Archives: Press Releases

Boston, Mass. (May 22, 2023) – Vibram^®, the global leader for over 80 years in high-performance soles and the creator of the Vibram FiveFingers^® minimalist footwear, today launched Vibram Fitness, a series of weekly fitness classes featuring its FiveFingers footwear, a workout led by trainers from Clientel3, a premier boutique fitness and training studio. The session, priced at $50 per person, will take place at Vibram’s Connection Lab in the heart of Boston, where guests will experience a personalized fitting and leave with a pair of either V-Train 2.0 or KSO EVO, as well as have all subsequent classes free of charge. Vibram Fitness begins Wednesday, May 24 and continues every Wednesday through August 30, with all sessions taking place at 840 Commonwealth Avenue. Registration can be found HERE.

“Vibram is proud to host these fitness experiences in our backyard in the great city of Boston,” said Global Chief Brand Officer and President of Vibram Corporation, Fabrizio Gamberini. “This is not only a unique opportunity to experience our iconic minimalist footwear in a welcoming setting, but also, to share a fun evening with fellow fitness devotees. We look forward to seeing brand loyalists and welcoming new consumers to the Vibram FiveFingers family.”

Vibram debuted the FiveFingers shoe in 2006 which challenged the conventional approach to footwear. A shoe with five toes, fitted with a slim, flexible and deconstructed sole, which fits the foot like a glove. Vibram FiveFingers respects the natural functionality of the foot, allowing the wearer to feel the ground naturally with a level of protection. It rapidly captured the attention of footwear enthusiasts and athletes all over the globe for its philosophy towards the practicing of sport on all levels and across a range of disciplines. With models for fitness, running, trail running, water sports, excursions, everyday use, and training in general. Vibram FiveFingers is created for lovers of outdoor sports and much more, providing the sensation of being barefoot with all the protection guaranteed by a Vibram sole.

Vibram’s FiveFingers shoes have a versatile minimalist footwear design. Created with individual toe pockets for flexibility to replicate the barefoot experience, these lightweight alternatives to traditional athletic footwear enable users’ feet to connect to the ground securely, and with natural stability, while the durable Vibram soles provide excellent grip.

The V-Train 2.0 features a Vibram XS Trek sole using a technical compound creating an optimal balance between traction and durability while still being responsive on unpredictable terrain. The KSO EVO emphasizes the minimalist philosophy at the center of Vibram FiveFingers. It is engineered to have maximum articulation and ground feel while still providing an assured grip. The rubber outsole and polyester mesh upper contribute to a light and airy style ideal for a workout.

Location: Vibram Connection Lab; 840 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215

Dates: May 24, 2023 and continuing weekly on Wednesdays through August 30, 2023

Time: 6:00 – 7:00pm EST

For more information about Vibram Fitness, please visit the sign up link on Eventbrite HERE.

 

About Vibram

Vibram is the world leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance rubber soles for outdoor and leisure activities, workwear, fashion, orthopedics and correction. For more than 80 years, the yellow octagon that symbolizes Vibram has been synonymous worldwide with quality, performance, safety and innovation in the footwear industry. With its international headquarters in Albizzate (Varese) Italy, Vibram produces over 40 million soles every year, dedicates over one million kilometers to testing, is present in 120 countries and has manufacturing, research and representation bases in the USA, China, Japan, Brazil and Italy. For more information, visit www.vibram.com.

 

BOULDER, CO. (May 19, 2023) – ROLL Recovery, a leader in recovery and athletic performance and innovators of deep tissue massage therapy tools, is thrilled to announce the availability of its top-rated recovery products, including the patented R8 Plus on Backcountry.com, the premier online destination for outdoor gear and apparel.

This exciting partnership provides outdoor enthusiasts with a convenient one-stop shopping experience to gear up for their next adventure and take care of their bodies afterward.

