Archives: Press Releases

Strategic alignment focuses on reducing waste, keeping products performing at their best.

[Seattle, WA, Aug. 28, 2023]— Nikwax, the international leader in technical cleaners and waterproofing products for outdoor gear and apparel, has joined forces with 686 to provide its fans with safe and effective ways to keep their gear performing at its best over the life of the garment.

“As part of our commitment to sustainability, we’re responsible for making sure the goods we produce perform to their fullest potential for the longest time possible. A dedicated partnership with Nikwax supports this commitment. Their PFAS-free aftercare products empower our fans with simple solutions to extend the performing lifetimes of their 686 outerwear investments, while doing so in an environmentally responsible way that aligns with our key sustainability pillars. We’re looking forward to educating our fans about these solutions and bringing product care to the forefront,” said Jake Moyer, Customer Experience Manager at 686.

With proper care and maintenance, apparel lasts longer and performs better, all while minimizing environmental impact. The partnership highlights 686’s understanding that sustainability is not a destination but a way of behaving to lessen its impact on the planet. To kick off the partnership, this fall, 686 will be offering free samples of Tech Wash to fans purchasing through its site during the initial launch of its 23/24 outerwear collection. Additionally, 686 will be using products, education, and assets provided by Nikwax to ensure the best possible product care experience for every fan.

“Helping outdoor gear perform better and last as long as possible is the foundation of our business,” says Brian Davidson, President of Nikwax North America. “Since our founding in 1977, we have focused on developing easy-to-use, high-performing, PFAS-free solutions that help people extend the life of their outdoor clothing, footwear, and gear. We are thrilled to partner with 686 on educating their customers about the importance of product care.”

 

About Nikwax.

Founded in 1977, Nikwax is the trusted global leader in environmentally safe cleaning and waterproofing solutions that extend the performance life of outdoor clothing, footwear, and equipment. The brand also supplies top-performing PFAS-free hydrophobic down and DWR applications for outdoor brands. Nikwax’s 45-year commitment to clean chemistry means never using PFAS or aerosols, and not testing on animals. Its product line is water-based and non-persistent, and all product bottles and lids are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic that can also be recycled. Nikwax has carbon balanced all 45 years of its operations and became an employee-owned trust in 2022. For media inquiries and more information, please contact Kate Ketschek at Revolution House Media, kate@revolutionhousemedia.com.

 

About 686.

Born in the city and raised in the mountains, 686 is a direct product of a thirst for innovation combined with an open mind constantly searching for a way to alter the outcome of the future. Everything we do is based around people, passion and purpose with the goal to build the best performance products for our active-minded community. 686 is an independent, minority owned and Climate Neutral Certified technical apparel brand with deep roots in Snowboarding and Skiing for over 30 years. Discover & follow — @686.

LOS ANGELES (Aug 24, 2023) – 686, the independent snowboard, ski and technical apparel brand, introduces the Unwork collection, a progressive take on classic workwear, providing seamless transition between work environments and individual passions. The new collection introduces a jacket and pant designed and tested with movement, durability and breathability in mind.

“We wanted to create a collection that reimagines what ‘work’ means to the modern man,” said Founder and CEO, Michael Akira West. “Our brand is about blurring lines – there are no borders in terms of what we do. Our goal is to unwork the mentality that you need multiple products to do multiple activities. We believe it is possible for a single pant to seamlessly transition between work, life and play.”

The Unwork Pant provides just the right blend of durability and movement in a stretch fabric that is 33% more durable than 686’s famed Everywhere Pant fabric. Durable 500 denier nylon tear zones are added into the pockets, belt loops and the rear leg opening hem. With an 11-pocket design, the Unwork Pant is perfect for stowing everyday-carry essentials, and additionally offers a side hammer loop, a zippered mesh pocket and reinforced 500 denier pocket internals for abrasion resistance. A durable water repellent (DWR) finish offers water repellency, and all seams are sewn with Duracore™ thread for added durability. The Unwork pant is available in both slim and relaxed styles (MSRP $139.95). For more information regarding the Unwork Pant or 686, please visit https://www.686.com/collections/the-unwork-collection.

