Ignik Expands FireCan Line, Introduces FireCan Elite

Bainbridge Island, WA – July 6, 2023 – Since 2019, award-winning outdoor heating brand Ignik has consistently introduced innovative products focused on better outdoor heating solutions that are safer and produce less waste. The brand is thrilled to announce its newest addition to the FireCan line, the FireCan Elite Portable Fire Pit. Joining its two predecessors, the original FireCan and the FireCan Deluxe, the FireCan Elite is the next evolution of the FireCan, offering more power, a lighter-weight design, more control, and availability to consumers in Canada as well as the United States.

“With the ever-present threat of wildfires, we designed the FireCan Elite specifically for the Canadian market as part of our mission in promoting the use of forest-safe campfires,” says Ignik’s Marketing and Product Development Director Peter Pontano. “With Canadian wildfires having an early season impact on both Canada and the U.S., we’ve expedited the launch of this product into the U.S. market to help further inspire campers to play it safe when making a fire. The FireCan Elite has been designed to meet the highest safety, performance, and certification requirements in North America, to receive the stringent CSA Certification (ANS Z21.97-2017 | CSA 2.41-2017), making it our most advanced fire pit yet.”

FireCan Elite features a lighter weight design, more powerful flames, and is CSA Certified

FireCan Elite Portable Fire Pit’s elevated design includes advanced features that offer more heat while meeting rigorous safety standards. FireCan Elite is constructed with a new high-pressure 5 psi, quick-release propane output that’s CSA Certified and puts out an impressive 55K BTU per hour, making its flames even more powerful than the original FireCan and the FireCan Deluxe while being safety certified at the highest level. The Elite features the line’s signature ammo can design with updates like a stainless steel construction with an anodized aluminum removable lid, and a new Integrated Flame Control Knob on the fire pit for convenient flame control. Weighing in at 10.1 pounds, the FireCan Elite is Ignik’s lightest, most compact, and most durable FireCan to date.

“FireCan Elite’s increased heat output is ideal for warming more people and is perfect for camping, overlanding, and anyone looking to save weight in their gear setup, and its new safety features make it available to our friends in Canada,” says Pontano. “Our original FireCan offers a campfire anywhere for car campers, solo campers, and solo overlanders, whereas the FireCan Deluxe is a great two-in-one solution for outdoor grilling and heating. By adding another option to our FireCan line, we’re excited to offer folks more choices when deciding which FireCan is right for them!”

The FireCan Elite will be released at the 2023 Overland Expo PNW show and will be available to U.S. consumers at ignik.com, TrailRecon, and Trademark Adventure Outfitters. It’s available to consumers in Canada at ignik.com, Mountain Equipment Company, and SAIL. MSRP: $249.99. All of Ignik’s FireCans easily hook up to its refillable portable propane solutions or any propane source. For all press inquiries, contact Stacy Kline at stacy@darbycommunications.com. For all distribution inquiries, contact Indigo Fair at indigo@ignik.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 outdoor 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.

Saucony® Launches All-New Kinvara Pro

WALTHAM, MA (July 6, 2023) – Carbon-plated shoes married with PEBA-powered midsoles first burst onto the scene in marathon racing products because the unique combination of the responsive foam and propulsive carbon plate allowed competitive athletes to go further, faster with less wear and tear on their legs. For that purpose, super shoes were largely engineered for race day with ultra-lightweight, minimal uppers and a full-length plate engineered for speed. But those same benefits can be found by engineering a PB-powered, carbon-fiber plate-equipped every day running shoe specifically to make running effortless. Today, with the launch of the Kinvara Pro, global running lifestyle brand Saucony does just that. The Kinvara Pro will be available August 1 at saucony.com and select retailers globally.

The Kinvara Pro, featuring Saucony’s SPEEDROLL™ Technology, uses three of the brand’s premium cushioning compounds: PWRRUN PB™, strategically placed closest to the foot and delivering 90% energy return; a foundation of PWRRUN™ for more protection and durability at ground contact than what is found in a marathon racing shoe; and a PWRRUN+™ sockliner to further enhance comfort. Sandwiched in between the layered cushioning system is a 3/4 carbon-fiber plate delivering a gentle forward roll, while the S-curve midsole shape and flexible forefoot provide a lightweight and efficient feel accommodating daily training. A durable and supportive upper built for everyday use completes the Kinvara Pro package.

