Archives: Press Releases

LONGMONT, Colo. (January 8, 2024) — Rossmönster, the leader in purpose-built adventure vehicles, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Timothy Morgan as Chief Revenue Officer. Morgan brings to Rossmönster over two decades of experience in the RV industry, having honed his skills in sales, business development and strategic leadership. Morgan’s naming as CRO marks a significant milestone in Rossmönster’s journey toward continued growth and innovation.

Morgan’s introduction to the RV world began at the age of 13, washing RVs at the dealership where his grandfather served as a service manager and his father as sales manager. By 18, he had transitioned into sales at Giant RV, where he developed a deep understanding of customer needs and market dynamics. His career progressed rapidly, taking on the role of national sales representative at Roadtrek, and most recently, serving a successful five-year tenure at Storyteller Overland. During his time there, he was instrumental in driving revenue growth and fostering industry partnerships.

In recognition of his contributions to the RV industry, Morgan was honored as one of RV Associates’ “40 Under 40,” a testament to his leadership and vision. His rich industry experience, combined with his passion for adventure vehicles, makes him an invaluable addition to the Rossmönster team.

“We are excited to have Morgan join our leadership team,” said Luke Farny, CEO of Rossmönster. “His deep roots in the RV industry, proven track record in revenue generation, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our mission to deliver unparalleled adventure experiences to our customers.”

As Chief Revenue Officer, Morgan will oversee all aspects of revenue generation, including sales strategy, business development, and customer relations. His focus will be on expanding Rossmönster’s market, dealer presence, and enhancing the customer journey through innovative solutions.

To learn more about Rossmönster’s storied history and a more detailed look at its line of adventure trucks and vans, please visit rossmonster.com.

###

About Rossmönster
Rossmönster redefines the adventure lifestyle, crafting premium trucks and vans that fuel your passion for exploration and discovery. With groundbreaking designs and unmatched craftmanship, Rossmönster creates vehicles that are more than just a mode of travel — they’re a gateway to the extraordinary. Dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering exceptional customer experiences, Rossmönster is shaping the future of adventure vehicles for those who dare to roam further and live boldly.

COALVILLE, Utah. (Jan. 7, 2025) — Escapod, creator of premium off-road teardrop trailers designed for adventurers, was granted patent protection this past month in the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia around the design and engineering of its innovative TOPO 2 trailer body and doors. This design has also garnered international acclaim, including a design award in December from Design MasterPrize, an award that highlights exceptional product design in a variety of sectors. In recent years, Escapod has earned other design honors, including the Red Dot Design Award and the IF Design Award in 2023.

The TOPO2, Escapod’s flagship model, represents the pinnacle of this commitment to innovation, combining aesthetics, performance, and durability to set a new standard in the recreational vehicle space.

A Rigorous, Ground-Up Approach to Design

The TOPO2 was conceived after five years of building Escapod’s original TOPO trailer, with the goal of creating the ultimate compact, easy to use camping trailer. The design journey began on paper with hand-drawn sketches, progressed through 2D and 3D digital renderings, and evolved into 3D-printed models for physical refinement.

Using advanced AutoCAD software, the design was engineered for production, culminating in a full-size prototype and master molds. Over the course of the first year of development, Escapod’s team refined the structure and insulation to achieve a lightweight yet robust design, offering unmatched performance and industry-leading insulation.

The TOPO2’s single-piece composite fiberglass body, featuring a recycled PET core, exemplifies this meticulous approach. Unlike traditional RVs that rely on flimsy walls joined by edge trim, Escapod’s design eliminates seams that could lead to mold or rot. The trailer’s hot-dip galvanized steel frame and proprietary Freeride Suspension System — a patented shock-in-spring independent trailing arm system — ensure ultimate durability and performance on any terrain.

Blending Performance with Forward-Thinking Design

The TOPO2’s aesthetic and functional excellence is reflected in its polyurea-based paint finish, applied with a base coat and textured dropcoat in stylish, contemporary colorways. These creative finishes stand out in a traditionally uninspired RV market. Inside, the TOPO2 offers a premium cabin experience with a Baltic birch finish, a queen-sized memory foam mattress, and ample storage. The fully equipped galley includes a full-size sink, ENO stove, and modular shelving for customizable functionality.

