, and durability in the outdoor community. For more information on Black Diamond Equipment, visit www.blackdiamondequipment.com.

About The Mountain Guides

The Mountain Guides is a trusted leader in mountain guiding services, specializing in technical rock climbing, backcountry skiing, and mountain education. Its main location, Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, has operated in the Tetons since 1968. Their rich history of providing expert instruction and unforgettable experiences has grown to include locations in Colorado, Montana, Utah and the Red Rock of Nevada. They inspire adventurers of all levels to safely explore the outdoors. For more information on The Mountain Guides, visit www.themountainguides.com.

 

 

 

 

Switchback Spring Releases Initial Confirmed Exhibitor List

PORTLAND, Maine (February 11, 2025) – Switchback Spring, the education and business gathering for the outdoor industry community, today released the initial list of confirmed exhibiting brands. The debut event will be held June 16-18, 2025, in Nashville, TN.

The growing list of Switchback Spring exhibitors ranges from outdoor industry bellwethers The North Face, Arc’Teryx, and Darn Tough, to emerging brands Heat-it, Ignik Outdoors, and Artilect.

To view the Switchback Spring exhibitor list, visit this page. Additional brands will continue to be added as contracts are finalized and as space is available.

“What we’re hearing from these brands is that while there’s certainly a strong urge to reconnect with the outdoor community, the main driver for attending Switchback Spring is supporting their core business,” said Christina Henderson, Switchback Event Director.

“Rumpl is a young brand and we’re prioritizing our wholesale partnerships in support of our next phase of growth,” said Josh Simpson, General Manager, Rumpl. “As the outdoor industry has stumbled coming out of the pandemic we see Switchback as a key strategy to support our industry community and participate in a new approach to bringing us back together in person to share, learn, and get business done.”

“As a brand committed to delivering accessible, bold adventure and outdoor gear, we see this as a key opportunity to strengthen relationships with partners, gain firsthand knowledge of emerging consumer preferences, and stay ahead of evolving market demands. By engaging in these meaningful discussions, we aim to enhance our product offerings and align with the latest advancements that meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts,” said Lindsay Shumlas, Cotopaxi CEO.

Other confirmed Switchback Spring exhibitors include:

  • Altra
  • Asics
  • Biolite
  • Birkenstock
  • Body Glide
  • Bridgedale
  • Chaos Headwear
  • CLIF Bar
  • Cotopaxi
  • Eagle Creek
  • Eagles Nest Outfitters
  • eVENT
  • Helinox
  • HeyDude
  • Howler Bros
  • Komperdell
  • Liberty Mountain
  • Life Is Good
  • LifeStraw
  • Marmot
  • Merrell
  • Mountain Equipment
  • Mountain Hardwear
  • Nikwax
  • Nite Ize
  • Peppers Performance Eyewear
  • Rossignol
  • Rumpl
  • Scarpa
  • Smartwool
  • Sockwell
  • Sunski
  • SUUNTO
  • Swiftwick
  • Teva
  • Toad and Co
  • Wigwam
  • Wrightsock

Switchback Spring begins on June 16, 2025, with Day One featuring educational programming including keynote presentations, leadership and executive insights, and various other informational sessions targeted to outdoor specialty retailers and their teams.

On Days Two and Three (June 17-18, 2025) the exhibit hall will be the main focus, where retailers, brands, media, and industry professionals can connect to discover new products, share trends, and explore both established and emerging brands. Visit this page to see the schedule-at-a-glance.

All Switchback Spring events will be hosted within a dedicated portion of the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, a spacious venue with 12 restaurants and an attached premium hotel. With all attendees staying and meeting in a single location, the focused environment will enable both private planned meetings as well as organic meetups and run-ins.

Brands interested in exploring exhibiting opportunities can contact Switchback Event Director Christina Henderson at chenderson@divcom.com.

Registration for retailers, media, and outdoor industry professionals is available here.

For more information about Switchback, please visit www.switchbackevent.com/switchback.

