Archives: Press Releases

NORTH VANCOUVER, British Columbia – May 23, 2024 – Arc’teryx Equipment, the global design company specializing in technical high-performance outerwear and equipment, is proud to announce its participation in the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Fashion ReModel, a global apparel industry initiative aiming to identify solutions and overcome barriers to scaling circular business models. The collaboration signifies the outset of a shared partnership between Arc’teryx and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, united in their goal to drive sustainability and innovation in the fashion sector.

The Ellen McArthur Foundation – an international charity dedicated to accelerating the transition to a circular economy – hopes that the project will provide the starting point to transform how business is done with the support of policymakers in fashion.

Launched at the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen, The Fashion ReModel unites a group of industry frontrunners from across high street and luxury names, as well as others in the sector, to make circular business models the norm. Arc’teryx is among the first participants in the Foundation-led project.

“Arc’teryx is committed to a circular future, building products to last and equipping our guests with the tools and education to keep their gear in play,” said Dominique Showers, Vice President, ReBIRD™ at Arc’teryx. “We’re excited to be one of the first participants to join the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s demonstration project, The Fashion ReModel, to reimagine circularity for the outdoor industry, rethinking the way we approach design and waste to build a future in which everything we create can be given a second life.”

Participating in The Fashion ReModel represents a significant leap forward for Arc’teryx toward its recently-announced climate targets and commitment to becoming a net-zero company by 2050 or sooner. Aligning with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation underscores the brand’s proactive approach to addressing environmental challenges in the fashion industry. Through collaborative efforts like The Fashion ReModel, Arc’teryx solidifies its position as a forward-thinking industry leader, driving positive change towards a more sustainable future.

“Through their participation in The Fashion ReModel, this group of organizations are taking the next step on the road towards a circular economy for fashion,” said Jules Lennon, Fashion Lead at the Ellen McArthur Foundation. “In order to challenge conventional linear models and create a new normal, brands must decouple revenue from production by accelerating efforts to redesign the products of the future, as well as rethinking the services and business models which deliver them to customers and keep them in use.”

To date, The Fashion ReModel has been endorsed by organizations including the British Fashion Council, Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, Global Fashion Agenda, Fashion for Good and the Waste & Resources Action Programme. The Foundation believes that the shared learnings and experiences will forge the path towards a more resilient fashion industry.

Further information about The Fashion ReModel project can be found here.

About Arc’teryx

Arc’teryx is a Canadian company based in the Coast Mountains. Our design process is connected to the real world, focused on delivering unrivaled durability and performance in extreme conditions. Our products are distributed through more than 2,400 retail locations worldwide. We are problem solvers, always evolving and searching for a better way to deliver resolved, minimalist designs. Good design that matters makes experiences better.

About the Ellen MacArthur Foundation

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is an international charity whose mission is to accelerate the transition to a circular economy in order to tackle some of the biggest challenges of our time, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, waste, and pollution. Founded in 2010, we work with our network of private and public sector decision-makers, as well as academia, to build capacity, explore collaborative opportunities, and design and develop circular economy initiatives and solutions.

Increasingly based on renewable energy, a circular economy is driven by design to eliminate waste, circulate products and materials at their highest value, and regenerate nature, to create resilience and prosperity for business, the environment, and people.

 

 

 

OSLO, Norway (May 22, 2024) –– Heritage Norwegian adventure and outdoor brand Norrøna is pleased to share development plans for an intimate nature hotel in Senja, Norway. Designed by the internationally acclaimed architecture studio Dorte Mandrup, together with consultants TID Studio, the hotel sits on an islet overlooking the Norwegian Sea and the mountainous peninsula, merging with its surroundings. The hotel’s access to nearby hiking, skiing, swimming and whale watching will establish Senja as a destination for international adventure tourism.

“Norrøna’s ambition to inspire people to explore nature and to create a community around outdoor experiences is truly inspiring, and we want to reflect that by shaping the hotel as an extension of the journey into nature,” said Dorte Mandrup, founder and creative director of Dorte Mandrup A/S. “The site is unique, and we want to build a small hotel with a subdued expression, which does not draw attention from the surroundings. The mountains and the sea will dominate this landscape, allowing visitors to be immersed in their surroundings.”

