Archives: Press Releases

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. and CARRBORO, N.C. (April 9, 2025) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores, today announced the opening of its newest store in Jacksonville, N.C., on April 16. Fleet Feet Jacksonville is located at 1154 Western Blvd., in the Westwood Village Shopping Center. This marks the third Fleet Feet store for franchise owner Michelle Fogle.

Fogle opened her first Fleet Feet store at the Forum Shopping Center in Wilmington 10 years ago, followed by a second Wilmington location two years ago. Her stores have seen impressive growth, expanding from a staff of five to 42 employees. Fleet Feet Wilmington has trained more than 350 community members for races ranging from 5Ks to marathons, and hosts two popular fun run groups with more than 250 participants.

“Fleet Feet is more than just a running store—we’re a place where people come to find solutions, achieve their goals and connect with a supportive community,” says Fogle. “Jacksonville is a thriving city, and I’m excited to bring Fleet Feet’s personalized outfitting experience to this area.”

Fleet Feet Jacksonville will celebrate its grand opening on May 10 with a community run, raffle giveaways, and gifts with purchase. The store will feature a curated selection of performance footwear, apparel and accessories from top brands like Brooks, New Balance, Vuori and rabbit. Customers will have access to Fleet Feet’s exclusive fit id® outfitting process, which uses 3D foot scanning technology to assess foot shape and gait for a customized shoe fitting experience.

Conveniently located in Jacksonville’s bustling Western Blvd. shopping corridor, Fleet Feet Jacksonville will serve as a hub for the local running and walking community. While training programs will not launch immediately, the store plans to introduce group runs and community events in the future.

“Michelle has built a reputation for outstanding service and community engagement,” says John Moloznik, vice president of franchise operations and development at Fleet Feet. Her dedication to helping customers move comfortably, combined with her proven success in Wilmington, makes her the perfect leader to bring Fleet Feet’s personalized experience to Jacksonville.”

Fogle’s commitment to community extends beyond her stores. She actively supports charitable organizations in the Cape Fear region, with a focus on youth enrichment, military families and individuals experiencing housing instability. Her four-year-old daughter, Harper, is already a familiar face at Fleet Feet fun runs, enthusiastically pulling raffle tickets and dreaming of working alongside her mother one day.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jacksonville residents into the Fleet Feet family,” says Fogle. “Whether you’re training for a race, looking for all-day comfort or just starting your fitness journey, we’re here to help you find your perfect fit.”

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®.

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.

 

 

 

Talamona, Italy (April 8, 2025) – MET Helmets, the Italian-based helmet manufacturer founded in 1987, is unveiling three new mountain bike styles for Spring/Summer 2025 with a focus on superior ventilation, safety, comfort, and design. The marquee helmet in the lineup, which launched in mid-March, is the new MET Revo helmet (MSRP: $239 USD | CAD$300), meticulously crafted to elevate ventilation and safety standards beyond its predecessor, the MET Roam. The new Revo takes safety one step further with the acknowledgment that safety is never static. This evolution is achieved by combining linear and rotational impact standards, the Revo helmet design has been optimized to perform across a range of impact energies.

The trio of helmets were tested in MET’s proprietary in-house wind tunnel—The Tube—which creates the ability for the team to refine and advance the ventilation performance of its helmets. The Revo’s internal ventilation channels deliver a 23.5% increase in cooling efficiency compared to its predecessor. The shell of the Revo also has more impact-tested coverage around the two most sensitive brain areas: the back and the temples. The helmet is tested at 21% more impact speed and can dissipate up to 43% more impact energy, adding 10% extra impact-tested coverage in these two areas.

MET Revo Helmet Features & Specifications (images here)

New mountain bike helmet for trail, enduro, and E-MTB featuring Mips AIR

• Safety: Mips AIR rotational management system: reduces rotational impact forces; 5-star Virginia Tech rating and NTA 8776 certification*; extended back head and temple coverage; certifications: NTA 8776 | CE | US | AS-NZ
• Strap fastening system: A Fidlock magnetic buckle makes securing the helmet simple, even while wearing gloves.
• Adjustable visor: Features a safety-release system that makes the visor detach in case of a crash; flexible, preventing changes to the helmet’s position on the head during impacts.
• Comfort: Safe-T Heta fit system for a precise, comfortable fit that offers exceptional balance and stability on the head; 360-degree head belt and 3 vertical adjustments ensure no pressure points on the skull and easy adjustment.
• Ventilation: Improvement of 23% compared to its predecessor; 23 vents; internal, engineered air channeling system.
• Materials: In-mould polycarbonate shell with EPS liner; strap anchors embedded in the EPS shell.
• Weight: 390g (size M) | Sizes: S (52-56cm) | M (56-58cm) | L (58-61cm)

