Rossignol launches limited-edition ski to support increased diversity in the outdoors

Park City, UT – November 28, 2023 – In time with the “giving season” and in keeping with Rossignol’s commitment to social advocacy and community-building, the 116-year-old legacy brand is eager to announce its new charitable ski initiative in partnership with the Share Winter Foundation and celebrated contemporary artist Ya La’ford.

Over a year in the making, Rossignol and Share Winter worked directly with University Prep, a Share Winter grantee school in the Bronx, New York, to launch a contest wherein their students could submit artwork for a limited-edition ski. Once the final artwork was selected, the winning student, Andre Thomas, collaborated directly with La’ford to realize their final design titled, Reflection.

“Collaborating with an iconic brand like Rossignol while inspiring the imaginations of students from my hometown in the Bronx made this a one-of-a-kind experience,” said La’ford, adding, “Like the power of art, the mountains elevate us from our daily existence with the reminder that freedom and beauty are all around us when we pause and breathe it in.”  A renowned artist, educator, and community advocate, La’ford’s track record of success with major brand activations has extended across many well-known global sport and lifestyle brands.

Building upon Andre’s original artwork while integrating La’ford’s signature style, the result is a singular, eye-catching design that juxtaposes the vibrant colors and serenity of a mountain sunset with the chaotic and intersecting pathways that ultimately connect us all.

Showcased on a new limited-edition version of Rossignol’s best-selling, Sender 90 Pro all-mountain-freeride ski, all sales proceeds will be donated to the Share Winter Foundation to support future programming.

“We’re very excited to announce this initiative as it is a clear extension of our greater brand purpose,” said Gabriel Authier, CMO, Rossignol Group. “The resulting passion and creativity we’ve tapped into is truly inspiring and allows us to realize just how many different opportunities we have to make an impact. It is our role to open the mountains up to new generations and demographics of skiers and riders and create opportunities for more people to both discover and feel welcomed into this community.”

Launching on Tuesday, November 28th, 2023, aka “Giving Tuesday”, the new limited-edition Sender 90 Pro x Share Winter ski will be available at select U.S. retail partners and worldwide at Rossignol.com.

Learn more about Ya and Andre’s collaboration and see where to purchase the new Share Winter ski here.

 

RECCO launches new rescue reflector that can be integrated into extremely lightweight, packable garments

STOCKHOLM, Sweden. (Nov. 27, 2023) – RECCO, manufacturer of advanced rescue technology, in partnership with Helly Hansen will debut the Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket, the first product that uses the new RECCO reflector 742LT. The reflector design is incredibly compact, lightweight and flexible, allowing for easy integration into garments that are also very light and packable.

The Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket will be the first lightweight and packable down jacket with a RECCO reflector integrated, made possible by the unique design of the 742LT reflector. Garments that integrate a RECCO reflector help make their wearer searchable by rescue teams in the event of an emergency.

The RECCO reflector 742LT boasts innovative features, weighing in at only 1 gram and measuring just over 2mm. The high-quality, flexible silicone material and design used in the reflector allow it to be integrated without affecting the design of a lightweight jacket. The design ensures the reflector remains temperature and abrasion-resistant while ensuring wearers are searchable by rescue professionals for the life of the garment.

“Our new award-winning Odin Everdown hooded jacket is lightweight but super warm due to the uniform structure of this innovative insulation, which leaves no cold spots,” said Philip Tavell, VP of Outdoor at Helly Hansen. “The jacket features a lightweight RECCO reflector to make sure our professional partners and outdoor enthusiasts alike stay searchable. Our SAR and mountain guide partners see it as a huge benefit to add a RECCO reflector to a product you can always carry with you due to its lightweight and packability.”

The Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket feels lightweight — 325g for men’s large, 275g for women’s medium — while delivering heavyweight warmth. The uniform structure of this innovative insulation creates a continuous and even distribution of goose down, removing the need for horizontal stitching which often leads to cool air passing through to the body in those areas. Strategic placement of the insulation within the body and the hood enables unrestricted movement and temperature regulation, while PFC-free DWR treatment on the exterior helps provide weather protection.

”We are really excited to present the reflector 742LT integrated in the Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket. This reflector will help us on our mission to make more people searchable and help rescuers save lives worldwide,” says Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO.

Essential to the year-round rescue system is the innovative RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector. Searching from a height of 100 meters and covering a search area of approximately 100 meters wide, the system enables rescuers to search 1km² within 6 minutes.