“Partnering with Backcountry.com allows us to provide our unique recovery products to a wider audience of active individuals who appreciate the importance of maintaining their physical well-being,” said Jeremy Nelson, Founder of ROLL Recovery. “We’re confident that Backcountry.com customers will benefit from our high quality recovery tools, enabling them to perform at their best and explore the outdoors to the fullest.”

Backcountry.com is known for its vast selection of outdoor gear and commitment to providing customers with the best products for their adventures. With ROLL Recovery now available on the platform, customers can effortlessly find the perfect recovery tools to complement their active lifestyles.

The ROLL Recovery lineup of products available on Backcountry.com includes:

• R8 Plus: ROLL Recovery’s flagship massage tool, encompasses a patented, hidden mechanism in the frame that features an adjustment dial, which reduces or increases the massage force as needed for the perfect feel. 
• R8: a deep tissue massage roller designed to provide targeted, self-myofascial release. The R8 effectively reduces muscle soreness and stiffness, increases circulation, and promotes overall recovery.
• R1 Percussion: a device using the force of percussive therapy to improve blood circulation and range of motion. Built with the highest quality of materials and an unparalleled design it delivers a premium experience with its supremely quiet motor and long-lasting battery. 
• R4 Foam Roller: a next-level foam roller featuring a centered groove which is perfect for isolating and targeting specific spots and muscle groups like the upper and lower back, IT band and Achilles tendon.
• R3 Orthopedic Foot Roller: the unique, non-symmetrical shape of the R3 was designed to target specific areas of the foot in order to stretch the plantar fascia and intrinsic foot muscles; and to add stability while rolling. 
• StretchMat: a foldable mat ideal for a pre-adventure activation session and/or post- adventure stretch & roll. It has a grippy bottom layer and is easy to fold and clean.

ROLL Recovery products are now available on Backcountry.com. To learn more about ROLL Recovery and its innovative product lineup, please visit www.rollrecovery.com.

About ROLL Recovery
Born in a garage in Boulder, Colorado, ROLL Recovery was created out of a need. The founders, inventor and mechanical engineer Jeremy Nelson and professional athlete Adriana Nelson, set out to create an effective massage tool that would replicate the hands of a massage therapist as much as possible. The company’s mission is to create exceptionally designed, functional tools, unlike anything else on the market, and mobile enough to use anywhere. ROLL Recovery’s massage and recovery tools, led by the flagship R8 Plus, are FDA Registered Medical Devices tested and inspired by elite athletes. The company stands by the values of integrity, hard work, and putting people above all else. ROLL Recovery’s work has earned them the 2022 Colorado Companies to Watch award. To keep up with the latest news from ROLL Recovery, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and check out their blog.

SEATTLE – Specialty outdoor retailer REI Co-op kicks off its 85^th anniversary with the return of its biggest sale of the year. REI’s Anniversary Sale runs May 19 – 29 with major savings on favorite outdoor gear and apparel brands that inspire outdoor adventures all summer. The sale includes deals for everyone, with the deepest savings and special product offers available just for co-op members, including savings on all REI Co-op brand gear, clothing, footwear and bikes.

“Our anniversary sale is the best way to recognize and celebrate the enduring power of our 23-million-member community,” said Ben Steele, REI chief customer officer. “We’re celebrating our shared history with members from coast to coast by giving them access to the year’s biggest savings while also providing inspiration and deals to help more people get outdoors.”

A digital catalog for REI’s Anniversary Sale is available at catalogs.rei.com.

