Archives: Press Releases

SEATTLE – Each day through its stores, website and app, REI Co-op offers customers the best outdoor gear and apparel from thousands of established and up-and-coming outdoor brands. This week, REI presented its 2023 Vendor Partner of the Year awards to brands that help make a significant impact, inspire and enable a life outside for everyone.

REI Vendor Partner of the Year overall award recipient

This year, footwear and apparel manufacturer On, with a US base in Portland, Oregon, received the co-op’s overall 2023 Vendor Partner of the Year award. By marrying style, comfort and functional performance, On continues to bring compelling, functional innovation to REI and attracts customers of all ages and backgrounds to running and hiking season after season. On is a values-driven company, leading the industry in sustainable footwear innovation and development. Through programs like Cleancloud technology, On captures carbon and ferments it, then turns it into EVA foam for midsoles. Through its Cyclon shoe program, shoes are made out of castor beans.

“Our vendors and their offerings play a vital role in keep REI relevant to the consumer and our members,” said Chris Speyer, REI senior vice president and chief merchandising officer. “It’s always a challenge to select one partner as our vendor of the year, but for 2023 On stood out for being one of the fastest growing brands in footwear, and its commitment to empowering more people to get outside to run and hike. Most importantly, we’re excited about On’s continued enthusiasm to bring industry-disrupting innovation and sustainability efforts to our customers all while continuing to be collaborative and agile through variable market conditions.”

REI Vendor Partner of the Year divisional award recipients

• Footwear and basics: Danner (based in Portland, Oregon), celebrated its 90^th anniversary in 2022, and is known for its long-time brand identity of independence, and “find your own path” mantra. Danner continues to offer REI’s customers specialty, quality, and innovative products that stand the test of time. Even with long-lasting quality, Danner is exceptional at keeping its brand fresh and bringing new designs to customers while executing leading sustainability efforts such as its Recrafting Program, that encourages customers to send their boots in for resoling and refurbishing.
• Camp: Exped (with a US base in Tacoma, Washington), is a values-driven company known for high-quality materials and construction to ensure a comfortable sleep outside. For decades, Exped has worked closely with REI, putting the customer first, and expanding their lines where customers need it most. In addition, Exped is committed to reducing its environmental impact using recycled materials and improving their manufacturing process across development.
• Action sports: Quality Bicycle Products (QBP, headquartered in Bloomington, Minnesota) has a long history focused on inspiring and enhancing the overall bicycling experience. Across its broad portfolio of brands that REI carries, including Salsa bicycles, 45NRTH cold weather gear, and Teravail tires, QBP brings innovation and accessibility to make it easier for customers to keep their bikes geared-up and ready for new adventures. As a certified B Corporation, QBP is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, sustainability, community and its vision of “Every Butt on a Bike.”
• Apparel: Smartwool (headquartered in Denver, Colorado) is known as an industry leader for quality merino wool products, delivering timeless, durable apparel designs keeping people comfortable in the outdoors. Smartwool, an overall REI Vendor Partner of the Year award winner in 2018, and nine-time divisional award winner, continues to innovate, bringing inclusive designs and leading sustainability efforts in the outdoor and merino wool industry. From a partnership perspective, Smartwool continues to look to REI to launch exclusive product collections and is a pioneer in wool sustainability, reinforced by initiatives like their ‘Second Cut’ circular and recycled sock program that were supported in REI stores this spring. All this, while being a critical partner for long-term sustainable growth.

The Vendor Partner of the Year awards program was established by REI in 1993. Each year, companies are nominated by the co-op’s four merchandising divisions – action sports, camp, apparel, and footwear and basics – for partnering with REI to meet customer needs, raise the bar for product quality and drive sustainable business practices.

For the first time, REI will donate $500 on behalf of each divisional category winner, and $1,000 on behalf of the overall vendor partner of the year to the REI Cooperative Action Fund. The Fund is a 501(c)(3) public charity launched in 2021 by REI Co-op to create a more equitable outdoors by bringing together the collective strength of the co-op community.

The Fund aims to inspire millions of REI members, thousands of REI employees, and hundreds of nonprofit partners and community leaders to support organizations that are improving the well-being of all people through time outside. With ongoing support from REI, 100% of donations from the general public to the Fund go to the people and organizations leading this work in communities across the country.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 181 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

 

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San Clemente, Calif. – July 12, 2023 – Nomadix, a social purpose corporation and makers of The Only Towel You Need®, made from post-consumer recycled materials, announced today it is the official towel sponsor of the 38th Annual Malibu Triathlon which will take place September 30 and October 1, 2023.

