Astral Launches Fall 2024 Footwear Collection

SEATTLE (August 13, 2024) — Since 2002, Astral has led the outdoor industry in designing the highest performing equipment and footwear with the priority of protecting soil and water resources through its production process. Today, Astral announced its upcoming collection of footwear for Fall 2024. The new collection will feature four new models and three special editions of its cult favorite models, the Loyak™ and Rassler 2.0™.

“Our Fall 2024 collection represents another large step in our endless pursuit to create products that elevate your connection with Nature” says Astral Founder + CEO, Philip Curry. “Whether you prioritize a barefoot feel or maximum traction on trail or street, we have 4 new models that are made using organic hemp canvas or 100% recycled polyester uppers.”

New to the Fall 2024 collection are the Loyak All Weather™,  TR1 Merge 2.0™, Halestorm 2.0™, and Hemp Donner 2.0™. The collection heavily prioritizes the incorporation of hemp and other 100% recycled materials that provide users massive upsides in performance while upholding the brand’s commitment to protecting Nature.

The Loyak All Weather™ builds off the DNA of Astral’s bestselling minimalist water shoe, the Loyak™, and equips it with the materials for all-season, everyday use in wet conditions. Manufactured from a 100% recycled canvas shell and a 100% recycled mesh liner, the Loyak All-Weather™ blends a PFAS-free water-resistant membrane, with the exceptional durability, grip, and natural ground feel of the Loyak™, adding a new layer of multi-season versatility. The Loyak All Weather™ will be available for all genders in four colors and available for purchase on August 13, for a retail price of $125.

The TR1 Merge 2.0™ is designed to redefine the high performance, amphibious hiking boot. It is an exceptionally breathable, ultra-lightweight mid-top hiking boot that combines Astral’s Balanced Geometry™ (zero drop + wider toe box),with the best-in-class grip from G.15 Rubber™ and Trail Grip™ outsoles. Constructed with 100% recycled polyester, vegan suede, an Ariaprene® collar, and abrasion-resistant mesh ventilation, it is an extremely durable high performance option for both wet and dry trails.

“The TRI Merge 2.0 is the perfect blend of support and performance. It has enough structure to cushion and protect your feet and ankles without being too heavy or overbuilt,” said Jennifer Pharr Davis, record-setting thru-hiker and Astral Archetype. “The tread provides great, long-lasting traction in all conditions and I’ve never worn a boot that dries so quickly. It’s my go-to mid-top hiking boot for everything from a weekend camping trip to a long-distance thru-hike.”

The TR1 Merge 2.0™ will be available for all genders  in three colors and available for purchase on September 10, for a retail price of $150.

The Halestorm 2.0™ is Astral’s take on a modern duck boot. By combining the durability, breathability, and comfort of hemp, with a dry bag-inspired WeatherGuard™ they are designed to keep your feet comfortable and dry any time of year. The brand’s patented G.15 Rubber™ and Trail Grip™ outsoles along with the zero drop and wider toe box of Balanced Geometry™ provide exceptional grip on wet and dry surfaces. Hemp uppers are naturally durable, rot-resistant and breathable, and absorb natural fabric wax, for those looking to extend the height of chemical-free waterproof performance. Furthermore, hemp is an extremely sustainable material that improves the soil it’s grown in while requiring less water and no pesticides or fertilizers to grow. The Halestorm 2.0™ will be available for all genders in two colors and available on September 10, for a retail price of $160.

The Hemp Donner 2.0™ gives the everyday sneaker a natural twist. Combining the durability, odor resistance, and thermoregulating nature of hemp with the style and versatility of a skate-inspired sneaker. It features a majority hemp upper combined with Astral’s signature grip and natural ride.  The Hemp Donner 2.0™, along with the Halestorm 2.0™ solidifies Astral’s commitment as a leader in incorporating hemp and other natural materials to elevate footwear and apparel performance. The Hemp Donner 2.0™ will be available in sizing for all genders  on September 24, for a retail price of $139.

Astral’s Fall 2024 footwear collection will be released throughout August and September at astraldesigns.com and participating retail partners. The special edition colorways of the Loyak™ and Rassler 2.0™ will be available starting on August 14. For additional information about Astral and its collection of footwear, please visit astraldesigns.com.