Deals include:

• Just for REI Co-op Members: 30% off REI Co-op brand gear, clothing and footwear
• Just for REI Co-op Members: 20% off Co-op Cycles bikes and e-bikes for adults
• 20% off all Yakima & Thule car racks, roof boxes and rack accessories
• 25% off selected footwear from Salomon, Altra, KEEN, La Sportiva, Allbirds and more
• 25% off selected clothing from prAna, Cotopaxi, Columbia, Outdoor Research, Black Diamond and more
• 25% off selected gear from Black Diamond, Exped, NEMO, Garmin, Stanley, Coleman and more
• Just for REI Co-op Members: Save up to $300 on select 2023 REI adventure travel trips to Bryce Canyon, San Juan Islands, Colorado, the Grand Canyon and more when booked May 19-29. Visit com/trips-on-sale for details and terms

REI Co-op members can also save 20% on one full-price item and an extra 20% off one online REI Outlet item from May 19-29. For details and exclusions, visit REI.com/coupon.

REI will pay homage to the co-op’s 85-year history throughout the sale. The co-op’s catalog and online content celebrate “then and now” with stories from lifetime members who share how the co-op inspires their active lives, and through fun and sometimes quirky facts from the Co-op Living Archive. For example, back in the day REI’s product designers used to measure wind resistance of REI Co-op tents by strapping them atop a trusty pickup truck, climbing inside and driving down the highway.

The REI Anniversary Sale is a great time to become a member to enjoy deeper deals during the event. Members who join the co-op for a one-time $30 fee enjoy a range of benefits, including access to the co-op’s slightly used gear and trade-in program called Re/Supply; discounts on shop services and experiences; a share of the co-op’s annual profits based on qualifying purchases in the form of a Member Reward; and more. In addition to discounts at the co-op’s bike shop, REI members receive free flat-tire repair (labor only, parts not included) and free machine wax for skis and snowboards.

About 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.

 

QUINCY, CA (May 18, 2023)—The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) and Outdoor Alliance California partnered to bring a group of federal, state and local leaders in recreation, land management and natural resource protection to Plumas County in late April to discuss how to advance ambitious goals around conservation, equitable outdoor access and the protection of local watersheds and forests.

At the center of the conversation was Connected Communities—a visionary effort led by SBTS in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to use trails and the outdoor recreation economy as a driver to revitalize rural mountain towns in northern California and western Nevada—and how it can contribute to meeting some of those statewide priority initiatives.

California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) Secretary Wade Crowfoot led a team from the CNRA, which included Katherine Toy, Deputy Secretary for Access, Dr. Jennifer Norris, Deputy Secretary of Biodiversity and Habitat, who spearheads California’s 30×30 initiative—a federal effort to conserve 30 percent of the country’s land and oceans by 2030—and Madeline Drake, Assistant Deputy Director for Biodiversity and Habitat.

The group also included leadership from the U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region 5, as well as the Plumas, Lassen and Tahoe National Forests, and representatives from the Outdoor Industry Association, Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which has already contributed around $1.4 million to the early planning and environmental review efforts of Connected Communities, and several other regional nonprofits.

“We have a huge challenge,” said Secretary Crowfoot. “In the state, we’re working on: How do we protect places and people from all these crazy impacts we’re experiencing more of: catastrophic wildfire, drought, now flooding? At the same time, how can we advance a really positive vision for the future? How do we help California adjust to all these changes, like climate change? How do we get more people outdoors and make sure everybody can enjoy the outdoors, and then how do we protect this incredible nature? We’re one of the most biodiverse places in the world—we’re looking for the win-wins that do all of that. That’s really what has me so excited about this project. This project’s success is our success achieving our goals.”

The two-day field visit started with presentations on Connected Communities at the Plumas Sierra County Fairgrounds, by SBTS executive director Greg Williams, who first envisioned and started pitching Connected Communities in 2019, and a project status update from SBTS’ Connected Communities Project Manager Trinity Stirling, and Director of Grant Operations Michelle Abramson.

