Archives: Press Releases

MUNICH (Nov. 30, 2023) Houdini Sportswear, the global circular outdoor company dedicated to versatile minimalist styles, amplified its sustainability commitment at ISPO Munich 2023 with a preview of its 2023 Planetary Boundaries Assessment set to be released in Q1 2024. Houdini challenges other brands to do better for the planet. The company is leading by example with the debut of a new collaboration with long term partner Polartec®, a garment series using the next generation Polartec® Power Shield™, a 3-layer shell fabric made with Biolon™, a renewable, non-GMO plant-based nylon. [At ISPO this protype was displayed at booth number B1-324].

 

Houdini shared topline findings from the 2023 Planetary Boundaries update. This research assesses the health of the planet over time and builds upon the brand’s own advances and progress since the last report in 2018. Houdini began this initiative in 2015 working together with earth system scientists from the Stockholm Resilience Center/Alba Eco, known for research on specific angles of sustainability science, resilience and social-ecological systems. For this initiative, Houdini looked at nine different aspects of its environmental impact – or Planetary Boundaries – including: Climate Change, Novel Entities, Stratospheric Ozone Depletion, Atmospheric Aerosol Loading, Ocean Acidification, Biochemical Flows, Fresh Water Use, Land System Change and Biosphere Integrity. 

 

Houdini CEO Eva Karlsson noted, “The 2023 findings are abysmal. It was the first time all nine planetary boundaries could be analyzed, and research concluded that an alarming six out of nine boundaries have been breached. With the exception the Stratospheric Ozone Boundary, we are moving in the wrong direction. Novel Entities, the boundary that assesses the level of chemical pollution, including micro plastics and hazardous chemicals like PFAS, is the boundary that has been breached the furthest. Chemical pollution, from hazardous chemicals like PFCs and PFAS used in certain waterproof/breathable membranes and in conventional DWR-treatments, causes large-scale disturbances in ecosystems and species, including humans.” 

 

“We are using world-leading science to evaluate all aspects of the impact our business has on our planet’s ecosystems,” Karlsson continued. “It is a very tangible way for us to improve and to show our love and respect for nature. Outdoor companies have the power to change their ways, to phase out toxic chemicals such as PFAS, in favor of planet-compatible alternatives. We can and should all do better.”

 

In keeping with planet-forward innovation, Houdini’s new shell collaboration features Polartec Next Generation Shell Layers which have a 50 percent* lower carbon footprint than virgin Nylon 6.6 and a reduced reliance on fossil resources. Measuring in at 20.000 mm H2O and 20.000 g/m²/24h, the weather protection and breathability places the garments head-to-head with other high performance shell layers on the market. 

 

“What really makes the difference though, is how it feels to wear it,” said Jesper Danielsson, Houdini chief product officer. “The light, smooth and incredibly strong garments follow the wearer’s every move and take shell layer comfort to a new level. This shell layer series is currently in the prototype field testing phase and will be perfected in 2024.”

 

“We believe that leaving the world a better place than we found it is a responsibility for everyone,” said Ramesh Kesh, senior vice president and business manager Polartec/government defense business unit at Milliken and Company. ”The launch of Biolon Nylon based fabrics marks an important step in that journey. For a long time, many thought that more sustainable options meant a loss in performance, like durability, Polartec has proved that this is not the case.”

 

New for Houdini’s Fall/Winter 2024 collection are the Ride Jacket, a minimalistic, all round freeride shell jacket, and the Moonwalk Houdi, a hybrid mid-layer with the perfect balance between warmth, weather protection and breathability using Polartec® Power Air™ Light. 

 

About Houdini

Houdini is an odd band of adventurers, artists, designers and engineers, reimagining the future of outdoor apparel. Ever since Houdini evolved from a project among climbing buddies into a company in 1993, responsible business has been their way. 

 

Houdini offers a complete wardrobe of progressive performance apparel for the outdoors and a live-large-with-less way of life. The brand is based in Stockholm, Sweden and their products can be found at select retailers worldwide.

 

As innovators of sustainable design and pioneers of circular business models, Houdini wants to inspire and enable more people to experience the splendor of our home planet and transform our way of living to reconnect the bond between humans and the natural world.

 

About Polartec^®

Polartec^®, a Milliken & Company brand, are a collective of curious minds, relentless innovators and dedicated problem solvers. We look beyond the existing and we create original. If it can be made, we will make it. And if it can’t? We’ll find a way. We are the originators and inventors of fleece. Our unique unrivaled innovations continue to lead and layer the future. Complete trust and authenticity are inherent in all our products, ultimately empowering people to concentrate on their moment, their activity and their unique experience in life without distractions. Our fabrics go beyond industry standards, with lightweight wicking and cooling, warmth and insulation, breathable weather protection, fire resistance, enhanced durability and more. Polartec products are used by performance, lifestyle, and workwear brands from around the world, the U.S. Military and allied militaries, and contract upholstery markets. For more information, please visit Polartec.com and follow Polartec on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

 

###

 

Industry-Leading Tactical Apparel and Gear Brand Makes Moves at The Executive Level to Drive Continued Omni-Channel Growth COSTA MESA, Calif., Nov. 30, 2023 — 5.11 Tactical, the global innovator of Purpose-Built Gear™, announced today a planned transition in the senior leadership of the company, effective January 1, 2024. Co-founder and former CEO, Francisco J. Morales, will be promoted to the position of Executive Chair of the Board of Directors, while current 5.11 Board Member, Troy R. Brown, will become Chief Executive Officer.