The Unwork Jacket is a traditional workwear silhouette with shank button closures, a corduroy collar, and reinforced 500 denier nylon finished tear zones including the external pockets. The jacket is finished with a DWR exterior coating and utilizes the same lightweight performance-based merino wool blend interior that 686 uses in their outerwear (MSRP $179.95).

To support the Unwork collection, 686 enlisted a team of athletes and creatives who spend as much time on the jobsite as they do on their boards, bikes, adventures and art. Professional skier Parker White, snowboarder Keegan Hosefros, photographer and adventurer Tyler Ravelle, ceramicist Daniel Dooreck of Danny D’s Mudshop, and freeride mountain biker Brady Tweedy have put the Unwork pant to the test during both work and play and will be seen prominently wearing Unwork starting today. To see the enlisted team in action, follow along through their individual social channels or 686 social channels.

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About 686

Born in the city and raised in the mountains, 686 is a direct product of a thirst for innovation combined with an open mind constantly searching for a way to alter the outcome of the future. Everything we do is based around people, passion and purpose with the goal to build the best performance products for our active-minded community. 686 is an independent, minority owned and Climate Neutral Certified technical apparel brand with deep roots in Snowboarding and Skiing for over 30 years. Discover & follow — @686

 

 

 

 

Bainbridge Island, WA – August 23, 2023 – Ignik, the outdoor heating brand on a mission to help people stay comfortable outside longer, is proud to debut the MTN Collection in collaboration with artist and Canadian Backcountry guide, Jessa Gilbert. This new collection features Gilbert’s artwork on Ignik’s best-selling and award-winning products, the Gas Growler Deluxe, Backside Heated Seat Pads, and the brand’s upcoming Topside Heated Blanket.

Ignik’s MTN Collection celebrates the brand’s ethos of inspiring others to live adventurously, while sharing the importance of protecting our planet with the next generation. Gilbert’s custom design features a continuous line style of flowing mountains that emulates  experiences of exploring and finding the beauty in our surroundings with the ones we love – a passion that both the artist and the brand share. Ignik was born out of a multi-generational family sailing trip through the Arctic, and since its beginnings, the brand has created innovative and sustainable heating products that help outdoor enthusiasts and their families stay comfortable so they can get outside together all year long.

“At the end of the day, we are just ski bums at heart, and whether we are crammed into an RV chasing the next winter storm or just weekend warriors dragging the kids out for one more run, we know that staying warm and comfortable is key to keeping everyone stoked,” says Ignik’s Creative Director Brandon Ramirez. “Ignik’s MTN Collection is designed to celebrate those who are continually drawn to the mountains, much like us, and are determined to pass down the outdoor lifestyle that we love to our kids. Let’s raise our families to roam with us on our adventures and stay outside longer!”

“Every painting or drawing becomes a representation and interpretation of an experience with the outdoors,” says Gilbert. “I love collaborating with brands like Ignik who have a compelling story and inspiring initiatives. I love using the products because they give me the ability and comfort to do what I do best, which is creating artwork from experiences outside, so it’s really a beautiful collaboration.”

The MTN Collection Topside Heated Blanket (MSRP: $199.99), Backside Heated Seat Pad (MSRP: $99.99), and Backside Heated Pad XL (MSRP: $129.99) will be available in September 2023 at ignik.com, REI, and other retailers. The Gas Growler Deluxe (MSRP: $149.99) will be released in the MTN Collection later this Fall. To learn more, visit Ignik.com or contact Stacy Kline at stacy@darbycommunications.com.

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About Ignik

Our journey started on a family sailboat in the Arctic, where we saw the impact of climate change and human jetsam on the landscapes we love. We decided to “be the change” by creating products that actually work—and work for the planet. Today Ignik makes high-quality, environmentally thoughtful heating products for the wilderness. We enable more folks to get outside earlier and remain outside longer. Ignik is a proud member of 1% for the Planet. For more information, visit Ignik.com.

WALTHAM, MA (August 22, 2023) – Running toward a more sustainable future, global performance running lifestyle brand Saucony today announced a major step in its sustainability journey — a goal that 90% of its products will contain organic, recycled or renewable materials by 2025, with 100% by 2030. Underlining this commitment, the brand is making an immediate impact to reduce its environmental footprint with the launch of the Triumph RFG (Run For Good), Saucony’s most sustainable shoe to date. The all-new Triumph RFG brings together plant-based dyes in the upper with a 55% corn-based PWRRUN BIO+™ midsole foam to help limit the dependence on plastic; a major contributor to negative environmental impact. The 80% natural rubber outsole is engineered to offer the same level of performance as a synthetic sole. The Triumph RFG will be available September 5 at saucony.com and select retailers globally.

