Archives: Press Releases

OSLO, Norway (April 16, 2024) — Norrøna, the four season, family-owned Norwegian manufacturer of premium apparel and gear, today announced its new membership with non-profit organization Fair Wear Foundation. The Fair Wear membership is a key step toward the sustainability targets outlined in its Norrøna 2029 Roadmap, which aims for the brand being the most responsible outdoor company.

“An important aspect of becoming the most responsible outdoor company is creating a fair, equal and positive workplace environment for all employees, especially those tasked with creating our premium gear in factories around the world,” said Jørgen Jørgensen, leader and fourth-generation owner of Norrøna. “Working with Fair Wear is a critical step to improve the labor conditions in our supply chain, as we continue to grow and enter our next century as a brand leader in sustainable and ethical business practices.”

Siri Luthen, Norrøna’s Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability leader, emphasized the significance of the decision to join Fair Wear, stating, “One crucial reason for our Fair Wear membership is to ensure that workers or their representatives can raise the issue and find solutions if rights are violated. Fair Wear provides a grievance mechanism for workers to voice concerns related to the Fair Wear Code of Labour Practices. We commit to rolling out this safe and accessible mechanism at our production locations to ensure all workers have access to the Fair Wear helpline. This initiative is pivotal in achieving our Roadmap goal of ensuring that 100 percent of workers’ voices are heard.”

Fair Wear equips Norrøna with a range of tools to move from traditional social auditing to effectively manage human rights issues within supply chains. The Brand Performance Check will assess and evaluate Norrøna’s practices, providing constructive feedback to enhance our supply chain integrity. This aspect of membership underscores Fair Wear’s dedication not only to improving factory conditions but also to scrutinizing brand practices. Furthermore, Fair Wear offers third-party factory audits, comprehensive training programs, and grants access to expert research and tools from non-profit organizations and likeminded garment brands.”

“We are excited to welcome Norrøna as a Fair Wear member and look forward to working together on systemic change in the outdoor industry. Norrøna’s commitment to conduct proper human rights due diligence and scrutinize their brand practices lays the foundation for impactful transformation,” says Mariette van Amstel, Fair Wear’s Head of Membership.

Fair Wear was founded in 1999 with the mission of improving labor conditions in the garment industry by bridging the gap between stakeholders and aligning on creating people-and planet-positive practices for the garment sector. The organization works with brands, factories, workers, trade unions, NGOs and other industry influencers to develop practical solutions to improve working conditions across supply chains.

Norrøna’s partnership with Fair Wear is effective immediately as the brand has signed the Fair Wear Code of Labour Practices.

For media inquiries about Norrøna and its membership with Fair Wear, please contact senior account manager Corinne Baud at corinne.baud@rygr.us.

###

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

 

DENMARK (Apr. 16, 2024) – IMBOX Protection, the world’s only in-store footwear protection technology, is prioritizing U.S. growth as part of its global expansion plans for 2024 building on its success in 33 countries and reaching a milestone of performing 150 million treatments since the company’s founding. IMBOX Protection treatments provide weather and stain-resistant applications maintaining shoe appearance, durability, and performance. In the U.S., IMBOX Protection can now be found nationwide from Los Angeles to New York City with retail partners including Dillard’s, Scheels, and SNIPES and through a pilot program with Famous Footwear. IMBOX Protection’s patented technology is an eco-friendly solution for consumers and retailers eliminating single-use cans. The shoe protection treatment takes one minute and costs between $7.00 -$8.00 per treatment.

“IMBOX Protection is becoming a must-have service for footwear retailers in the United States, and we are capitalizing on this growing demand as American consumers seek to protect their shoe purchases,” said Oliver Hede, vice president of North American sales. “With the increased return to in-store shopping, driven by influential Gen-Z shoppers, demand for our technology by retailers and consumers is surging.”

IMBOX Protection systems in the U.S. dispense a proprietary PFA-free, water-based formula through a modern box located in the footwear department of retailers. The treatment offers best-in-class protection from outside elements in one minute. Exclusive technology guarantees precise application, drying, and heating tailored to the specific needs of each shoe and protects suede, leather, textile, nubuck, and synthetic components, among others. After the treatment is completed in-store, shoes are ready for immediate wear.