“We are proud to support a local endurance event that brings the community together outdoors for a positive purpose,” said Nomadix Co-founder and CEO, Zack Helminiak.

Nomadix will host interactive events and giveaways of its products, including the Original Towel, Changing Poncho, and Bandana Towel leading up to and during the race weekend. Updates will be shared live on the brand’s Instagram account.

The Malibu Triathlon is an iconic event in one of the most beautiful locations in the world, bringing together athletes, celebrities, and Fortune 500 Corporations, for one common goal – to raise awareness and provide key funds for Pediatric Cancer Research at CHLA. In 2022, the event welcomed over 5,000 participants and raised over $1 million to benefit the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles’ Pediatric Cancer Research Program which is focused on curing and preventing life-threatening forms of childhood cancer. The event also hosts Olympians and World Champions as they race in the globally broadcast Super League Triathlon Championship Series. Register for the Malibu Triathlon here.

Matt Caren, Commercial Director, said: “Nomadix is a fantastic brand with a real purpose, which is a perfect synergy with Malibu Triathlon as we bring the community together to promote health wellness and raise funds for charity.”

To see the brand’s entire product line or for more information about its Social Purpose Corporation Report, visit nomadix.co.

ABOUT NOMADIX

California-based Nomadix launched in 2015 with The Only Towel You Need® – a multi-purpose towel that performs for any activity, including travel, yoga, boating, and at the beach. Nomadix understands that the environmental footprint of the products people buy will have an impact on the planet that lasts longer than we will. A commitment to discovering durable, multi-purpose, responsibly manufactured solutions that will leave the planet better than we found it is part of its ethos – Own less. Do more. Nomadix is a member of 1% for The Planet and is Climate Neutral Certified. Today, Nomadix is carried in major retailers in the United States, including REI, West Marine and Boardriders, and is distributed in 31 countries around the world. Visit www.nomadix.co for more information.

Charleston, SC – Shimano North America Fishing, the iconic brand known for its innovative fishing tackle solutions, is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of its highly anticipated Talica 12IIA and 16IIA saltwater lever drag reels, the benchmark for small 2-speed lever drag performance. These new additions are designed for serious offshore anglers battling the toughest fish in the harshest conditions. The Talica 12IIA and 16IIA reels will make their debut at the ICAST trade show in Orlando, Florida, where anglers and industry professionals will have the opportunity to experience their exceptional features and craftsmanship firsthand.

“The Talica lineup represents the pinnacle of compact lever drag reels,” says Blaine Anderson, Saltwater Product Marketing Manager for Shimano North America Fishing. “Shimano is raising the bar with the addition of the Talica 12IIA and Talica 16IIA, offering ultra-smooth reeling and powerful drag performance to conquer long battles with trophy game fish.”

The Talica 12IIA and 16IIA are designed with precision engineering and incorporate Shimano’s flagship technologies. Shimano’s innovative Infinity Drive technology for lever drag reels leverages a new drag design to increase drag force while reducing side-load pressure to produce lighter rotation during high-drag situations. This new generation of Talica now features X-Protect technology to boast high-level water resistance, which improves durability without sacrificing a light gear feel.

For anglers fishing light fluorocarbon leaders or monofilament, a Light Line Drag Cam is included for the added versatility of a lower drag curve. These new additions feature a HAGANE Body made of highly rigid aluminum to reduce the reel’s overall weight while eliminating reel body flex that can lead to power loss during challenging battles.

Talica 12IIA and 16IIA will debut at the 2023 ICAST show. Anglers can visit the Shimano booth (#2144) or fish.shimano.com to learn more about these exciting new additions. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator. For more information on Shimano and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at Kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About Shimano North America Fishing

Since 1970, Shimano has been a global manufacturer of industry-leading fishing tackle systems built for anglers compelled by experiences on the water. Shimano designs, manufactures, and markets a deep lineup of angling-specific products focused on promoting health and happiness through the enjoyment of nature and the world around us. The company proudly maintains a portfolio of four consumer-preferred brands: Shimano, G. Loomis, Jackall, and PowerPro. You can learn more at https://fish.shimano.com/en-US or follow on social @fish_shimano_north_america, @fishgloomis, @jackall_usa, and @fishpowerpro.