About Switchback

Switchback is the twice-a-year business and education gathering for the outdoor industry owned and operated by Diversified Communications, a leading international media company with a portfolio of face-to-face exhibitions and conferences, online communities, and digital and print publications. Scheduled at optimal times for discovery and buying conversations, Switchback is held each fall in conjunction with The Running Event and each spring as a standalone event. Blending an accessible format with a schedule of education, peer connection opportunities, and business meetings, Switchback is a dedicated gathering place for all sectors of the outdoor industry community. Upcoming dates for the event include Switchback Spring (Nashville, TN; June 16-18, 2025) and Switchback at TRE (Dec. 2-4, 2025; San Antonio, TX). To learn more about Switchback, please contact Michael Collin (michael@palemorning.com) or visit www.switchbackevent.com.

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Outside Interactive Inc. Acquires Inntopia, Creating the Ultimate Adventure Travel Technology Platform

Boulder, CO. – February 6, 2025Outside Interactive Inc., the world’s leading creator of outdoor content, mapping, events, and experiences, today announced the acquisition of Inntopia, a leading provider of integrated software solutions for the adventure travel and hospitality industry. Inntopia provides a comprehensive suite of tools that includes booking, marketing, and business intelligence solutions that help ski resorts, adventure destinations, state and national parks, golf resorts, wellness and spa resorts, and tourism bureaus manage their operations and drive revenue.

This acquisition brings together two companies with a shared passion for outdoor adventure and travel. Outside’s audience of over 100 million registered users is a natural fit for Inntopia’s platform, which facilitates direct-to-consumer, multi-vendor booking by resorts and provides access to a broad range of third-party distribution channels. Inntopia’s platform is used by over 200 resorts and destinations across North America, Europe, and Australia. The company has a strong track record of innovation and growth, and its platform is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for online adventure travel booking.

By integrating Inntopia’s SaaS platform and research capabilities with Outside’s extensive network of event directors, tourism partnerships, and hospitality partners, Inntopia’s platform can deliver curated and comprehensive adventure travel packages, including accommodations, local activities, equipment rentals, and activity ticketing, capturing previously untapped revenue streams and creating additional value for partners. Inntopia’s client base will benefit from preferential access to Outside’s audience of outdoor adventurers, integration into the Outside advertising network, and additional investments in the Inntopia travel solutions.

Furthermore, the integration of Inntopia’s business intelligence research and analytics platform technology will empower Outside to gather and analyze key insights into consumer journeys. These insights can be leveraged to optimize advertising strategies, identify new opportunities for partner engagement, and ultimately drive revenue growth for both Outside travel partners and Inntopia’s clients. By demonstrating the tangible value of these data-driven insights, Outside can further strengthen its relationships with advertising partners and position itself as a leader in the digital travel advertising space by building the first-of-its-kind adventure travel retail media network.

“The acquisition of Inntopia is a major step forward in our mission to get everyone outdoors by inspiring them with our content, activating through our technologies, and ultimately celebrating their adventures on our social platform.,” said Robin Thurston, CEO of Outside. “By combining our content, utilities, and community with Inntopia’s booking platform technology and research, we’re creating a one-stop shop for outdoor adventure travel. We’re excited to offer our users a more seamless and personalized experience, and we’re confident that this acquisition will accelerate our growth and solidify our position as the leading active lifestyle platform.”

“We’re thrilled to join forces with Outside, a company that shares our passion for the outdoors and our commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences,” said Trevor Crist, CEO of Inntopia. “Our booking platform is a perfect complement to Outside’s content, utilities, and community, and we’re excited to work together to create the ultimate travel platform for outdoor adventurers.”

The acquisition of Inntopia represents a strategic move that will substantially bolster Outside’s core businesses and offerings. From discovering inspiring destinations through its rich content, to seamlessly booking accommodations, activities, and transportation through Inntopia’s intuitive technology, the combined platform will simplify the travel planning process and enhance the overall outdoor adventure experience for its audiences.

BrightTower, a New York City headquartered investment banking and M&A advisory services firm, served as exclusive financial advisor to Inntopia in this transaction. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

About Outside

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 Inntopia

Inntopia is a leading provider of integrated software solutions for the travel and hospitality industry. The company’s platform helps resorts and destinations manage their operations and drive revenue. Inntopia’s solutions include booking, marketing, and business intelligence tools.

