Archives: Press Releases

Seattle based Platypus®, the leader in taste-free and durable hydration and filtration systems, introduces the QuickDraw™ Microfilter System, its first foray into the ultralight personal water filtration market. This premier filtration system is incredibly intuitive, simple to use, fast and durable. The QuickDraw™ will be available to consumers starting Spring 2021. 

The QuickDraw™ Microfilter uses a .2 micron hollow fiber cartridge to remove 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa as required by the NSF P231 standard. This affordable filter is not only designed to keep users safe with its high-performance technology, it also offers a fantastic user experience. The QuickDraw™ is ready to go out of the box and features the sturdy, flip-to-open clean side cap design from the Platypus DuoLock bottle, a grippy-but-not-sticky filter cartridge over mold, and an easy-to-fill extra-wide mouth reservoir with a convenient handle. The dirty side cap creates a reliable seal to prevent any seepage, ensuring dirty water cannot contaminate the clean side or any belongings in a pack.

To use the QuickDraw™ Microfilter System simply fill the reservoir to capacity, thread the dirty side of the filter cartridge into the reservoir, invert the system while positioning the spout over your clean reservoir, and squeeze. Unlike most comparable filtration systems, the QuickDraw user has the ability to quickly perform an integrity check should it be dropped or frozen to determine if it’s still safe to use. It also features an easy shake-to-clean technique that allows the QuickDraw™ to maintain fast flow rates for the duration of its lifetime with no disassembly or back-flushing. In the end, it’s the details—from the tiny to the critical—refined for the best user experience on the market that set the QuickDraw apart. 

The system comes with a dirty reservoir that is made of the same proprietary taste free and durable film as Platypus’ award-winning hydration reservoirs. The filter is also compatible with multiple bottle types if users prefer other Platypus reservoirs, or even smartwater® bottles, a popular lightweight option amongst thru-hikers. Additionally, users can drink directly from its ergonomic drink spout, which may eliminate the need for a clean reservoir altogether.

“The QuickDraw offers a solution to both long distance backpackers where 30 mile days require constant hydration, but demand a minimum pack weight, as well as a solution for the novice hiker looking for an easy, effective and affordable option,” said Sarah Courtney, Cascade Designs’ Category Manager – Snow and Water Products, “With the fill and squeeze solution, you reduce the weight and complexity of your filter as well as reduce the total water weight you need to carry.” 

THE SPECS – QuickDraw™ Filtration System 

 

• WEIGHT: 3.6 oz. (101 grams), Microfilter without the reservoir weighs 2.2 oz. (61 grams)

 

• • FLOW RATE: up to 3L per minute

 

• CAPACITY: Approximately 1,000 liters of real backcountry water (dependent on water quality)

• PRICE: $39.95 USD | $29.95 USD

 

The Platypus QuickDraw™ Microfilter System will launch to the public starting April 2, 2021. For more information about the QuickDraw™ Microfilter System and to see how it works, check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lxjl_Wv3JiY&feature=youtu.be. For more information about Platypus, please visit: platy.com. 

About Platypus®

Seattle-based Platypus brand has been the market leader in flexible and modular hydration

products for over two decades, designing easy-to-use, taste free and durable products for optimum performance. Unmatched versatility and quality define Platypus’s BPA-, BPS-, and phthalate-free bottles, hands-free reservoirs, hydration packs, and the pump-free, fast-flowing personal and group water filter systems. The majority of Platypus products are made in their U.S.A. and Ireland manufacturing facilities. For more information, visit platy.com.

Seattle-based Mountain Safety Research® (MSR®), the high-performance outdoor equipment brand and leader in water treatment science, is excited to announce the launch of the Guardian™ Gravity Purifier for spring 2021. The Guardian™ Gravity Purifier is a state-of-the-art, versatile, high-volume water purifier—and the only gravity purifier on the market that meets the rigorous NSF protocol P248 military testing standard. It’s also the only gravity purifier to offer that level of protection with such a fast flow rate, delivering 1 liter in 2 minutes, which is 2.5 times faster than the next closest competitor.

