Outdoor Alliance announces new members in second year of Grasstops Collective program

Washington, D.C. (June 2, 2025) — Today, Outdoor Alliance, a coalition of outdoor recreation groups working together to protect public lands, announced 20 new members of its Grasstops Collective, a program entering its second year. Grasstops Collective is a leadership and advocacy development program that trains grasstops advocates to build relationships with policymakers and advocate for conservation priorities.

Grasstops leaders, distinguished from grassroots supporters, are unique for their meaningful leadership voice in their communities, whether they are in business, nonprofit, or local government.

“These people are the unofficial mayors — the ones who know everyone at the crag,

trailhead, or river put-in,” said Taylor Rogers, who is coordinating the Grasstops Collective program for Outdoor Alliance for its second year. “As such, they’re not only widely respected people in their respective communities, they’re also immersed in the public lands issues in their own backyards. That makes them very effective voices for conservation.”

Outdoor Alliance’s Grasstops Collective trains and educates grasstops leaders on outdoor policy and advocacy. Grasstops leaders form relationships with their elected officials and bring their local knowledge and stories to move the needle on conservation, recreation, and climate policy.

The 2024 Grasstops Collective cohort — the first year of the program — advocated with lawmakers across the country to help get the EXPLORE Act, a landmark recreation package, across the finish line at the end of last year.

Graduates from the program have continued to advocate for full funding and staffing for land management agencies, and for protections for public lands and waters.

This year’s cohort of 20 grasstops advocates come from across the country, with a variety of backgrounds, outdoor recreation pursuits, and leadership roles. They include professional athletes, executive directors of local outdoor recreation nonprofits, industry leaders, and storytellers.

Jazzari Taylor, the Chair of the Parks Now Coalition and Policy Advocate at Latino Outdoors, said: “I’m excited to be part of the Grasstops Collective to strengthen my advocacy skills, connect with other leaders, and shape the future of outdoor access through conservation policy. I look forward to bringing these tools back to my community and network to welcome others into this space and drive lasting policy change.”

Cody Perry, the co-founder of Rig to Flip and a member of the 2025 cohort, said: “My intention will be to leverage the collective power with other outdoor leaders, as we aim to achieve meaningful conservation outcomes for communities across the country we all care deeply about. I am motivated by the opportunity to emphasize the significance of the landscapes I call home, and ensure a voice for sustainable land use practices will be heard by elected leaders, and local communities alike.”

Christa Nenaber, a member of the 2025 cohort who has worked for Patagonia for more than 14 years, said: “I am honored and excited to have an opportunity to learn and partner with others who care about the environment, democracy and supporting their communities.

Learn more about the 2025 Grasstops Collective cohort here and about our 2024 cohort and their accomplishments throughout the first year here.

To learn more, please visit www.outdooralliance.org.

About Outdoor Alliance 

Outdoor Alliance is a nonprofit coalition of organizations that includes American Whitewater, American Canoe Association, Access Fund, International Mountain Bicycling Association, Winter Wildlands Alliance, The Mountaineers, American Alpine Club, the Mazamas, Colorado Mountain Club, and Surfrider Foundation. For more than ten years, Outdoor Alliance has united the human-powered outdoor recreation community to achieve lasting conservation victories. Our work has helped to permanently protect 40 million acres of public land, secure $5.1 billion in funding for the outdoors, and convert more than 100,000 outdoor enthusiasts into outdoor advocates. For more information, visit www.outdooralliance.org

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The Rock Fight Podcast to Record Live at Switchback Spring

San Diego, CA – June 2, 2025 – The Rock Fight Podcast, the outdoor industry’s favorite source for unfiltered commentary and irreverent insights on the latest news and trends, is going live at Switchback Spring. The live podcast recording will take place on Tuesday, June 17, at 5 p.m. CT in the Trailheads Theater, and is open to all Switchback attendees.