“This year, as we celebrate Saucony’s 125^th anniversary, we look back on how creating a better world has always been part of our deep-rooted heritage,” said Rob Griffiths, Saucony global brand president. “At Saucony, we say that when we innovate, we elevate — the industry, our partners and the sport. But quite simply, the future of our sport depends on the future of our planet, and we know we can do better for ourselves and the earth. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. That means as a member of the global community, it is imperative that we are constantly innovating, researching, and committing to our promise to find more sustainable options. We believe there is no finish line when it comes to sustainability; we are dedicated to pushing ourselves and the industry to do better.”

Over the years, Saucony has implemented a variety of projects on its sustainability journey, including the launch of its Spring 2020 apparel line — nearly 100% of styles were made in part with organic, recycled or renewable materials.. In 2021, the brand launched the Jazz Court RFG, crafted using only seven natural materials and zero plastic; it became Saucony’s most eco-friendly shoe at the time, delivering on the brand’s long-term goal of excluding virgin plastic from their products. Further, in 2022, Saucony became the first running brand to collaborate with Cycora by Ambercycle^™, creating performance running tops made from 23% Cycora material, a regenerated polyester sourced from textile waste that would otherwise have ended up in landfills.

“What we use to make our footwear and apparel has a big impact on our environmental footprint – that’s why we focus on natural and recycled materials that reduce the need for synthetic chemicals and harmful production processes,” said Brian Moore, senior vice president of global product for Saucony. “Sustainability and running performance don’t always go hand-in-hand and runners who care about the environment shouldn’t have to make a choice. The Triumph RFG is proof that sustainability and performance can work in tandem with the added goal of ensuring that the product remains affordable for the consumer. Saucony continues to make progress in its sustainability journey, and the Triumph RFG is just one of many Saucony styles to be reimagined with the future of the planet at the forefront.”

As part of its sustainability strategy, Saucony has initiated the RFG Standard, a baseline measurement that indicates if a product meets the brand’s sustainability goals while continuing to deliver on the performance consumers need. A product that meets those standards, such as the Triumph RFG, earns the RFG Badge.

Triumph RFG Features

• PWRRUN BIO+ cushioning is 55% corn based, limiting dependence on plastic
• PWRRUN BIO+ sockliner; made to perform with PWRRUN+ sockliner for added comfort
• Durable gum rubber outsole is made from 80% natural rubber
• Breathable mesh upper made of cotton using plant-based dyes
• Soft collar and padded tongue for 360 degree fit and feel
• Category: Neutral
• Heel-to-toe Offset: 10mm (37mm heel/27mm forefoot)
• Weight: Men’s 10.4oz. (295g), Women’s 9.7oz (275g)
• Sustainability: This style is vegan and contains recycled materials

Pricing and Sizing

The Triumph RFG is available in men’s sizes 7-13, and 14 and 15, and women’s sizes 5-12 at a suggested retail price of $160.00. To find a Saucony retailer near you, call 800-365-4933 or visit here.

About Saucony: Saucony, the ‘Original Running Brand’ and a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NYSE: WWW), is a leading global performance running brand that fuses innovation, style and culture. Widely recognized for award-winning technologies including PWRRUN™ PB, PWRRUN+™, and SPEEDROLL™, Saucony creates innovative technical and lifestyle footwear and apparel across Road, Trail and Originals. Founded in 1898, Saucony exists to inspire and enable people to live a better  life through running culture, self-expression and their impact on the world. For more information, visit www.saucony.com.

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Ashland, Ore. (August 21, 2023) — Following an extensive search, outdoor headwear brand Sunday Afternoons is thrilled to announce the
appointment of Patrick Mahaffey as its new chief executive officer.

Mahaffey joins the family-owned brand with extensive sales, operations, and leadership experience. Most recently, Mahaffey held the position of president at Good Life, Inc. during a period of dynamic growth for the company. His experience driving profitability and sustainable growth will bring an added layer of expertise to Sunday Afternoons.

