Archives: Press Releases

SALT LAKE CITY, UT (March 23, 2023) — Black Diamond Equipment®, a global innovator in designing and manufacturing active outdoor performance equipment and apparel for climbing, mountaineering, backpacking, skiing and a wide range of other year-round outdoor recreation activities, is issuing a voluntary recall for its Recon LT avalanche transceiver to carry out a required firmware update.

The Recon LT avalanche transceiver may unexpectedly enter search mode, despite the rotary switch remaining in its send position. This malfunction can be quickly and easily resolved if users update their firmware to version v1.3 or later.

Consumers who own the Black Diamond Recon LT avalanche transceiver should immediately stop using it and update their device by downloading the Pieps App for iOS or Android devices, connecting their transceiver via Bluetooth, and then following a few on-screen prompts. Alternatively, users could send their device to Black Diamond’s service center to perform the update free of charge (including postage). Or, if preferred, Black Diamond will offer a full refund to any of its Recon LT avalanche transceiver customers.

For firmware update procedures and related information, please visit https://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en_US/content/recon-lt-recall/

Affected Products

All Recon LT avalanche transceivers manufactured and sold between May 2021 and March 2023 and having serial numbers with the first four digits between the range of 2119-2239 are addressed with this voluntary recall. The serial number can be found in the Pieps App when the Recon LT transceiver is connected to it.

This transceiver was sold as a standalone unit and as part of an avalanche safety set. The SKU’s, UPC’s and Descriptions of these products are below:

 

SKU	UPC	Style Description
BD1510070000ALL1	793661495475	BD RECON LT BEACON
BD1510100000ALL1	793661512837	BD ALPINE AVY SAFETY SET
BD1510110000ALL1	793661518532	BD RECON LT AVY SAFETY SET

 

Remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using the Black Diamond Recon LT avalanche transceiver. The firmware for the Recon LT avalanche transceivers must be updated through the Pieps App which can be downloaded for free on your IOS or Android device. Alternatively, please contact Black Diamond for a full refund.

For further information about the Black Diamond Equipment voluntary recall for its Recon LT avalanche transceiver, call Black Diamond at 866-306-0865 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, or email any recall questions to 2023reconLTrecall@bdel.com.

 

Black Diamond Equipment is a manufacturer of equipment and clothing for climbing, skiing and mountain sports. By consistently building innovative, standard-setting products and actively preserving the mountain/canyon environment, Black Diamond Equipment has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community. For more information on Black Diamond Equipment, visit BlackDiamondEquipment.com

 

 

Magma will continue to support the adventure-based healing nonprofit in 2023 with a $25,000 partner donation

Magma Products, a leading maker of outdoor and marine grills and accessories, announces today it will continue to support and amplify its partnership with First Descents, a Colorado-based nonprofit that provides life-changing outdoor adventures to young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health issues. Magma’s donation will bolster First Descents’ transformative programs for the young adult oncology and Multiple sclerosis (MS) communities, as well as frontline healthcare workers.

“We are continuously impressed and appreciative of the work that First Descents does to help more people experience the healing power of the outdoors. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the organization again in 2023 to support the highly important and impactful programs that First Descents leads,” says Chris DeRecat, CEO of Magma Products.

Magma will be providing a minimum donation of $25,000 to First Descents in 2023. The organization has served more than 10,000 young adults with psychosocial supportive care since 2001. With free, adaptive programs across the U.S., participants are empowered to go beyond their diagnosis with adventure-based activities including whitewater rafting, kayaking, surfing and climbing. Additional programming supporting frontline healthcare workers was introduced in 2020 to address the community needs of the COVID-19 pandemic and is now a permanent offering, allowing for more individuals to experience the healing power of nature.

“Magma has been an amazing partner from the start, and we are thrilled to expand our partnership with them in 2023,” says Ray Shedd, Vice President of Advancement for First Descents. “We are incredibly thankful for the support of Magma in helping us serve these communities through life-changing programs that empower them to prioritize their physical, emotional and social wellbeing in the face of serious illnesses.”

In 2023, First Descents has 47 Week-Long Programs planned that will serve more than 575 young adults impacted by cancer and MS, healthcare workers and caregivers.  