ABOUT ASTRAL
Established in 2002, Astral designs high performance wilderness equipment created in the least toxic, lowest impact ways. Built on decades of experience and experimentation, Astral has assembled athletes, artists, and craftspeople to build the cleanest, most beautiful, and highest performing gear. Astral has significantly reduced toxic PVC foam from the PFD industry, invented breathable life jackets, won awards for their paradigm changing footwear designs, and developed the stickiest rubber ever worn on wet rock. Visit www.astraldesigns.com for more information.

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Media Contact:
Max Akselrad | Verde Brand Communications | (917) 699-8491 | max@verdepr.com

 

 

 

Therm-a-Rest Boost 650™ sleeping bag awarded GearJunkie ‘Best in Show’

Reno, NV. (Aug. 13, 2024) – After meeting with more than 50 brands and scouring new products from 2024 and 2025, GearJunkie awarded Therm-a-Rest’s new Boost 650™ sleeping bag with its coveted Best in Show Outdoor Market Alliance award. Therm-a-Rest is redefining backpacking comfort with its new sleeping bag, launching spring 2025. The innovative and versatile new design empowers backpackers and campers to adjust their bag to find their personal sweet spot when sleeping under the stars.

The result of years of research, the Boost 650 delivers unparalleled comfort by creatively addressing two key factors in sleep systems—space and warmth. Addressing sleep space, the semi-rectangular shape provides additional room for various natural sleeping positions without feeling restrictive. Addressing warmth, the new WarmZip™ technology, a patent-pending center zipper, transforms the bag into a mummy shape, reducing its internal space and tucking insulation around the sleeper to boost warmth up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The WarmZip technology, and 650-fill down provide ample warmth for chillier nights in the backcountry.

GearJunkie’s review gives the Boost 650 high marks: “Therm-a-Rest had a lot to show us this summer, but the Boost sleeping bag stood out for its innovative design and clever approach to giving more to the most frequent backpackers and campers.” Therm-a-Rest’s spring 2025 NeoLoft™ pad also earned an “honorable mention” by the GearJunkie team.

To learn more about Therm-a-Rest’s new Boost 650 sleeping bags, check out a product video HERE.

Therm-a-Rest’s spring 2025 lineup ​​will be available at select REI locations and on their website, starting September 15, 2024. The selection will be available at additional retailers and thermarest.com starting January 2025. To learn more about Therm-a-Rest and its award-winning collection of camp comfort gear, visit thermarest.com.

About Therm-a-Rest®

Since 1971, Therm-a-Rest has been dedicated to providing outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality, innovative gear designed for comfort and performance. From sleeping pads to sleeping bags and camp blankets , Therm-a-Rest products are engineered to enhance outdoor experiences and help adventurers get the best night’s sleep possible. For more information, visit www.thermarest.com.

About Cascade Designs, Inc.®

For over 50 years, Cascade Designs, Inc. and its brands, Therm-a-Rest®, Mountain Safety Research® (MSR), Platypus®, SealLine®, and PackTowl®, have led the outdoor industry in designing innovative, useful, and long-lasting equipment, manufacturing the majority of its products in its Reno, Nev., U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland facilities, and with offices in Seattle, Wash. From the original self-inflating Therm-a-Rest® camping mattress to the first multi-fuel stove from MSR®, Cascade Designs has developed leading products that explorers, travelers, adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and weekend campers can rely on to deliver optimum performance in the outdoors through exceptional engineering and quality. For more information, please visit www.cascadedesigns.com.

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DOWNLOADABLE IMAGES HERE (Credit: Therm-a-Rest)

 

Dickies Cements Partnership with Backbone as Agency of Record

FORT WORTH, Texas (Aug. 13) — Iconic workwear brand Dickies, known for its durable, high-quality clothing, has partnered with Backbone for public relations, affiliate marketing, and influencer management services. Backbone will help promote Dickies’ workwear, emphasizing its heritage and reinforcing its reputation as the top choice for trade professionals across industries such as construction, automotive, painting, and more.