In addition to his tenure at Good Life, Inc., Mahaffey’s professional journey includes leadership positions such as head of growth at
True North, CEO of Room 5, Inc., and CTO and co-founder of Mindbox, Inc.

Outgoing CEO Sarah Sameh, who has successfully led the brand over her almost decade-long tenure, expressed her confidence in Mahaffey’s ability to lead the brand to new heights. “Patrick possesses exceptional leadership abilities and an understanding of what it takes to grow and develop a close-knit, values-driven team,” Sameh noted. “As we embark on this exciting next chapter, I have deep gratitude for my time at Sunday Afternoons and am dedicated to supporting Patrick as he steers the company into a very bright future.”

Under Sameh’s leadership, Sunday Afternoons experienced a 400% increase in net sales, a 140% increase in major wholesale accounts, and doubled its staff, as well as a notable expansion of its global network, now operating in 65 countries worldwide. Sameh has decided to retire as CEO and focus her energy on corporate governance and more time with family and friends.

Mahaffey will join the Southern Oregon company during a time of continued innovation and growth.

“Joining Sunday Afternoons is truly exhilarating, particularly at a time when the company is fortified by the financial success, impressive patent portfolio, global philanthropy, and sustainability roadmap that Sarah has shepherded,” Mahaffey said. “I am both privileged and excited to collaborate with such a dynamic, devoted, and inspired team. The culture at Sunday Afternoons champions collaboration, innovation, giving back, and growth, all while maintaining a love of the outdoors throughout the journey.”

In addition to his corporate accomplishments, Mahaffey’s career includes service in the U.S. Navy, where he was stationed at SEAL Team One as a combat swimmer. A proud native Oregonian, his passion for team development, the great outdoors and human performance fuel his dedication to excellence.

About Sunday Afternoons, Inc.
A global leader in technical hats that offer superior protection from the elements, Sunday Afternoons has been redefining what headwear can do for 30 years. Oregon based and family owned, the company offers a year-round collection specializing in UPF 50+ sun protection, patented performance technologies, innovative features, classic styling, and lightweight materials. Founded in 1992, Sunday Afternoons first launched with the Original Adventure Blanket™, followed by the Original Adventure Hat™—initially created from blanket remnants—which today remains one of the most popular styles in the Sunday Afternoons collection. With a presence in 65 countries globally, the company is rooted in its love of the outdoors and strives to promote and support natural spaces, wild places, and endeavors that celebrate being outside. For more information, visit
www.sundayafternoons.com.

Leadville, Colo., (Sunday, August 20, 2023) – Celebrating its 40th year, the world-famous Leadville Trail 100 Run presented by La Sportiva race returned to Leadville this weekend, the pinnacle finale event of the 2023 Leadville Race Series. Event owner and producer, Life Time (NYSE: LTH) welcomed a field of more than 700 runners ranging in age from 18 to 72 years old, representing 49 states and 30 countries.

The Leadville Trail 100 Run launched in 1983, supported by founders Ken Chlouber and Merilee Maupin and captivated the endurance sports community from its inception. The creation of the race was intended to bring economic impact back to Leadville’s struggling community following the closure of the Climax Mine, which left nearly the entire town unemployed. The inaugural race saw 45 intrepid runners take on the challenge. Of those participants, only 15 managed to complete the grueling 100-mile course within the 30-hour time limit, highlighting the formidable nature of the event. The inaugural year of the Leadville Trail 100 Run laid the foundation for the race’s legacy, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring feats of endurance and Grit, Guts, and Determination.

The famed course challenges runners with over 15,000 feet of net gain, topping out at 12,532 feet across Hope Pass. Runners toed the start line at 4 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19 with the ultimate goal of completing the 100-mile “Race Across the Sky” in under 30 hours, which would earn them the coveted belt buckle. Saturday’s warm temperatures resulted in a 44% overall finisher rate.

“There was so much enthusiasm out there on the course – the runners, the volunteers, the crew, you just get a big boost every time you go by, it was contagious, and gorgeous, and very painful,” said Mannhard. “It was just amazing out there. This is my dream come true, it just happened today!”