For more information about Magma and First Descents, please reach out to Alison Garcia at alisong@magmaproducts.com.

About Magma: Magma has produced high-quality marine and outdoor grills, bait tables, cookware and more for more than 45 years. The brand continues to innovate with the launch of its Crossover Series, a portable cooking system designed for RV travelers, tailgaters, boaters and campers that transforms from a stove into a pizza oven, griddle, grill, and plancha. www.magmaproducts.com 

About First Descents: First Descents (FD) is a leader in adventure-based healing. Through outdoor adventure, community building, and lifestyle development, FD improves long-term survivorship and quality of life for young adults impacted by cancer, multiple sclerosis, and other serious health conditions. Headquartered in Denver, First Descents has served more than 10,000 participants over the last 21 years. Beginning in 2020, First Descents launched programs for healthcare workers on the frontlines of COVID-19. All services are fully-adaptive and free of charge. A Guidestar Platinum-ranked nonprofit, First Descents has been recognized on CNN Heroes and Outside Magazine’s Best Places to Work.

G. Loomis, the renowned manufacturer of world-class fly fishing rods, is excited to announce the brand new IMX-PRO V2 series. Proudly handcrafted in Woodland, Washington, this distinguished lineup is composed of models built for a range of applications. Designed to enhance natural ability, boost effectiveness, and expand tactical opportunity, the IMX-PRO V2 series is for those that make time on the water a priority.

The IMX-PRO V2 series of rods represents a continuation of G. Loomis’s 40-year commitment to the dawn patrollers, midday grinders, and last-light renegades. Every rod in the lineup exemplifies the brand’s dedication to advancing the craft, combining relentless durability and unmatched performance. Multi-Taper Design, Conduit Core, and GL-7 technologies feature throughout the series, resulting in the perfect balance of innovative proprietary material use and allocation throughout the rod.

IMX-PRO V2 Saltwater: Rolled for epic performance in salty environments, IMX-PRO V2S actions are tuned for utility in three specific areas: improved tracking in the wind, lifting generous amounts of line before a re-cast, and fish fighting control. These 9’0” fast action rods, available in weights #6-#12, are engineered to possess impressive power through the bottom half of the rod while featuring a tight enough tip to minimize tailing loops and improve tracking and line pick-up. Conduit Core and GL-7 resin system technology provides a surplus of strength and impact resistance while decreasing excess weight. MSRP: $595.00-$645.00

IMX-PRO V2 Freshwater: Designed to be the day-in and day-out option in any angler’s quiver. The all-new IMX-PRO V2 freshwater series has been crafted to cover a wide variety of modern applications through a blend of standard and technique-specific offerings. The combination of Conduit Core and GL-7 resin system technology increases strength and impact resistance while minimizing weight. MSRP: $595.00

IMX-PRO V2 Shortspey: Once considered a niche way of catching fish, more and more anglers are turning to lighter rods and modern line systems to cover large sections of the river efficiently. With progressive flex patterns, medium-fast spey actions, and pumped power levels, the fast-action IMX-PRO V2 SHORTSPEY helps put more fish in the net. Conduit Core and GL-7 resin system technology enhances positive feel, swing weight, and subtle subsurface bite detection. All models measure 11’1” with weight options #2-#4. MSRP: $675.00

To find a retailer near you, visit the G. Loomis Store Locator. For more information on G. Loomis and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at Kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About G. Loomis

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

Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hiking season is underway in Southern California amid record snow levels, and for the third year, Kahtoola has partnered with the Trevor Spikes Program and the Fowler-O’Sullivan Foundation to promote hiking safety in honor of late hiker Trevor Laher. Laher accidentally slipped to his death in 2020 and current conditions are making for a precarious start of the PCT season.

Starting in March, Idyllwild, California-based outdoor retailer Nomad Ventures, in partnership with the Trevor Spikes Program, will offer discounted Kahtoola MICROspikes® footwear traction exclusively to PCT thru-hikers while supplies last.