 

Charleston, SC – Shimano North America Fishing, the leading innovator in fishing tackle technology, is thrilled to announce the official release of its highly anticipated Mastiff fluorocarbon line. Designed to meet the demands of bass anglers worldwide, this new addition to Shimano’s lineup makes its debut in the North American market at the ICAST trade show in Orlando, Florida.

“We are delighted to introduce Mastiff fluorocarbon line, designed for serious bass anglers who demand nothing but the best,” said Bob Mahoney, Freshwater Product Marketing Manager of Shimano North America Fishing. “There was no better test of its abrasion resistance, durability, and knot strength than Jeff Gustafson’s 2023 Bassmaster Classic win. He put it through its paces to bring 42 pounds and 7 ounces of Tennessee River smallmouth bass to the stage.”

Mastiff FC represents Shimano’s unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality tackle systems, enabling anglers to conquer new techniques and locations. With low line elongation, even the subtlest of bites will be easily detectable, leading to quick and efficient hooksets. The smooth and supple feel of the product allows for long casts and extreme accuracy even with the lightest of presentations.

In addition to its remarkable performance, Mastiff FC boasts NANOARMOR technology. This extremely fine application of nano-size ridges across the outer surface of the line helps prevent knot-slipping when fighting large fish. This also minimizes slippage and breakage when using common bass angling techniques like twitching, jerking, and casting large lures. With Mastiff FC, anglers will feel connected confidence, knowing that their line is engineered to withstand the rigors of the most demanding situations.

For more information about Mastiff FC and Shimano’s complete range of innovative fishing tackle, visit fish.shimano.com. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator. For more information on Shimano and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at Kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About Shimano North America Fishing

Since 1970, Shimano has been a global manufacturer of industry-leading fishing tackle systems built for anglers compelled by experiences on the water. Shimano designs, manufactures, and markets a deep lineup of angling-specific products focused on promoting health and happiness through the enjoyment of nature and the world around us. The company proudly maintains a portfolio of four consumer-preferred brands: Shimano, G.Loomis, Jackall, and PowerPro. You can learn more at https://fish.shimano.com/en-US or follow on social @fish_shimano_north_america, @fishgloomis, @jackall_usa, and @fishpowerpro.

 

Wake Forest, N.C. (July 11, 2023) – Running industry veterans Tanya and Bert Pictor and Luke Rowe introduce a new running sock brand called Jogology, to be sold exclusively at Run Specialty stores beginning in September. Founded by lifelong runners with a combined century of knowledge on running-focused brands, product development and retail, Jogology’s brand ethos is to grow the running community in meaningful ways – to unite runners around the world and inspire community.

The word ‘jog’ means to run in more than 30 languages. It’s universal and it unites the running community. ‘Ology’ refers to the study of a subject, which the Pictors and Rowe have spent years perfecting.

Jogology’s founders are committed to putting their retail partners first to help them grow their businesses. “We want Jogology to be as much a success for us as for the stores who commit to stocking our brand,” said Tanya Pictor, co-founder of Jogology.

To offer the ultimate in running sock comfort, Jogology socks are designed to mirror how running shoes are made – to lock in the heel and midfoot to minimize in-shoe movement and leave your toes free to flex. Each sock offers a second-skin fit with unique arch support massage bands to eliminate excess fabric and create a moisture management layer between the foot and the shoe. A soft knit rib band around the ankle area eliminates pressure marks, and a unique protection area covering the large toe to prevent any discomfort.

Jogology socks are made on 200 needle machines which offer the finest knit construction, and the socks are made from sustainable, recycled, moisture-management re-dri yarn with a super soft hand and extra durability. Strategically placed mesh panels offer extra aeration and ventilation during movement, and the anatomical shaping of each sock is designed to fit left and right feet. The arrow heel technology provides a snug cradle to cover your full heel, ensuring the socks stay in place.

The socks are available in three different cushion levels (low, medium and high) to accommodate cushion comfort preferences of all runners, and will retail for $16 MSRP.