“We’re rethinking and evolving our approach to workwear,” said Lindsay Burgor, senior manager, brand PR and influencers at Dickies. “While Dickies has been a leader in the workwear field for over 100 years, both the industry and the needs of workers are changing. We’re confident Backbone is the perfect partner to help us honor our tradition while addressing the modern needs of today’s professionals.”

Based in Fort Worth, Texas, Dickies has always been known for its functional approach to workwear. Since its founding in 1922, the brand has become synonymous with durability and utility, offering a range of apparel that meets the needs of workers in a variety of trades across both indoor and outdoor jobs. As the brand looks to the future, it remains committed to honoring its heritage by delivering exceptional products designed to stand up to the toughest jobs.

“Dickies is a legendary brand that remains as relevant and reliable as ever,” said Ian Anderson, vice president of public relations at Backbone. “As a team that appreciates the value of a hard day’s work, Backbone is proud to partner with Dickies and help support the next generation of American workers.”

For more information regarding Dickies, please direct inquiries to dickiespr@backbone.media.

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About Dickies
Founded in 1922 in Fort Worth, Texas, Dickies has grown from a small bib overall company to the largest workwear manufacturer in the world. With nearly a century of experience, Dickies is known for producing durable, high-quality workwear that meets the needs of those in demanding professions. From automotive and construction to painting and more, Dickies remains committed to its heritage of creating reliable clothing for hard-working individuals.

About Backbone
Backbone is the country’s leading active lifestyle media agency. For over 27 years, Backbone has partnered with brands big and small to develop and execute effective, integrated media strategies. Backbone has consistently been included on Outside Magazine’s “Best Places to Work” list with offices in Carbondale and Denver, Colorado. For more information, visit www.backbonemedia.net.

Chefs, celebs & cyclists convene for the inaugural Gran Fondo Hincapie Bentonville

Bentonville, Ark., (August 13, 2024)Gran Fondo Hincapie has been creating cycling experiences for over 12 years and this year, launched its latest event taking place in Bentonville, Ark., Sept. 6 – 8. The multi-day cycling celebration will offer scenic rides, live music, and a family festival with free fun, food, and drinks. Additionally, new programming has been officially announced, elevating the event to new heights.

The event series is one of the only large-scale Gran Fondo events in the country that puts a primary focus on the experience as a whole and not just on creating epic courses. This is evident in the new programming announced today:

  • On Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, Sept. 4–6 at 10:00 a.m. at the Meteor Café, former professional cyclist, George Hincapie, and his family will host group rides for locals and anyone in town early for the event weekend.
  • A Celebrity Chef Dinner (tickets here) will take place on Friday night for participants to sample culinary creations from the country’s top chefs. Participants can enjoy each course with a glass of wine selected by a master sommelier. Riders will have the opportunity to mingle with one another, the chefs, and the Hincapie team. The night will feature culinary masterpieces from a handful of well-known chefs from around the country, including Matt Accarrino, Restaurant Director for SPQR and Owner/Chef of Mattina out of San Francisco, Ted Cizma, Multi-Disciplinary Chef & Hospitality Professional, Haydn Shaak, Head Chef at Restaurant 17 in Greenville, and Michael Kuefner, the Culinary Director of Bentonville’s local Thaden School, as well as student chef, Avery Roberts.
  • Join 2024 Junior Men 15-16 Time Trial National Champion, Enzo Hincapie in the Junior Challenge, an opportunity for Junior riders to have their own stage at this year’s Gran Fondo Hincapie–Bentonville! For George Hincapie, learning to ride, win, and lead a team started from an early age in countless events across the country. Giving back to the sport so that it can grow both at home and abroad is a priority for the Hincapie team. The Junior Challenge is for all cyclists ages 10–18 who wish to compete for a large cash purse, and prizes. Additionally, junior riders 18 and under not interested in competing, are invited to register to ride the Gran, Medio, or Piccolo events for free.
  • On Saturday night, local Chef Biju Thomas will cater the After Party (tickets here) at the Red Barn at the Momentary. Enjoy drinks, appetizers, and live music, and mingle with celebrity guests, while enjoying the beautiful mountain views.