“After Trevor’s accident, our goal as a family has been to increase thru-hiker safety on PCT before hikers reach the potentially treacherous conditions of the San Jacinto mountain range,” said Doug Laher, Trevor’s father and founder of the Trevor Spikes Program. “This season, hikers will encounter deep snow and additional icy challenges, and our number one priority is to get Kahtoola MICROspikes into their packs and onto their boots so that when they encounter snow and ice, they are prepared and can potentially avoid a life-threatening emergency. No one thinks it will happen to them, but it can and it does. In 2020, Trevor’s MICROspikes and ice ax were unfortunately not with him when conditions warranted. The Trevor Spikes Program’s mission is to save lives by encouraging safety gear before it’s needed.”

New for the ‘23 season, hikers can order online and include their estimated ETA for picking up the spikes at the Mountain Market in Mountain Center, Calif. Mountain Market will also offer package pick-up for hikers for resupply items. Due to high snow levels, hikers can also request their MICROspikes be shipped to the Campo Post Office in the event of encountering wintry conditions on the trail sooner than expected.

“Kahtoola is honored to continue our partnership with the Trevor Spikes Program to encourage hikers to plan ahead before tackling the PCT,” said Danny Giovale, Founder and Owner of Kahtoola. “A huge part of hiking safety is making sure you have the proper gear when needed. This is especially important in Southern California where trail conditions can vary from low desert heat to freezing peaks. We hope getting MICROspikes traction to hikers when they need it will help to avoid preventable accidents.”

Local weather and up-to-date trail conditions in the San Jacinto mountains can be found on the San Jacinto Trail Report. For additional hiking safety tips and information, please visit the Pacific Crest Trail Association.

About Kahtoola:

Since 1999, Kahtoola has been creating reliable gear that makes the outdoors more accessible and rewarding. Kahtoola’s gaiters, hiking crampons, and flexible footwear traction systems, including MICROspikes®, EXOspikes™ and NANOspikes®, are built to improve safety and performance in wintry locales around the globe. Every product is thoughtfully designed and vigorously tested at the brand’s Flagstaff, AZ headquarters high on the Colorado Plateau. Owned and operated by founder Danny Giovale, Kahtoola proudly grants 1% of annual sales to fund projects that support indigenous cultures and improve communities, healthcare, education, resources and the environment. For more information, please visit Kahtoola.com.

Jason Kerley to be appointed after more than a decade of dedicated service

LATHAM, N.Y.  – PrimaLoft, Inc., the leader in advanced material technology and subsidiary of Compass Diversified (NYSE: CODI), today announced the appointment of Jason Kerley to the position of Chief Financial Officer. Currently serving as Vice President – Controller, Kerley will transition upon the retirement of current CFO, Tom Seaver.

“We are thrilled for Jason to advance into an executive role with the company,” said PrimaLoft president and CEO, Mike Joyce. “Jason has been with PrimaLoft since 2012, when he played an integral role in establishing the company’s financial organization and structure, following the management-led buyout from Albany International Corporation. Over the past decade, Jason has demonstrated that he deeply understands our history, company values, and our overall business. We look forward to his valuable partnership as a part of our executive leadership team.”

During his time with PrimaLoft, Kerley has been instrumental in the development of the company’s business systems, coordination of international finance reporting, and the company’s financial and tax audits. He also played a pivotal role in the company’s private equity transactions with Prudential Capital Partners, Victor Capital Partners and Compass Diversified, leading due diligence processes and accounting requirements.

“I’m excited for this next step in my tenure at PrimaLoft,” said Jason Kerley. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue to build upon our foundation of financial and operational excellence.”

Kerley is replacing Tom Seaver, who is retiring this year after more than a decade as PrimaLoft’s CFO.

“I would like to express our deep appreciation for the immense positive impact that Tom Seaver has had during his tenure at PrimaLoft,” said Joyce. “Tom led the establishment of the company’s entire financial organization, in 2012, and has been an invaluable steward of the business over his 11 years with the company. Both personally, and on behalf of the company, I would like to thank Tom for his central role in making PrimaLoft what it is, today.”

Over the next few months, Kerley and Seaver will continue to work closely to transfer duties and ensure a smooth transition.