Using the advanced hollow fiber technology of MSR’s award-winning Guardian™ Pump, this gravity-powered sibling features two-stage purification: a .02 micron hollow fiber membrane that removes viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and particulate; and activated carbon to reduce chemicals, tastes and odors. Both the original Guardian™ Pump and new Guardian™ Gravity Purifier stand out because they remove not just bacteria and protozoa, but the tiniest waterborne pathogens—viruses—as well, which are of greater concern as more and more people visit the backcountry with less regard for their waste. With the new Guardian™ Gravity Purifier you get this high level of protection in a high-volume, versatile, convenient system that serves all of your daily water needs quickly and easily.

The Guardian™ Gravity Purifier meets the rigorous NSF Protocol P248 testing standard used by the U.S. military, which is the strictest scientific standard for verifying that a device safely removes microbiological threats from all types of backcountry water. To meet the full standard, products must complete a 10-day test challenged with both contaminated tap water and extremely dirty, “worst-case scenario” water that is worse than any water likely to be found in the backcountry. Every MSR filter and purifier, including the new Guardian™ Gravity Purifier, passes the full 10-day test—at the beginning, middle and even end of the cartridge’s life. Furthermore, because MSR has an in-house lab, all filters and purifiers are able to be tested throughout different stages of production, in different user scenarios, and before each and every product goes out the door.

“The Guardian™ Pump Purifier launched in 2016 and was the first water purifier to bring advanced technology originally developed for the US military to backpackers, international travelers, and those stocking emergency kits,” said Sarah Courtney, MSR Category Manager – Snow and Water Products. “The original Guardian™ took six years of research and development with MSR’s in-house water laboratory and in collaboration with the U.S. military, and has won over 15 awards over the years thanks to its unrivaled protection, advanced military-grade technology and super-fast flow rate. The new Guardian™ Gravity Purifier features a high-enough flow rate for purifying water quickly via a convenient gravity system, as well as fibers designed small enough to block viruses – a true engineering feat!”

Great for backpacking groups, as well as adventure travelers seeking to avoid bottled water, this USA-made gravity purifier features a 10-liter collection bag that fills easily at both sinks and wild sources, and a rugged, compact construction that travels well in carry-on luggage and smaller packs. It also includes a universal bottle adaptor, making it versatile for use with any bottle, and a compact premium zipper carry case. Finally, no backflushing is necessary: simply open the integrated purge valve and quickly flush the system to clean and maintain its flow. 

THE SPECS –        

• FLOW RATE: 1 liter/2 minutes
• CAPACITY: up to 3,000 liters
• WEIGHT: 18.7 oz
• PRICE: $249.95 USD

The Guardian™ Gravity Purifier will launch to the public starting January 1, 2021. For more information about the Guardian™ Gravity Purifier and to see how it works, check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8jYzHA4HRo&feature=youtu.be

For more information about MSR, please visit: msrgear.com. 

About MSR® (Mountain Safety Research®) 

Seattle-based MSR has been engineering standard-setting high-performance outdoor equipment since 1969. A commitment to quality manufacturing and innovation ensures customers are outfitted with the finest, most reliable gear available for outdoor adventures. MSR product lines include: stoves, fuel, cookware, water treatment and hydration systems, shelters, snowshoes, snow tools, and backcountry poles.  The majority of MSR products are made in the company’s Seattle, U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland manufacturing facilities. For more information, visit www.msrgear.com.

Looptworks, the Portland-based circular goods company, has launched its newest collection of 100% upcycled products, created in collaboration with professional kiteboarder and swimsuit entrepreneur Sensi Graves. The Sideshore Collection, designed from pre-consumer excess kiteboarding kite material, brings new life to high-quality materials that would otherwise have been destined for landfills. 

“Sensi and I met through a founder’s peer-to-peer mentoring group, Starve Ups. With our shared background in the apparel industry, our mutual passion for water sports, and our commitments to the environment, it became clear it would be a ton of fun collaborating.” says Looptworks, founder and CEO, Scott Hamlin. With an aim to reduce excess in the industry supply chain and to start a conversation about zero waste and circularity, The Sideshore Collection was created. While sustainable fashion is nothing new, placing equal emphasis on the “fashion” end of things is. Together Looptworks and Sensi were able to create a collection that is equally as flashy as it is green.