Currently, there are 36 RECCO SAR Helicopter Detectors globally, with 12 located in North America and 24 units deployed across Europe. The latest deployments include Helico Secours, Quebec (CAN), Spokane Regional Air Support Unit (US), and a RECCO SAR helicopter detector based out of Lauterbrunnen (SUI) operated by Air Glaciers.

RECCO will be at ISPO Munich on November 28-30 showcasing its new reflectors and key product partner launches like the Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket (in store FW24), the Black Diamond Vision airNET Harness (available in store), Oakley’s Mod BC Helmet (in store FW24) and the Scott Flow Plus Pro Helmet (in store FW24) at booth A2.400.

For more information about RECCO, please visit recco.com.

About RECCO

RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

About Helly Hansen

Founded in Norway in 1877, Helly Hansen continues to develop professional grade apparel that helps people stay and feel alive.  Through insights drawn from living and working in the world’s harshest environments, the company has developed a long list of first-to-market innovations, including the first supple waterproof fabrics more than 140 years ago. Other breakthroughs include the first fleece fabrics in the 1960s, the first technical base layers in the 1970s, made with LIFA® Stay Dry technology, the patented H2Flow™ temperature regulating system, and the revolutionary lighter, warmer LIFALOFT™ insulation. Building on Helly Hansen’s proprietary HELLY TECH® waterproof/breathable system, the technical outdoor brand has most recently introduced the award-winning LIFA INFINITY PRO™ – the company’s most innovative and responsible waterproof/breathable technology to date.

Helly Hansen is a leader in technical sailing and performance ski apparel, as well as premium workwear. Its uniforms are worn and trusted by more than 55,000 professionals and can be found on Olympians, National Teams, and at more than 200 ski resorts and mountain guiding operations globally.

Helly Hansen’s outerwear, base layers, sportswear and footwear are sold in more than 40 countries around the world and the company is owned by Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC). To learn more about Helly Hansen’s latest collections, visit www.hellyhansen.com.

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SCARPA adds high-traction Spin ST to its performance trail-running shoe collection

BOULDER, Colo. (Nov. 28, 2023) – Over the last few years, SCARPA has built out an award-winning collection of trail-running shoes. Between the Spin, Ribelle and Golden Gate families, SCARPA offers a trail-running shoe to meet any athlete demand. For Fall 2023, it adds a specialized performance tool, the Spin ST, which offers high traction in snow or other types of soft terrain.

Looking out to Spring 2024, SCARPA is also evolving its Ribelle Run and Golden Gate lines with the addition of the Ribelle Run Kalibra HT, which pairs a new BOA® Fit System with a proven platform, as well as the next generation of its crossover trail-to-pavement shoe, the Golden Gate 2.

Featuring an aggressive lug profile with Vibram Traction Lug Technology, the Spin ST was created for muddy or snowy trails, obstacle-course racing and orienteering. The Vibram Megagrip sole uses 7mm lugs, and features smaller lugs on the sides of larger ones for added traction. This design increases surface area, improving traction up to 25 percent. The upper, which is made with a 95 percent recycled fabric, features an extended ankle collar to keep the elements out. It also employs SCARPA’s EXO construction, which uses welded PU overlays to wrap the foot for excellent lateral stability. A flexible TPU rand provides toe protection. The midsole has a 22/18 stack height.

“For mountain running in soft, loose or wet terrain you really can’t ask for more than the Spin ST,” said SCARPA running athlete Gabe Joyes, who has been using the shoe. “The super-deep lugs grip into just about any surface, and the mini-gaiter keeps snow and rocks out of my shoes. These are my go-to for steep winter and spring mountain running.”

The Ribelle Run Kalibra HT, new for spring 2024, pairs a proven platform for technical mountain running with the Wrap360 BOA® Fit System. The BOA dial’s two-way function allows for quick micro-adjustments while on the trail, and the BOA Wrap360 integrates around the back of the heel, so not only does it tighten over the instep, it also creates a more secure hold through the back of the heel, which in turn improves ankle stability. The shoe has an extremely durable upper with a climbing-inspired, full-perimeter TPU rand for structure and stability, paired with SCARPA’s SuperGum sticky sole. A 24.5/20.5mm stack height provides a versatile platform.

Meanwhile, SCARPA updates its most cushioned running shoe, the Golden Gate 2, which is built for wide-ranging terrain from roads to gravel and pathways to groomed trails. The Golden Gate 2 features a rockered forefoot profile with a more traditional construction in the heel, which provides additional support in the heel of the shoe compared to the first generation. Underfoot, SCARPA uses a dual-density EVA Bounce Foam midsole with strategically placed structure and rebound zones designed to create a more elastic response. That’s paired with a 28/24 stack height. In the upper, SCARPA employs a bio-based reinforcement that’s printed on to add lightweight structure and support. A more rounded, open-toe box pairs with medium volume for comfort on longer runs. SCARPA’s Presa outsole with Super Gum rubber offers superb traction both on and off road.