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About PrimaLoft PrimaLoft, Inc. is an advanced material technology company based in Latham, New York, with offices in Xiamen, China. PrimaLoft is the world leader in the research and innovative development of high-performance material solutions, specializing in insulations and fabrics. PrimaLoft® insulation was originally developed for the U.S. army as a water-resistant, synthetic alternative to down. Since 1983, a heritage of proven & tested technologies has built trust across the textile industry, with more than 900 global brands using PrimaLoft products in outdoor, fashion, home furnishings, work wear, hunting and military applications. With its Relentlessly Responsible™ mission, PrimaLoft strives to balance innovation, performance & sustainability in the pursuit of a better future. Today, the brand is recognized as a benchmark for providing unsurpassed comfort in any condition, while lessening its impact on the environment. PrimaLoft is active in sustainable textile production through partnerships with the bluesign® system, the International OEKO-TEX® Association, the Sustainable Apparel Coalition’s Higg Index and the Global Recycled Standard. For more information, please visit www.PrimaLoft.com, and follow PrimaLoft on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.  Seek The Unseen

About Compass Diversified

Since its founding in 1998, CODI has consistently executed on its strategy of owning and managing a diverse set of highly defensible, middle-market businesses across the niche industrial and branded consumer 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. The Company provides both debt and equity capital for its subsidiaries, contributing to their financial and operating flexibility. CODI utilizes the cash flows generated by its subsidiaries to invest in the long-term growth of the Company and has consistently generated strong returns through its culture of transparency, alignment and accountability. For more information, please visit compassdiversified.com.

 

Series additions bring legendary performance to a variety of saltwater applications

Charleston, SC – Shimano North America Fishing, a renowned global leader in the fishing industry, is proud to announce the introduction of three new series of rods geared towards the saltwater angler. These product options cater to a spectrum of anglers, from offshore captains to tournament-savvy billfish enthusiasts and surf fishermen.

New product options feature world-class componentry and uncompromising quality for anglers looking to tame the ocean and its salty inhabitants. Shimano Hi-Power X and Spiral X technologies are a common thread throughout the lineup, delivering crisp rod control, enhancing overall strength and twist resistance, and facilitating instant power transfer for precise casting and fish catching.

TIRALEJO XX: The pinnacle of surf-casting rod performance is here. The flagship Tiralejo XX series of surf-casting rods, with proven powers and actions, leverages Shimano’s legendary patented rod technologies to improve angler performance when battling large fish in heavy surf. Tiralejo XX rods incorporate Shimano’s proprietary Spiral X and Hi-Power X technologies to enhance the transfer of power throughout the rod blank while maximizing casting distance and accuracy. This combination of blank technology provides unsurpassed sensitivity while delivering maximum lifting power. Additionally, the Tiralejo XX rods feature a custom ergonomic grip, Fuji sic guides, and a Fuji DPS reel seat with a locking nut for added comfort and security while casting heavy lures during harsh conditions.

MSRP: $489.99

TEREZ BW: Three new Full Roller Uni Butt models expand the comprehensive Terez BW series of offshore rods. This popular lineup was built to conquer any offshore species, featuring specific models for high-speed trolling, slow trolling, deep-dropping, swordfishing, bottom fishing, or live-bait fishing. All new models measure 4’0” and feature premium Winthrop X-Caliber guides, with options in multiple powers and line ratings. Engineered with guidance from tournament-winning captains, the Terez BW series performs at the highest level. Rod blanks are constructed with premium technologies including Hi-Power X, Spiral X, and UD glass blank construction to create best-in-class durability and feel for the offshore environment. MSRP: $469.99-$1219.99

TEREZ BW BFC: Expanding on Shimano’s proven Billfish Concept (BFC) lineup of reels, the all-new Terez BW BFC rods are designed to meet the needs of tournament-savvy captains and veteran bluewater anglers. The comprehensive lineup includes conventional and spinning options featuring industry-leading rod technologies–Hi-Power X, Spiral X, and UD glass blank construction–and premium componentry to deliver best-in-class durability, responsiveness, and performance. For all-day comfort, the Terez BW BFC conventional models feature a Winthrop Epic Butt, representing the lightest and most responsive trolling rods on the market. Terez BW BFC spinning models feature an EVA grip and handle to accurately toss live baits at tailing or cutting billfish at the surface, while the Terez BW BFC Kite rod includes a premium Winthrop Kite Tip-Top for added durability during the rigors of tournament angling. The all-new Terez BW BFC series of rods is designed to pair with existing BFC reels, representing the next chapter of Shimano’s legendary Billfish Concept lineup. MSRP: $399.99-$699.99

To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator. For more information on Shimano North America Fishing and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at Kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About Shimano North America Fishing

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

 

Turtle Fur Welcomes VP of Marketing & eComm, CFO, and CEO to Executive Team

Vermont headwear brand welcomes three new hires: Erika Canfield, Matt Glomski, and Jim Osgood.