“Our untraditional approach to design and engineering has redefined how things are done in the RV industry, which has long been dominated by outdated manufacturing practices,” said Escapod founder Chris Hudak. “The TOPO2’s performance engineering and design-forward ethos have not only pushed the boundaries of innovation but also earned the respect of the global design community. These accolades affirm Escapod’s role as a leader in the outdoor and RV spaces. We are committed to delivering products that inspire and elevate every adventure.”

About Escapod Trailers

Founded on the belief that adventure should be accessible to everyone, Escapod Trailers specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality off-road trailers that marry comfort, capability, and craftsmanship. The TOPO2, backed by an industry-leading 5-year warranty, is a testament to Escapod’s dedication to innovation and excellence. Visit escapod.us for more information or follow the adventures on Instagram.

Media Contact

Verde Brand Communications

(307) 235-0268

escapod@verdepr.com

 

BOULDER, Colo. (Jan. 7, 2025) – ROLL Recovery, an award-winning leader in the recovery and athletic performance space and innovators of deep tissue massage therapy tools and recovery footwear, has hired Craig Sinbine to lead business development. In tandem, the brand has also partnered with a new sales entity with The Endorphin Group.

Sinbine, based at ROLL Recovery’s headquarters in Boulder, brings to ROLL Recovery his expertise in footwear sales and territory management experience, with experience ranging from iconic brands such as Adidas, Mizuno, and OOFOS.

The Endorphin Group, owned and led by Scott Schilter out of Denver, Colorado,  is an Independent Sales Agency covering the Rocky Mountain and Pacific Northwest regions. Their vendor partnerships are reputable brands in the run and endurance space such as Saucony, Nathan Essentials, GU Energy, that have a targeted interest in distribution to the Run and Outdoor Specialty Channels.

The Endorphin Group will focus on sales for the full line up of ROLL Recovery products, from their flagship massage devices such as the R8 Plus™ to the all-new SUPERPLUSH™ line of recovery footwear.  Endorphin will be the go-to for servicing ROLL Recovery’s specialty retail accounts, getting displays up and supporting in-store activations and partnerships that ROLL Recovery has planned for 2025.

“We are excited to lean into the expertise that The Endorphin Group has, especially in the footwear, endurance and outdoor spaces. Their organic relationships and reputation will support a steadfast, yet sustainable, growth trajectory,” said Jeremy Nelson, CEO and Co-Founder of ROLL Recovery.

“This is an exciting time to now be a part of the ROLL Recovery team. For over a decade, ROLL Recovery has continued to create innovative products that are designed to keep you moving. With the launch of our SUPERPLUSH™ recovery footwear line this year, we are expanding our true recovery story. I am looking forward to working with our retail partners at the national level to create and execute strategies to help further grow their business,” said Sinbine.

“It is an honor to work with Jeremy, Craig and the team at ROLL Recovery.  Our focus on a similar consumer and the product solutions that they offer make this a very complimentary relationship.  The Endorphin Group team is excited to service our retailers with the recovery products ROLL Recovery offers,” said Schilter.

ROLL Recovery products are available at specialty retailers and online. For additional information about ROLL Recovery’s full collection of massage and recovery devices and footwear, please visit rollrecovery.com. To keep up with the latest news from ROLL Recovery, follow them on Instagram, X, Facebook and check out their blog.

About ROLL Recovery
Born in a garage in Boulder, Colorado, ROLL Recovery was created out of a need. The founders, inventor and mechanical engineer Jeremy Nelson and professional athlete Adriana Nelson, set out to create an effective massage tool that would replicate the hands of a massage therapist as much as possible. The company’s mission is to create exceptionally designed, functional tools, unlike anything else on the market, and mobile enough to use anywhere. ROLL Recovery’s massage and recovery tools, led by the R8 which originally launched in 2012, are FDA Registered Medical Devices tested and inspired by elite athletes. The company stands by the values of integrity, hard work, and putting people above all else. For additional information, visit rollrecovery.com.

###

 

 

 

 

MANCOS, Colo. (Jan. 6, 2025) —  Alpacka Raft, the packrafting industry leader, today announced its new 2025 models and updates to its current packrafts. The lineup is headlined by the all-new Mage—a packable whitewater packraft engineered for the intermediate and advanced whitewater packrafter navigating Class III to IV water. The 2025 lineup also brings exciting updates to four of Alpacka’s celebrated models, all designed to elevate the paddling experience for seasoned experts and ambitious beginners.

The Mage is a next-generation whitewater packraft, combining evolutionary improvements to the whitewater-style hull and performance features from the unparalleled Valkyrie V3. The result is the fastest, smoothest, and most responsive traditional whitewater packraft Alpacka Raft has ever made.