The hotel will feature 24 rooms, where guests will mainly arrive by boat. Norrøna’s ambition is to attract tourists from all over the world. The plan is to build approximately 1,800-square-meters with guest rooms, a restaurant, sauna and conservatory. To blend in with the adjacent terrain, the hotel is designed as individual cabins, connected by a large stone roof that continues the formations of the surrounding landscape, blending the lines between nature and the hotel.

“We have high ambitions in all our projects, and here, too, we want to create a world class experience. This plot deserves the best of architecture, materials and craftsmanship, and we are delighted to have Dorte Mandrup join the team,” said Jørgen Jørgensen, Norrøna CEO and owner. “We want to show the world the wonderful nature and people of Senja, and give our guests experiences they can’t get anywhere else. At the same time, we want to create good jobs for the local economy and lift the whole area.”

The project will be assessed by Senja municipality, which has already been informed of the plans.

“These are exciting plans and will be a nice addition to tourism in Senja. I believe the hotel will attract quality-conscious guests and contribute to making Senja a tourist destination, which will benefit the local community,” shared mayor Geir Inge Sivertsen.

Norrøna aims to have the new hotel completed in 2026, and expects that it will provide 10 to 20 year-round jobs, and in addition to creating demand for goods and services locally.

The building called “Kråkeslottet” (the Crow Castle), which stands on the site today, has been proposed to be demolished because of its poor technical condition. Norrøna hopes that parts of the building can be preserved, either as elements in the new hotel, or through collaboration with others who want components from Kråkeslottet.

For more information on the project, please contact Norrøna Marketing Director Martin Lien (martin.lien@norrona.no).

About Dorte Mandrup: Danish architecture studio Dorte Mandrup is internationally renowned for their contextual approach, designing buildings that enhance the awareness and experience of each place. Founded by architect Dorte Mandrup in 1999, the studio consists of an international team of 85 employees working across scale and geography. In recent years, the studio has distinguished itself in the architectural field with their ability to work within complex and sensitive contexts. Among the most prominent projects are the Wadden Sea Centre in Denmark, Kangiata Illorsua – Ilulissat Icefjord Centre in Greenland, The Whale in Norway, the Exile Museum in Berlin, and the Nunavut Inuit Heritage Centre in Canada’s Northernmost territory. Read more at www.dortemandrup.dk

About Norrøna: In 1929, Jørgen Jørgensen, a Norwegian outdoor enthusiast, began his search for durable outdoor equipment to perform in Norway´s harsh and rugged land. Starting with simple innovations such as leather straps, canvas backpacks and cotton clothing, he set Norrøna’s direction: To search for the best in technical advancements and to create the ultimate performance products. Today, four generations later, Norrøna is still a family-owned and run company and a leader in the growing market of sustainable sportswear. www.norrona.com

Illustrations: Illustrations can be used in mention of Nørrona and Dorte Mandrup. Illustration must be credited ©MIR as indicated on the file name. Illustrations can be downloaded here.

 

Greenville, S.C., (May 22, 2024) – Gran Fondo Hincapie has been creating cycling experiences for over 12 years and today announces the official courses for their new Bentonville, Ark. event on Sept. 7-8. In partnership with Visit Bentonville, the Ozark Foundation, and Runway Group, the Hincapie-Bentonville event will also host a Junior Challenge with a large cash purse and prizes for cyclists 18 and under. Hincapie Gran Fondo is much more than two days of scenic and epic rides—it’s a multi-day cycling celebration that also includes a Family Fun Festival.

On Saturday, Day One of the epic Gran Fondo Hincapie-Bentonville weekend, riders will experience an abundance of rolling hills with a course that heads north out of Bentonville, through Bella Vista, Ark., and then makes an eastern loop into Missouri. See below for Day One course statistics:

• Gran – 86.5 Miles | 4,848 feet of elevation gain | 3 Timed Climbs | 3 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Medio – 55 Miles | 3,428 feet of elevation gain | 3 Timed Climbs, 2 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Piccolo – 18.1 Miles | 1,136 feet of elevation gain | 1 Timed Climb (view the full route here)

On Sunday, Day Two of the ultimate cycling experience, riders are treated to a different set of scenic road courses. First, riders will head north out of Bentonville, ride through Bella Vista, Ark., and then make a western loop through Missouri. See below for Day Two course statistics:

• Gran – 84.3 Miles | 4,893 feet of elevation gain | 3 Timed Climbs | 4 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Medio – 43.7 Miles | 2,788 feet of elevation gain | 2 Timed Climbs, 2 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Piccolo – 18 Miles | 1,136 feet of elevation gain | 1 Timed Climb (view the full route here)

“What’s great about these courses is that you have flat to rolling hills, wide open countryside and then you come in and out of Bentonville, so there’s a little something for everybody,” said Jamie Godfrey, Hincapie Event Director. “It’s not just for the serious cyclists. It’s for someone who may have never been to a Gran Fondo or mass participation event before.”