Morrisville, VT (March 21, 2023) – Turtle Fur has been a leader in outdoor headwear and accessories for 40 years. Over the past year, Turtle Fur has seen some major positive changes, including a partnership with private equity firm Camano Capital in June 2022, and achieving B Corp™ Certification in December 2022. Most recently, Turtle Fur made a string of strategic leadership hires, welcoming three new members to the team; VP of Marketing & eComm, Erika Canfield; CFO, Matt Glomski; and CEO, Jim Osgood.

 “Turtle Fur is a beloved brand with a warm, colorful history, a caring, dedicated team, and tremendous untapped potential. I was fortunate to be a steward of this wonderful company for over 20 years. Turtle Fur’s future is bright, and I am thrilled to be along for the journey,” says Richard Sontag, Board Member, and owner from 2001 to 2022

Erika joins the company with 20+ years of experience leading global Marketing and Creative departments in the outdoor and performance sports industries, including holding leadership roles at both Outdoor Research and Pacific Market International (Stanley Thermos). At Turtle Fur she will be responsible for driving brand strategy, expanding Turtle Fur’s customer base, and growing eCommerce sales.

Matt will be responsible for the company’s financial actions, analyzing strengths and weaknesses and recognizing new opportunities for the brand. With over 15 years of experience in the retail and consumer products space, Matt obtained his CPA license while working for Ernst & Young in the Los Angeles office.  He holds a Master of Accounting from the University of Southern California and most recently served as CFO at Trina Turk.

Jim comes to Turtle Fur with over 30 years of business leadership and product innovation experience, including nearly 15 years serving as CEO/President for several outdoor companies, including Klean Kanteen and Cascade Designs, Inc. In addition to his role at Turtle Fur, Jim serves as Board Chair for 1% for the Planet and has been an advocate and industry thought leader on environmental stewardship and the importance of responsible business strategies and practices. His passions for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and trail running – and inspiring others to enjoy and explore the outdoors – will translate well to his role at Turtle Fur. As the brand’s first CEO, Jim will be responsible for driving the strategies and plans for building the core business while expanding into new markets and product categories.

“Like so many of us, I’ve grown up with Turtle Fur. It’s been my go-to gear for staying comfortable and cozy on the ski slopes as well as every day when cruising around town. It’s a privilege for me to be able to combine my passion for the outdoors with driving the growth and stewarding such an iconic brand with which I have a deep, personal connection,” says Jim Osgood, CEO.

Erika, Matt, and Jim join the strong existing executive team of Colin Giblin (VP of Operations) and Meghan Ksiazek (VP of Product). Together over the past few years, Colin and Meghan have been working to run the business as a mission-driven company, promoting the welfare of Turtle Fur employees and pushing both environmental and social-driven initiatives. Erika, Matt, and Jim will bring their years of experience across other companies and industries to this solid team, driving the brand toward robust growth over the next 5 years and beyond.

Under Richard’s leadership, Turtle Fur has stayed true to its founding principles of comfort, quality, caring, and giving to those in need. Richard built a strong team that is poised to take Turtle Fur onward to its next phase of growth. Turtle Fur thanks Richard for his years of dedicated service to the brand, for his support of their goal to become a certified B Corp, and look forward to his continued leadership as a Board Member.

About Turtle Fur:

Since 1982 Turtle Fur® has been a leading headwear and accessories brand in the outdoor, snow sports, and lifestyle markets. Their mission is to inspire an outdoor lifestyle by promoting socially and environmentally conscious living and creating comfortable products for every adventure(r).

Turtle Fur prides itself on holding true to its pillars of adventure, community, comfort, and quality. For more information, visit www.turtlefur.com and follow them on social media @turtlefur.

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