The Connected Communities Trails Master Plan, currently in development and slated for public release later this year, includes four main components:

• 572.5 miles of trails identified for singletrack that would potentially link 15 towns spanning six counties in a multi-use signature trail
• Development of 21 new and existing trailheads
• Identification of 8 Recreation Zones (areas near communities that warrant additional planning and development)
• Identification of desired conditions for fuels reduction and restoration within future project planning areas

Planning on the project started in 2020 and it is currently moving forward through a mix of grants and private funding. The project’s goals check many federal and state boxes, such as protecting healthy watersheds, revitalization of rural communities in the face of job loss, access to outdoor recreation and wildfire prevention, access and post-fire restoration. But at a total projected cost of $54.5 million and a timeline into 2030, a major topic of conversation at the two-day summit was how to potentially speed that up through partnerships, unlocking federal and state dollars earmarked for wildfire restoration and prevention and doing so in a way that establishes a repeatable process that can be used across the nation.

“This area’s been disinvested in for generations, largely because the jobs have come from mining and logging and those industries have all but disappeared,” Williams said. “To be able to bring an economy back here through recreation, we really need collaboration and partnership with the state and the federal government, and the local government and the counties here. This gathering was to bring everybody together, to present the project, to get input on it and to figure out how we’re going to invest and get this thing done.”

A second day was shaped around a tour of Mount Hough, a large part of which burned in the 2021 Dixie Fire, to see the Connected Communities project area on the ground, including a new trail that will become a future link between the towns of Quincy and Talyorsville and walk bulldozer lines from the Dixie Fire and discuss how they can be integrated into future trail planning.

Other takeaways from the meeting focused on ways to streamline inefficient parts of multifaceted, long-range projects such as Connected Communities, particularly around costly and lengthy federal and state environmental review processes, and how organizations like SBTS can continue to strategically partner with the U.S. Forest Service.

“There’s no other state, no other area, with the same combinations of risk and opportunities as we do right here,” said Chris Carlton, Deputy Supervisor of the Plumas National Forest. “It’s pretty awesome, and it’s pretty terrifying. There is a lot of money and a lot of resources coming our way, and that comes with incredible expectations. We have very narrow timelines.”

Balancing forest health, recovery and restoration and visitation requires a delicate balance at a time when federal resources are limited, he added. “We can’t operate the way we historically have anymore. The role of partners is so much more magnified.”

For more information on Connected Communities, go to sierratrails.org/cc. For details on how to directly support SBTS and the Connected Communities mission through a one-time or recurring financial contribution, visit sierratrails.org/donate.

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About Outdoor Alliance

Outdoor Alliance is the only organization in the U.S. that unites the voices of outdoor enthusiasts to conserve public lands. A nonprofit coalition comprised of 10 national advocacy organizations, Outdoor Alliance’s members include American Whitewater, American Canoe Association, Access Fund, International Mountain Bicycling Association, Winter Wildlands Alliance, the Mountaineers, the American Alpine Club, the Mazamas, the Colorado Mountain Club, and the Surfrider Foundation. By working with its member coalitions and helping mobilize the involvement of individuals to protect public lands and waters, OA helps ensure public lands are managed in a way that embraces the human-powered experience. Outdoor Alliance — conservation powered by outdoor recreation. Learn more at OutdoorAlliance.org.

About the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship

Formed in 2003, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is a volunteer driven non-profit whose primary goal is the maintenance and enhancement of the trail systems in and around Downieville, the Lakes Basin, Graeagle and Quincy. This small group has donated over 60,000 hours of volunteer labor to both the Plumas and Tahoe National Forests, maintaining over 50 trails, including the creation of 50 miles of new trails. While these trails see over 200,000 users per year, they continue to maintain a level A standing due to all the hard work of the Stewardship volunteers. This organization is not only a shining example of what a small group of dedicated, passionate people can do for an area, it is a demonstration of economic efficiency when no alternatives exist. All our product sponsors’ and volunteer monies go directly to trail maintenance and development. We multiply all donations by over 1500% through organized volunteer labor in-kind contributions.