A Junior Challenge is also being introduced for the Hincapie-Bentonville event, which will feature a large cash purse and prizes for cyclists ages 10–18. Participants will ride the Medio courses but have their own staging and start corral. Riders will be required to present a current 2024 USA Cycling or UCI license. To help grow the sport of cycling and encourage participation amongst young riders, junior riders 18 and under who are not interested in racing, but still want to participate in the Hincapie event are invited to register for any of the Fondo distances for free.

“There is simply not enough racing for Juniors around the country. When I grew up, I could race almost every weekend in big fields. We need to bump that back up,” said George Hincapie. “We have a great crop of American professionals now that are helping to elevate the sport in the minds of young riders across the country. For young riders to line up [at the Hincapie-Junior Challenge] and have a professional World Tour-looking stage, it’s a great opportunity for them,” said Hincapie. “Hopefully from starting an event like this, they continue to grow their passion for the sport and never want to leave it, keep getting better, and keep making their lives about cycling.  We want to continue to see and grow youth cycling in the United States.”

The Gran Fondo Hincapie is more than just a “big ride.” Registration for a Hincapie event means you’re signing up for a multi-day ultimate cycling celebration with not only two days of rides, but also a Family Fun Festival included in the registration cost after each day of riding, complete with gourmet food, entertainment, podium awards, and drinks alongside friends, family, and thousands of other cyclists. Participants also receive an event jersey, chip timing, on-course SAG support, fully stocked rest stops, and free participant photography.

“The Hincapie event is unique in that it’s two days plus on Friday night there is a Celebrity Chef Dinner, expo, and packet pick up. People are coming in and spending a whole weekend here. People are signing up for both days, which offers them two different riding experiences. They’re staying in town for two separate nights, hopefully enjoying The Momentary, and eating at our restaurants,” said Jamie Cathey, Outdoor Recreation Events Manager, Visit Bentonville. “For a group of people who might not have thought that Bentonville was a spot for them, this [event] expose that road group…now we’re getting a whole other group of people to know what we know, which is that there is a really amazing cycling culture here, and there is a place for them, too on the road cycling side.”

The Bentonville, Ark. event (Sept 7-8) adds to Gran Fondo Hincapie’s world-class lineup of other upcoming events, the next taking place in Lehigh Valley, Pa. (May 31- June 1), followed by Bangor, Maine (June 21-22), and Greenville, S.C. (Oct. 18-19). The Merced, Calif. event took place March 16-17 (view 2024 results here) and the Chattanooga, Tenn. event took place May 3-4 (view 2024 results here).

Registration is now open for all 2024 events, including the Hincapie Gran Fondo-Bentonville, September 7-8, 2024. 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.

 

Greenville, S.C., (May 22, 2024) – Gran Fondo Hincapie has been creating cycling experiences for over 12 years and today announces the official courses for their new Bentonville, Ark. event on Sept. 7-8. In partnership with Visit Bentonville, the Ozark Foundation, and Runway Group, the Hincapie-Bentonville event will also host a Junior Challenge with a large cash purse and prizes for cyclists 18 and under. Hincapie Gran Fondo is much more than two days of scenic and epic rides—it’s a multi-day cycling celebration that also includes a Family Fun Festival.