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

 

Crazy Creek announces new sales representation in the Southeast Territory; expands representation in Montana and Idaho

Red Lodge, Mont. (Feb. 6, 2025) Crazy Creek Products, a leading manufacturer of outdoor seating for 38 years, is excited to grow its sales representation, nationally. Today, the Montana-based manufacturer announces its partnership with Adventure Marketing Group (AMG) as their new Southeast rep group, as well as the brand’s expansion with the Alta Group, Inc. into Montana and Idaho.

“We are very excited to bring a legacy brand like Crazy Creek into our diverse portfolio,” said Tom Hammond, Principal of Adventure Marketing Group. “Every account we have should be carrying Crazy Creek and our team looks forward to getting out in the field and showing the great benefits of selling Crazy Creek to our customers.”

AMG will be taking over Crazy Creek sales in the Southeast for Allyn Morton of Eastern Outdoor Sales who has retired after a decorated 40-year career in the outdoor industry.

“Adding a group like AMG to our rep network is a testament to the strength of the Crazy Creek brand and we are thrilled to have Tom and his team representing us in the Southeast,” said Forrest Rogers, Co-Owner of Crazy Creek. “We want to also thank Allyn Morton of Eastern Outdoor Sales for the last 20 years of dedicated service he has provided us, we wish him the best as he settles into a much-deserved retirement!”

Crazy Creek has also expanded its sales group representation into Montana and Idaho.  The Alta Group, which currently supports the brand in Washington, Oregon, and Alaska, will now support the brand in these two additional western states.

“We are very excited to expand the territory that the Alta Group, Inc. is representing Crazy Creek.  It is an honor to represent Crazy Creek in their home state of Montana! Crazy Creek has been on a great trajectory for us the past several years and we are looking forward to more growth,” said Dave Haavik of the Alta Group. “ We are really excited about the product development that the brand has been working on for the past few years and I am sure that will compound our growth.”

For more information about Crazy Creek, please visit crazycreek.com.

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About Crazy Creek

Founded in 1987 in Red Lodge, Montana, Crazy Creek has been a pioneer in outdoor seating, known for its innovative, lightweight chairs. The brand’s mission to perfect “just sit there” comfort across any terrain has garnered trust worldwide among outdoor professionals and enthusiasts alike. Renowned for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, Crazy Creek chairs have traveled from the backcountry of Northern Alaska to sunny backyards in Southern Florida. The product line includes a range of chairs crafted from the most durable fabrics, featuring carbon fiber stays and a custom stitching process, all backed by a lifetime warranty on Original & Hex 2.0 Chairs. In 2024, Crazy Creek introduced the AirCliner, its most compact and comfortable chair yet. For more information, visit crazycreek.com.

Black Diamond Equipment and National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) Announce Partnership

SALT LAKE CITY – February 5, 2025 – Black Diamond Equipment®, a global leader in climbing, skiing, and mountain sports apparel and equipment, has partnered with National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), the world’s foremost provider of wilderness education. Central to the partnership is the Elevate Scholarship, an initiative to foster leadership, mentorship, and stewardship within the outdoor community.

The Elevate Scholarship provides full-ride support, including travel and gear, for select NOLS courses in the Summer and Fall of 2025. Funded through an annually recurring co-op program between NOLS and Black Diamond, the initiative aims to cultivate future leaders in the outdoor community who might not otherwise have access to the resources they need to recreate safely and sustainably. Additionally, 10% of any purchase made by NOLS, a NOLS employee, or an enrolled student will directly contribute to the scholarship fund.

At Black Diamond, climbing has always been more than a sport—it’s a way to discover our limits, build resilience, and connect deeply with the natural world,” says Neil Fiske, President at Black Diamond Equipment. “Partnering with NOLS on the Elevate Scholarship lets us extend those values to a broader community, breaking down barriers and equipping the next generation of climbers and outdoor leaders with the skills, mentorship, and gear they need to thrive. Together, we’re not just supporting individuals—we’re fostering a culture of stewardship and sustainability for the vertical and beyond.