Hosted by Colin True, with co-hosts Eoin Comerford, Shawnté Salabert, and Producer Dave, the live show will feature special guests including Troy Sicotte, President of Mountain Hardware; Kent Ebersol, President of Outdoor Industry Association (OIA); Switchback show director Christina Henderson, and Jason Thienel, owner of Nashville’s independent outdoor retailer Cumberland Transit. Recorded on-site at the first-ever standalone Switchback Spring in Nashville, TN, this episode will deliver debate, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes insights into everything happening at the show, from emerging trends to bold brand moves.

“For some time, the outdoor industry has been missing a central gathering that truly brings us all together,” said True. “Switchback Spring feels like the start of something big. We’re excited that The Rock Fight can be part of this inaugural event and help capture the energy and excitement of this new chapter.”

“What better way to celebrate the outdoor industry gathering together at Switchback than to have a live, in-person recording of The Rock Fight,” said Henderson. “The podcast has become one of the industry’s go-to news sources, and their live recording will definitely be a popular and entertaining event.”

The Rock Fight has built a loyal audience by doing what few in the outdoor world dare: saying the quiet parts out loud. This live session promises to deliver that same honesty and humor, right from the heart of the industry’s newest can’t-miss event.

DAY: Tuesday, June 17, 2025

TIME: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. CT

WHERE: Trailheads Theater at Switchback Spring

For those unable to attend in person, the full episode will be released on The Rock Fight podcast feed on Monday, June 23, and will be available on all major podcast platforms.

To learn more about The Rock Fight, visit rockfight.co. For media inquiries, please contact stacy@darbycommunications.com.

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About The Rock Fight
Hosted by outdoor industry veteran Colin True, The Rock Fight is more than just another outdoor or adventure podcast; it’s a full-on rebellion for those inside and outside the outdoor industry. Catering to outdoorsy listeners tired of the same worn-out paths, The Rock Fight offers honest discussions that mirror candid banter after a long hike, by the river, or over a beer. Our podcast dissects the latest outdoor industry and adventure headlines and tackles topics often avoided by other media, from pop culture and gear to unconventional debates. Join us as we challenge the conventional and bring fresh perspectives to the outdoor media landscape. Missing The Rock Fight is missing the evolution of outdoor media. Tune into the podcast at Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Around the Crown 10K, Together with Truist, Announces Multi-Year Partnership with OrthoCarolina

Charlotte, NC — June 2, 2025 — Around the Crown 10K Together with Truist (ATC10K), Charlotte’s premier 10K road running race and North Carolina’s largest road race, announces its pivotal multi-year partnership with OrthoCarolina, one of the nation’s leading independent academic orthopedics practices serving the Southeast since 1922. OrthoCarolina will serve as a leading sponsor for ATC10K and the Crown Collective and will power the pre-race expo hosted at Truist Field, home of the Charlotte Knights.

OrthoCarolina is a purpose-driven orthopedic practice providing compassionate and comprehensive musculoskeletal care to patients. The widely respected practice pushes forward independent academic research and training programs and serves its community to advance wellbeing and improve the lives it serves. As a partnering sponsor of ATC10K, OrthoCarolina supports ATC10K athletes by increasing access to injury prevention, strengthening resources, and providing cutting-edge care for the community. These initiatives support the event’s overarching mission of making the race inclusive and accessible for as many people as possible.

“The running community celebrates so many different types of movements and expressions,” says ATC10K founder Brian Mister. “With each step, athletes consistently push forward, not only reaching their personal bests, but more importantly, finding community. Around the Crown 10K was created partly to celebrate and support every athlete on that journey. That’s why we’re so excited for this partnership with OrthoCarolina.”.

The OrthoCarlolina partnership creates increased opportunities for ATC10K. As the race expands, the race expo location needed to grow. This year, ATC10K will host the Expo, powered by OrthoCarolina, at Truist Field. OrthoCarolina will also lend its expertise to an expanded and reimagined finish line on race day to help with common medical needs, including cooling resources. Benefits of the partnership for race participants will also include live training webinars and elevated training plans offered through ATC10K’s website and Crown Collective’s social channels.