For the riding portion, cyclists can choose to ride the paved roads of Northwest Arkansas and Missouri on Saturday (course info here), Sunday (course info here), or both days,  each day offering multiple distance options. The event weekend is expected to bring in more than 1,300 total riders, from cycling pros, celebrities, weekend warriors, and first-time riders. Participants can choose between a shorter Piccolo (approx. 15 miles), a mid-length Medio (approx. 50 miles), or a longer Gran (approx. 80 miles) ride on one of the scenic routes mapped and tested by George Hincapie himself.

After both days of riding, athletes are encouraged to hang around after the finish at the free Family Fun Festival and enjoy an afternoon of music, food and beverages, and other fun activities with their friends, family, and thousands of other cyclists.

The Bentonville, Ark. event adds to Gran Fondo Hincapie’s world-class lineup of other upcoming events. Registration is still open for Bentonville (link to register here). The final event of the calendar year will take place in Greenville, S.C. on Oct. 18-19 (link to register here).

To learn more about Gran Fondo Hincapie please visit https://hincapie.com/ or follow along on social media on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

About Hincapie

Cycling is our life. It’s what we know, and it’s who we are. But we are not a bike company. We’re a people-who-ride-bikes company. We are cyclists, and we are makers. We are master craftsmen of custom-made, high-performance cycling apparel. Our team is our family. Not only do we design our cycling apparel, but we also make it in our family-run factory. We also create and run upscale cycling events. We have a restaurant and hotel that hosts visiting cyclists from all over the world. We manage a spring series of races. Cycling inspires everything we do, and every day we work even harder to improve the sport, make it more accessible to others, and build a strong community for future cyclists. Join us on our journey.

 

Nomadix Launches Artist Collaboration Collection to Celebrate 10 Years

San Clemente, Calif. – August 8, 2024 – Nomadix, a social purpose corporation and makers of The Only Towel You Need®, made from post-consumer recycled materials, is celebrating its 10 years of business by launching a capsule collection featuring the work of Sight Study, an art and design outfit based in Northern California.

“Reaching our brand’s tenth birthday is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to our team’s resilience, innovation, and the amazing support of our community,” said Zack Helminiak, CEO and co-founder of Nomadix. “As we celebrate this achievement, we’re reminded that our journey has only just begun. With a decade of lessons learned and triumphs celebrated, our team feels renewed inspiration and motivation to shape the future of our industry with even greater purpose and passion.”

In the 10 years since the brand launched its Kickstarter campaign with the Original Towel, it has expanded its product offering to 11 pieces designed to be versatile for travel, adventure, and activities. To mark this anniversary, Nomadix chose to collaborate with one of its most admired artists, Gabe Schneider, of California-based Sight Study Art and Design. The Nomadix 10 year capsule collection, launching Friday, August 9, includes the Nomadix Original Towel (est. 2014, MSRP $39.95), Festival Blanket (est. 2019, MSRP $69.95), and Bandana Towel (est. 2022, MSRP $24.95).

Additionally, Nomadix became a Social Purpose Corporation in 2018, Carbon Neutral Certified in 2022, and as a member of 1% for the Planet, the brand has invested 1% of sales to environmental partner organizations since 2019.

The brand is looking to the future with plans to expand its product offerings into new categories while maintaining its current product assortment, including the new Tiny Towel and Fanny Pack, made from post-consumer recycled materials to continue its commitment of limiting its impact on the planet. To see the entire Nomadix product line or for more information about its Social Purpose Corporation Report, visit nomadix.co.

ABOUT NOMADIX

California-based Nomadix launched in 2014 with The Only Towel You Need® – a multi-purpose towel that performs for any activity, including travel, yoga, boating, and at the beach. Nomadix understands that the environmental footprint of the products people buy will have an impact on the planet that lasts longer than we will. A commitment to discovering durable, multi-purpose, responsibly manufactured solutions that will leave the planet better than we found it is part of its ethos – Own less. Do more. Nomadix is a member of 1% for the Planet and is Climate Neutral Certified. Today, Nomadix is carried in major retailers in the United States and is distributed in 31 countries around the world. Visit www.nomadix.co for more information.