“Our mission is to explore what’s possible in packrafting,” said Thor Tingey, CEO and Co-founder of Alpacka Raft. “The Mage represents the pinnacle of our passion and ingenuity. It’s light, lightning-fast, and handles large whitewater incredibly well. We are already inspired by what paddlers are doing with it, and we can’t wait to see where they take it next.”

Weighing less than the Valkyrie V3, yet offering increased cargo capacity for extended trips, the Mage is built for paddlers seeking versatility without compromising performance. The low-volume center panel stern hull is longer and narrower than other whitewater packraft models, which increases the waterline for maximum speed and tracking.

A subtle increase in bow and stern rocker keeps the Mage high and dry when launching off drops and punching through features without sacrificing the increased speed. The one-piece dropped floor is paired with a full-length inflatable pad, allowing for a speed similar to the Valkyrie while boosting edging, secondary stability, and efficiency.

Available in both a whitewater deck and self-bailing configuration, the Mage caters to a variety of paddling environments. The self-bailing draining holes include mesh-backed venturi flaps to increase speed and keep paddlers dry, especially while surfing. The new model comes equipped with a lace-in whitewater seat, Alpacka’s patented 4-point thigh straps, a backband, and a whitewater foot brace for the best fit and control available. Pricing for the Mage starts at $1,600.

Alpacka has also updated the Caribou, Expedition, Refuge, and Gnarwhal designs while retiring the longest running packraft model, the Classic. Additionally, the Mage has replaced Alpacka’s Wolverine model.

“Our packraft lineup includes a model for every paddler type. We are continuing to move forward and push the limits on design while providing options for everyone,” said Tingey. “From mellow river runs and fishing trips to demanding backcountry outings and challenging whitewater, and everything in-between, our lineup delivers something special for everyone who wants to use a packraft to access locations they otherwise couldn’t.”

The Colorado-based company has also implemented a new sizing system for all of its packrafts. Instead of using sit length, sizes will now align with standard height-based and general size categories. This simplified approach makes selecting the appropriate packraft more intuitive, as sizes will correspond to familiar clothing size ranges, such as small, medium, and large.

All models in the 2025 Alpacka Raft collection were just launched and are now available at alpackaraft.com

About Alpacka Raft

Founded in 2000 by mother and son team Sheri and Thor Tingey, Alpacka Raft makes the world’s best packrafts. With packrafts designed and handmade by a talented group of makers in its Mancos, Colorado facility, Alpacka Raft packrafts have been used and trusted on expeditions by some of the world’s most well-known adventurers. Alpacka Raft is committed to building a diverse community of boaters and is proud to provide high-quality, living-wage manufacturing jobs in a rural, mountain-town economy. For more information, visit alpackaraft.com

 

 

OLYMPIA, Wash., PUYALLUP, Wash. and CARRBORO, N.C. (Dec. 26, 2024) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores, has announced the acquisition of two key locations in Olympia and Puyallup, Washington. Following the retirement of South Sound Running founders Greg Klein and Joan Marchioro, Wade and Julie Pannell have acquired the Olympia and Puyallup locations, marking a new chapter for Fleet Feet in the region.

The South Sound Running locations are scheduled to reopen as Fleet Feet Olympia on Jan. 2, 2025, and Fleet Feet Puyallup on Jan. 10. With six existing stores throughout Washington, including Bonney Lake, Spokane, Spokane North, Spokane Valley, Tacoma and Richland, the acquisition positions the Pannells to make Fleet Feet the go-to running store across the Puget Sound region, further strengthening their presence in Washington.

“We are honored to carry on the exceptional work of South Sound Running and deepen our connection with the Olympia and Puyallup communities,” said Wade Pannell. “With our experience in Tacoma and Bonney Lake, we have the local knowledge and experience to build upon their legacy, provide outstanding service and foster a welcoming space for runners and walkers of all levels.”

Founded in 1998, South Sound Running has been an integral part of the South Sound running community. Fleet Feet will honor this legacy while introducing its signature fit id® outfitting experience, which uses 3D foot scanning technology to assess the size, shape, and movement of each customer’s feet. This personalized, expert-led approach allows outfitters to offer the right fitting footwear and accessories for each customer.

Additionally, Fleet Feet will expand the range of footwear available, adding popular brands like HOKA, Altra, and On, to complement the existing selections.