The other two mountain bike styles launching this year are the Shelter helmet (embargoed until May 6; MSRP: $100 USD | CAD$120) and the Terrae helmet (embargoed until June 25; MSRP: $160 USD | CAD$200).

The Shelter helmet (images here) was designed to offer an accessible, affordable, and versatile option for the everyday mountain biker, welcoming more riders to elevate their riding experience with confidence and style. The Shelter is lightweight and well-ventilated and thanks to the internal air channeling, it stays comfortable on the head. The visor is designed to seamlessly integrate into the helmet shell and it features the MIPS® brain protection system, allowing the helmet to slide relative to the head in case of a crash, redirecting damaging rotational motion.

The Terrae helmet (images here) offers a perfect balance of quality and value, with advanced ventilation, impact testing, and a lightweight design, offering more riders the same level of performance and protection found in top-of-the-line helmets. NTA-certified for superior impact energy dissipation, the Terrae provides added protection for the back and temples. The Safe-T Heta 360° retention system ensures a secure, customizable fit, preventing discomfort on long rides while staying stable on rough terrain.

The Revo helmet is available now from select retailers throughout North America, and the Shelter and Terrae helmets will launch later this year. All three new styles will be on display at Sea Otter (booth #Y63) – swing by the MET booth to check them out!

To learn more about MET Helmets, please visit: www.met-helmets.com/.

*The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab tested the MET Revo and it received the highest rating of 5 stars. The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab provides an objective assessment of helmet safety. It gives a rating based on both linear and rotational impact energies, going above and beyond the state of the art of helmet safety standards. The NTA 8776 is the only safety standard created for speed e-bikes. Being NTA-certified, the MET Revo can dissipate significantly more impact energy.

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About MET Helmets

Founded in 1987, MET offers the most comprehensive cycling helmet range on the market to protect all bike riders, regardless of discipline, age, or budget. Designed to provide top-tier protection, comfort, and style for riders of all levels, MET combines cutting-edge technology, advanced materials, and sleek design to create helmets that deliver superior performance for both competitive athletes and everyday cyclists. With a focus on innovation and safety, whether racing, mountain biking, or commuting, MET Helmets ensures you ride with confidence, knowing you’re protected by world-class engineering. For more information, please visit www.met-helmets.com.

Beginning in July 2021, MET Helmets established a partnership with Quality Bicycle Products (QBP) as its exclusive U.S. distributor, to deliver cyclists with greater access to MET and Bluegrass helmets in both the best shops and top-tier online retailers in the U.S. QBP’s unparalleled market reach and strategic focus on premium brands will firmly establish MET Helmets as a must-have brand in the U.S. cycling market over the next decade.

Media Contact: Verde Brand Communications | Alexa McRoberts | alexa@verdepr.com | 717.808.9653

 

 

COALVILLE, Utah (April 8, 2024) — Escapod, manufacturer of high-performance off-road teardrop trailers, today launches the TOPO2 MTB, the world’s first purpose-built camper designed specifically for mountain bikers. This innovative, all-season trailer combines Escapod’s award-winning design with specialized features tailored for cyclists, creating the ultimate easy-to-tow base camper for adventure on two wheels.

Escapod will unveil the TOPO2 MTB at the Sea Otter Classic this weekend (April 10-13) in Monterey, Calif., at booth S9.

Building on the success of Escapod’s unique TOPO2 trailer, which offers an ultra-durable, patented single-piece molded fiberglass body and a proprietary high-clearance suspension system for overland travel, Escapod built out a new trailer model outfitted for the comprehensive needs of mountain and gravel bikers.  At the heart of the design is Escapod’s custom-designed Switchback Hitch, a swing-away hitch that allows full galley access on the back of the trailer, even when it’s loaded with two bikes. It locks securely in three positions for stability off-road or at camp.