“IMBOX Protection elevates shopping experiences for consumers while increasing the frequency and duration of in-store shopping trips for the retailer’s benefit,” says Martin Kolloch, general merchandise manager at SNIPES. “The IMBOX system meets top consumer priorities by prolonging the performance and durability of footwear and, at the same time, improving customer satisfaction.”

“We’ve seen IMBOX Protection become the trusted footwear protection brand of Europe and Asia, for more than a decade, so to see U.S. retail members embrace this offering is a strong sign of progress and innovation,” says Andy Polk, senior vice president at Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA). “IMBOX systems evolve the in-store experience by enhancing merchandising efforts bringing more value to customer engagement and by creating a deeper customer interaction.”

As more retailers prioritize sustainable solutions, components, and practices, IMBOX Protection’s PFA-free formula reduces environmental impact. IMBOX Protection holds CE (Conformité Européenne/European Conformity) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certifications, signifying compliance with safety and environmental standards mandated for the European market (CE) and more broadly for overall safety in the U.S. (UL).  IMBOX Protection also holds RSL’s (Restricted Substances List) Approvals, which serve as third-party confirmation of the absence of restricted substances in their products.The Restricted Substance List (RSL) has been meticulously designed to offer apparel and footwear companies comprehensive information concerning regulations and laws that govern the use of specific chemicals and substances in finished home textile, apparel, and footwear products globally.

About IMBOX Protection Inc.
Launched in 2011 in Denmark as a more sustainable and convenient alternative to protecting shoes, IMBOX Protection is the world’s only in-store footwear protection technology service using a safe and environmentally friendly treatment to protect against water damage, dirt, stains, and color fade. IMBOX Protection has more than 7,500 units in retail stores globally selling more than 35 million treatments a year with trusted footwear retailers and partners. Based on surging demand in Europe and Japan, IMBOX Protection has expanded availability in the U.S. with a North American headquarters in Chicago. The PCT patent-protected technology is designed, developed, and manufactured in Denmark. Retailers can learn more about IMBOX Protection and its in-store footwear protection solution at https://imboxprotection.com/us

 

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. [April 16, 2024] – Salsa Cycles, manufacturer of industry-leading gravel and mountain bikes, will be attending the 2024 Sea Otter Classic with its new lineup of eBikes. After announcing the collection last month with the launch of the eGravel bikes into retailers, Salsa is excited to announce the full specifications for the new eMTBs arriving in retailers now and throughout the spring.

“The Notch and Moraine leverage best-in-class drive systems, Split Pivot and Salsa’s suspension design philosophy to create distinctly different rider experiences that are authentic to the Salsa brand and competitive in both the Full Power and Light eMTB spaces,” says Joe Meiser, Salsa Cycles Category Manager.

The Notch, Salsa’s new electric enduro bike, will be on display at Sea Otter. With geometry poised for stability at speed, this eMTB features efficient Split Pivot suspension and ample on-bike storage. The top-spec, Notch Deore 12, incorporates the new 170mm RockShox Domain Gold RC fork paired with the Fox Float X Performance shock and Shimano Deore drivetrain. Utilizing the BOSCH Performance Line CX drive system with 85 Nm torque and 20 mph assist, the Notch is a class 1 eBike. This eBike is a powerhouse on enduro trails as well as exploring new singletrack. The Notch has two models starting at $4,999 and are in retailers now and throughout the spring.

“Notch has opened up 5, 6, 7,000+ vertical feet routes here in the Pacific Northwest. Rides that used to only be achievable a couple times a year or maybe only existed as an idea are now monthly and weekly occurrences,” says Sam Berkland, Salsa Cycles Product Manager on his experience riding the Notch. “The BOSCH Performance Line CX’s power delivery and trail mannerisms are incredible. The support makes big routes more attainable and my riding is progressing because I’m more fresh on the descents. In a 180mm rear wheel travel and 190mm fork configuration that Split Pivot + provides; dare I say this is my favorite Salsa bike?”