“At OrthoCarolina, our passion is rooted in improving lives through patient-centered care, community engagement, and accessible expertise. Partnering with The Crown Collective and ATC10K is a meaningful step forward in supporting Charlotte’s running community,” states Emma Gagnon, Marketing Specialist at OrthoCarolina. “This partnership empowers us in the running community, supporting athletes at every level and promoting long-term health. We’re proud to work with an organization that shares our commitment to the community, and we look forward to making a difference together.”

For more information on Around the Crown 10K and its programs, visit aroundthecrown10k.com or follow on social media @aroundthecrown10k. For media inquiries, contact Tim Nooney at tim@darbycommunications.com

For more information on OrthoCarolina, please visit www.orthocarolina.com.

About Around the Crown 10K Together with Truist

Around the Crown 10K was founded in 2019 by Brian and Chelsea Mister to promote the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other to move Charlotte forward. The purpose is to show that running can make you healthier, happier, and more confident with no regard to age, cultural differences, gender, pace, or experience. With a year-long line-up of events, it becomes part race, part run, part community event, part celebration, and a tribute to Charlotte. Around the Crown 10K was made for everyone. To learn more, visit aroundthecrown10k.com or connect on social media @aroundthecrown10k.

About OrthoCarolina- Since 1922, OrthoCarolina has been a distinguished and reputable physician-owned and physician-led orthopedic practice that prioritizes delivering exceptional patient-centered care, advancing ground-breaking research, and expanding access to innovative solutions. As industry leaders in our respective specialties, we consistently push the boundaries of medical advancements and actively contribute to the training of new specialists. Our mission is to enhance accessibility to unparalleled orthopedic care while simultaneously reducing costs for our valued patients.

At OrthoCarolina, we specialize in foot & ankle, hip & knee, hand, spine, physical medicine, pediatric orthopedics, shoulder & elbow, and sports medicine, catering to athletes of all calibers, ranging from student-athletes to weekend warriors to Olympians. With an extensive network of over 30 locations and eight Orthopedic Urgent Care Centers (OUCs) across the Carolinas, we ensure our patients receive comprehensive and convenient orthopedic access across the care continuum. To learn more about OrthoCarolina, visit orthocarolina.com

 

 

HydraPak® Scales Re_Pak Program with Nationwide Expansion in 2025

June 2, 2025 – Oakland, CA – HydraPak®, the global leader of high-performance hydration solutions, is expanding its Re_Pak program following a successful pilot year in 2024. Originally introduced as a small-scale effort to reduce waste in the hydration space, HydraPak is now scaling up its national footprint, with 300 Re_Pak collection boxes set to roll out to over 100 retail and event locations. The 2025 program aims to collect four times as many bottles as it did during its inaugural year.

Re_Pak is an innovative recycling initiative that gives used sport bottles a second life by transforming them into durable composite construction materials through a partnership with a CHaRM (Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials) facility in Boulder, Colorado. During its pilot year, the program collected approximately 900 bottles, diverting 170 pounds of plastic from landfills. The results demonstrated that outdoor consumers are eager to participate in more circular systems, especially when offered easy access and a clear impact. Already, the 2025 rollout has secured twice the number of participating locations compared to last year.

“Last year, Re_Pak was an invitation. This year it’s a movement gaining momentum,” said HydraPak President and CEO Matt Lyon. “We’ve seen firsthand that when you give outdoor enthusiasts a simple way to make a difference, they’ll show up. Re_Pak reflects our continued commitment to innovation, not just in product design, but in how we care for the planet and support the communities who explore it.”