“This year, as we celebrate Saucony’s 125th anniversary, we look back on how innovation, evolution and an unwavering focus on the runner have always been part of Saucony’s deep-rooted heritage,” said Brian Moore, senior vice president of global product for Saucony. “The Endorphin Collection, with SPEEDROLL Technology, opened a new chapter in the brand’s legacy of innovation, delivering effortless race day speed for the ultimate go-fast experience. Yet, regular runners told us they wanted to experience a PB- powered, carbon-plated ride on training days as well. As an industry leader in the geometry, foam and plate formula, we believe an efficient and effortless ride should be available to everyone and on every run. The all-new Kinvara Pro democratizes our innovation so that every runner can appreciate an efficient and effortless running experience, ultimately realizing the best version of themselves day in and day out.”

Kinvara Pro Features

  • SPEEDROLL Technology provides gentle roll forward
  • Dual cushioning with PWRRUN PB for supreme energy return and a stack of PWRRUN for durable daily comfort
  • PWRRUN+ sockliner
  • Wider platform accommodates a variety of foot strikes and provides secure and smooth transitions
  • PB-powered 3/4 carbon-fiber plate starts at midfoot for geometry that gradually rolls runner forward and accommodates for daily use
  • Category: Neutral/Every Day
  • Heel-to-toe Offset: 8mm (42mm heel/34mm forefoot)
  • Weight: Men’s 9.5oz. (269g), Women’s 8.5oz (240g)
  • Sustainability: This style is vegan and contains recycled materials

Pricing and Sizing

The Kinvara Pro is available in men’s sizes 7-13, and 14 and 15, and women’s sizes 5-12 at a suggested retail price of $180.00. 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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Maven Expands Its Premium Line of Binoculars with the Ultra-Compact B.7

LANDER, Wyo. (July 6, 2023) – Maven, a Wyoming-based direct-to-consumer brand known for offering world-class optics at affordable prices, has announced the newest addition to its premium, award-winning lineup of B Series binoculars, the B.7.

Available in 8×25 and 10×25 models, the B.7 introduces a new dual-hinge construction that eliminates bulk without sacrificing quality to create a high-performance optic that weighs just 12.4 oz. and measures only 2.90in x 4.75in inches when collapsed down. The ultra-compact and durable design makes the B.7 easy to carry and an outstanding optical solution for travel enthusiasts, outdoor recreationists, nature lovers, and sports fans alike.

“In the pursuit of convenience and innovation, we designed the ultra-compact B.7 around simplicity and functionality that we feel caters to the modern demands of everyday use,” said Brendon Weaver, CMO of Maven. “The best binocular is the one that’s with you, and it’s a binocular that everyone will want to carry.”

In addition to its durable, pocket-sized construction, the B.7 features crystal clear extra-low dispersion (ED) glass with fully multi-coated lenses to provide edge-to-edge clarity. Expert craftsmanship and premium materials result in a generous depth of field, a wide field of view, and a silky focus mechanism that Maven’s B Series is known for.

The B.7 can be fully customized with Maven’s Custom Optics Builder and, like all Maven optics, is covered by the brand’s unconditional lifetime warranty. To learn more about the B.7 or to shop Maven’s full product offering, visit www.mavenbuilt.com.

 

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About Maven

Maven is a Wyoming-based direct-to-consumer brand known for offering world-class optics at affordable prices. By cutting out the middleman and selling directly to the consumer, the company eliminates retail markups and is, therefore, able to produce affordable products using best-in-class components. The result is high-quality optics offered at an exceptional value and covered by a lifetime warranty.

 

 

 

 

 

Costa Sunglasses celebrates 40 years on the water with its most advanced frame to date

JUPITER, Fla. (July 6, 2023) – Costa Sunglasses, manufacturer of the first color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lens, celebrates its 40th anniversary with the introduction of its most advanced frame to date, King Tide. In nature, a king tide requires the perfect alignment of the Earth and moon to create an exceptionally high tide and once-in-a-lifetime views and opportunities on the water. Like its namesake, Costa’s King Tide is designed to give you the ultimate advantage on the water.

Utilizing the research and innovation from every frame that came before it, King Tide is built for those who demand performance on and off the water. Available in two styles, King Tide 6 is a medium wrap six-base frame for those who require performance in all of their watery pursuits. King Tide 8, the full wrap eight-base version, is built for elite anglers that demand the most from every cast. Technical chops on both frames include removable side shields for optimal use on and off the water, shark inspired venting to achieve a near impossible zero-fog effect, top of the line sweat management and the introduction of non-skid hooding to keep your frames exactly where you want them when the water gets rough.