Also on display for the first time is the lightweight and all-mountain trail eMTB, the Moraine. With progressive trail geometry, versatile Split Pivot suspension and on-bike storage, the Moraine is made for fun flowy trails all day long. Featuring the compact Fazua Ride 60 class 1 mid-drive motor for assistance, new 160mm RockShox Psylo Gold RC fork, Fox Float X Performance shock and Shimano Deore 1 x 12 drivetrain. This eMTB is designed to be an all-around trail mountain bike that’s ideal for daily hot laps, park sessions and adventure singletrack. The Moraine offers two models and starts at $4,999 and will be available at retailers later this spring.

“Moraine’s Fazua Ride 60 drive system offers an awesome amount of support for such a light eBike. The team has complemented that with handling geometry that makes the bike agile and on-bike storage that allows for carrying of all the ride essentials on the bike,” says Ethan Frey Salsa Cycles Product Manager on his experience so far with the Moraine. “This has allowed me to grab the bike after a day of work, fill my water bottle and cover more of my local trails here in New Hampshire.”

Salsa will also be showing its two new eGravel bikes the Confluence and Tributary at Sea Otter. This collection is accessible for new riders looking for new challenges or experienced riders who want more from their rides.

The Confluence is made to explore gravel roads, be comfortable on mixed surface rides and bikepacking excursions. Featuring a light 6061-T6 aluminum frame with mounts for a full range of accessories, carbon fork and runs on MAHLE’s X35+ Class 1 hub-drive system with a 40Nm motor and 250Wh MAHLE i250 Inner Tube internal battery. With a flat-bar or drop-bar model, they are designed with an inclusive fit with low standover that accommodates a wider range of bodies, abilities and fit preferences. The Confluence is in local retailers now and starts at $2,499.

The Tributary is built for rough doubletrack dirt roads and deep adventures featuring a progressive geometry, wide drop bars, massive tire clearance and the ability to accessorize with racks and bags. The rigid or suspension models are built around Bosch’s Performance Line Speed, Class 3, mid-drive system, delivering 85Nm of torque and a 625Wh Bosch PowerTube 625 battery. The Tributary is available in Salsa retailers now starting at $5,499.

At Sea Otter, Salsa will also be showing the new EXP-R and EXP Series of bike bags. The new EXP collection includes an updated Saguaro Seat Bag that is quick-loading and waterproof, the redesigned Agave Pannier built for safe storage and the Cholla Half-Frame Bag now updated to fit a wider range of frames. The EXP-R series is a new ecosystem of gravel-focused bags that adds to the Salsa gravel bike experience and were designed and built with the gravel racer in mind. The collection includes the Campion Frame Bag, Fireweed Handlebar Bag, Trillium Top Tube Bag and Cattail Rear Top Tube Bag.

All bikes will be on display and available to demo during the Sea Otter Classic in booth S430. To set up a media appointment or media demo please reach out to marisa@verdepr.com.

Salsa Cycles are sold exclusively in specialty retailers. Find a store near you here. For more on Salsa please visit www.salsacycles.com or follow along on social media on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X.

About Salsa Cycles

Salsa Cycles is the Adventure by Bike brand. Started in 1981 and based in Bloomington, Minnesota, our mission is to build the best possible bikes and accessories for adventure. Through products and stories focused on ingenuity, inspiration, and inclusivity, we seek to lead riders to new places, people, extraordinary achievements, and unforgettable experiences. Please contact us at info@salsacycles.com or visit us at SalsaCycles.com to learn more.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (April 15, 2024) – OrthoLite®, the global leader of comfort and performance footwear insoles and the company behind Cirql™, a sustainable materials solutions provider for the global footwear industry, today unveils a new midsole foam called Cirql rTPU30. This brand new patented innovation is made with 30-percent post-consumer recycled TPU material and manufactured through a chemical-free, supercritical foaming process. With 16 granted patents and additional patents pending worldwide for its 30% recycled injection foam, Cirql rTPU30 is a scalable and fully recyclable midsole solution that helps footwear brands to reach their climate and sustainability product goals.