 

 

 

KIRBY, Wyo. (May 17, 2023) –  Wyoming Whiskey announces the release of its limited edition Wilderness straight bourbon whiskey in tandem with the brand’s continuing partnership with Yellowstone Forever, the official nonprofit partner of Yellowstone National Park. The collaboration was born in honor of preserving the beauty and wonder of the brand’s home state of Wyoming. The Wyoming Whiskey Wilderness bottle is available on a limited basis in Yellowstone National Park, in the brand’s Kirby Distillery Shop and Jackson Barrel House.

Similar collaborations by Wyoming Whiskey, such as the National Parks series contributed over $120,000 to the National Park Foundation in 2021, and $150,000 to Yellowstone Forever in 2022. With the release of  Wilderness, Wyoming Whiskey continues on a steadfast mission to support the nation’s sacred outdoor spaces with this year’s initiative.

“Yellowstone has played a profound role in the development of Wyoming Whiskey and the enrichment of our local community,” said David DeFazio, Co-Founder of Wyoming Whiskey. “Our continued partnership with Yellowstone Forever recognizes the significance of the Park and provides the perfect opportunity to support its conservation needs.”

“Yellowstone Forever is proud to have Wyoming Whiskey on board once again as a partner in Yellowstone’s future. Their continued commitment to preserving the world’s first national park will help ensure that the next generation experiences a vibrant and thriving Yellowstone,” said Lisa Diekmann, President & CEO of Yellowstone Forever.

For every bottle sold of Wyoming Whiskey Wilderness from May 2023 until supplies last, Wyoming Whiskey will donate $5 to support Yellowstone Forever in preserving Yellowstone National Park for the next generation.

The limited edition release is a straight bourbon whiskey made from 68-percent corn, 20-percent wheat, and 12-percent malted barley. Wyoming Whiskey Wilderness whiskey is bottled at 84 proof. All grains are grown in Wyoming and are non-GMO. The water used to produce Wyoming Whiskey is also sourced from a local limestone aquifer that has not seen the light of day in over 6,000 years. Tasting notes are as follows:

COLOR: Deep copper to mahogany
NOSE: Caramel, orange citrus, butter croissant
PALATE: Creamsicle, orange, butter cream
FINISH: Creamy mouth feel with a smooth nutty finish

Wyoming Whiskey’s complete portfolio born throughout the past decade consists of Small Batch Bourbon, Double Cask Bourbon, Outryder Straight American Whiskey, Single Barrel Bourbon and Barrel Strength Bourbon. Through its Wide Open Spaces collection, Wyoming Whiskey offers National Parks Limited Edition bourbons and collector editions such as 1872 to protect and preserve our country’s National Parks. Wyoming Whiskey also produces limited release, Wyoming-only styles such as Powder River.

Sign up to become a Whiskey Baron to receive the latest news and special offers from Wyoming Whiskey. For daily updates, follow Wyoming Whiskey on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

 

About Wyoming Whiskey—The Whiskey of the West

Based in Kirby, Wyoming, Wyoming Whiskey has had a simple goal: to create America’s next great bourbon. That goal has evolved to include all whiskies. The company and their products are a collaboration between its partners and 97,818 square miles of Wyoming. The Mead family first came to Wyoming as ranchers in 1890 and the state defines them, and their whiskey.  They use the finest corn, winter wheat, winter rye, barley, and water from the Bighorn Basin and promote Wyoming’s natural and human resources.  Every drop of this bourbon is 100% Wyoming. To learn more, visit http://www.wyomingwhiskey.com.

 

 

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, California – (May 17, 2023) – Today Outdoor Retailer unveiled the finalists for the 13th annual Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Awards. Presented to people, brands, and organizations, the awards recognize those dedicated to getting more people outside, supporting access, and improving the outdoor experience. This year’s recipients will be announced at the live awards ceremony on the second night of Outdoor Retailer Summer, Tuesday, June 20, 2023, in the Hyatt Regency.