That builds on other recent trail-running additions from SCARPA, including the Spin Planet, a trail-running shoe that not only stands out based on its stable, cushioned performance but that also offers market-leading sustainability, tying in with the brand’s effort to become a certified B Corp.

SCARPA is showing all its shoes this week at The Running Event (booth 1855) in Austin, TX.

About SCARPA and SCARPA North America

Founded in 1938, SCARPA builds performance footwear for climbing, hiking, skiing, mountaineering, trail running and other outdoor pursuits from its headquarters in Asolo, Italy. SCARPA has been owned and operated by the Parisotto family since 1956. In 2005, SCARPA opened its North American headquarters in Boulder, Colo., staffed and directed by veterans of the North American outdoor industry, to oversee sales, marketing and distribution in the U.S., Canada and South America. For more information about SCARPA footwear, visit www.scarpa.com.

 

 

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Outdoor Industry Association Welcomes Julie Brown as New Director of Sustainable Business Innovation

BOULDER, CO (November 27, 2023) – A member-led collective and the outdoor industry’s catalyst for meaningful change, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) today proudly announces that Julie M.H. Brown has joined the team as Director of Sustainable Business Innovation. In her new role, Brown will direct and manage OIA’s sustainability department in its mission to unite, empower and guide the outdoor industry to become climate positive by 2030.

Along with driving all OIA sustainability initiatives into the future, Brown will oversee OIA’s Climate Action Corps, the consortium consisting of over 75 outdoor businesses that has already made significant and crucial progress on measuring, setting targets, reducing emissions, and advocating for bold policy action in Congress. She will also lead OIA’s Clean Chemistry and Materials Coalition (CCMC), the comprehensive program that provides OIA members with strategies, scalable action plans, and solutions for thoughtfully phasing out PFAS and other harmful chemicals from their products.

“Julie brings to OIA almost two decades of environmental sustainability experience at the nexus of policy, business and technology. Her knowledge in this critical area will be vital as we continue to provide meaningful council, education, and pragmatic programs to our members,” said Kent Ebersole, President of OIA.

Brown brings a wealth of experience in sustainability to OIA, with a long history of working with brands in the apparel and outdoor markets, where she executed sustainability strategies for global brands, technology companies, and circular economy partners. Most recently she served as Head of Sustainability for EON, a technology company leading the development of cloud-based digital identities for products. Prior to that, Brown worked as Director of the Higg Index at the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, where she collaborated directly with OIA to launch and optimize the Higg Index for the outdoor industry.

“The outdoor industry is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful impact and inspire profound change through sustainable innovation, advocacy, and research. In today’s world, transparency in sustainability performance is not just a choice; it’s a necessity,” said Brown. “I am truly honored to be a part of the OIA team and am looking forward to collaborating with our members to help them achieve their crucial sustainability objectives.”

“Collectively we can create more sustainable practices to ensure the outdoor industry is successful for the health of business, people, and the planet,” Ebersole added.

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 and climate positivity 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

 

 

REI Co-op announces Roma McCaig as new vice president of public affairs and impact

SEATTLE, November 27, 2023 – Today, REI announces the hire of corporate communications and sustainability leader Roma McCaig as the co-op’s new vice president of public affairs and impact.

McCaig brings more than 25 years of experience at the forefront of communications, business operations, and impact to REI. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of impact and communications at Clif Bar & Company. Prior to that, she worked in a variety of roles at Campbell Soup Company, including leadership roles in operations, procurement and corporate social responsibility. She also serves on the boards of B Lab U.S. & Canada and Sustainable Brands.

“Roma is a well-respected leader who is known for crafting transformative change and impact at scale with iconic brands,” said Ben Steele, chief customer officer, REI. “Her significant sustainability experience will guide our broad community impact work as REI continues to provide a consistent voice of influence within the outdoor industry and broader business space.”

In her role at REI, McCaig and the newly created public affairs and impact organization will work to scale the co-op’s mission and purpose. This work will include internal and external communications, employee events and recognition, sustainability, community partnerships, philanthropic giving, public policy, government affairs and broader advocacy initiatives.

“I joined the co-op nearly 20 years ago and have been a loyal member of REI ever since as my premier source for outdoor, adventure, and travel gear,” says McCaig. “Getting to join the REI team is a dream come true. I believe in my core that business can be a force for good, and that everyone should have equal access to time outside.”

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 188 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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