As an industry, footwear continues to operate through what will be nothing short of an historic year of regulatory compliance and legislation defining parameters of sustainable footwear and curbing greenwashing.

Cirql’s rTPU30 meets 2024 compliance standards by incorporating 30-percent GRS-certified, post-consumer recycled TPU materials directly into the foam using a patented technique exclusive to Cirql’s chemical-free supercritical injection foaming process.

“Our goal is to exceed the expectations of footwear developers searching for advanced, sustainable footwear materials designed with consideration for their end-of-life,” said Glenn Barrett, founder and CEO of OrthoLite. “OrthoLite is proud to meet the staggering demand from our 550+ brand partners for more trusted solutions with Cirql rTPU30.”

In March 2022, OrthoLite first introduced Cirql to the footwear industry. Two years later, the company is expanding Cirql’s product offerings with new sustainable materials solutions. Fully recyclable Cirql rTPU30, along with the fully biodegradable and compostable range of products, round out the Cirql materials solutions for addressing product end of life cycles.

The Cirql rTPU30 material has been tested by third-party labs and passes the essential tests for midsole specs. Cirql rTPU30 will be offered with the option of a co-molded TPU outsole which will remove the current bonding process and make it a glueless, single material bottom unit. Alternatively, Cirql’s midsole foam innovations can also be conventionally bonded to all outsoles on the market today.

To offer further protection and transparency, Cirql recyclable injection foam currently has 29 patents filed worldwide. Of those patents, 16 are granted and in effect, with more on the way. Along with verifications like Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification, patents provide an added layer of confidence that the OrthoLite supply chain is delivering precisely what it claims.

“Cirql represents not only an entirely new product and patented foaming process for OrthoLite, it also is an opportunity to minimize waste and pollution on a wide scale across all footwear,” said Matt Thwaites, Vice President and General Manager of Cirql. “The big picture goal of Cirql is to help move the footwear industry toward true circularity, by reducing carbon footprints, delivering more sustainable materials solutions, and eliminating the use of hazardous chemicals in the manufacturing process. We are excited for the future of footwear as well as the upcoming announcements that will continue to come from Cirql this year.”

Cirql rTPU30 will be available to footwear brands in Q2 2024. “We know this is an excellent midsole product, and we are ready if brands choose to fast-track it into their product lines before the end of this year,” Thwaites added.

For additional information on OrthoLite and Cirql, please visit ortholite.com.

About OrthoLite®

OrthoLite is the world’s leading supplier of open-cell foam technology, and the innovator and creator of Cirql™, the sustainable materials solutions provider that provides footwear brands and their factory partners with the most sustainable, circular choice in materials. OrthoLite’s innovative footwear solutions are available to brands that share a vision for the future of sustainable footwear. OrthoLite is found in more than 550 footwear brands across all categories of footwear. The company also has a long-standing history of meaningful partnerships and sponsorships that demonstrate a dedicated commitment to supporting its customers, consumers, brand partners and the footwear industry. OrthoLite is the Official Insole sponsor of the New York Yankees, supporter of The Conservation Alliance, The European Outdoor Conservation Association, and is a founding supporter of the Two Ten Foundation. Stay up to date with company news by visiting OrthoLite.com and following OrthoLite on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. To learn more about the benefits of OrthoLite, visit www.ortholite.com.

###

 

April 15, 2024 – Boulder, Colo. – HEAD/Tyrolia, the fastest growing ski and binding brands in the USA over the past decade, and the World Cup Constructors’ Championship winner for eleven of the past thirteen years, today announces Natalie Dyksterhouse as Wintersports Marketing Coordinator. Based in HEAD’s Boulder, CO offices, Dyksterhouse will play a pivotal role in spearheading impactful marketing strategies within the U.S. winter hard goods market.

“Natalie is a welcome addition to our tenured team,” says Jon Rucker, President of HEAD USA Winter Sports. “Raised in Vermont, she’s never known life without skiing. After attending Burke Mountain Academy, she raced for Colby College, establishing a strong technical knowledge of ski equipment. Her lifelong dedication to the sport provides an understanding of the market to deliver for our customers. I’m confident that she’ll be impactful for HEAD.”