“I was feeling pretty good for the first 13 miles and then I hit a really low spot, stuff wasn’t sitting, my stomach was bad, and I really thought this wasn’t going to be my day. I seriously thought about cutting it,” said Giblin. “Then, I met my hero out there, Rob Krar who is the guy who started me in this sport. He inspired me, he came up and he patted me on the back and said, “let’s go man,” and he saved my race. It was really special. After that I turned the corner and started feeling good and thought, “I’m going to win this.”

Women’s Leadville Trail 100 Run presented by La Sportiva Race Results

Name	City	Age	Time
Jacquie Mannhard	Boulder, Colo.	39	21:24:55
Lucie Hanes	Eagle, Colo.	29	23:16:51
Madeline Wighardt	Ancaster, Canada	22	23:32:57

 

Men’s Leadville Trail 100 Run presented by La Sportiva Race Results

Name	City	Age	Time
JP Giblin	Boulder, Colo.	29	17:07:25
Luke Paulson	Asheville, N.C.	31	17:47:55
Scott Traer	Woburn, Mass.	42	17:54:12

 

To view all race results from the Leadville Trail 100 Run presented by La Sportiva, please visit: Athlinks. To see how the race unfolded check out the Leadville Race Series Instagram and Twitter.

“Our 40th anniversary of the Race Across the Sky was nothing short of spectacular, inspiring, and a fair shake of grueling,” said Tamira Jenlink, Race Director. “The athletes tackled the heat, the climbs, and miles upon miles of everything Leadville has to offer. As always, they dug deep, persevered, and ultimately rose to the challenge with all their heart, courage, and commitment. Thank you all tremendously for both joining us in the celebration of our 40th year, and for yet another incredible season!”

This year, 90 total Foundation Athletes raised money for the Life Time Foundation during these two 100-mile races. All donations go towards a general fund to support grants and programming delivered nationally and locally in Leadville. Additionally, Leadville-local Rodrigo Jimenez was this year’s Dream Chaser, a fundraiser that raises money for the LT100 Legacy Foundation. Rodrigo started 2.5 hours after all of the other runners and passed as many runners as he could – the more people he passed; the more money raised.

The final running event on the Leadville Race Series is the Austin Rattler Run in Texas on Nov. 4. To view all Life Time athletic events, please visit: https://my.lifetime.life/athletic-events.html

The Life Time Leadville Trail 100 Run presented by La Sportiva is owned and produced by Life Time, the premier healthy lifestyle brand. It is among more than 30 premier athletic events owned by the company, including the Stages Cycling Leadville Trail 100 MTB, Garmin UNBOUND Gravel, Verizon New York City Triathlon, Chicago Triathlon, and Miami Marathon.

About the Leadville Race Series

Started with only 45 runners as the Leadville Trail 100 Run in 1983, the Leadville Race Series now consists of seven running events and four mountain biking events, plus six events in the Leadville Qualifying Series. The Race Series stretches across three months, and hosts thousands of racers on foot and on mountain bike in some of the world’s most iconic events. Endurance athletes worldwide now make the pilgrimage to Leadville, Colo., with the single goal of competing in “The Race Across the Sky.” Visit www.leadvilleraceseries.com for more information.

About Life Time^®, Inc.

Life Time (NYSE: LTH) empowers people to live healthy, happy lives through its portfolio of nearly 160 athletic country clubs across the United States and Canada. The company’s healthy way of life communities and ecosystem address all aspects of healthy living, healthy aging and healthy entertainment for people 90 days to 90+ years old. Supported by a team of more than 30,000 dedicated professionals, Life Time is committed to providing the best programs and experiences through its clubs, iconic athletic events and comprehensive digital platform.

 

BOULDER, COLO. – August 17, 2023 – Nite Ize^®, a leading manufacturer of innovative solution-based products, today announced its NiteHowl^® Max Rechargeable LED Safety Necklace was named  Collar Product of the Year at the 5th annual Pet Innovation Awards. The NiteHowl Max was chosen from over 2,000 global nominations because of its original, leading LED technology.