The program accepts squeezable LDPE and PP bottles from any brand, including CamelBak, Polar Bottle, Specialized, UltraAspire, Nathan, Amphipod, Gatorade, Powerade, and more. Consumers are encouraged to clean out their gear bins and drop off eligible bottles at participating retailers and select outdoor events including:

Re_Pak is one piece of HydraPak’s broader sustainability ecosystem. The brand also hosts Gear Rehab, a hydration gear cleaning and repair service offered at select outdoor events, and the Sustainable Racing Program, an initiative aimed at reducing single-use cup waste at road and trail races. Together, these efforts reflect HydraPak’s commitment to life cycle thinking, gear longevity, and environmental responsibility across the outdoor and endurance community.

Retailers and event organizers interested in participating in the Re_Pak program can learn more and sign up at www.hydrapak.com/pages/repak-by-hydrapak. To learn more about HydraPak’s commitment to sustainability and its eco-conscious initiatives, please visit www.hydrapak.com/pages/sustainability or contact Abby Harris at abby@darbycommunications.com.

ABOUT HYDRAPAK

HydraPak® is the leading original equipment manufacturer of soft flasks, reservoirs, and water storage solutions globally. Founded in Northern California, the company is dedicated to producing flexible and durable hydration products tailored for recreational, athletic, and military use. HydraPak and its proprietary brand, Bottle Bright® cleaning tablets, are category leaders. Over the past 20 years, HydraPak has not only pioneered new product categories, but has also become a trusted partner for hundreds of renowned global brands and athletes.

 

 

 

 

Outdoor Industry Leaders Share How Tariffs Hurt the Outdoor Recreation Economy 

Members of the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) joined other industry leaders for a U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship hearing on the outdoor recreation economy 

Boulder, CO (MAY 30, 2025) — Today, leaders in the outdoor industry testified during a field hearing held by the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship, “Beyond the Trailhead: Supporting Outdoor Recreation in an Uncertain Economy”, sharing their perspectives on how tariffs are hurting the outdoor recreation economy.  

Travis Campbell, CEO of Outdoor Industry Member (OIA) member Eagle Creek, joined Mike Mojica, Founder of Outdoor Element, and Trent Bush, Founder and Co-CEO of ARTILECT Studio, to discuss the impact of tariffs on the outdoor recreation economy and how their business are navigating the ongoing uncertainty around trade.   

“We are the kind of small business America should be proud of: We pay our taxes. We comply fully with our duties and regulations. We strive to be a responsible employer, a committed partner to our customers, and a steward of the planet,” said Travis Campbell during the hearing. “Yet, in the wake of newly announced tariffs, it feels as though our country is systematically working against businesses like ours –raising our costs dramatically while fueling consumer anxiety that suppresses demand.”  

“Small businesses like mine cannot fix this alone. We need long-term, stable trade policies that recognize the realities of modern supply chains – not punitive tariffs and uncertainty,” Campell continued. “The outdoor industry stands ready to work with you. Our company is prepared to be part of the solution, but we need a clear plan. Because what we’re doing now isn’t working.”  

In a recent survey, 84% of OIA members surveyed said they will be impacted by tariffs, resulting in millions of dollars in financial losses and affecting hundreds of outdoor products. The outdoor recreation industry fuels $1.2 trillion in consumer spending and supports over 5 million jobs. Outdoor recreation is a critical force in the U.S. economy, and OIA remains committed to working with the administration and policymakers to champion a balanced trade agenda that supports industry growth and success.  

You can read Travis Campbell’s full testimony here, and watch the full hearing here.    

 

About Outdoor Industry Association 

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org. 

 

Wiley X Proudly Sponsors Prevent Blindness Texas Golf Tournament

Frisco, TX – [May 30, 2025] — Wiley X® was honored to once again sponsor the Prevent Blindness Texas (PBT) Golf Tournament, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the organization’s vital mission of safeguarding vision health across the state.

This meaningful event brought together community members, partners, and advocates in a shared effort to fund sight-saving initiatives and promote accessible eye care for all Texans. With dedicated offices in Houston and San Antonio, and the ongoing support of passionate volunteers, Prevent Blindness Texas continues to lead the way in advancing eye health through outreach, education, and vision screenings.