Diverting petroleum-heavy synthetic materials used in the manufacturing of kiteboarding sails, the partnership resulted in a collection in a vivid, retro palette that is iconically summer. Touching on neon tones of the 90s, the summer camp chic collection turns everyday travel essentials into accessories that pop with color. Lightweight, extremely durable, and eye-catching, this striking series can take the daily beating of your morning commute or weekend adventures and still turn heads mile after mile. 

Through the upcycling process, Looptworks products conserve water, prevent waste from ending up in landfills, and reduce carbon emissions. In turn, consumers have the opportunity to do good for the planet with every purchase from the collection.

The Looptworks Sideshore Collection includes: 

The Stash Sling – This 9L bag comes standard with double reinforced straps, interior and exterior zip pockets, and natural water-resistance – a perfect grab-and-go accessory. Conserves an estimated 4.5 gallons of water and 2.18 kg of CO2 through avoidance of virgin material creation. MSRP $34.95

The Day Tripper Cinch – At 36L capacity, this double lined bag is a beach trip or summer day trip powerhouse. Designed for Sensi’s travel-heavy lifestyle, lightweight and packability were at the forefront. Conserves an estimated 10 gallons of water and 4.94 kg of CO2 through avoidance of virgin material creation. MSRP $59

The BeachComber Pouch – Intended to help keep damp clothes or other accessories organized, this pouch is simple, durable, and naturally water-resistant. Conserves an estimated 1.3 gallons of water and .65 kg of CO2 through avoidance of virgin material creation. MSRP $19

The Commuter Tote – Anchored by lightweight material and convertible straps, the Commuter can shine as a shoulder-carried tote or a double-strapped backpack, designed for in-town adventures. Conserves an estimated 5.5 gallons of water and 2.7 kg of CO2 through avoidance of virgin material creation. MSRP $35 

The Weekender Duffel – Unique colors and limited-editions are what make Looptworks upcycled goods so unique and this duffel is no different. With 36L capacity, interior compartments, and convertible straps, this duffel is a summer essential. Conserves an estimated 14 gallons of water and 6.8 kg of CO2 each. MSRP $79.95 

See photos of the collection here.

The entire collection is available as of July 30, 2020 at looptworks.com. 

About Looptworks

Founded in 2009, Looptworks is a leader in the circular economy industry around textiles. They are a Portland, Oregon-based B Corporation that repurposes and upcycles abandoned pre-consumer and post-consumer materials into limited edition products that protect our water and air. 

Looptworks partners with companies in various industries including athletic, automotive, aviation, outdoor, and entertainment to reach zero-waste-to-landfill goals while building brand stories, most notably Southwest Airlines, Patagonia, the NBA, and others. Throughout all efforts, the Looptworks mission is to protect people and the planet through closed-loop systems, using only what already exists. To learn more, visit www.looptworks.com.

About Sensi Graves Bikinis

Sensi Graves Bikinis designs sustainable swimwear that’s made to move. Designed by a professional kiteboarder, Sensi Graves offers quality, functional swimwear with inclusive sizing and confidence-building designs. The brand’s mission is to empower women in watersports by giving them the confidence they need and the tools they can rely on. 

Sensi Graves Bikinis is committed to conscious and ethical manufacturing and promoting sustainability. They manufacture in the US with fabrics made from reclaimed fishing nets and recycled plastic bottles. They donate 1% of our sales to environmental groups, offset all of their carbon, and use compostable or recycled packaging. 

Learn more at Sensigravesbikinis.com.

Anon, makers of ski and snowboard helmets, goggles, and accessories, has partnered with Backbone Media, the country’s top active lifestyle media agency, to increase awareness for Anon as a leader in helmet safety and goggle technology in the snowsports space. Backbone will assist with public relations, communications, and marketing to further enhance the brand’s reach.

For the past twenty years, Anon has brought innovation and style to the ski and snowboard market with its goggles and helmets. From some of the first helmets with integrated audio, to the standard-setting MFI (magnetic facemask integration), Anon prioritizes technology and style in all of its designs. Today the Burlington, VT-based brand works with world-class athletes such as Michelle Parker, Anna Gasser, Liu Jiayu, Eric Pollard, Ben Ferguson, Karl Fostvedt, and more, for on-snow testing and product development.