 

 

 

“Designed by Disaster” Adventure Documentary Premieres at Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival’s Fall Showcase September 7, 2024

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (August 6, 2024) Kahtoola, in partnership with Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival (FMFF), announces the local premiere of its inspirational documentary “Designed by Disaster” at the festival’s Fall Showcase at the Prochnow Auditorium in Flagstaff, Ariz. on Saturday Sept. 7, 2024 at 7 p.m. MST.

The event features four films in total for an exciting night of adventure storytelling and life perspectives with Timmy O’Neill, Danny Giovale, James ‘Q’ Martin, Rob Krar and Mikah Meyer. Tickets are available now until sold out ($15 general public, $12 students). Enjoy an evening of films, conversations and a fundraiser raffle to benefit the FMFF with prizes from Kahtoola, The North Face, Alpacka Rafts, Smartwool, and more.

FMFF Fall Showcase films include:

“Designed by Disaster”

“Designed by Disaster” (teaser preview) is an inspiring story about Danny Giovale, a passionate climber whose life-changing accident in the Dolomites compels him to address a critical safety gap in mountain travel. Three decades later, equipped with the product he invented, Danny returns to complete the climb that nearly took his life. Directed by award-winning Flagstaff-based filmmaker, James ‘Q’ Martin. In Person: Danny Giovale, Timmy O’Neill, James ‘Q’ Martin

“Dam(n) Loop”

World Premiere

The “Dam(n) Loop” is a 10 minute film following Ultra Athlete Rob Krar as he establishes an impressive, 100% self-powered and self-supported running and packrafting loop in northern Arizona. The film explores this historic route and offers a bit of levity as the film is just as much about Rob’s journey as the filmmakers’ trials and tribulations doing all they can to keep up with him while filming. In Person: Rob Krar

“Canyon Chorus”

Join Mikah Meyer, his mentor Larry, and three friends as they journey down Utah’s Green River, in Desolation Canyon, on a river rafting trip centered around friendship and joy. “Canyon Chorus” is a story about being your true self in the outdoors, about advocacy, and about recognizing the important people in our lives. In Person: Mikah Meyer

“26,000 Days”

This is the story of Eric Tucker, an airshow pilot who turns most pilots’ nightmare into a beautiful dance. Through flying dead-stick–turning his own engine off and falling out of the sky–Eric confronts the challenge of how to make the most of life and live without regret.

Purchase your tickets here today. For more information on FMFF’s Fall Showcase, please visit https://flagstaffmountainfilms.org/showcase-series/.

About Kahtoola:

Established in 1999, Kahtoola crafts exceptional outdoor gear with a commitment to philanthropy, conservation, and sustainability. Kahtoola’s gaiters, hiking crampons and traction systems, including MICROspikes® footwear traction, are built to elevate human potential in the outdoors. Every product is thoughtfully designed and vigorously tested at the brand’s Flagstaff, Ariz. headquarters high on the Colorado Plateau. Owned and operated by founder Danny Giovale, Kahtoola proudly grants 1% of annual sales through the Kahtoola Philanthropy Program to organizations that support indigenous cultures, outdoor community and environmental responsibility. For more information, please visit Kahtoola.com.

About Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival:

Since 2003, the Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival (FMFF) has highlighted a collection of the most inspiring and thought-provoking social, environmental, outdoor-adventure and Indigenous films from around the world during our 5 day festival in the Spring as well as several special events throughout the year. For the past 21 years, outdoor and film enthusiasts from across the state, region and world have enjoyed a high-quality film experience while soaking up the breathtaking beauty of Northern Arizona. The FMFF is a 501c(3) non-profit and our work is made possible by generous donations, sponsorships, and grants. If you are interested in getting involved, please visit flagstaffmountainfilms.org.

 

 

Built for a lifetime of adventures, Gregory Mountain Products expanded fall 2024 collection is designed to enhance your carrying experience

Salt Lake City, Utah [Aug. 5, 2024] – For nearly 50 years, Gregory Mountain Products has been building innovative, experience-enhancing products that carry you and your gear through a lifetime of adventure. Gregory’s fall 2024 launch continues the brand’s legacy with updates and new styles in well-loved collections, and a brand new line of lifestyle packs. The Rhune Collection sees two new liter sizes, while the best-selling Quadro Pro Hardcase receives travel-friendly updates and the new Retna packs deliver on comfort and efficient design in an accessible package.