To learn more about Prevent Blindness Texas and how to get involved, visit https://texas.preventblindness.org/.

For more information about Wiley X and its product offerings, visit www.wileyx.com.

 

GOVERNOR AYOTTE TO PROCLAIM JUNE 10th “NH OUTDOOR INDUSTRY DAY”

May 28, 2025 – Governor Kelly Ayotte will officially proclaim June 10, 2025, as “NH Outdoor Industry Day,” recognizing the vital contributions of the outdoor sector to the state’s economy and culture. The ceremonial proclamation takes place at 2 PM in Manchester’s Veterans Memorial Park.

New Hampshire’s outdoor economy ranks 8th nationally for its percentage contribution to state GDP and sustains nearly 32,000 jobs and 1,000 small businesses across sectors like hospitality, manufacturing, retail, tourism, and professional services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, New Hampshire’s outdoor industry generated nearly $4 billion in revenue 2023, accounting for 4.5% of the state’s total employment. These are the highest levels recorded since the agency began tracking the sector in 2012.

The proclamation ceremony will bring together local and state leaders, business owners, non-profit organizations, and outdoor enthusiasts to celebrate the industry’s vital role in driving economic growth, workforce development, and quality of life in the Granite State. In partnership with Outdoor Industry Day, the Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) will launch the Workforce Toolkit for the Outdoor Lifestyle—a comprehensive resource designed to help New Hampshire employers integrate outdoor recreation assets into recruiting, hiring, and retention strategies.

Alongside the Governor, Outdoor Industry Day speakers will include BEA Commissioner Taylor Caswell and Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development (ORID) Director Janel Lawton, Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais, Granite Outdoor Alliance (GOA) Director Tyler Ray, and NEMO Equipment Founder and CEO Cam Brensinger.

“We are excited to launch the New Hampshire Workforce Toolkit for the Outdoor Lifestyle and give employers tangible resources to incorporate the state’s outdoor recreation assets into their workforce recruitment and retention strategies,” said Janel Lawton, ORID Director. “By promoting a culture centered around an active, outdoor lifestyle, New Hampshire companies can attract high-quality talent, reduce turnover, and boost overall productivity.”

Following the Outdoor Industry Day ceremony, Granite Outdoor Alliance (GOA) will host a Rock City Vendor Village pop-up, featuring New Hampshire-based outdoor brands and non-profits. Rock City travels to events across the state to showcase New Hampshire outdoor brands and foster direct connections among community members and industry leaders.

“Rock City is our platform to celebrate the businesses and organizations that are the backbone of New Hampshire’s outdoor economy,” said Tyler Ray, Director of GOA. “These are the brands building gear, creating jobs, and driving innovation in communities across the state. We’re proud to showcase their impact in a visible, public way—and there’s no better place to do that than downtown Manchester on Outdoor Industry Day.”

The NH Outdoor Industry Day press conference and Rock City Vendor Village are free and open to the public. Food and music will be available. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

A series of regional partner events will continue throughout the summer to emphasize industry growth, workforce development, and public engagement, reinforcing the sector’s essential contribution to the state’s economic and cultural identity. To learn more and RSVP for the event, visit Eventbrite or www.graniteoutdoor.org.

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Press Contact Info: Sam Trombley

Granite Outdoor Alliance

sam@graniteoutdoor.org

860-319-9944

About the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs:

The Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the State of New Hampshire while promoting it as a destination for domestic and international visitors. BEA oversees programs in economic development, international commerce, outdoor recreation industry development, planning and community development, travel and tourism, visitor services, and workforce development. For more information, visit www.nheconomy.com.

About Granite Outdoor Alliance:

Granite Outdoor Alliance is a non-profit business alliance that supports New Hampshire’s outdoor industry including brands, retailers, nonprofits, and individuals. With over 130 business members, Granite Outdoor promotes outdoor recreation as a critical anchor to integrate rural and urban economic policies, communities, and industry to enhance life in New Hampshire.