“King Tide is a historical launch moment for Costa, it’s the culmination of every innovation and lesson we’ve learned in our 40 year history,” says John Sanchez, VP of Global Product Strategy. “King Tide started with a mission to deliver a sunglass packed with technology unrivaled on the water. We started five years ago with an internal challenge to study form, fit, aesthetics and so much more. Using our research lab, user insights and our pro community – who challenged us to push our limits – we delivered King Tide, opening the doors for a true appreciation of functional superiority. Our goal is to build the highest quality product, which is why King Tide is hand assembled and crafted in the U.S., just like we’ve done for the past four decades.”

King Tide is equipped with Costa’s cutting-edge polarized 580® glass lens technology, providing exceptional clarity and color enhancement. These scratch-resistant lenses effectively reduce haze and blur, while boosting essential colors for superior definition. Built with Costa’s proprietary Bio-Resin, King Tide is also lightweight and maintains the durability necessary for any watery adventure.

“King Tide 6 is hands down the BEST pair of shades I’ve ever worn on the water,” says Costa Pro, Duane (Diego) Mellor. “As an offshore guide and angler, I depend on my eyes all day, every day. These (sunglasses) do everything I need them to and at the highest level. Epic work on the design and construction, Costa. They’re gonna be a huge hit!”

“Costa was born on the water in 1983, and today, we’re still doing what we do best – protecting the waters we love, inspiring our community and making the best damn sunglasses out there,” says John Acosta, Costa Sunglasses Vice President of Marketing NA. “We’re celebrating 40 years of bearing witness to life’s best moments on the water, while looking forward to what is coming next. King Tide is the biggest energy point around our anniversary year. It’s the result of 40 years of product innovation and the first time we’ve launched a frame in a six and eight base option. Cheers to another 40 years and to doing what we love most.”

Building launch hype, King Tide hits the market in three waves. In appreciation to the brick and mortar stores where Costa got its start, King Tide 6 and 8 will be available at select VIP specialty retailers beginning July 7, 2023. Following the first wave, Costa is dropping a 40th Anniversary Limited Edition collectors frame in black gold and a never before seen 580G gold lens. With just 40 frames available each, Limited Edition King Tide 6 and Limited Edition King Tide 8, the frames will be available online at CostaSunglasses.com on July 11, 2023. Finally, September 15, 2023, marks the global release when King Tide will be available online and at retail partners worldwide.

MSRP for King Tide 6 and King Tide 8 starts at $329. For more information about Costa’s complete collection of award-winning performance, optical and lifestyle frames, visit Costasunglasses.com.

About Costa Sunglasses
As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Costa has made the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its purpose to provide high-quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable and water-friendly materials to its Kick Plastic initiative, #OneCoast efforts and meaningful partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter at @CostaSunglasses.

 

 

Trail-Ready, Cushion-Packed: Introducing La Sportiva’s New XFlow Trail Running Technology

BOULDER, CO (JUL 05, 2023) – La Sportiva, makers of the world’s finest mountain gear, today announces its exclusive new trail running and hiking line for spring 2024. The centerpieces of this line are the new Levante and Prodigio trail running models, which utilize a new supercritical foam from the brand called XFlow. This responsive foam is integrated into the new models to provide a unique ride, giving runners an ample amount of cushioning without sacrificing the dexterity needed to conquer technical trails. The Italian Brand is also rolling out a brand-new hiking boot called the Aequilibrium Trek GTX, a unique model that utilizes advanced technology from the brand’s mountaineering line.

Over the last few years, the La Sportiva team joined forces with top female athletes from across the globe to develop a trail running shoe that meets the needs of the female athlete. The result is the Levante, a well-cushioned 8.9 oz trail runner with a 6 mm drop that utilizes La Sportiva’s newest midsole technology, XFlow. XFlow is a novel supercritical foam that provides fantastic cushioning and incredible energy return. This midsole material is designed to help runners navigate a wide variety of terrain, from jagged ridgelines to central park concrete. No stone was left unturned with the Levante. The female-specific last is paired with a supportive exoskeleton harness to provide comfort and a precise foothold on the toughest of trails. The Frixion® White outsole with 4.5 mm lugs offers unparalleled grip in any terrain. Sorry boys, this shoe is for women only. The Levante is priced at $155.