Dyksterhouse now calls Colorado home, where she lives with her husband and two children. They embrace a shared passion for skiing, with Dyksterhouse guiding her children in the sport she has loved since childhood. Dyksterhouse’s professional experience includes working at a creative marketing agency where she collaborated with ski resorts in the Rockies to connect top brands such as Jeep, Audi, and Nature Valley with consumers. Her deep connection to the sport enriches her approach to the role at HEAD, where she is poised to bring innovative ideas and a thorough understanding of the market to solidify HEAD’s leadership in winter sports.

“Joining HEAD is like finding a community that shares my passion for skiing and high-performance pursuits,” adds Dyksterhouse. “I’m eager to bring my fresh perspective and insights to strengthen HEAD’s influence and reputation in the winter sports industry.”

For further information, please contact Natalie Dyksterhouse at (720) 708-6405.

About Head – see www.head.com

HEAD NV is a leading global manufacturer of premium sports equipment. The company’s business is organized into four divisions: Winter Sports, Racquet Sports, Diving, and Licensing, and its products are sold under the HEAD, Penn, Tyrolia, and Mares/Dacor brands.

HEAD holds leading positions in all of its product markets and the brand’s products are endorsed by some of the world’s top athletes including Lara Gut, Atle Lie McGrath, Vincent Kriechmayr, Lindsey Vonn, Ted Ligety, ,  Novak Djokovic, Coco Gauff, and Jannik Sinner.

PORTLAND, OREGON (April 15, 2024) –Dovetail Workwear, the largest exclusively women’s workwear brand in the world, announces its partnership with Locally, a leading technology provider bridging online and offline retail, to streamline the way consumers purchase Dovetail’s innovative apparel, while driving foot traffic and revenue for the brand’s nationwide network of retail partners.

With integration on dovetailworkwear.com, Locally’s advanced software seamlessly displays real-time inventory information from Dovetail’s brick-and-mortar retailers directly on the brand’s website. Customers may now browse and purchase online, then conveniently pick up their desired products from a nearby retailer, bridging the gap between online shopping and an in-person experience.

“At Dovetail, we’re committed to providing an exceptional shopping experience for our customers,” says Katie Copeland, National Sales Director at Dovetail Workwear. “By partnering with Locally, we’re able to offer a seamless omnichannel experience that meets customers wherever they prefer to shop and connect our passionate community of hardworking women with our innovative apparel through convenient local pick-up options.”

The benefits of the partnership extend beyond convenience for customers, as local retailers now have a tremendous opportunity for increased visibility and foot traffic, as their in-store Dovetail products are showcased directly to a vast audience of online shoppers. With ease, online customers can discover which nearby stores carry their desired items, forging stronger connections between brands, vendors, and communities.

“As Dovetail Workwear is the only workwear brand for women, their consumers are incredibly passionate,” says Mike Massey, CEO at Locally. “Our technology platform enables the brand to connect to their consumers with their preferred product at the local level enhancing the efficiency of the purchase process. We look forward to being part of their continued success.”

##

About Locally  

Locally creates an integrated shopping experience for consumers by bridging online and offline retail. With proprietary technology implemented by over 1,000 major brands, Locally is the industry leader in online-to-offline shopping solutions. Locally’s tools are powered by real-time inventory from over 30,000 retailers worldwide and are utilized by millions of shoppers every month. To learn more about Locally’s online-to-offline shopping solutions, visit join.locally.com.

About Dovetail Workwear

Founded in 2018 and based in the Pacific Northwest, Dovetail Workwear is the largest exclusively women’s workwear brand in the northern hemisphere made by women, for women, and with women. From the skilled tradeswomen to the backyard gardener, Dovetail Workwear makes all-season, all-reason utility apparel that performs and protects without compromising form and function. Utilizing eco-conscious fabrics, ethical sourcing and manufacturing, and available in inclusive sizing, Dovetail Workwear is online and in over 500 retail locations across North America. Get dirty with Dovetail at dovetailworkwear.com @dovetailworkwear.