Jogology values the opportunity to enjoy and explore the world while running. Focusing on sustainability, Jogology strives to operate as a low-carbon business, making ecological conscientious choices in every aspect of production. Key sustainability efforts include the use of high-performance yarn made from recycled materials and sustainably harvested wood pulp, incorporating recycled polyamides for plaiting and patterning, utilizing packaging made from post-consumer waste recycled paper, and avoiding the use of plastic in packaging, except for white-colored products to ensure the cleanliness of white socks.

Partnering with and supporting organizations within the running community is a key pillar of this new brand. “Throughout our years running, and the various communities that come with it, have given us more than we could ever have imagined. Now it’s our turn to give back,” Pictor noted. “Our aim is that Jogology becomes a vehicle for all runners, each with their own unique social interests, to reach out and connect where it matters to them most.”

One organization that Jogology’s Reach cause platform will support is Leader Dogs for the Blind, which provides four-legged running companions for the visually impaired. Understanding the special bond between humans and dogs, and believing that they make the perfect running partners. Together, they can help bring the joy of running to those who haven’t been able to experience it before.

Through its Reach platform, Jogology will support its community of store ambassadors who are the boots on the ground at retail and who make a daily difference in their local communities working in areas of need.

Jogology Socks will be available in select specialty run retail stores beginning in September 2023.

About Jogology

Jogology™ is a performance running sock brand made by runners, for runners. One unique design, one sustainable moisture-management yarn, all the bells and whistles you need to perform at your best. Our socks provide comfort, performance and value all in equal measures. They’re designed to help you go the distance, whatever that may be for you. Partnering with and supporting organizations that reach out and connect with the running community is a key pillar of this new brand. Our aim is that Jogology™ becomes a vehicle for all runners, each with their own unique social interests, to be able to reach out and connect where it matters to them most.

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 7, 2023 – Charleston, SC – Shimano North America Fishing, known for its innovation and commitment to anglers worldwide, is thrilled to announce the release of the Stradic FM reel. This new addition to the renowned Stradic line of spinning reels will debut at the upcoming ICAST trade show in Orlando, Florida.

“The Shimano team is extremely excited to introduce the Stradic FM reel to anglers around the world,” says Bob Mahoney, Freshwater Product Marketing Manager for Shimano North America Fishing. “The Stradic FM represents the most complete Stradic in a long lineage of performance, delivering the perfect balance of power, smoothness, and reliability that our customers have come to expect from Shimano.”

Building upon the reputation of the legendary Stradic line, the Stradic FM reel showcases Shimano’s ongoing dedication to engineering excellence. Inspired by the groundbreaking technological innovations in the Stella family of reels, the Stradic FM reel incorporates cutting-edge innovation at an approachable price point.

The redesigned Stradic FM adds InfinityXross Technology for unequaled gear durability and synergy by extending the gear tooth horizontally to distribute the load more evenly. The addition of Shimano’s Infinity Drive delivers light rotation and increased cranking power under load, while the new Duracross Drag system provides smooth, consistent performance. With its sleek and ergonomic design, the Stradic FM provides ultimate comfort during extended fishing sessions, minimizing fatigue and maximizing enjoyment on the water.

The Stradic FM reel guarantees whisper-quiet operation and exceptional casting performance while ensuring a lifetime of dependable performance. Shimano’s X-Protect water-repellent coating and specifically designed, water-channeling labyrinth construction stops water penetration in key areas. Anglers will be able to achieve maximum line management through the new Anti-Twist Fin, an elastic polymer on the underside of the roller.

Anglers can visit the Shimano booth (#2144) or fish.shimano.com to learn more about the newest addition to the legendary Stradic line of reels.  To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator. For more information on Shimano and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at Kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About Shimano North America Fishing

Since 1970, Shimano has been a global manufacturer of industry-leading fishing tackle systems built for anglers compelled by experiences on the water. Shimano designs, manufactures, and markets a deep lineup of angling-specific products focused on promoting health and happiness through the enjoyment of nature and the world around us. The company proudly maintains a portfolio of four consumer-preferred brands: Shimano, G.Loomis, Jackall, and PowerPro. You can learn more at https://fish.shimano.com/en-US or follow on social @fish_shimano_north_america, @fishgloomis, @jackall_usa, and @fishpowerpro.