The Switchback Hitch features a bull bar,  RotopaX mount, and a Feedback Sports Mechanic Clamp, making trail-side maintenance quick and easy. Also integrated is Küat’s new Piston ION E-bike Rack – also debuting and Sea Otter –which is ready to transport any pair of e-bikes up to 80 lbs. and rated for RV use. Similar to the TOPO2, the ION is over-engineered for reliable use in rough conditions to make it easier to access the best places to ride.

A Feedback Sports Team Edition Tool Kit is integrated into the galley on the rear of the trailer, while a Feedback Sports Slide Lock Clamp Head attaches to the bull bar, making trail-side maintenance a breeze.

“Mountain biking — and being able to easily access all kinds of rugged places to ride — is what led my wife Jen and I to create the Escapod brand in the first place,” said Chris Hudak, Founder of Escapod. “We built out the very first model a decade ago to fuel our own weekend mountain biking adventures, and that design inspired us to start a company. So building out the TOPO2 MTB is in many ways coming full circle for us. This is more than just a comfortable place to sleep — it’s the ultimate mobile base camp for riding.”

In addition to all the bike-specific components, the TOPO2 MTB’s features include:

• A highly insulated and heated design that keeps users warm in cold weather and cool in hot climates. The design also protects a 21-gallon water system and lithium batteries from cold temperatures and freezing.
• After a long day of riding, cyclists can refresh themselves using the outdoor shower, or wash off their bikes after a muddy ride, perfectly complementing the camper’s thoughtful design.
• The galley on the back serves dual purposes with a full kitchen, stove and a fridge or cooler, and excellent storage for kitchen tools, as well as easily accessed organization for bike tools.
• The proprietary Freeride suspension has 23 inches of ground clearance for handling the roughest terrain with ease. That’s ultra-important for accessing backcountry campsites in an era when established campgrounds are often booked far in advance.
• The patented single-piece molded fiberglass body design is ultralight, extremely durable and has exceptional usable space for such a compact, easy-to-tow package. The TOPO2 can be towed by most small trucks and SUVs.
• The compact TOPO2 MTB easily fits in a garage bay, making it the ultimate tool for quick urban escapes — particularly important in situations where there are HOA restrictions or storage space is otherwise at a premium.

The Escapod TOPO2 MTB comes fully equipped and starts at $53,990; learn more about this model, other Escapod trailers, and testing opportunities at escapod.us. 

About Escapod

Escapod Trailers builds high-performance off-road teardrop trailers designed for adventure seekers who crave freedom and exploration. Using advanced fiberglass molding for a durable, lightweight body and the patented Freeride Suspension System for superior off-road handling, Escapods are built to tackle any terrain. With an industry-leading 5-year warranty, our trailers offer unmatched durability, while their compact size and easy towing capabilities make them just as convenient on the road or when fitting into your garage. Built in Utah, Escapod is more than just a trailer — it’s an invitation to join a community of adventurers, ready to explore wherever the journey takes you. 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. (April 8, 2025) – United by a shared value for climbing access and conservation, Access Fund and Wild Country are coming together for a limited edition product collaboration to help raise awareness and funds to protect climbing areas in the U.S.—ensuring a future where climbing areas are open, protected and accessible to all. Access Fund x Wild Country Rope Tarp, Flow Backpack and Spotter Boulder Bag are available at select REI locations and online at REI.com starting today.

The limited edition product capsule celebrates iconic climbing destinations that Access Fund has helped protect. The unique design features level lines from Eldorado Canyon in Colorado, Joe’s Valley in Utah and Index in Washington. A portion of proceeds from product sales will go directly to Access Fund, protecting climbing destinations for climbers today and for future generations.

“Partnering with Wild Country has allowed us to combine our resources and expertise to make a tangible impact on the preservation of climbing environments,” said Heather Thorne, Executive Director of Access Fund. “Together, we want to foster a culture of stewardship that benefits both the climbing community and the natural world.”​

Wild Country has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality climbing gear while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and pure climbing. Their dedication to preserving the natural landscapes that climbers cherish aligns seamlessly with the mission of Access Fund.​ Access Fund has been at the forefront of climbing advocacy since it was founded in 1991. Their work includes policy and advocacy, land acquisition and protection, stewardship education and conservation, and support for a network of over 120 local climbing organizations.