Anon will continue its advances this Fall with the launch of its Perceive lens collection and two new goggle frames. Perceive lenses will offer high contrast without dramatically altering lens tints, clarity across all snow surfaces that outperforms the industry standard, and protective treatments that help prevent moisture build-up and smudges. Perceive will be available throughout Anon’s goggle collection, as well as the new WM3 and best-selling M4 goggle frames.

“Backbone Media’s extensive work with leading brands in the outdoor and active lifestyle space and relationships with key snowsports media made them our agency of choice to partner with for our upcoming product launches,” says Mark Wakeling, Anon’s Global Business Unit Director. “We have the opportunity to define ourselves as a leader in safety and innovation in the snowsports space. We will get there by educating people about the most effective ways to prevent injuries and offering the most innovative technologies to elevate everyone’s on-mountain experience.”

Backbone Media has more than 20 years of experience working with outdoor recreation-focused organizations and outdoor industry leaders. The team will support Anon on initiatives educating consumers about the importance of protecting the brain and the helmet and goggle technology that can help prevent injuries. The shared goal between both organizations is to provide consumers with proper safety information and cutting-edge gear to perform their best on the mountain and reduce the number of injuries each season.

About Anon

Founded by Burton Snowboards in 2001, Anon provides optimal vision and protection for every winter weather condition. From progressive design concepts to technical executions, Anon ensures that every helmet and goggle meets the demands of the top ski and snowboard athletes in the world. For more information on Anon visit www.anonoptics.com.

About Backbone Media

Backbone Media targets, engages, and inspires the active lifestyle market through public relations, media planning and buying, and social media. Backbone has offices in Carbondale and Denver, Colorado, and has consistently been named one of Outside magazine’s “Best Places to Work.” For more about Backbone Media, visit www.backbonemedia.net.

Honey Stinger, the honey-powered sports nutrition brand, today introduces Mini Waffles, a bite-sized, snackable version of its best-selling classic Honey and Vanilla Waffles.

Easily packable and ready to enjoy in any setting, Mini Waffles are a versatile snack for everyday and every activity alike, from home workouts to summit missions, to Zoom meetings and coffee breaks. They are conveniently packaged in a resealable bag, making it easy for consumers to choose just the right amount of fuel for each effort, attain a quick ‘pick-me-up,’ or sustain more gradual fueling for a full day of logging miles – all with less packaging waste.

“In today’s dynamic environment, we know that, more than ever before, our consumers need nutrition they can count on,” said Mike Keown, CEO of Honey Stinger. “But we also wanted to give them something that is both fun and easy to consume — to provide not just a boost of energy, but a boost to their day. With Mini Waffles, we’re delivering the great taste, nutrition and function our athletes know and love, in a format that is more convenient, more versatile and more snackable!”

While fractional in size, Mini Waffles pack all the same delicious flavor and organic ingredients of the fan-favorite classic Honey Stinger Waffle, in its two most popular varieties, Honey and Vanilla.

The new Honey Stinger Mini Waffles are sold in 5.3-ounce resealable bags, each containing roughly six snackable servings. Mini Waffles retail for $7.99 per bag, and can be purchased online at www.honeystinger.com and through select retail partners.

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About Honey Stinger

Fueling top elites and everyday enthusiasts alike, Honey Stinger makes great tasting, convenient, honey-powered sports nutrition to help athletes prepare, perform and recover at their best. The company’s diverse product offering includes a variety of waffles, gels, chews, bars and more, providing natural, sustained energy for every endeavor. Based in Steamboat Springs, Colo. since 2001, Honey Stinger’s products can be found at sporting goods retailers, grocers, convenience stores and online at www.honeystinger.com.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. (July 29, 2020) – Big Agnes Inc., the Steamboat Springs, Colorado-based outdoor equipment brand recently announced two new distribution partners in Europe. Plein Nord will distribute Big Agnes in France and Andorra while Roswi will distribute the brand throughout Scandinavia.

“I am excited to announce partnerships with Plein Nord and Roswi; they are amongst the strongest distributors in all of Europe,” said Mark Flanagan, Sales Director EMEA. “Both of our new partners bring best in class service levels and teams of energetic core outdoor enthusiasts. These are important markets and we look forward to partnering with these respected companies to increase our community of outdoor retailers and consumers.”