Black Diamond has been one of NOLS’ preferred equipment providers for decades. The official partnership will now also include ongoing gear design collaboration between the two organizations and field testing on key pieces of equipment from Black Diamond, such as the Mega Light Tent, a staple piece of equipment in the NOLS kit. A dedicated gear testing pipeline will engage NOLS field instructors in the design process, leveraging their hands-on expertise in creating and enhancing Black Diamond gear moving forward. To further support NOLS staff, the partnership offers expanded pro deals for all employees.

Several professional Black Diamond athletes got their start with NOLS, including Aaron Mulkey, Adrian Ballinger, Carlo Traversi, and Angela Hawse. Peter Metcalf, the founder of Black Diamond and a 1971 NOLS graduate, credits the school with introducing him to climbing. This joint effort builds on the longstanding relationship between these two organizations. In keeping with that tradition, Black Diamond has committed to providing opportunities for its employees to develop their outdoor and leadership skills with NOLS.

“The NOLS and Black Diamond partnership is such a perfect match. It brings together two organizations who share a deep commitment to wilderness, leadership, and the environment,” said Sandy Colhoun, President of NOLS. “We are grateful for the Black Diamond Elevate Scholarship’s impact on our school, making outdoor education accessible to all. Together with Black Diamond, we are excited to empower the next generation of leaders, explorers, and adventurers.”

The application period for the Elevate Scholarship opens on February 5, 2025, and closes on March 5, 2025. Scholarship recipients will be announced on April 30.

For more information on the scholarship and application process, please visit: https://www.nols.edu/en/expeditions/planning/financial-aid/black-diamond-elevate-scholarship/

MEDIA IMAGE GALLERY | LINK

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About Black Diamond Equipment

Black Diamond Equipment is a global leader in designing innovative outdoor-engineered equipment and apparel for climbing, skiing, and a wide range of other year-round outdoor activities. Headquartered in Salt Lake City at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Black Diamond is synonymous with performance, innovation, and durability in the outdoor community. For more information on Black Diamond Equipment, visit www.blackdiamondequipment.com.

About NOLS

Founded in 1965 in a small cabin in Sinks Canyon, Wyoming, the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) is a nonprofit global wilderness school that seeks to help individuals step forward boldly as leaders. We believe that anyone can be a leader; it’s our role to provide the environment and training to help them discover their full potential. We do that in classrooms close to home and remote wilderness areas worldwide. The scope of NOLS’ mission and impact is broad, with 14 campuses across six countries and educational opportunities worldwide. The school enrolls over 28,000 students and employs over 1,000 full-time and part-time staff and instructors with an annual budget of approximately $40 million in a typical year. NOLS currently has more than 360,000 active alumni. 

nols.edu | @nolsedu | 800.710.6657

MEDIA CONTACTS

BLACK DIAMOND EQUIPMENT

LUCIE RATHBUN

lucie.rathbun@backbone.media

NOLS

KELLI LUSK

kelli_lusk@nols.edu | 208.309.3793

Fleet Feet Acquires Flying Feet Sports Shoes in York, Pennsylvania

YORK, Pa. and CARRBORO, N.C. (Feb. 3, 2025) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of specialty running stores, announced the grand opening of its newly acquired location in York, Pennsylvania. Located at 1511 Mount Rose Ave., York, PA 17403, the new store takes over the space previously occupied by Flying Feet Sports Shoes. With stores in Mechanicsburg and Harrisburg, this marks the third Fleet Feet location owned and operated by Shelby and Fred Joslyn.

Flying Feet owners Greg and Celine Baum recently announced their retirement after more than 40 years of serving the York community. The Joslyns aim to continue the Baums’ legacy of exceptional customer service and community engagement, while introducing the community to Fleet Feet’s signature experiences, including their outfitting expertise and technology.