“We’re proud to have our design and technology recognized in the competitive pet industry landscape,” says Nite Ize Vice President of Marketing Brenda Isaac. “With consumers continuing to gravitate to outdoor lifestyles and bringing their pets with them, creating these kinds of fun, functional solutions can only help enthusiasts enjoy the outdoors for longer periods of time. Our unrelenting focus on engineering creative solutions for everyday problems is part of our DNA. This includes a wide range of whimsical and reliable, planet-friendly products, perfect for keeping pets in sight and safe during evening walks.”

The rechargeable NiteHowl Max is uniquely designed for fluffy, thick-coated dogs with an extra-wide, weather-resistant band that lays flat on top of their coat, ensuring it doesn’t get lost in their fur. With a full 360° ring of light, this LED necklace allows users to spot their pup from the yard to the park, and ensure drivers can too. Dog owners simply press the button to shine, cycling through Disc-O Select’s three colors of red, green, and blue, and color-changing Disc-O mode for a fun color blend. Lastly, it is easy to cut the band on its end for a perfect fit, with an adjustable size from 12” to 27” (30.5cm – 68.6cm). The NiteHowl Max has a run time of 10 hours and recharges in just 2 hours. MSRP $24.99

About Nite Ize

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Nite Ize designs, manufactures and globally distributes innovative, inventor-driven products that creatively solve everyday challenges. Nite Ize offers more than 500 products across various channels including: Waterproof Protection, Mobile, Tie-Downs + Bungees, Key Accessories, Illumination, Bike + Fitness and Pet. Led by original founder Rick Case, Nite Ize team members are passionate about their products, customers, partners and the environment. For more information, visit NiteIze.com.

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AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Aug. 17, 2023) – ICEMULE Coolers—makers of the most portable, premium backpack coolers—introduces the Impulse, a new hands-free cooler inspired by the traditional “musette” bags made famous by Tour de France cyclists. The ICEMULE Impulse triples as a bike handlebar bag, crossbody tote and lunch cooler, all-in-one. The addition to ICEMULE’s product lineup merges convenience, functionality and adventure, enabling outdoor enthusiasts to keep refreshments ice-cold while on the move.

Designed with the active adventurer in mind, the Impulse is made with ICEMULE’s heavy duty Mule Skin fabric and has attachable and adjustable straps to use the cooler as a crossbody tote or attach to a bike handle handlebar. The unique attachment system ensures a secure fit, guaranteeing peace of mind while conquering even the most challenging terrains. The cooler also has an internal pocket for an ice pack and guarantees ice retention for 24 hours.

“This innovative product exemplifies our passion for adventure and our unwavering dedication to providing our customers with the tools they need to pursue their outdoor passions without limitations,” said James Collie, CEO of ICEMULE Coolers. “The Impulse will transform the way adventurists stay refreshed, on their bikes and at their destination, because the bag’s value doesn’t end when you get off the bike.”

The ICEMULE Impulse can hold up to three standard 12-ounce cans, plus ice, and comes in three colors including Snow Grey, Turquoise and DeVoe 3. The Impulse is available now on ICEMULECoolers.com with an MSRP of $99.95.

The Impulse is the third ICEMULE product to include a DeVoe print, designed in partnership with local Jacksonville artist, Claire DeVoe. DeVoe’s unique prints come from the process of monoprinting, which is a printmaking technique that allows her to layer translucent colors to create unique, one-of-a-kind prints. The DeVoe patterns can also be found on the ICEMULE Jaunt and ICEMULE Drinkware.

“I am inspired by the gorgeous colors within the ocean and the four seasons and all of the color in nature, and I love seeing my art come to life on ICEMULE’s products,” said DeVoe.

For more information about the ICEMULE Coolers, visit the ICEMULECoolers.com and follow on Instagram at @icemulecoolers. For more information ICEMULE’s partnership with DeVoe, visit the website here.

Please direct ICEMULE Coolers media inquiries to Senior Account Manager Kelsey Bardach at kelsey.bardach@rygr.us.

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About ICEMULE Coolers

Born along the Florida coast, ICEMULE Coolers allow you to enjoy a cold beverage in the outdoors without constraint. Whether it’s deep into a bay on a paddle board or on top of a mountain, ICEMULE Coolers combines the portability of a backpack with the performance of a hard cooler in a simple yet superior quality design. ICEMULE Coolers were made for a simple reason – wherever you go, your cooler should go. Learn more at www.icemulecoolers.com.