Founded in 1989, Plein Nord Distribution is based in Allonzier-la-Caille near Annecy, in the heart of the French Alps. Born 30 years ago from one man’s passion for sport and high-quality outdoor products, Plein Nord has 20 employees who all participate in outdoor sports. The company distributes leading outdoor brands including Scarpa, Ultimate Direction and Klean Kanteen.

 

“We are very proud to become the Big Agnes Distributor for France and Andorra,“ said Nico Geydet, CEO of Plein Nord. “Big Agnes products offer consumers super light, technical, innovative gear to enhance their outdoor experience, whilst maintaining a strong focus on sustainability; this combination fits very well into our current portfolio of brands.”

Based in Taby, Sweden, Roswi was founded 70 years ago and its strengths are a strong sales team, marketing, purchasing and logistics. They have a reputation for a high level of customer service and an efficient warehouse which ensures quick deliveries and a stable flow of products. They distribute core outdoor brands including, Scarpa, Osprey, BioLite, Darn Tough, Victorinox and others.

“Big Agnes is a perfect fit for us as the brands that we choose to work with are signified by a strong brand profile, high quality, authentic sustainability credentials as well as smart design and functionality,” said Christopher Carlander, CEO of Roswi. “We are excited to build Big Agnes here in Scandinavia as the brand is very well respected by retailers and consumers alike and we’re confident we can grow distribution and brand awareness quickly.”

About Big Agnes: Named for a peak in the nearby Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, Big Agnes®, Inc. is located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and produces award-winning sleeping bags, pads, tents and camp furniture. For more information, visit www.bigagnes.com or call 1-877-554-8975.

Natrapel® insect repellent offers solutions with CDC-recommended ingredients to repel mosquitoes that may carry EEE as the potentially fatal mosquito-borne virus peaks in summer months

The United States saw a resurgence of EEE in 2019, with an uptick in human cases of the deadly virus in the Northeast, Gulf Coast and Upper Midwest. Earlier this month, Massachusetts reported the first EEE-positive mosquitoes–the earliest the virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts in 20 years according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. As the height of mosquito season is upon us this summer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends insect repellents with active ingredients like Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like EEE.

“At Natrapel, we are proud to provide safe and effective DEET-free mosquito repellents that provide a line of defense from mosquitoes that may carry the EEE virus,” says Katie Jones, brand manager for Natrapel. “We test and develop Natrapel products in the harshest mosquito conditions here in New Hampshire, so you and your family members can have confidence in the repellent you are using. Natrapel’s trusted OLE solutions can help make your outdoor adventures worry-free.”

The EEE virus, spread only through mosquito bites, leads to swelling of the brain. Other symptoms associated with EEE include high fever, muscle pain, altered mental status, meningeal irritation, and photophobia. Long-term effects of EEE infection include paralysis and seizures. Children and the elderly are particularly susceptible to encephalitic infection. As people spend more time outside while trying to maintain social distancing guidelines due to COVID-19, experts call for awareness around the potential dangers of EEE infection.

“Despite research funding reductions due to COVID-19, it is important for public health departments across the country to recognize the potential severity of EEE infection and continue to provide adequate resources to accurately monitor and forecast the early signs of EEE virus transmission,” says Dr. Jonathan Day, professor of medical entomology at the University of Florida.  “July, August, and September are historically the three months of the year where we see an uptick in human and equine EEE cases, so we are continuing to encourage those spending time outdoors to stay vigilant in protecting themselves with an effective insect repellent.”

Recently featured in Consumer Reports, Natrapel® products provide protection from mosquitoes infected with the EEE virus with plant-based DEET-free active ingredients registered with the Environmental Protections Agency (EPA) and recommended by the CDC.

Natrapel^® Lemon Eucalyptus 6 oz. Eco-Spray® (MSRP $11.99): The environmentally friendly 6 ounce continuous spray provides even, effortless coverage without any ozone-depleting propellants. The plant-based, DEET-free insect repellent uses an Eco-Spray® delivery system that releases a fine mist at any angle for easy application.