On Saturday, Day One of the epic Gran Fondo Hincapie-Bentonville weekend, riders will experience an abundance of rolling hills with a course that heads north out of Bentonville, through Bella Vista, Ark., and then makes an eastern loop into Missouri. See below for Day One course statistics:

• Gran – 86.5 Miles | 4,848 feet of elevation gain | 3 Timed Climbs | 3 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Medio – 55 Miles | 3,428 feet of elevation gain | 3 Timed Climbs, 2 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Piccolo – 18.1 Miles | 1,136 feet of elevation gain | 1 Timed Climb (view the full route here)

On Sunday, Day Two of the ultimate cycling experience, riders are treated to a different set of scenic road courses. First, riders will head north out of Bentonville, ride through Bella Vista, Ark., and then make a western loop through Missouri. See below for Day Two course statistics:

• Gran – 84.3 Miles | 4,893 feet of elevation gain | 3 Timed Climbs | 4 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Medio – 43.7 Miles | 2,788 feet of elevation gain | 2 Timed Climbs, 2 Rest Stops (view the full route here)
• Piccolo – 18 Miles | 1,136 feet of elevation gain | 1 Timed Climb (view the full route here)

“What’s great about these courses is that you have flat to rolling hills, wide open countryside and then you come in and out of Bentonville, so there’s a little something for everybody,” said Jamie Godfrey, Hincapie Event Director. “It’s not just for the serious cyclists. It’s for someone who may have never been to a Gran Fondo or mass participation event before.”

A Junior Challenge is also being introduced for the Hincapie-Bentonville event, which will feature a large cash purse and prizes for cyclists ages 10–18. Participants will ride the Medio courses but have their own staging and start corral. Riders will be required to present a current 2024 USA Cycling or UCI license. To help grow the sport of cycling and encourage participation amongst young riders, junior riders 18 and under who are not interested in racing, but still want to participate in the Hincapie event are invited to register for any of the Fondo distances for free.

“There is simply not enough racing for Juniors around the country. When I grew up, I could race almost every weekend in big fields. We need to bump that back up,” said George Hincapie. “We have a great crop of American professionals now that are helping to elevate the sport in the minds of young riders across the country. For young riders to line up [at the Hincapie-Junior Challenge] and have a professional World Tour-looking stage, it’s a great opportunity for them,” said Hincapie. “Hopefully from starting an event like this, they continue to grow their passion for the sport and never want to leave it, keep getting better, and keep making their lives about cycling.  We want to continue to see and grow youth cycling in the United States.”

The Gran Fondo Hincapie is more than just a “big ride.” Registration for a Hincapie event means you’re signing up for a multi-day ultimate cycling celebration with not only two days of rides, but also a Family Fun Festival included in the registration cost after each day of riding, complete with gourmet food, entertainment, podium awards, and drinks alongside friends, family, and thousands of other cyclists. Participants also receive an event jersey, chip timing, on-course SAG support, fully stocked rest stops, and free participant photography.

“The Hincapie event is unique in that it’s two days plus on Friday night there is a Celebrity Chef Dinner, expo, and packet pick up. People are coming in and spending a whole weekend here. People are signing up for both days, which offers them two different riding experiences. They’re staying in town for two separate nights, hopefully enjoying The Momentary, and eating at our restaurants,” said Jamie Cathey, Outdoor Recreation Events Manager, Visit Bentonville. “For a group of people who might not have thought that Bentonville was a spot for them, this [event] expose that road group…now we’re getting a whole other group of people to know what we know, which is that there is a really amazing cycling culture here, and there is a place for them, too on the road cycling side.”

The Bentonville, Ark. event (Sept 7-8) adds to Gran Fondo Hincapie’s world-class lineup of other upcoming events, the next taking place in Lehigh Valley, Pa. (May 31- June 1), followed by Bangor, Maine (June 21-22), and Greenville, S.C. (Oct. 18-19). The Merced, Calif. event took place March 16-17 (view 2024 results here) and the Chattanooga, Tenn. event took place May 3-4 (view 2024 results here).

Registration is now open for all 2024 events, including the Hincapie Gran Fondo-Bentonville, September 7-8, 2024. 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.

 

DURANGO, Colo. [May 20, 2024]  — Tailwind Nutrition, the leading provider of simple and complete sports nutrition products for athletes, is re-introducing its popular Endurance Fuel flavor, ‘Dauwaltermelon’, inspired by Tailwind Nutrition athlete and 2023’s Triple Crown-winning Ultrarunner, Courtney Dauwalter. First introduced in spring 2023 as a limited edition, this refreshing flavor is a light and playful ode to the simplicity of those adventurous summer days of childhood. It provides a light, fruity watermelon taste with a hint of lime, that gives you everything you need so you can be in the moment, let your mind wander freely, forget about the miles and it has been known to induce those iconic Dauwalter smiles.