“Our fall collection brings us a step further in designing products that align with our values as a brand,” said Gregory Mountain Products Global General Manager, John Sears. “Additions to our everyday adventure collection, Rhune and Retna, are rooted in elevated style and performance while simultaneously lowering our carbon footprint. The new Quadro Pro delivers an exciting technology package and will only strengthen Gregory’s position as the leader in hardside luggage for active outdoor travel. The season is a celebration of our brand goal to deliver innovative ideas that enhance our end-consumer’s active outdoor lifestyle.”

The well-loved Rhune family sees two new liter sizes with a belt bag perfect for carrying small essentials, and a 28L pack that makes an ideal work bag or travel companion. The Rhune Belt Bag is a sophisticated and functional option for everyday carrying that can be worn around the waist or as a cross body sling. The Rhune 28 is the largest offering in the collection, making it a great option for commuting and travel. The aircushion backpanel is made up of 90% air for true on-the-back breathability, and designed with an active user in mind, the collection focuses on organization with shoulder harness pockets perfect for ear buds, side mesh water bottle pockets, and dedicated tablet and laptop sleeves (excluding the waistpack). The collection is also built using 100% GRS-certified recycled polyester fabric on the body and base to ensure that each pack makes a smaller impact on the environment.

The all-new Retna collection was built for everyday adventures with a comfortable fit, sleek style, and refined organization – all at an approachable price point. The multi-density foam backpanel provides a comfortable carry, and features like a side stretch-mesh bottle pocket, reflective attachment loops, interior zippered pockets, and a top grab handle reflect Gregory’s attention to detail. The 25L and 28L backpacks have an externally accessed laptop sleeve, while the 20L backpack has an interior access laptop sleeve with an adjacent tablet sleeve. The Retna is the perfect pack for school, work and travel, and comes at an accessible price point ensuring that there are options for everyone.

The next generation of Gregory’s Quadro Pro Hardcase includes new features like an integrated AirTag holder to easily track your luggage, a stylish and more durable handle, and updated colorways. Built for the active lifestyle traveler, the Quadro Pro features Gregory’s proprietary ActiveShield compartment keeping dirty or wet clothing separate from clean items. The scratch-resistant high impact polycarbonate shell paired alongside a TSA-approved combination lock make it a durable and functional travel companion. Additional features include a spherical 4-wheel system for smooth and multi-directional rolling, abrasion-resistant zipper teeth and three internal mesh zippered pockets. The Quadro Pro is available in two capacities – a carry-on friendly 22” and a checked luggage compatible 28” for extended adventures.

Gregory’s fall 2024 collection will be available at specialty retailers and online at Gregory.com starting August 2, 2024. For more information about Gregory, and its complete collection of award-winning outdoor gear, visit www.Gregory.com.

About Gregory Mountain Products

For nearly 50 years, Gregory Mountain Products has been a global leader in expedition, backpacking, daypacks, lifestyle, travel, and camping gear. World renowned for fit, durability, performance, and accessibility, Gregory has won countless awards and recognition from media outlets such as Outside Magazine, National Geographic, Popular Science, Men’s Journal, New York Times, and many others. Gregory is a product driven company that continues to lead the way in clever, innovative, and experience-enhancing outdoor gear that helps more people experience the benefits of the great outdoors in style and comfort.

MEDIA CONTACT: Becca Katz I Verde Brand Communications I becca@verdepr.com I C. 360-441-5620

 

 

 

 

Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps Celebrates Successful Start to 2024 Season in Klamath and Eldorado National Forests

BISHOP, Calif. (August 5, 2024) – The Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps (ESCC) proudly announces the accomplishments of its dedicated crews during the first half of the 2024 season, with significant contributions to the maintenance and preservation of the Klamath and Eldorado National Forests.