“At Wild Country, we believe it’s not enough to make gear that gets you to the top. We have a responsibility to protect the places we play,” says Stefan Zublasing, Wild Country Brand Manager. “The Access Fund’s work is crucial in an era where outdoor spaces face increasing threats. Their work makes a real difference—from safeguarding climbing areas like Castleton Tower in Utah to maintaining access to beloved crags across the country. We deeply appreciate the vital role they play, and we’re honored to support their mission.”

For more information about the collaboration or to learn more about Wild Country and Access Fund, please visit Wildcountry.com or Accessfund.org.

About Access Fund

Access Fund is the national advocacy organization that leads and inspires the climbing community toward sustainable access and conservation of the climbing environment. Access Fund represents more than 8 million climbers nationwide in its work to protect and conserve the land, fight for sustainable access, and build a community of inspired advocates. Access Fund staff has more than 100 years of public policy and advocacy experience and has permanently protected nearly 4 million acres of public land across the country and established climbers as a powerful voice in the fight to protect public lands. For more information, visit accessfund.org.

About Wild Country

Wild Country is the brandchild of UK-based climber Mark Vallace. It was set up to manufacture what has become the most famous piece of rock climbing gear of all time: the Friend. And from this iconic piece of gear, also the core value was born – friendship.

Wild Country offers climbers the greatest possible freedom in their vertical activities with its technical climbing products. Because passionate climbers around the world invest in their climbing projects, the brand in turn invests in its products to help the community feel safe and understood in every climbing situation. What drives Wild Country is the ambition, energy, and expertise of  “pure climbing“ that is also reflected in the way their items are manufactured. For more information, visit Wildcountry.com.

April 8, 2025 – Boulder, CO – Skratch Labs, the Boulder-based leader in performance nutrition, debuts its newest flavor: Cinnamon + Oatmeal Energy Bar. Created to power athletes through long training sessions and recovery days alike, this bar delivers steady, sustained energy from a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. With warm cinnamon, toasted oats, and creamy almond butter, it blends comfort and performance in one deliciously functional fuel—just sweet enough, with a touch of spice.

Backed by science and made from real food, Skratch Labs’ Energy Bar Sport Fuel features a clean macronutrient profile: 33 grams of carbs, 6 grams of fat, and 4 grams of protein, with significantly less added sugar than most leading bars. Each 200-calorie bar is gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, kosher, and non-GMO, made with a simple ingredient list that includes oats, almond butter, tapioca syrup, coconut nectar, raisins, cinnamon, and sea salt. With a soft, cookie-like texture and craveable flavor, it’s easy to enjoy, whether mid-effort or in between.

“At Skratch Labs, we use real food to solve real problems,” states Mellisa Allen, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “Our team is dedicated to developing flavors that fuel performance, satisfy the palate, and are easy to enjoy—on the go or during a session. With the Cinnamon + Oatmeal Energy Bar, we made sure it has the right level of moisture so athletes can focus on their hard efforts, not hard-to-swallow fuel. It delivers the familiar taste of cinnamon-spiced oatmeal, minus the bowl.”

Cinnamon + Oatmeal joins three other Energy Bar Sport Fuel flavors: Raspberry + Lemon, Peanut Butter + Chocolate, and Cherry + Pistachio. It is available in a 12-serving pack for $29.95 or a single serving for $2.65. Athletes may purchase the Cinnamon + Oatmeal Energy Bar directly at skratchlabs.com, select retailers, Amazon, The Feed, and the Skratch Labs Cafe in Boulder, CO.

For more information on Skratch Labs, the Skratch Cafe, and the latest product releases and innovations, please contact Tim Nooney at tim@darbycommunications.com.

About Skratch Labs:

Born in Boulder, CO, in 2012, Skratch Labs is a performance nutrition innovator who helps athletes be better. Founded by two cycling pros who spent years on the Pro Cycling Tour watching teammates consume bad-tasting sports nutrition products that caused digestion issues, they created a “secret drink mix” composed of real sugar, salt, and fruit powder mixed in a 5-gallon paint bucket for their team. More than a decade later, Skratch Labs’ approach is the same: help athletes perform better by solving their nutrition problems without causing new ones, using real food ingredients. You can learn more at Skratch Labs, follow on social, join Skratch Labs’ Strava Club, enroll in the affiliate program, or visit the Cafe and Flagship Store.