With the Dauwaltermelon flavor earning its badge of honor in the Tailwind lineup as a permanent fixture, it becomes the brand’s ninth full-time Endurance Fuel offering to satisfy your palate while you are out adventuring—wherever your playground may be.

The watermelon with lime sports nutrition drink mix offers complete nutrition with the perfect combination of calories, electrolytes and hydration for athletes with no need for gels, chews, bars, or salt pills. Tailwind’s Endurance Fuel products mix crystal clear with water and are designed to be used during training and racing, without upsetting the stomach. Dauwaltermelon with Lime is available in 50 and 30 serving bags (MSRP: $39.99/$28.99) as well as single serve stick packs. (MSRP: $2.49).

“It has been an absolute blast working with Courtney all of these years and we are humbled to know that she trusts Tailwind products to go great distances—which is an understatement. She fueled exclusively on the Dauwaltermelon flavor for her entire Triple Crown last year. It was a fun process to develop this flavor with Courtney and our team, getting it just right to invoke that playful feeling on your taste buds without causing flavor fatigue,” said Maggie Guterl, Athletes & Events Manager at Tailwind Nutrition.

“Tailwind fans were really sad to see the limited edition flavor go. Our customer service department received a lot of emails begging for the secret stash (we promise we weren’t holding out on you!) We heard you and thought it was an easy decision to graduate Dauwaltermelon into our permanent lineup.  Now you can indulge in as much Dauwaltermelon your heart and legs desire when it comes to your fueling needs!”

“Dauwaltermelon is back and I am so thrilled! The flavor is the perfect amount of lightness and freshness that adds joy to every adventure,” exclaimed Dauwalter. “In fact, it was the only flavor I used recently at Mt Fuji 100 and multiple times after sipping on it I found myself exclaiming to the empty trails around me how delicious it was.”

Dauwalter has been with Tailwind for seven years. Tailwind is proud to continue providing the fuel, recovery and additional support to keep helping her crush all-of-the-miles in 2024 and beyond. This summer, expect to find the daring Dauwalter taking on the Hardrock 100 Endurance Run, where she currently holds the course record in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

Dauwaltermelon and Tailwind-themed shirts (MSRP: $29.99 USD) will be available at TailwindNutrition.com.

For more information on Tailwind Nutrition, please visit: https://www.tailwindnutrition.com/ and follow the brand on Instagram (@tailwindnutrition) and Facebook.

###

About Tailwind Nutrition

Celebrating its 12th Anniversary in 2024, Tailwind Nutrition manufactures all-natural sports nutrition products that are free of GMOs, dairy, soy, and gluten, are easy to digest, and support an athlete’s fueling and recovery needs during exercise. Owned, operated and manufactured in Durango, Colorado, Tailwind Nutrition’s specially formulated drink mixes help athletes perform and compete at their highest level without the worry of food allergies or sensitivities. All you need. Really.™ For more information visit tailwindnutrition.com

 

SAN FRANCISCO (May 20, 2024) – Outdoor adventure apparel brand Royal Robbins
announces the addition of three new sales agencies in response to rapid growth—further
building sales, increasing visibility, and bolstering brand awareness in critical territories across the United States. Venture West Sales, Round Lake Sales, and Kevin Brew Sales will lead sales efforts on the West Coast, the Western Great Lakes, and across the mid-Atlantic, respectively.

“We can’t imagine a finer group of professionals to help support the growth of our brand and maximize our relationships with our retail partners than Venture West, Round Lake Sales and Kevin Brew Sales,” said Todd Gordon, Head of Sales for Royal Robbins. “These new sales agencies ensure our ability to continue our expansion and growth strategies across nearly two dozen states in the U.S. as we look to serve our fans and retailers.”

With more than 50 years of combined experience in the outdoor industry, the Venture West Sales team comprises Lindsay Bell (Principal), Mike Morley, Lesly Carroll, and Peter Aguilar-Madrid. From years of working as retailers to establishing themselves as skilled brand ambassadors, salespeople and trusted advisors to their retail partners, this team possesses the relationships and expertise to further the Royal Robbins brand on the west coast.

Ben Kiffmeyer and Allie Ng of Round Lakes Sales will be servicing the western Great Lakes region covering the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa. With more than 30 years of combined experience in the industry, the Round Lakes team has represented many prominent outdoor brands in their territory and have established themselves as skilled brand ambassadors and trusted advisors to their retail partners.