Natrapel^® Lemon Eucalyptus 3.4 oz. Pump Spray (MSRP $6.99): The 3.4 ounce portable, TSA-approved pump spray bottle features a plant-based bug spray that effectively repels mosquitoes for up to six hours. The DEET-free insect repellent features the only naturally derived ingredient recommended by the CDC and is safe to use on gear and clothing.

Natrapel products are available for purchase nationwide at select retailers including Sportsman’s Warehouse and online at Amazon.com and Sportsmans.com.

Please direct all media inquiries to Account Manager Ethan Peck at ethan.peck@rygr.us.

About Natrapel®: Natrapel is a leading producer of safe and effective DEET-free insect repellents. Using only CDC-recommended active ingredients like oil of lemon eucalyptus, Natrapel products provide families complete protection from disease-spreading insects and won’t harm gear like DEET-based repellents. www.natrapel.com

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Hydro Flask, an award-winning leader in high-performance, insulated stainless steel flasks and soft good innovations and a Helen of Troy Limited (NASDAQ, NM: HELE) brand, is excited to announce three new additions to its leadership team. Jay Wilkins joins Hydro Flask as Vice President of Product Development, and David Brown will serve as the North American Sales Director across all categories. Expanding Hydro Flask’s presence in the European market, Kit Ha will serve as Director of Marketing, EMEA for Helen of Troy’s Housewares Division, which includes the Hydro Flask and OXO brands.

“Jay, David and Kit each bring an extensive foundation of strategic leadership experience to the Hydro Flask brand and our division,” said Larry Witt, President of Housewares at Helen of Troy. “We are thrilled to welcome them to the team and believe their talents will be integral in driving Hydro Flask’s continued growth as a global lifestyle outdoor brand.”

As Vice President of Product Development, Jay Wilkins will direct his team in evolving global multi-category product roadmaps, further solidify category-leading positions and develop strategies to extend Hydro Flask into new outdoor categories. Wilkins brings a depth of experience in strategic business development that includes nearly a decade at Nike where he served as Global GM of Nike iD and Category Footwear Leader for Men’s Training, among other roles. Prior to joining Hydro Flask, Wilkins was named Senior Vice President of National Accounts for Coffee Bean International before consulting on behalf of a number of global lifestyle brands, including Hydro Flask’s customization line. Wilkins founded and sold a successful e-commerce business early in his career and also served as an Aviation Officer in the U.S. Army, commanding an AH-64 Attack Helicopter Troop. Wilkins holds an MBA degree from Harvard Business School.

David Brown’s veteran career spans senior sales leadership roles across Nike’s athletic specialty, emerging markets and running divisions, finally serving as Vice President of Global Merchandising for Brand Jordan. Since departing Nike in 2015, Brown has consulted for a variety of brands within footwear and outdoor apparel. As North American Sales Director, Brown will lead a cross-functional team to drive and manage strategies for continued growth across Hydro Flask’s sport and outdoor, food and beverage, military, collegiate and other channels.  

Kit Ha brings to her new position global experience in media, sports and retail brand marketing, including roles with Adidas and Reebok. Most recently, Ha served as head of marketing for Swiss sports apparel brand OLDO, following a twenty-year career in Hong Kong. As Director of Marketing, EMEA, Ha will oversee integrated marketing planning and execution within the region for the Hydro Flask and OXO brands that comprise Helen of Troy’s Housewares Division. Ha will be based in Lausanne, Switzerland.

“Kit brings a solid marketing background in the sport and outdoor industry,” said David Ledouble, Managing Director, EMEA. “Thanks to her expertise, we will be able to better deploy our marketing strategies across the region and establish Hydro Flask as the leading brand in hydration in the hearts and minds of EMEA consumers.”

Dedicated to uniquely refreshing experiences, innovative design and an unparalleled user experience, Hydro Flask continues to receive accolades for its insulated products. Hydro Flask has been the recipient of several Red Dot, GOOD DESIGN™ and iF Design Awards. The brand has grown to become the number one overall American water bottle brand in Sporting Goods and Outdoor, according to third party data.