An independent judging panel determined the 2023 finalists across five categories: individual, emerging leader, manufacturer, nonprofit organization, and retailer. This year’s finalists:

Individual: Becky Rom, Will “Akuna” Robinson, Alma Busby-Williams

Emerging Leader: Cassie Abel, James Merrill, Brian Mister

Manufacturer: BUFF, GU Energy Labs, ILLA

Nonprofit: Adaptive Adventures, SOS Outreach, Youth Empowerment Stewards (YES) Internship Program

Retailer: Alpinistas, Ascent Outdoors, Great Outdoor Provision Company

“All of this year’s finalists are committed to building a better experience – both in the outdoors and to improve overall quality of life – and, they’re focused on providing more sustainable and inclusive pathways toward outdoor recreation,” said Marisa Nicholson, Outdoor Retailer senior vice president and show director. “Their work and their passions inspire others to think beyond the ordinary and embrace the joy that nature provides. Our whole industry is grateful for what they do, and we’re excited to celebrate the finalists and see the recipients announced at the awards ceremony at Outdoor Retailer this summer.”

The awards ceremony will once again be hosted by rock climber, outdoor advocate, and past recipient Timmy O’Neill. Held on the second floor of the Hyatt Regency, located adjacent to the Salt Palace Convention Center, doors for the ceremony will open at 6 p.m. with food and drinks provided. The ceremony is open to all Outdoor Retailer attendees.

Outdoor Retailer Summer runs June 19-21, 2023, at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City, Utah, providing opportunities to discover, learn, and connect with the outdoor community. Alongside industry celebrations, attendees can find three days of education sessions, networking events, and nearly 700 exhibitors. Registration and the daily schedule can be found at outdoorretailer.com.

Brands interested in getting involved with Outdoor Retailer through exhibiting, experiences, advocacy programs, sponsorships, speaking, and more at any future event can contact an Outdoor Retailer account executive.

About Outdoor Retailer

Outdoor Retailer, the leading U.S. business events for the outdoor and winter sports industry, brings together retailers, manufacturers, designers, distributors, industry advocates, journalists, and more to conduct the business of outdoor recreation through commerce, unique product experiences, dedicated media events, content, and web-based business solutions. Outdoor Retailer provides critical platforms for face-to-face commerce, product launches, networking, and focused industry education to enhance business and support the outdoor recreation economy. Visit outdoorretailer.com for more information.

About Emerald

Emerald’s talented and experienced team grows our customers’ businesses 365 days a year through connections, content, and commerce. We expand connections that drive new business opportunities, product discovery, and relationships with over 140 annual events, matchmaking, and lead-gen services. We create content to ensure that our customers are on the cutting edge of their industries and are continually developing their skills. And we power commerce through efficient year-round buying and selling. We do all this by seamlessly integrating in-person and digital platforms and channels. Emerald is immersed in the industries we serve and committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. As true partners, we create experiences that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results. For more information, please visit emeraldx.com.

 

 

Steamboat Springs, Colo. (May 16, 2023) – Big Agnes, the Steamboat-Springs-based outdoor equipment brand, today announced the hiring of Round Pond Sales Group, led by Kyle Rohne and Ian Wauchope, to represent Big Agnes in the Northeast territory. With the addition of the new sales group, Big Agnes will be better positioned to meet the needs of their customers in the northeast.

“We are excited to welcome Round Pond Sales Group to the Big Agnes family,” said Big Agnes Director of Sales, Craig Hatton. “Kyle and Ian have an extensive knowledge of our brand and a wealth of experience in the territory on both the retail and wholesale sides, creating a perfect fit for Big Agnes.”

Round Pond Sales Group is based in Dover, New Hampshire and aims to foster growth with its brands and retailers through relationships that are built on trust and mutual respect in order to create partnerships that elevate business. Kyle, Ian, and Jordan Revis, the Field Service Representative, will work closely with key accounts for Big Agnes as well as new prospects, providing customized solution and support to help Big Agnes achieve its business and sales goals.

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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.