Klamath National Forest

  • Site Name: Elk Creek Trail at Norcross Campground
  • Dates on Site: May 30 – June 26
  • Crews Involved: 2
  • Accomplishments:
    • Brushed 1.92 miles of trail
    • Treading 1.32 miles of trail
    • Built two multi-tier rock walls, each approximately 114 sqft
    • Exposed and cleared 9 water bars

Eldorado National Forest

  • Site Names: Tanglefoot Trail & Salt Springs Reservoir
  • Dates on Site: Spike 1 – May 28 – June 4; Spike 2 – June 11 – June 18
  • Crews Involved: 1
  • Accomplishments:
    • Cleared 13 drains
    • Removed 54 logs
    • Brushed 6.05 miles of trail
    • Removed 5 sqft of invasive species

Throughout this period, the ESCC crews engaged in rigorous tasks, including cutting back and removing brush, widening trails to make them accessible to both stock and people, clearing drains, removing logs, and constructing multi-tier rock walls. These activities not only enhance trail accessibility but also contribute to the long-term sustainability and resilience of these natural spaces, especially in the face of changing climatic conditions.

The 2024 season kicked off with a blend of excitement and apprehension as our first-time trail workers embarked on their journey into the California wilderness. The experience has been transformative, challenging crew members on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels.

Learning and Growth
This season has been a fertile ground for learning and skill acquisition. Crew members have gained invaluable knowledge in tool ergonomics, discovered new workflows, embraced the simplicity of river baths, and developed a deep appreciation for the work. They also faced and overcame obstacles such as poison oak reactions and ankle injuries, growing stronger and more resilient with each challenge.

Community and Support
ESCC Supervisors have played a crucial role in fostering a supportive community, empowering corps members to realize their potential and expand their capabilities. As the season progresses, this sense of community will continue to be a cornerstone of our efforts, ensuring that every member feels supported and valued.

The Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps remains committed to its mission of preserving and enhancing California’s wilderness areas. The accomplishments of our crews in the Klamath and Eldorado National Forests are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the transformative power of nature conservation.

To learn more about ESCC and how to get involved, visit https://www.easternsierracc.org/

To Donate to ESCC, visit https://www.easternsierracc.org/donate

ABOUT EASTERN SIERRA CONSERVATION CORPS

Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps is a developmental leadership organization committed to building a stronger, more inclusive outdoor community. Since 2016, ESCC has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the field of trail work, pioneering inclusivity and community-building initiatives while undertaking vital conservation projects across California’s wild spaces. ESCC actively recruits and empowers leaders from historically marginalized communities, striving to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

 

 

 

Outdoor Industry Association Releases 2024 Outdoor Brand Benchmarking Report to Help Members Rise Above Competition

New report offers key finance and business operations benchmarks that enable brands to make more informed decisions that drive growth and profitability

BOULDER, CO (July 30, 2024) – A member-led collective and the outdoor industry’s catalyst for meaningful change, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) today released its 2024 Outdoor Brand Benchmarking Report, presenting a detailed, straightforward analysis of the financial and operating characteristics of outdoor manufacturers for fiscal year 2023. The results show that the typical firm generated sales of $9,786,731 and a pre-tax profit of 11.9%. Sales for the typical high-profit firm were $6,768,674 with a profit of 18.5%.

As the sole and trusted source for benchmarks in the outdoor industry, OIA’s 2024 Outdoor Brand Benchmarking Report focuses on key business fundamentals, including:

  • Financial Performance: Key financial ratios and detailed indicators across Profit and Loss and Balance Sheet statements, such as revenue growth, profit margins, and inventory turnover.
  • Business Operations: Benchmarks focus on metrics such as SKU count, sales channel mix, marketing mix and ROI, sourcing mix, number of employees, and sales per employee.
  • Actionable Best Practices: Tailored strategies cover revenue and gross margin optimization, asset management, and payroll control.
  • Targeted Insights: Groupings by company size and product line help pinpoint opportunities within specific industry segments and compared to top performers.

“As the outdoor market continues to evolve at a rapid rate, it’s essential to know where your business stands versus the competition,” said Kent Ebersole, President of OIA. “The 2024 Outdoor Brand Benchmarking Report provides decision-makers access to data across all major business functions so that they can be equipped with the strategic intelligence needed to drive growth, efficiency, and profitability. It’s with this level of deep market understanding that industry-leading brands are created, and OIA is here to help our members get there.”