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About Hydro Flask

Hydro Flask® is the leader in high-performance insulated products that help people enjoy the things they love to do in the places they love to be. From the number one-selling water bottle to soft good innovations like our Unbound Series™ Soft Coolers and Down Shift™ Series Hydration Packs, Hydro Flask’s delightfully simple designs and go-anywhere durability always deliver the perfect temperature when you need it. Founded in 2009 in Bend, Oregon, Hydro Flask inspires active outdoor lives with two simple words: Let’s Go! Its charitable arm, Parks For All, supports the development, maintenance, restoration and accessibility of public green spaces so people everywhere can live healthier, happier and more fulfilled lives. To learn more about Hydro Flask, Parks for All, and to see our full lineup of award-winning products, visit www.hydroflask.com.

About Helen of Troy Limited

Helen of Troy Limited (NASDAQ: HELE) is a leading global consumer products company offering creative solutions for its customers through a strong portfolio of well-recognized and widely-trusted brands, including OXO, Hydro Flask, Vicks, Braun, Honeywell, PUR, Hot Tools and Drybar. We sometimes refer to these brands as our Leadership Brands.  All trademarks herein belong to Helen of Troy Limited (or its subsidiaries) and/or are used under license from their respective licensors.

For more information about Helen of Troy, please visit https://investor.hotus.com/.

Old Town is thrilled to announce the AutoPilot^TM, flagship model to the new Sportsman Line, has won Best Of Show at ICAST 2020. Showcasing the hard work and ingenuity of the Johnson Outdoors Watercraft team, the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot^TM beat out 30 category winners in the New Product Showcase to take home the top prize.

“Johnson Outdoors Watercraft has a proud legacy of finding innovative ways to help people enjoy fishing and the great outdoors. The Old Town Sportsman Line and the AutoPilot^TM are the culmination of countless hours of hard work from our Watercraft team, from deep consumer insights through rigorous testing,” said Alex Sherbinow, Marketing Manager with Johnson Outdoors Watercraft.  “We are honored to have this hard work recognized by our peers, but our work is not done. We continue to have a laser focus on what we do best: building the finest watercraft in the world!”

Available in two sizes, the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot^TM 136 & 120 are a result of countless hours of collaboration between the Johnson Outdoors Watercraft team and the engineers at Minn Kota Trolling Motors. The AutoPilot^TM delivers the ultimate hands-free fishing experience, featuring a seamlessly integrated 45 lb thrust saltwater-safe electric trolling motor. Controlled with the touch of a thumb using the iPilot remote, this game-changing kayak uses autopilot technology and GPS Spot-Lock virtual anchoring to get anglers where they need to go and keep them affixed to their GPS coordinate, no matter the tide, current, or wind conditions.

Throughout the extensive development of the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot^TM, the Johnson Outdoors Watercraft team engaged high-level bass and saltwater anglers in the design process, continuously listening to their feedback and considering their wishlist of must-haves. The result– a platform packed with features for the tournament-style angler. Foot-brace steering allows for exceptional hands-free maneuverability, while a large open cockpit and aft tankwell provide a platform that’s easy to organize with plenty of room to fish. Premium seating with high or low position offers ultimate all-day comfort and EVA foam deck pads add traction for standing and casting. Two forward-facing and two rear-facing flush mount rod holders provide ample rod storage, while four 18” tracks and a universal transducer mount affords total customization for accessories.

Built on a legacy of quality and innovation, the entire Old Town Sportsman line is manufactured in Maine by hardworking Mainers. The AutoPilot^TM comes with a lifetime hull warranty and a two-year motor warranty. To learn more about the new Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot^TM, or any of the Old Town Sportsman line visit oldtowncanoe.com or demo one at an Old Town dealer near you.

About Old Town:

JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global innovator of outdoor recreation equipment and technologies that inspire more people to experience the awe of the great outdoors. The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft Recreation, Fishing, Diving and Camping. Johnson Outdoors’ iconic brands include: Old Town® canoes and kayaks; Ocean Kayak™; Carlisle® paddles; Minn Kota® fishing motors, batteries and anchors; Cannon® downriggers; Humminbird® marine electronics and charts; SCUBAPRO® dive equipment; Jetboil® outdoor cooking systems; and, Eureka!®camping and hiking equipment.

JOHNSON OUTDOORS WATERCRAFT RECREATION includes Old Town canoes and kayaks, Ocean Kayak, and Carlisle paddles. Old Town canoes and kayaks have created genuine watercraft with innovative designs for over 122 years.