Dovetail Media Contact:  Abigale Youcha / Akimbo Communications / abi@akimbopr.com

Locally Media Contact: Charlotte Daher de Garcia / CGPR / charlotte@cgprpublicrelations.com

 

DENVER, April 12, 2024 – Gates (NYSE: GTES), a global provider of innovative highly engineered power transmission and fluid power solutions – and pioneer in belt-driven micromobility – has raised the stakes for mountain bike racers around the world. Gates announced a massive €100,000 belted purse for the first elite racer to win a Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Mountain Bike Downhill race on a Gates belt-driven bike.

This Gates Belted Purse Prize, which will roll over if not claimed this season, is intended to inspire teams and athletes to consider the unique performance advantages a belted downhill bike offers.

“With the advancements Gates has achieved through materials science and engineering innovation, the time has come to make history,” said Chris Sugai, General Manager, Gates Global Mobility. “Gates intends to show that the benefits of belt drives and advanced gearing solutions are applicable at the highest levels of mountain bike racing. And along with sport fans around the world, we’re eager for the 2024 UCI downhill races as the Gates Carbon Drive Prize adds to the excitement.”

Using a belt drive in conjunction with a gearbox on a mountain bike offers several key advantages. A rider has greater control, improved balance, and better handling due to lower unsprung mass in the rear wheel and concentration of mass in the center of the bike. Unsprung mass refers to the weight of components that are not supported by the suspension system, such as wheels, tires, and drivetrain. Reducing the unsprung mass of the rear wheel allows for more control and less rebound forces when riding. Navigating tight corners and technical sections are improvements enabled by this radically different drivetrain configuration.

Another benefit of a belt drive mountain bike is reduced risk of malfunctions versus a traditional chain system. Chains are prone to stretching, derailleurs are often damaged, and cassettes can clog with dirt and debris which can lead to poor performance and frequent mechanical issues. Gates Carbon Drive belts are made from highly durable materials that are resistant to stretching and corrosion, and importantly have no weak link.

Downhill racing has always been an adrenaline-fueled sport that pushes athletes and bicycle technology to their limits. Skill, courage, and determination are critical for success, and technical improvements to the bike can lead to race-winning seconds off the clock. With the Gates Carbon Drive €100K Prize, we’re about to see history in the making. It’s going to be a great season.

For more information including contest rules, visit www.landingpagelinkhere.com

#GatesMTB100K #GatesBeltDrive

About Gates

Gates is a global manufacturer of innovative, highly engineered power transmission and fluid power solutions. Gates offers a broad portfolio of products to diverse replacement channel customers, and to original equipment manufacturers as specified components. For more than a century, Gates has pushed the boundaries of materials science to engineer products that exceed expectations in many sectors of the industrial and consumer markets. Our products play essential roles in a diverse range of applications across a wide variety of end markets including industrial on-highway, industrial off-highway, mobility and recreation, automotive, energy and resources as well as diversified industrial. Our products are sold in more than 130 countries across our four commercial regions: the Americas; Europe, Middle East & Africa; Greater China; and East Asia & India. More about Gates can be found at www.gates.com.

###

 

Washington, D.C. (April 10, 2024) — Yesterday, on a voice vote, House lawmakers passed the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, a first-of-its-kind bipartisan package of outdoor recreation policy to improve outdoor recreation on America’s public lands and waters. The passage of this outdoor recreation policy package creates opportunities to improve how public lands are managed to enhance outdoor experiences for all. The EXPLORE Act includes many key bills that Outdoor Alliance and its partners have helped develop and refine alongside lawmakers. The Senate is expected to take up the bill in coming weeks, as it has already introduced bipartisan companion legislation, America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA) that has passed out of committee.

Millions of Americans get outside on public lands and waters each year, with participation growing rapidly, according to recently released economic and participation data. The EXPLORE Act aims to improve outdoor recreation on America’s public lands and waters and will also help land managers coordinate their efforts to improve access to nature and expand green space in communities that need it most.