Silke Koester, a professional runner who has been a staunch advocate for increasing women’s voices in the space, is excited about the Levante, hoping that it is a sign of change. “In a world where the default is male, it’s a breath of fresh air for a product to be brainstormed, designed and created by and for women. The Levante excels on rugged mountain terrain and over long distances – both of which are spaces where women thrive. This shoe honors experienced and aspiring female mountain athletes and I am proud of La Sportiva for creating an opportunity for us to take our place at the forefront of innovation, design and the sport of mountain running. I am hopeful that this marks the beginning of a shift across all aspects of the sport.”

“After months of testing the Levante, I am eager for them to be available to everyone,“ said Clare Gallagher, an elite ultrarunner who helped to develop the shoe. “They have flow and cushion unlike any trail shoe I’ve run in before. They’re supportive, but light and fast. Working with other La Sportiva women in the creation of the shoe was a unique experience, and now that we’re running in the shoe, I’m impressed that we all are so happy, considering we asked for a variety of characteristics. Time to levante!”

Another highlight of the spring line that features the new XFlow midsole technology is the Prodigio. A 9.5 oz trail running shoe that is designed to conquer anything in its path. With a heel stack height of 34 mm, and a drop of 4 mm, this is a highly cushioned and responsive model made to propel runners over long distances. What sets this shoe apart from similar products is its ability to navigate difficult terrain. When designing this model, La Sportiva wanted to ensure that trail performance was not sacrificed in the name of cushion. A bathtub construction is paired with a unique stability wrap to anchor the foot into the shoe, allowing for agility and precision on tough trails. The dual compound Frixion Red rubber provides unmatched grip on any surface, ensuring that runners can venture wherever, whenever. Available for men and women, the Prodigio retails for $155.

The Aequilibrium Trek GTX is a new hiking boot that allows adventurers to go anywhere, no matter the conditions. The team at La Sportiva blended the brand’s mountaineering technology and heritage with their experience in the hiking space to create a model that is perfect for long treks and backpacking expeditions. This boot offers an ideal balance between technical performance and comfort. The midsole is integrated with the outsole to create a seamless heel-to-toe transition, while the Double Heel sole lug pattern offers security on technical trails. A 3D Flex System EVO allows for directional articulation of the ankle without compromising support. This new model will be priced at $279.

La Sportiva is also rolling out an updated version of the beloved Bushido, a nimble trail runner that thrives in uneven terrain. The third edition of the shoe will be offered in a wide width, allowing it to fit a wider variety of foot shapes. The redesigned upper provides more breathability and comfort, while the new recycled outsole offers even better traction. The Bushido III has an MSRP of $145.

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

Big Agnes Launches Canadian Website

Steamboat Springs, ColoradoBig Agnes, the Steamboat-Springs-based outdoor equipment brand, is excited to announce the launch of its new website dedicated exclusively to serving Canada’s active community of outdoor enthusiasts. This strategic move reflects the brand’s commitment to providing high-quality camping and backpacking gear to Canadian adventurers while expanding its global business.

The launch of the Big Agnes Canada website marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy, as it opens up new avenues for engaging with an international audience. By bringing a site specific to the region, the brand plans to support their wholesale partners with a dealer locator tool to help consumers find gear at local retailers and inspire them to embark on camping and backcountry adventures.

A notable feature of the new website is its seamless user experience, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable shopping journey for all visitors. Recognizing the diverse linguistic landscape of Canada, Big Agnes is proud to offer both English and French language support, enabling customers to navigate and engage with the site effortlessly.

“Our business in Canada has been growing steadily but this increased commitment and investment is an exciting step for Big Agnes,” said Bill Gamber, Big Agnes co-founder and president. “This site launch is just the beginning of our broader plans to help increase brand exposure, educate consumers and expand business globally.”

To experience the new website and explore its extensive collection of outdoor gear, visit https://ca.bigagnes.com/.

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About Big Agnes: Named for a peak in the nearby Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, Big Agnes®, Inc. is located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2021. The company produces award-winning sleeping bags, pads, tents, packs, insulated apparel, camp furniture and now backpacks. For more information, visit www.bigagnes.com or call 1-877-554-8975.

 

Becky Rom, National Chair of the Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters, won the Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Award in the “Individual” category.

(ELY, MN) — Last week, Becky Rom, National Chair of the Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters, won the Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Award in the “Individual” category at the 13th annual Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Awards ceremony in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Awards celebrate champions of the outdoor community who inspire and encourage others to enjoy, participate in, and support outdoor recreation. Annual awards are presented to individuals, organizations, and companies making an impact throughout the year in the outdoor and winter sports industries.