In these new roles, Mr. Brown will assume day-to-day leadership of the company while Mr. Morales will continue to work with the leadership team on corporate and product strategy. Mr. Morales will remain a significant shareholder in 5.11 Tactical. “I am incredibly proud of our amazing team and all we’ve been able to accomplish,” stated Mr. Morales. “Troy’s abilities and strong direct-to-consumer track record at Zumiez and other brands including Eddie Bauer, Nautica, and Tommy Bahama, will accelerate our transformation and allow us to provide world class customer experiences. I look forward to collaborating with Troy and the rest of the leadership team in my new role as Executive Chair and remain excited about the future of 5.11.”

Founded in 2003, 5.11 Tactical is the industry leader in technical apparel, footwear, and gear, designed to meet the rigors of life’s most demanding missions. Headquartered in Costa Mesa, California, the company sells its products through its 124 company-owned retail store locations in the domestic United States, two retail locations internationally in Hamburg, Germany and Bankstown, Australia, more than 1,114 active wholesale partners globally, and through its ecommerce website www.511Tactical.com.

Since joining 5.11’s Board of Directors in 2019, Mr. Brown has provided instrumental advice and guidance, assisting the brand in its rapid nationwide expansion. In regard to his new role Mr. Brown said, “5.11 is an authentic brand with a powerful soul and meaningful purpose and I am thrilled to be able to lead the business in its next phase of growth. What Franciso has done over the last five years to “Serve those who Serve” has been nothing short of exceptional and I am honored to partner with him and the fantastic team at 5.11. Always Be Ready is core to who I am and how I live my life. I am eager to infuse this philosophy throughout our entire ecosystem by creating extraordinary experiences for our customers across all areas of our business.”

About 5.11, Inc.

With offices around the globe, 5.11 works directly with end users to create Purpose-Built Gear™ to enhance the safety, accuracy, speed, and performance of tactical professionals and technical enthusiasts worldwide. 5.11 products exceed rigorous standards, which have allowed the brand to establish a reputation for innovation and authenticity and become the premier choice for those who always have to be ready. Learn more about 5.11’s best-selling gear and accessories at www.511tactical.com. Find a full list of 5.11 company-owned retail stores at https://www.511tactical.com/locations/. Connect with 5.11 on Facebook, Twitter @511Tactical and on Instagram @511Tactical and #511tactical 5.11, 5.11 Tactical, Always Be Ready, and Purpose-Built Gear™ are trademarks of 5.11, Inc. All rights reserved.

About Compass Diversified

Since its founding in 1998, Compass Diversified (NYSE: CODI) has consistently executed its strategy of owning and managing a diverse set of highly defensible, middle-market businesses across the niche industrial, branded consumer and healthcare sectors. The company leverages its permanent capital base, long-term disciplined approach, and actionable expertise to maintain controlling ownership interests in each of its subsidiaries, maximizing its ability to impact long-term cash flow generation and value creation. For more information, please visit www.compassdiversified.com.

FRISCO, Texas (Nov. 30, 2023) — Wiley X, a global leader and pioneer in premium protective eyewear, recently donated 55 pairs of its eyewear in addition to making a generous $20,000 donation to the non-profit organization Troops Direct. Troops Direct, a non-profit focused on providing active-duty servicemembers with critically needed items at no cost, recently co-hosted an evening of fundraising for active-duty members of U.S. Special Forces Teams in the town of Fairview, Texas. Among those in attendance was Myles Freeman, President and Co-Owner of Wiley X and his wife Alicia.

During the fundraising festivities, which took place at the home of a very generous family who actively supports U.S. servicemembers, Freeman was made aware of a strong need for reliable protective eyewear among local teams of the U.S. Special Forces. He quickly committed to providing the much-needed product in addition to donating $20,000 to Troops Direct. “Wiley X was able to donate $20,000 to the cause and I’m just honored we can play a role in equipping our troops with whatever gear they are lacking in that specific moment,” Freeman said. “Those who defend our freedom should be the first we think of in their time of need and Troops Direct does an incredible job behind the scenes to ensure they get the support they need.”