The benchmarking data was anonymously compiled from 46 outdoor industry brands across a range of company sizes and product categories.

For over thirty years, OIA has helped its members better understand the markets and people they serve by providing industry-leading research and expert perspectives on participation trends, market forces, and consumer insights. This new Benchmarking Report expands the value of OIA membership and enables outdoor brands to access data worth thousands, unavailable anywhere else.

The full report is now available to study participants and OIA Leadership Members (Manufacturer, Supplier, Distributor, Retailer, Sales Rep categories). OIA Support and Support+ Members have access to the 8-page Executive Summary. OIA has also released key insights of the report to the public to foster overall industry growth. To access the key insights and to learn more about OIA membership, please visit the OIA website.

 

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

Legacy brand Crazy Creek taps Verde Brand Communications as Agency of Record

Red Lodge, Mont. (July 30, 2024) Crazy Creek Products, a leading manufacturer of outdoor seating for 37 years, announces Verde Brand Communications as its new agency of record. Verde Brand Communications, an integrated communications agency specializing in the outdoor and active lifestyle markets, will lead Crazy Creek’s public relations strategy, brand communications, affiliate marketing, and direct-to-consumer digital marketing efforts.

Based in Red Lodge, Montana, Crazy Creek has been a pioneer in outdoor comfort since 1987. The brand is known for its innovative, lightweight chairs, designed for adventurers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. In spring 2024, Crazy Creek launched the AirCliner – the most comfortable and compact Crazy Creek to date, and additional product launches are on the horizon.

“We are very excited to partner with Verde as our agency of record,” said Karson Bagby, Co-Owner of Crazy Creek. “Their deep understanding of the outdoor industry and proven track record in strategic communications align perfectly with our heritage brand’s vision and goals. We look forward to leveraging their expertise to enhance our brand presence further and reach, and with their help, usher in the next chapter for the Crazy Creek brand.”

Verde Brand Communications brings over 22 years of experience in elevating outdoor and active lifestyle brands through comprehensive SEO-driven PR campaigns, experiential events, digital marketing strategies, and media engagement.

“Crazy Creek is an incredible brand with a rich heritage. We are beyond excited to partner with their team to amplify the brand’s legacy story and innovative product collection,” said Julie Evans, CEO of Verde Brand Communications. “We look forward to growing and engaging with Crazy Creek’s passionate community of outdoor enthusiasts.”

Under the new partnership, Verde will work closely with Crazy Creek to develop and execute strategic PR initiatives to build brand awareness and loyalty, drive consumer engagement and sales, and strengthen Crazy Creek’s position as a leader in the outdoor industry.

For more information about Crazy Creek and its range of outdoor seating, please visit crazycreek.com. For media inquiries or further information about the partnership, please contact Alexa McRoberts, alexa@verdepr.com.

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About Crazy Creek

Founded in 1987 in Red Lodge, Montana, Crazy Creek has been a pioneer in outdoor seating, known for its innovative, lightweight chairs. The brand’s mission to perfect “just sit there” comfort across any terrain has garnered trust worldwide among outdoor professionals and enthusiasts alike. Renowned for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, Crazy Creek chairs have traveled from the backcountry of Northern Alaska to sunny backyards in Southern Florida. The product line includes a range of chairs crafted from the most durable fabrics, featuring carbon fiber stays and a custom stitching process, all backed by a lifetime warranty on Original & Hex 2.0 Chairs. In 2024, Crazy Creek introduced the AirCliner, its most compact and comfortable chair yet. For more information, visit crazycreek.com.

About Verde Brand Communications

Verde Brand Communications is a woman-founded, woman-led agency focused on brand communications and strategy, media relations, digital marketing and affiliate management. We specialize in serving the outdoor and active lifestyle industries as well as adjacent specialty markets. Our market-driven approach stems from a nimble, close-knit team of creative thinkers along with proven industry experience since Verde was founded in 2002. We have offices in Durango and Boulder, Colo., and Jackson, Wyo. For more information about Verde, please visit www.verdepr.com or follow our adventures on Instagram and LinkedIn.