“Becky Rom is a truly inspiring, formidable leader at the forefront of one of America’s major conservation battles: the effort to protect the Boundary Waters Wilderness from copper mining,” said Ingrid Lyons, Executive Director of the Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters. “This is Becky’s life’s work. Ten years ago, Becky envisioned a path to permanent protection for the Boundary Waters by proactively banning copper mining in its headwaters entirely. This lofty goal was dismissed by many as impossible. But Becky, undeterred, set out to build the movement she still helps lead, and it has been spectacularly successful in large part due to Becky’s own relentlessness, deep well of knowledge, and leadership. Her talent and hard work have made it possible to build a broad and powerful team of allies.”

Becky grew up in and around the Boundary Waters Wilderness in northeastern Minnesota, working in her family’s canoe trip outfitting shop in Ely, Minnesota, and guiding Wilderness trips as a teen. She learned from and was inspired by famed writer and Wilderness advocate Sigurd Olson and others, and carried the mantle of wilderness defender over the decades as she had her own law career and family. Becky, in turn, now invests in and equips the next generation through her mentorship of youth in “Kids for the Boundary Waters,” a coalition of hundreds of kids who’ve taken trips to Washington D.C. to advocate and lobby members of Congress and agencies.

Becky Rom is the volunteer national chair of the Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters, a national coalition of 400+ organizations and businesses run by locally-based nonprofit Northeastern Minnesotans for Wilderness.

As a result of Becky & the coalition’s tireless work, the Boundary Waters cause has gained national prominence and won historic protections. On January 26, U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland signed a Public Land Order that withdrew 225,504 acres of federal lands and minerals located in the Rainy River Headwaters upstream of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness from the federal mineral leasing program for 20 years. Becky’s goal remains enduring, permanent protection for this critical landscape.

A vast collection of peer-reviewed science shows that if a Twin Metals mine was built along the rivers and streams flowing into the Wilderness pollution and environmental degradation would be certain. The Boundary Waters is the most heavily visited wilderness area in the United States, attracting more than 165,000 visitors each year from all over the world and helps drive more than $900 million in annual economic activity and over 17,000 jobs. A peer-reviewed independent study from Harvard University showed that protecting the Boundary Waters from a proposed Twin Metals sulfide-ore copper mine would result in dramatically more jobs and more income over a 20-year period.

Snow Peak Unveils Sustainable Packaging Redesign

Portland, OR – June 29, 2023 – Snow Peak, the Japanese camping brand, announces that as a part of its Corporate Social Responsibility activities, it is supporting several new sustainably-focused projects, including a comprehensive overhaul of its product packaging.

The redesign of product packaging is aimed at making products more environmentally friendly than ever before. By the end of 2023, Snow Peak will simplify packaging materials, reduce plastic and packaging materials for approximately 120 different products, with more to make the transition in 2024 and beyond. White-based FSC ®-certified paper will be used for the product boxes and tags, with the gradual introduction of such paper. By making this switch, ink consumption will also be significantly reduced. For example, the packaging for the Amenity Dome M tent will include a 87% reduction in paper products, and the Wabuki Collapsible Chopstick L will see a 79% reduction in ink consumption.

Additionally, Snow Peak is also focused on a number of other sustainability initiatives, including:

  • Offering a lifetime warranty to repair products until they reach the end of their useful life.
  • The Upcycle Cotton Project is a recycling program that produces clothes that are not disposable but can be recycled. This project, in addition to initiatives to incorporate recycled down and the use of whole-garment 3D printing are lowering the environmental impact of the brand’s apparel products.
  • In cooperation with Updater Inc, Snow Peak locations in Japan and the US are now converting natural energy into electricity at all offices, retail spaces and campfield locations.
  • Snow Peak is commercializing TranTixxi® -Eco, the world’s first environmentally-friendly, pure titanium material, in cooperation with Nippon Steel Corporation. This material utilizes 50% recycled material, reducing CO² emissions by half. This material innovation will debut with the Recycled Aurora Bottle and will be incorporated into more of the brand’s classic titanium products.

About Snow Peak
Founded in Japan in 1958, Snow Peak has been serving customers in the USA for more than 20 years, with a mission to unite people and alleviate the stresses of modern life through time gathering outside. Its Japanese-designed, lifetime-guaranteed outdoor goods serve as a catalyst for restorative experiences in nature. Focused on bringing people together, Snow Peak operates immersive retail locations in Portland and New York City, as well as a Portland restaurant, Takibi, a PNW izakaya that brings to life the brand’s belief that time spent sharing food and drink by the fire is the best way to connect with one another. snowpeak.com