Wiley X, which recently relocated its headquarters from Northern California to Frisco, Texas, is the veteran-founded, family-owned business that has been supplying all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces with premium proactive eyewear since its founding in 1987. The brand developed a partnership with Troops Direct many years ago and has donated its products to the non-profit’s efforts on several occasions. “Wiley X has come through time and time again for our heroes positioned across 100 countries,” said Troops Direct CEO and Founder Aaron Negherbon. “It is because of the loyal support of Wiley X that many of our Americans have been able to effectively accomplish their missions while having the security of Wiley X eye protection to protect their vision in the face of hostile fire, field trauma care and IED threats.”

To learn more about Wiley X and its mission to provide uncompromising protection, visit www.wileyx.com. To learn more about Troops Direct and it’s non-profit efforts, visit www.troopsdirect.org. ###

About TroopsDirect.org

Troops Direct is the only non-profit organization of its kind supplying our active duty servicemembers with any critically needed items that they cannot access through traditional government supply lines. Their mission is to help our heroes in uniform accomplish their missions and return home safe to their loved ones at no cost to the requesting unit. Troops Direct is a 501c3 non profit organization.

About Wiley X

Eyewear Wiley X is a family-owned, veteran-founded eyewear brand with deep roots in protection. They have been providing premium protective products to the U.S. Military, Law Enforcement and select retail channels for over 35 years. Wiley X builds and rigorously tests every product to the highest standards in safety and optics. Every adult model of Wiley X eyewear meets or exceeds ANSI Z87.1+ occupational safety standards. Learn more at www.wileyx.com

MARBLEHEAD, Mass., (November, 29, 2023) –  UYN Sports (“Unleash Your Nature”), a global leader in sustainable technical apparel, footwear and accessories, today named accomplished alpine ski racer Bode Miller as its first U.S. brand ambassador. Miller’s notable achievements include six Olympic medals and the record for the most World Cup victories by an American male alpine ski racer, with 33 wins across various disciplines. Miller and UYN are creating the Bode Miller Signature Baselayer Collection for men and women. This exclusive line of Natyon 3.0 base layers uses 40% Natex, a 100% bio-based material made from castor oil seeds. This line will be available starting this winter season in unisex sizing.

UYN’s Natyon 3.0 design, specifically crafted for competitive use, incorporates thermal insulating structures and ventilation systems. These features ensure an ideal microclimate for the body, retaining heat with memory technology at the quadriceps and calf muscles, preventing the loss of heat. In addition, each piece includes Coolvent in the abdominal region to absorb and remove excess perspiration, along with a breathable Drylight insert located behind the knee for enhanced comfort and performance.

“Bode Miller, one of the most accomplished athletes in the sport of skiing, understands that performance goes beyond his skis,” said Marco Redini, CEO and founder of UYN. “To build the career that he did, Miller used top of the line apparel, gloves, helmets, boots and poles enabling him to deliver the best results. He will bring this spirit of excellence to our collaboration. We look forward to a long-term partnership.”

“I am happy to be a part of this collaboration,” shared Miller. “The focus on sustainability,  innovation, quality, and functionality resonates with my approach to sports and fitness. Athletes and winter enthusiasts will appreciate the attention to detail; It’s an exciting step forward for sportswear.”

Today, UYN supplies ski teams around the globe with its Natyon collection including Austria, France, Italy, Slovenia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Spain, Great Britain and China. Made in country-specific colors and adorned with the relevant coat of arms, this line creates an instantly recognizable style for top athletes and winter sports enthusiasts.

For more information and shop the collection, visit UYNsports.com

###

About UYN, a Trerè Innovation Company

Trerè Innovation was founded in 1950 in Asola, Italy producing only technical stockings by Luigi Redini, father of today’s CEO, Marco Redini. Today, it is respected for its next generation sustainable technologies in design and manufacturing. The company’s Academy for Research and Engineering in Apparel and Sports (AREAS), its 38,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art testing facility, enables Trerè Innovation to engineer best-in-class fabrics, subjecting them to the toughest tests in a climate wind tunnel, a rain room and a cold chamber.

In 2018, Trerè Innovation introduced UYN (pronounced “win”), “Unleash Your Nature” apparel, footwear and technical socks for running, winter sports, outdoor and cycling. Today, national ski teams use the brand’s base layers including Austria, China, Czech Republic, France, Great Britain, Italy, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

In addition to UYN, Trerè Innovation manufactures private label products for iconic global brands including Christian Dior, Harley-Davidson, PUMA and Rossignol, among others, and owns TITICI^®, a premier bike brand that has carbon fiber models for road, gravel, mountain and electric biking. Today, UYN has 11 stores in Italy, one store in Germany, and has plans to open a store in Boston, Massachusetts, two stores in the U.K. as well as 20 more locations throughout Europe and one in Beijing. Trerè Innovation and UYN have won over 570 international awards and competitions for innovation, quality and functionality since Trerè Innovation’s founding in 1950. Trerè Innovation is also a licensed manufacturer and distributor of Citröen Jeep, and Replay brands.