ONIX Pickleball Unveils the Hype X and Hype X Pro, Offering Elevated Control and Power

EVANSVILLE, Ind. [May  28, 2025] — ONIX Pickleball, a leader in the sport of pickleball for two decades, has unveiled the Hype X and Hype X Pro, a duo designed to represent ONIX’s patented Power Frame ThermoFused Technology, enabling players to achieve peak performance at a quality price.

With increased reliability in their paddles’ construction, players can experience the full potential of their power on the court. The high-tech specs of ONIX’s products are made for pickleball players who trust that their skills will never be limited by their equipment.

“As we continue to welcome new audiences to the game, we are thrilled to offer our patented Power Frame ThermoFused Technology to a wider range of players,” said Jay Simmons, Senior Product Manager at ONIX. “This highly advanced technology has elevated our collection since it was first released in 2023 in our high-end paddles, and we are proud to enable a broader range of pickleball players to see the advantages of a unibody construction and how it will improve their game.”

The Hype X and Hype X Pro 14mm paddles feature advanced technology and specifications tailored for competitive players, including:

  • Patented Power Frame technology
  • Thermoformed construction for increased power, a larger sweet spot, and reduced vibration
  • Elongated shape and tennis handle for added reach and power
  • Polypropylene honeycomb core insert for enhanced touch, power, and pop
  • Medium weight: 7.75-8.25 oz
  • Dimensions: 16.4″ length, 7.56″ width, 5.7″ handle length, 8mm core cell size
  • USA Pickleball approved for official tournament play

ONIX showcases the advanced paddle technology created and patented by the brand to bring a high level of playability to pickleball play. ThermoFused Technology molds pickleball paddles to exact specifications with a unibody construction, allowing for a seamless face to handle formation. This innovative design prevents issues of breakage at the handle, allowing for better playability and less vibration. First released in its pinnacle paddles such as the Malice and the Mayhem, ONIX now shares the advantages of Power Frame ThermoFused Tech in Hype X and Hype X Pro at an accessible price for committed players.

Focused on innovating pickleball gear since 2005, ONIX has established itself for two decades as a leading brand committed to creating the most technologically advanced equipment for the sport. Working with top engineers and professional players, the brand is passionate about craftsmanship to bring the best paddle and equipment to the game. With the emergence of patented Power Frame ThermoFused Technology in 2023, Onix revolutionized equipment construction as the paddles are molded to exact specifications and provide a reliable frame to unleash users’ power on the court.

The Hype X and Hype X Pro are now available at DICK’s Sporting Goods and online at OnixPickleball.com. For more information about ONIX and its collection of pickleball equipment and accessories, visit OnixPickleball.com.

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About ONIX Pickleball

ONIX is the leading manufacturer of all performance pickleball products, such as paddles, balls, and accessories, and equips players with technologically advanced equipment that is proven to make the sport faster, more precise, and more strategic. Since its founding in 2005, ONIX Pickleball has dedicated its mission to growing and supporting the sport at a professional level. For more information on ONIX, its products, brands, instruction manuals, retailers, warranty, replacement parts, or customer service, please call 1-800-467-1421 or visit onixpickleball.com.

About Escalade

Founded in 1922, and headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, Escalade designs, manufactures, and sells sporting goods, fitness, and indoor/outdoor recreation equipment. Our mission is to connect family and friends and create lasting memories. Leaders in our respective categories, Escalade’s brands include Brunswick Billiards®; STIGA®table tennis; Accudart®; RAVE Sports® water recreation; Victory Tailgate® custom games; ONIX® Pickleball; Goalrilla™ basketball; Lifeline® fitness; Woodplay® playsets; and Bear® Archery. Escalade’s products are available online and at leading retailers nationwide. For more information about Escalade’s many brands, history, financials, and governance, please visit escaladeinc.com.

Media Contact: Verde Brand Communications | Onix@VerdePR.com