Led by principal Kevin Brew, Kevin Brew Sales is headquartered in Ithaca, N.Y. with its sales team spread out across the Mid-Atlantic territory. The KBS team – Kevin Brew (Principal), Vicki Brew, Jamie Watson, Jarrett Apple, Ryszard Szumski and Julie Langenbacher – has more than 60- years of combined experience in the outdoor and winter sports industries. They pride themselves on the details that make a difference in the business as well as their partnerships with their retailers and their brands.

“These are exciting times for Royal Robbins,” said Erik Burbank, brand president for Royal Robbins. “We’re seeing increased demand from our fans and retail partners, and the expansion of the Sales Team will help us meet those demands as we continue to grow.”

For more information about Royal Robbins, its adventure apparel and brand initiatives, please visit royalrobbins.com.

 

About Royal Robbins®

Founded in 1968 by world-renowned climbers and adventurers Royal and Liz Robbins, Royal Robbins is a leading designer, manufacturer, and retailer of versatile, durable, and stylish apparel for the next generation of adventurers. The brand maintains a commitment to environmental and social responsibility by prioritizing natural fibers and maintaining carbon neutrality in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Royal Robbins gear can be found in outdoor and specialty retail partners throughout the world. We believe nature and adventure are good for the soul! To learn more, please visit royalrobbins.com.

 

 

[Bishop, CA, May 20, 2024] – Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps (ESCC), a developmental leadership organization committed to building a stronger and more inclusive outdoor community, is proud to announce the commencement of its 2024 season with an unprecedented surge in size and impact. Following a remarkable year of achievements in 2023, ESCC is gearing up with its largest crew network ever, poised to make an even greater difference in conservation efforts across California’s wild spaces.

Since its inception in 2016, ESCC has been at the forefront of trail work, breaking down barriers and leaving lasting impacts on both the California wilderness and the individuals involved. With 170 alumni, 25 of whom have transitioned into leadership positions within the National Park Service, and a remarkable 40% returning to outdoor resource protection work, ESCC has established itself as a beacon of transformative conservation efforts.

“What sets ESCC apart is its commitment to inclusivity and community-building, says ESCC Executive Director, Agnes Vianzon. “From exponentially elevating all-women and all-queer trail crews to fostering a sense of belonging for individuals from historically marginalized communities, ESCC is dedicated to creating a diverse and supportive environment for all participants.”

The 2024 season marks a significant milestone for ESCC as they welcome a growing team of administrative staff and expand their operations. With four crews venturing into the wilderness to undertake vital restoration projects in California’s forests, including three Range crews focusing on maintenance and conservation projects, and a specialized Technical Wildland Crew tackling diverse activities across forested areas, ESCC is primed for its most ambitious season yet.

As a developmental leadership organization, ESCC is committed to empowering leaders from all backgrounds to effect positive change in their communities. By providing tools for upliftment and actively recruiting participants and staff from priority populations, including Black, Indigenous, AAPI, People of the Global Majority, Women, Women of Color, and LGBTQ2SIA+, ESCC aims to break cycles of social injustice and foster a more inclusive outdoor community.

Those looking to get involved with ESCC can visit here for information on how to join the organization. Upcoming events include the highly anticipated Pattiegonia Queer Trips, offering immersive backpacking excursions aimed at developing skills and knowledge for exploring and stewarding public lands. Stay tuned on @Pattiegonia’s Instagram for updates on program applications.

“For those interested in joining ESCC, the organization offers a transformative experience filled with hard work, challenges, and unparalleled rewards,” says Vianzon. “Participants gain not only practical skills in conservation and wilderness survival but also a sense of community, self-acceptance, empowerment, and the satisfaction of contributing to the preservation of California’s breathtaking natural landscapes.”

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 (ESCC):

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.

 

 

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. (May 20, 2024) — The Rural is Rad (RiR) movement has officially launched to support rural brands and founders in the outdoor industry by helping consumers and specialty, independent retailers discover new brands. Their mission is to empower consumers to shop locally while fostering brand awareness for the amazing products, jobs and communities that are being developed in more remote places. While it is currently Colorado-based, the movement has a vision for the community they are creating to become a formula that rural brands nationwide can replicate in the years to come.

Rural is Rad was dreamed up by the founders of Town Hall Outdoor Co (Robin Hall), Buttnski (Kelly Mazanti) and Stray Wild (TJ Smith). The movement was formed through a shared objective to build awareness for rural brands and founders who experience shared challenges working in remote places with limited resources.