The store launched its soft opening as Fleet Feet York on Jan. 4. A grand opening celebration will take place on March 8, beginning at 9 a.m. with a three-mile community run from the store, complete with demo shoes and accessories to test from HOKA, Karhu, Mizuno, OOFOS, On and Superfeet. Customers will have a chance to take home giveaways throughout the day, and will receive a free custom Fleet Feet shirt with any purchase over $100.

“We’re beyond excited to open our third location and serve the incredible York community,” said Fred Joslyn. “Greg and Celine built Flying Feet with a strong foundation of personal service and a commitment to their customers, and we’re dedicated to carrying that forward. Our goal is to create a welcoming space where runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities can find the products, expertise, and support they need.”

Fred and Shelby Joslyn bring years of experience and a deep passion for running and community involvement. The couple met as high school students, and their journeys together as runners and employees at Fleet Feet Syracuse inspired them to own their own store. Together, they have grown their presence in Central Pennsylvania, coaching Fleet Feet training programs, hosting charity events for local animal shelters and youth programs and supporting initiatives like Girls on the Run and Communities Rising.

Fleet Feet York will operate with the brand’s exclusive personalized outfitting experience, fit id®, which includes 3D foot-scanning technology that allows the brand to accurately assess the size and shape of customers’ feet and how each foot moves through the gait cycle. This personalized, expert-led approach allows outfitters to offer the right fitting footwear and accessories for each customer.

“York is a growing area with a strong sense of community, and we’re thrilled to welcome Fred and Shelby’s third store to the Fleet Feet family,” said John Moloznik, vice president of retail development at Fleet Feet. “Their passion for delivering outstanding customer experiences and supporting their community embodies everything that Fleet Feet stands for.”

For 49 years, Fleet Feet owners, operating partners, and employees have created welcoming environments that allow runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities to conquer their goals at every level, on every surface, at every distance with personalized solutions, knowledge, and empowerment. Fleet Feet’s nationwide network of community-based retail stores are a place of inspiration, showing people how Running Changes Everything®.

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About Fleet Feet

Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 275 Fleet Feet stores in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and has been recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter, the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Best in Business, Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers and America’s Best Online Shops, and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.

 

 

 

 

 

Tariffs Threaten Industry Growth Says Outdoor Industry Association

(Boulder, CO: February 4, 2025) Today, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) President Kent Ebersole released the following statement in response to recent trade policy developments:

“Tariffs on outdoor products threaten to raise costs for businesses and consumers alike, creating new economic pressures for an industry that fuels $1.2 trillion in consumer spending and supports 5 million jobs. For businesses of all sizes, these rising costs could slow job growth, stifle innovation, and potentially force some to close their doors,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA President. “Outdoor recreation is a crucial force in the U.S. economy, and OIA remains committed to working with our members and policymakers to champion a balanced trade agenda that supports industry growth and success.”

To support the outdoor industry, OIA is providing members with timely alerts and resources on new U.S. tariff actions. Members can access these updates in the OIA Member Portal. 

MATADOR LAUNCHES GLOBAL TRAVEL ADAPTER: POWERING ALL YOUR ADVENTURES

BOULDER, Colo. (February 4, 2025) – Matador Travel Equipment, renowned for its commitment to innovation and quality, is proud to introduce the latest addition to its product lineup: the Matador Global Travel Adapter, a compact, smart international outlet adapter for wherever the road may lead. This launch marks Matador’s first product in the electronics space, as the brand brings its travel design expertise to the tech world.

Matador’s Global Travel Adapter is compatible in over 170 countries and can safely charge and power up to six devices simultaneously. Its lightweight and compact design allows travelers to seamlessly pack and store for any adventure.

“We’re really excited to introduce the Global Travel Adapter and enter into a new category of travel essentials,” said Chris Clearman, founder and CEO of Matador. “Our goal was to bring consumers the same innovation and quality they can trust with our travel equipment, now to their electronics, so they can continue to explore without limits.”

The Global Travel Adapter powers all technology, including laptops (AC plug only), tablets, smartphones, eReaders, camera equipment, power banks, headphones, smartwatches, satellite communication devices, portable game consoles and more. Key features also include an integrated High-Capacity PD35 port for larger devices and fast-charging smartphones, as well as built-in protection against overtemperature and overcurrent – with an integrated fuse.