 

July 7, 2023 – Woodland, WA – G. Loomis, renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence in fishing tackle, proudly unveils the latest addition to the legendary GLX series, the G. Loomis GLX WALLEYE. The new series will be showcased for the first time at the upcoming ICAST trade show in Orlando, Florida.

Harsh weather, big water, and finicky bites are just a sampling of the challenges faced by walleye enthusiasts. Anglers will never have to worry about missing “the tick,” as the GLX WALLEYE lineup is designed to be lightweight, responsive, and impact resistant with actions that provide ultimate sensitivity when tossing hair jigs on a weed edge, or bouncing grubs on shoal bottoms. Composed of six spinning models, the GLX WALLEYE series is poised to become the benchmark for walleye anglers.

“The introduction of the GLX WALLEYE series represents the refinement of precision and performance for walleye anglers,” said Bob Mahoney, G. Loomis Freshwater Product Marketing Manager. “At G. Loomis, we are excited to bring this remarkable rod series to market, designed specifically for those who seek the ultimate walleye fishing experience.”

Proudly handcrafted in Woodland, Washington, the GLX WALLEYE series leverages G. Loomis’ proprietary Multi-Taper Design technology to remove material where a blank is unlikely to fail and add material where it might. Combined with a proven high-modulus blank construction using a beefed-up resin system for superior impact resistance, this rod series is primed for unsurpassed durability and performance. With premium componentry chosen to provide exceptional sensitivity, GLX WALLEYE features a REC guide train and a lightweight CI4+ reel seat to provide the ultimate reel-to-rod connection. Full-cork handles complement the GLX WALLEYE lineup and the classic rod-blank color juxtaposes beautifully with the logo.

To experience the performance of the GLX WALLEYE series firsthand, visit the G. Loomis booth (#523) at the ICAST or visit gloomis.com. To find a retailer near you, visit the G. Loomis Store Locator. For more information on G. Loomis and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About G. Loomis

We exist to heighten angler experience through creating tools that expand tactical opportunity, boost effectiveness, and enhance natural ability. We develop solutions for experienced hands, designed to complement capability. We strive to expand what’s possible to achieve the unattainable. Our DNA is comprised of three equal parts: Technology, Innovation, and Design. Since 1982, we’ve contributed innovative materials and manufacturing technology to the angling community. Examples include early graphite construction, advanced guide trains, Multi-Taper Design and advanced resin systems. You can learn more at https://www.gloomis.com/ or follow on social @fishgloomis.

 

 

Steamboat Springs, CO (July 11, 2023) –  Eagle Creek, the original adventure travel gear company, is proud to announce they have partnered with Effort, Inc for Sale Representation in the Southeast, including NC, SC, TN, GA, FL, AL, and MS, effective immediately.

Managing a key territory for Eagle Creek, Effort, Inc will leverage nearly three decades in outdoor sales and customer service. Located in Asheville, NC,  Principle Spencer Cooke and Andrew Holcombe also represent Accent/Cannon, ASTRAL, Badfish, Hibear, Immersion Research, Jackson Kayak, Recover Brands, and Rumpl.

“We are fortunate to have Effort, Inc join our sales force, bringing positive energy and youthful style to our elite team,” noted Tim McGuire, VP Sales North America at Eagle Creek. “Not only do these guys get out and explore, but they have the kind of sales and content creation experience we’re looking for, with a new outlook for some of our most time-honored clients. We look forward to working with Spencer and Andrew to strengthen our core business and seek new opportunities as the brand reimagines our presence.

“We enter business relationships with our vendor and retail partners with a long term and sustainable outlook,” said Cooke. “Eagle Creek is no exception, providing the most innovative and necessary travel gear, which we are quite excited to offer to our retailers. They are clearly committed to making this planet a better place to live, a mission synonymous with the other brands we sell. We are excited to join their team.”

Links:

Effort, Inc Website: https://effort.tv/

Eagle Creek website: eaglecreek.com

ABOUT EAGLE CREEK

Founded in 1975, Eagle Creek has been leading the adventure travel category since inventing it over four decades ago. Now based in Steamboat Springs, CO and back under private ownership, we believe adventure is a state of mind and a source of inspiration. It’s being curious about the world and the people around us that share this planet. There are endless ways to find adventure, big and small, and we exist to encourage others to discover the places and experiences that fill their life with meaning. With Eagle Creek products, any kind of adventure is possible. eaglecreek.com