As part of the transition, Fleet Feet will continue the Capital City Marathon Training Program that has been a staple at South Sound Running and expand offerings to include 5K programs, long-distance training and trail running, serving runners of all levels. The Pannells bring their proven training programs to the region, which have already helped over 3,500 people reach their fitness goals.

“Wade and Julie have built strong, genuine connections with their customers and communities across every market they serve,” said John Moloznik, vice president of retail development at Fleet Feet. “With over a decade of experience, the Pannells have consistently driven growth and excellence. We’re thrilled to continue growing alongside them and know their passion for running will make this new chapter a great success.”

Fleet Feet Olympia and Puyallup are hiring new employees. If you’re looking to turn your passion into your career in a fast-paced, fun, and customer-centric environment, apply at jeremiah@fleetfeettacoma.com.

For more than 48 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®.

###

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.

 

 

 

 

SOUTHPORT, Conn.  – Dermatone, a trusted leader in skincare and sunscreen since 1981, introduces Lips & Face Biodegradable Glitter Kits, a skin care collection combining creativity, and effective skincare for outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans. Priced at $15.99, this kit uses eco-friendly glitter that biodegrades naturally and is available at dermatone.com.

Formulated with high-quality ingredients suitable for all skin types, Dermatone’s Lips & Face Biodegradable Glitter Kits are cruelty-free, paraben-free and made with cosmetic-grade ingredients keeping skin hydrated and protected from the sun, wind and cold. Customers can choose from seven unique stencil designs, including themes like festival, football, marathon, numbers, patriotic, sailing, and snow/ski. The kits include two Dermatone mini lips and face sticks to apply the glitter, and two three-ounce glitter pots along with custom stencils. Additionally, the Mini Biodegradable Glitter Pots ($5.99) allow customers to choose from a selection of eight colors.

“Our new Glitter Kits bring a little more fun to outdoor events enabling consumers to express their personal style while still protecting their healthy skin,” said Doug Metchick, president of Dermatone. “It reinforces our mission to combine high-quality skincare with eco-conscious solutions. With outdoor participation on the rise, Dermatone continues to inspire consumers to get outside and do the activities they love while enjoying nature responsibly.”

Proudly made in the USA, each kit is available in a variety of shimmering shades to match every mood and occasion. The formula is easy to apply and dries quickly. Dermatone’s Lips & Face Biodegradable Glitter Kits are designed with a formula that adheres securely to the skin without causing irritation or discomfort. There is no use of parabens, phthalates, or harsh chemicals, ensuring a gentle experience even for the most sensitive skin.

For more information and to shop the full collection, visit dermatone.com.

###

About Dermatone

Since 1981, Dermatone has been the trusted choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers seeking high-quality skincare solutions. Our specialized, science-backed formulas are designed to be effective in all types of extreme conditions including sun, wind, dry, cold and frostbite. Crafted with clean, premium ingredients, Dermatone’s innovative products protect, hydrate and restore your skin all year long. After more than 40 years, Dermatone still maintains a reputation as the go-to brand for those committed to maintaining healthy skin and who demand high performance, quality and reliability in their skincare routine. Dermatone products are proudly made in the U.S.A.

 

Media Contact:

Lindsey Clinkingbeard, CGPR

lindsey.clinkingbeard@offmadisonave.com

602-432-1667

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (Dec. 19, 2024) — RECCO, a leading manufacturer of advanced rescue technology, has announced a placement of a helicopter detector in Newfoundland, Canada. Operated by Newfoundland Helicopters in Deer Lake, this new addition will support Gros Morne National Park Visitor Safety and Provincial Search and Rescue (SAR) teams in the region. With this deployment, the RECCO SAR network now spans coast to coast across Canada, featuring a total of five helicopter detectors nationwide.

Rescue teams underwent training in the fall, and the unit is now fully operational and ready to support search missions year-round. This advanced capability will enhance the efforts of SAR teams in locating missing outdoor enthusiasts in the region.

“We’re excited to have the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector system operational in Newfoundland,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO. “There are large areas to cover for the SAR teams in the area. The addition of the helicopter detector will hopefully have an improved impact on the search and rescue missions in these regions year-round.”

The RECCO helicopter system is used to search for missing people outdoors year-round. The helicopter detector can quickly search large areas, covering a square kilometer in six minutes. Along with helping reduce search times for missing people, the helicopter-based detector can reduce the time and risk exposure for rescue workers during missions.