Matador’s Global Travel Adapter (MSRP: $35.99) is available in Black now at select retailers and online at http://www.matadorequipment.com/.

ABOUT MATADOR TRAVEL EQUIPMENT
Matador, based in Boulder, CO, designs high-performance adventure travel equipment engineered for objective-based travel. The team’s strengths in design, material technology, and construction give them an edge in developing innovative products that bring outdoor expertise to the pursuit of travel. For more information about Matador, visit MatadorEquipment.com

Selkirk Sport introduces LABS Project 008 pickleball paddle with revolutionary PureFoam core technology

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – Feb. 4, 2025 – Selkirk Sport, the leader in pickleball paddle innovation, today unveils the LABS Project 008, a groundbreaking pickleball paddle featuring Selkirk’s first high-density PureFoam core technology.

Designed to redefine durability and performance, the LABS Project 008 will be released in three distinct core thicknesses to cater to various playing styles: a control-focused 16 mm, a hybrid 13 mm and a power-driven 10 mm.

The PureFoam Core
Traditional pickleball paddles often rely on polypropylene cores, which over time can crush and deform, leading to inconsistent responsiveness and the need for frequent replacements.

The PureFoam core introduces a durable, high-density foam formula that resists deformation and maintains consistent performance over prolonged use. This new core technology not only increases the lifespan of the paddle but also enhances playability by offering an enlarged sweet spot and a softer, more responsive feel.

“With its ability to flex on impact, the PureFoam core truly transforms how a paddle performs,” said Tom Barnes, Selkirk director of research and development. “It increases dwell time, enhances spin and ensures consistent performance across the entire paddle face. Players get exceptional control without losing the power and pop needed for dynamic play.”

Three core thicknesses for every style of play
LABS Project 008 will be released in three installments, each featuring a unique core thickness to suit different playing styles:

  • Hybrid 13 mm: Ideal for all-court players seeking a balance of power and control.
  • Control-focused 16 mm: Designed for tactical precision and players prioritizing finesse at the net.
  • Power-driven 10 mm: Perfect for those who rely on explosive power and aggressive gameplay.

Selkirk LABS: Pioneering Innovation in Pickleball
LABS Project 008 continues Selkirk’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of paddle technology. As part of the Selkirk LABS program, all Selkirk customers can offer feedback on the Project 008, which will then be used to perfect the paddle design before it is released on the Selkirk Sport main line.

“The LABS Project 008 reflects Selkirk’s relentless pursuit of innovation,” Barnes said. “By introducing the PureFoam core, we’re addressing a critical need in the market — a paddle that is performance-driven and built to last.”

The Project 008 retails for $288. The 13 mm is on sale now and the 16 mm is available for preorder. The 10 mm will launch in mid-Spring.

For more information about LABS Project 008 or to join the Selkirk LABS program, visit SelkirkLabs.com.

About Selkirk Sport

Selkirk Sport, a premium manufacturer of pickleball paddles and accessories, is a family-owned and operated company. Selkirk Sport is based in Hayden, Idaho, in the shadows of its namesake, the Selkirk mountain range. Founded in 2014, Selkirk Sport was born from a passion for sport and the Western outdoor leisure lifestyle that was afforded to the company’s founders, Rob and Mike Barnes, along with their father Jim, who is Selkirk’s production manager. Backed by the philosophy of always pushing the limits, Selkirk Sport is committed to manufacturing products that deliver the highest performance with unmatched quality and service. Selkirk Sport has become one of the industry’s fastest-growing companies, with paddles used by many of the game’s premier players, such as Jack Sock, Catherine Parenteau, Dylan Frazier, James Ignatowich and a host of others premier players and national/regional champions.

Media contacts:

Kyle Whatnall: Kyle@Selkirk.com

Brynn Grissom: Brynn@Selkirk.com

 

RECCO expands global reach with new SAR Helicopter Detector in Nepal

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (February 4, 2025) – RECCO, a leading developer of advanced rescue technology, is proud to announce the continued expansion of its RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector network with a recent deployment in Kathmandu, Nepal. This launch makes Nepal the 11th country where the helicopter-carried system is operational. Simrik Air crews, along with other pilots, have been trained and equipped with the system, enhancing their ability to assist in missing person searches.