“Rural is Rad aims to bring awareness and connection to rural businesses and founders in the outdoor recreation industry,” said Hall. “Our goal is to build a comprehensive directory, marketplace and community of outdoor-oriented brands for people to discover, shop and support year-round, while providing a resource for rural founders to collaborate and, potentially, build something bigger. This movement will start right here in Colorado and expand nationwide in future years, with the help of key partners.”

Rural is Rad hosts micro gatherings and promotions throughout the year, with one main event happening during Small Business Saturday. “Rural is Rad Week” will kick off on Small Business Saturday November 30 this year, and last for the following week. Last year was the inaugural year for Rural is Rad Week. Holiday shopping and Black Friday deals are in full swing, RiR aims to provide consumers with an alternative to shopping big business through the feel-good purchasing power of shopping rural as well as connecting with local communities. The goal is to showcase purposeful purchasing opportunities, encourage collaboration and diversify economic growth.

Throughout this week, RiR businesses will offer discounts, deals or special connection points through online and in-store sales and customers will, in turn, get a unique product, made with love and become part of the community. The goal of the week is to drive revenue for rural businesses, provide an alternative to shopping ‘big’ and build a year-round community between the businesses, the customers and each other.

Rural is Rad showcases the grit and determination of rural outdoor brands and founders in the outdoor industry, helping them get discovered because in rural communities it is harder to gain awareness. Ultimately, the movement hopes to draw in the consumer who is mindful about what they are purchasing and seeks to connect with brands that are centered around purpose and values—those who are likely to care for the outdoors and treat the outdoors with respect.

“We believe that rural communities are not only the heart of the outdoor experience, but also the engine driving connections and sustainability in our industry,” said Mazanti, Co-Founder of Rural is Rad and Founder of Buttnski. “Through our movement, we aim to shine a bright light on hard-working and passionate rural businesses, create deep bonds between brands and build a loyal following with consumers.”

“As founders in rural communities in Colorado, we know how important it is to collaborate and support each other due to working with more constraints and limited resources that are available in urban environments, said Smith, Co-Founder of Rural is Rad and Founder of Stray Wild. “We are excited to help retailers and consumers find and fall in love with passionate, hard-working companies that provide great gear and services.”

As part of its commitment to fostering inclusivity and collaboration, Rural is Rad will host a series of events, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to empower rural entrepreneurs, connect industry leaders, and inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the movement has launched an online platform, serving as a hub for rural-based brands to showcase their products, share stories, and connect with a global audience. For a calendar of events, visit the RiR website.

All rural outdoor brands are encouraged, at no cost, to join the Rural is Rad movement and become a part of a transformative journey towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant outdoor industry. For more information and to get involved, join the directory at https://www.ruralisrad.org/join. You can also follow and connect with RiR on Instagram @ruralisrad .

###

About Rural is Rad

Rural founders in the outdoor industry have a unique connection to nature that often serves as the driving force behind their entrepreneurial endeavors. This connection stems from their deep-rooted relationship with the natural environment, which is an intrinsic part of rural living.

This connection manifests in inspiration and creativity, access to natural resources, walking the talk in the outdoor lifestyle, environmental stewardship, community and connection. The connection between rural founders in the outdoor industry and nature is profound and multifaceted. The Rural is Rad family believes it’s not just about doing business; it’s about preserving and celebrating the beauty and abundance of the natural world that rural communities call home. Learn more and become a member at https://www.ruralisrad.org/join.

 

SEATTLE (May 15, 2024) — Outdoor Research, the Seattle-based maker of high-end outdoor apparel and gear, signed on as the presenting sponsor of the 2024 edition of the Evergreen Mountain Bike Festival, aligning with the release of the Freewheel Collection, OR’s first dedicated mountain bike product line. The Evergreen Mountain Bike Festival takes place June 8-9 in North Bend, Wash., just outside Seattle at the Raging River State Forest trail network.

The event is the largest and longest-running mountain bike festival in Washington and is organized by the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance. The festival will have two full days of mountain bike demos, clinics, skill zones, an adaptive riding guide, live music, family-friendly activities, food trucks and 40-plus brand vendors.