“The system is a real-life saving device, and I can see where it would enhance our search capabilities by enabling us to search larger areas in a fraction of the time it would take on the ground,” said Darren Williams, Team Leader of Deer Lake SAR. “In our training session, we detected the lost hiker even before we had a visual on them. Great piece of equipment and should be incorporated in all search and rescue efforts.”

The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector system was launched in 2016, drastically expanding the system’s applications from avalanche scenarios to year-round search and rescue missions.  The helicopter detector makes it easier to search for all outdoor enthusiasts including hikers, runners, cyclists and hunters by allowing searchers to comb through larger areas more efficiently.

To be searchable by professional rescue teams, one must be equipped with a RECCO rescue reflector. Reflectors are integrated into apparel, helmets, backpacks, running vests, shoes and climbing harnesses by more than 150 brand partners. Reflectors are also available as stand-alone products to be attached to a helmet or a backpack or worn as a belt.

Currently, there are 38 RECCO SAR Helicopter Detectors globally, with 13 located in North America and 25 units deployed across Europe.

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

– X X X –

 

Washington, D.C. (Dec. 19, 2024) — Following a 10-year advocacy campaign to modernize outdoor recreation policy, today the U.S. Senate passed by unanimous consent the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, a first-of-its-kind bipartisan package that improves outdoor recreation on America’s public lands and waters. The EXPLORE Act passed the U.S. House earlier this year. It will now go to the president’s desk for signature.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the passage of the EXPLORE Act today,” said Adam Cramer, CEO of Outdoor Alliance, one of the organizations that envisioned and advocated for the EXPLORE Act. “We are deeply grateful to the many champions of outdoor recreation who made this possible, including Senator Manchin, Senator Barrasso, Representative Westerman, and Senator Wyden, whose leadership laid the groundwork for this recreation package. The EXPLORE Act will significantly enhance outdoor recreation on our public lands, which is especially vital as participation continues to grow each year.”

“The passage of EXPLORE sends a clear message that outdoor recreation and our public lands are bipartisan priorities,” Cramer said. “Signing this bill into law represents a meaningful investment in our shared outdoor heritage and the vibrant outdoor recreation economy it sustains. We look forward to continuing to advocate for the protection and enhancement of outdoor recreation and public lands for generations to come. And we are very grateful to members of the public who took the time and effort to let their representatives know how important it was to them to pass this meaningful legislation. That helped make the difference.”

Highlights of the bill include:

• The Biking on Long Distance Trails Act (BOLT Act) identifies and creates more long-distance bike trails
• The Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act (PARC Act) safeguards Wilderness climbing
• The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act (SOAR Act) improves recreational permitting for outfitters and guides
• Codifies FICOR and the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership, which funds parks and green spaces in neighborhoods that need it most

A new report released recently from the  U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) shows outdoor recreation in the U.S. generating $1.2 trillion in economic output (2.3% of GDP) and 5 million jobs. With outdoor participation growing, the EXPLORE Act will take important steps to expand and improve outdoor recreation opportunities, including improving access, creating more trails, and protecting the outdoors.

“As outdoor recreation grows in popularity, we need more tools to get people outside safely and responsibly. The EXPLORE Act will streamline the federal recreational permitting process to enable more people to experience the outdoors through organized group experiences facilitated by outdoor leaders and educators,” said Tom Vogl, CEO of The Mountaineers. “The Mountaineers is thrilled to see Congress pass the EXPLORE Act, and is grateful to Representative Westerman and Senators Manchin and Barrasso for their leadership to help connect more people to their public lands and waters.”

To learn more about Outdoor Alliance and their work, please visit www.outdooralliance.org.

About Outdoor Alliance

Outdoor Alliance is the only organization in the U.S. that unites the voices of outdoor enthusiasts to conserve public lands. A nonprofit coalition comprised of 10 national advocacy organizations, Outdoor Alliance’s members include American Whitewater, American Canoe Association, Access Fund, International Mountain Bicycling Association, Winter Wildlands Alliance, the Mountaineers, the American Alpine Club, the Mazamas, the Colorado Mountain Club, and the Surfrider Foundation. By working with its member coalitions and helping mobilize the involvement of individuals to protect public lands and waters, OA helps ensure public lands are managed in a way that embraces the human-powered experience. Outdoor Alliance — conservation powered by outdoor recreation. Learn more at OutdoorAlliance.org.

 

##