G. Loomis Expands Selection of Technique-Specific Fly Rods

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.

Kahtoola Sponsors Annual Pacific Crest Trail Safety Initiative

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.

PrimaLoft, Inc. Announces Chief Financial Officer Transition

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.

 

Shimano Launches New Rods to Conquer the Bluewater and Surf

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.

 

Outdoor Industry Association Announces Kent Ebersole as New President

OIA Board of Directors appoint respected industry veteran to drive member-led collective into the future

BOULDER, COLO [March 21, 2023] — Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Board of Directors has today named industry veteran Kent Ebersole as President of Outdoor Industry Association after serving seven months as the organization’s interim executive director.

An outdoor industry veteran, Ebersole came to OIA in August of 2022 with a broad range of experience in media, business strategy, and non-profit consulting. Combining decades of experience in the outdoors, with his community-driven outlook, Ebersole’s wisdom in all facets of the industry make him well-equipped to lead OIA into the future.

“Every OIA member, staff, board member, or donor is a catalyst for knowledge, sustainability, collective action, inclusion, and connection,” said Kent Ebersole, President of OIA. “Collectively, the outdoor industry is a force of nature and most importantly a force of change. None of the work we do could happen if it wasn’t for our passionate members and collaborators. I thank them and the OIA board for this opportunity to lead our industry forward.”

The appointment of Ebersole as President is a strategic move on behalf of OIA as the organization and its membership look to his guidance, vision, and expertise to drive positive change within the outdoor industry. Ebersole will leverage his industry network to identify new opportunities for economic growth, deliver new programming for clean manufacturing, focus on timely and relevant membership experiences, and increase membership value while also advocating for pragmatic trade policies and inclusive practices.

“Over the past several months, the OIA Board of Directors had the pleasure of seeing how Kent’s leadership, strategic mindset, personal connection, and dedication to collaboration will benefit an industry in change,” said Phyllis Grove, Senior VP of Marketing for Helen of Troy Home & Outdoor and OIA Board Chair. “We are confident in the map he has drawn for us all and we are ready to work alongside him to move the industry forward.”

“I am beyond proud of everything OIA does, from the Climate Action Corps, leading the way to becoming a climate positive industry by 2030, to our multi-year Thrive Outside grants led by partners who already know what their communities need to have access to the physical, mental and emotional benefits of the outdoors,” added Ebersole.

Ebersole hopes to inspire industry leaders and stakeholders to work together toward a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone included in the outdoor industry.

 

About Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry. For more than 30 years, OIA has served as the trusted convenor, resource, and voice of the outdoor industry. OIA unites and serves manufacturers, suppliers, sales representatives, and retailer members through its focus on trade and recreation policy, sustainable business innovation, and outdoor participation. The association provides its members with insights, advocacy, and opportunities for action that support the long-term success of outdoor businesses and ensure the outdoor experience for all.  For more information, visit  outdoorindustry.org