“We are excited and grateful for Outdoor Research to support our work in Washington State’s mountain bike community, and having them as the presenting sponsor of our largest annual event shows their commitment to growing the sport in the Pacific Northwest,” said Vivika Stamolis, Marketing and Communications Manager at EMBA. “This is an especially big year for the festival at our new venue Raging River and the grand opening of our Phase 3 trails, so it’s a big win to have Outdoor Research partner with us as a local brand established just 25 miles down the road.”

The Outdoor Research booth will be located adjacent to EMBA’s registration tent at the event. Planned activations include product giveaways, bike mechanic demonstrations, an MTB “skinny” challenge, and more.

“The Evergreen MTB Festival is all about community, and we’re thrilled for the opportunity to step up and support EMBA’s flagship event in conjunction with our larger partnership while officially announcing our presence in the mountain bike category,”  said Dan Mayers, Brand Communications Manager at Outdoor Research . “We’re looking forward to an amazing weekend of riding, laughing, and making new friends, and we can’t wait to see our new Freewheel MTB Collection in action on our local trails.”

Outdoor Research’s new eight-piece Freewheel mountain bike collection brings the technical design expertise and materials innovation leadership that has defined Outdoor Research products for more than 40 years to a category that is a core activity for a large segment of its existing customer base. For many years, cyclists have adopted versatile OR products like the Helium Rain Jacket, the Ferrosi Overshort and the Echo tops. Freewheel represents OR’s first foray into cycling-specific products.

Watch the Freewheel collection brand video here.

About Outdoor Research

Since 1981, Outdoor Research has created trusted apparel, accessories, and equipment for you to thrive outside. Our award-winning outdoor gear is meticulously researched and tested for outdoor enthusiasts and military users around the globe. Grounded in our values of curiosity, passion, innovation, collaboration and community, we strive to create space for all in the outdoors. We celebrate wins outside at every level together with our ambassadors, non-profit partners and employees. Join us at outdoorresearch.com.

Media Contact: Verde Brand Communications | (970) 235-0268 | or@verdepr.com

[Red Wing, MN, May 14, 2024] – Vasque Footwear, with 60 years of experience delivering functional, durable footwear to millions of outdoor enthusiasts, is excited to announce significant advancements in its sales team partnerships with Waypoint Outdoor and Outdoor Sports Marketing (OSM). These strategic initiatives mark a milestone in Vasque’s commitment to enhancing representation and service across North America.

The decision to intensify collaboration with Waypoint Outdoor and OSM stems from a strategic vision outlined by the Vasque leadership team. Recognizing the need for focused support and strengthened relationships with key sales agencies, Vasque aims to streamline operations, improve continuity of service, and maximize market coverage.

“We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with Waypoint Outdoor and OSM,” said Bryce Wernsman, president at Vasque Footwear. “Their commitment to Vasque’s success and their proven track record make them invaluable assets in our journey to strengthen our presence across North America.”

Waypoint Outdoor and OSM, both esteemed partners of Vasque, have demonstrated unwavering dedication and investment in the brand over the years. Building upon their existing territories, Vasque has expanded Waypoint Outdoor’s coverage to the Southwest and South Central regions, while OSM now extends its reach to the Mid-Atlantic.

“We’re honored to strengthen our bond with Vasque through expanded coverage in the Southwest and South Central regions,” remarked Bob Holding, partner at Waypoint Outdoor. “This partnership reaffirms our dedication to supporting Vasque’s growth and providing unparalleled service to retailers.”

Similarly, Rion Smith, cofounder of OSM, shared his excitement about the opportunity to enhance Vasque’s presence in the Mid-Atlantic, stating, “Expanding into the Mid-Atlantic allows us to deepen our collaboration with Vasque and better serve retailers in this dynamic region. We’re excited to continue our journey together, delivering exceptional support and driving success for Vasque.”

With Waypoint Outdoor and OSM now covering six of Vasque’s nine representative territories in the USA, Vasque is well-positioned to drive growth and deliver outstanding service to its valued retail partners.

For more information, visit Vasque.com or your nearest authorized retailer.

About Vasque:

Vasque Footwear has delivered functional, durable footwear to millions of outdoor enthusiasts since 1964. We believe that you don’t have to go far to change your perspective. By simply stepping outside we can change how we feel on the inside. When we disconnect, we reconnect. Vasque Footwear – Trail Footwear Since 1964. Visit us at Vasque.com