In January, former head of mountain rescue in Zermatt, Bruno Jelk, rescue specialist Matthias Hofer, and RECCO instructor Tshering Pande Bhote (President of the NMIA) conducted a RECCO SAR training session. The training included three pilots from Simrik Air—Capt. Siddartha Jung Gurung, Capt. Surendra Paudel, and Capt. Bimal Sharma Sapkota—along with six mountain guides from the Nepal National Mountain Guides Association (NNMGA) and Nepalese rescue specialists. The specialists trained were Tshering Pande Bhote, Pimba Tenjing Lama, Tul Singh Gurung, Chhiring Dhenduk Bhote, Abiral Rai, and Dawa Sangay Sherpa. All participants are now fully trained operators of the system.

“The RECCO system appears to be highly helpful for rapid search and rescue operations in the Himalayas,” says Tul Singh Gurung, President, NNMGA. “The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector will be more effective in search and rescue operations for missing people. Since the helicopter can fly up to 6000 meters, we can also employ the helicopter detector if there are any avalanche accidents up to this altitude. I want to express my gratitude to the RECCO family and to the teaching team.”

The training included low-altitude searches in open terrain around Pokhara and high-altitude searches in conditions of snow and crevasses from Chumrung and Annapurna base camp area. More RECCO SAR operators will be trained in the coming months.

The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector allows rapid, large-area searches for missing individuals year-round, scanning up to one square kilometer in just six minutes. This technology reduces search times and minimizes the time and risk exposure for rescue teams.

Since its launch in 2016, the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector has expanded the application of the system from winter rescue to all-season use, making it ideal for locating lost hikers, trekkers, and mountaineers. The system complements the RECCO handheld detector and can be deployed across diverse terrains, from lowland forests and bushland to high-altitude mountainous areas.

“The RECCO SAR system will contribute to saving lives here in Nepal. We’ll be able to locate you if you’re carrying a rescue reflector, whether you’re a trekker or a mountaineer in need of rescue,” says Capt. Siddartha Jung Gurung.

For over a decade, RECCO handheld detectors have been utilized in Nepal. In 2012, during the Manaslu avalanche near Camp 3, rescue teams from France and Nepal employed the RECCO detector to assist in locating avalanche victims. Currently, 10 handheld detectors are strategically positioned with rescue partners like NMIA, NNMGA, Simrik Air, Seven Summit Treks, Heli Everest, Imagine Nepal, and Adventure 6000, and dispatched on each 8000m peak base camps at the start of each season, enabling rapid response to avalanches and missing person incidents. Lightweight and portable, these detectors can be carried in a backpack or operated from a helicopter.

Starting with the 2024 climbing season, new regulations require all climbers on peaks above 6,000 meters in Nepal to carry mandatory search-and-rescue equipment. The RECCO reflector is one option that complies with these requirements, ensuring that climbers are searchable in case of an emergency.

“The addition of the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector in Nepal is an important milestone, to make more people searchable year round,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO. “Our technology is designed to make rescue operations faster and safer, and with this new system, we’re proud to enhance safety in the Himalayas. Together, we’re better equipped than ever to support local rescue teams and the growing number of adventurers in the region.”

RECCO reflectors are embedded in outdoor gear from more than 150 leading brands, including Nepalese brands like Everest Outfit. Other international partners like SCARPA, Kailas, Millet, Blackyak and Asolo also integrate reflectors into high-altitude equipment. A complete list of partner brands is available at recco.com.

Attachable RECCO reflectors can be purchased online or locally through Samatra Trading, Kathmandu, as well as from NNMGA, NMIA and Everest Outfit shop in Thamel.

For more information, visit the RECCO website

About RECCO

RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

Media Contact

Siena Teare

Verde Brand Communications

(307) 200-7003

siena@verdepr.com

 

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