“Outdoor Alliance is thrilled to see the House pass the EXPLORE Act, a first-of-its-kind package of outdoor recreation policy that will improve and protect outdoor recreation experiences on public lands and waters,” said Louis Geltman, VP of Policy and Government Relations, Outdoor Alliance. “Millions of Americans get outside each year, and the EXPLORE Act will improve management for climbing and mountain biking, enhance how agencies manage outdoor recreation and invest in parks where they are needed most with the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership.”

“As outdoor recreation grows in popularity, we need more tools to get people outside safely and responsibly. The EXPLORE Act will streamline the federal recreational permitting process to enable more people to experience the outdoors through organized group experiences facilitated by outdoor leaders and educators,” said Tom Vogl, CEO, The Mountaineers.” The Mountaineers is thrilled to see the House pass the EXPLORE Act, and is grateful to Representative Westerman and Representative Grijalva for their leadership to help connect more people with their public lands and waters.”

Highlights from the policy include:

• The Biking on Long Distance Trails Act (BOLT Act) identifies and creates more long-distance bike trails
• The Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act (PARC Act) safeguards Wilderness climbing
• The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act (SOAR Act) improves recreational permitting for outfitters and guides
• Codifies FICOR and the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership, which funds parks and green spaces in neighborhoods that need it most

“The International Mountain Bicycling Association is thrilled the House of Representatives understands the physical, mental, and economic importance of outdoor recreation on our public lands, evidenced by the passage of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act,” said Todd Keller, Director of Government Affairs, International Mountain Bicycling Association. “The mountain bike community is specifically excited about the Biking on Long Distance Trails (BOLT) Act that has been included within the text of the underlying bill. The BOLT Act will identify at least 10 existing long-distance bike trails and identify at least 10 areas where there is an opportunity to develop or complete such trails. The bill will also direct the Department of Interior to publish and distribute maps, install signage, and distribute promotional materials. We now look to the Senate for quick action this summer to pass the EXPLORE Act and get it to the President’s desk before the August recess.”

“Winter Wildlands Alliance is excited that this legislation recognizes the need to improve recreation management and equitable access on public lands in all seasons,” said Hilary Eisen, Policy Director, Winter Wildlands Alliance. “Among other positive elements of the bill, we are pleased that the EXPLORE Act would prioritize completion of meaningful travel planning in order to minimize resource impacts and use conflicts in winter, followed by the long overdue publication of practical winter use maps for the recreating public.”

“I applaud the U.S. House of Representatives for passing a bipartisan recreation package that benefits climbers, our public lands, local communities, and all of us who love recreating and spending time in nature,” said Heather Thorne, Executive Director, Access Fund. “And I urge the Senate to build on this momentum by quickly passing America’s Outdoor Recreation Act so that President Biden can sign legislation protecting sustainable Wilderness climbing access into law.”

To learn more, please visit www.outdooralliance.org.

About Outdoor Alliance

Outdoor Alliance is the only organization in the U.S. that unites the voices of outdoor enthusiasts to conserve public lands. A nonprofit coalition comprised of 10 national advocacy organizations, Outdoor Alliance’s members include American Whitewater, the American Canoe Association, Access Fund, the International Mountain Bicycling Association, Winter Wildlands Alliance, the Mountaineers, the American Alpine Club, the Mazamas, the Colorado Mountain Club, and the Surfrider Foundation. By working with its member coalitions and helping mobilize the involvement of individuals to protect public lands and waters, OA helps ensure public lands are managed in a way that embraces the human-powered experience. Outdoor Alliance — conservation powered by outdoor recreation. Learn more at OutdoorAlliance.org.

 

##

 

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (April 10, 2024) –Kahtoola, in partnership with Q Stories, a Flagstaff-based multimedia production company, debuts an inspirational documentary “Designed by Disaster” at the 17th annual 5Point Adventure Film Festival April 24-28, 2024 in Carbondale, Colorado.

The film’s world premiere is Saturday April 27 at 3 p.m. at the Crystal Theatre (teaser preview).

Directed by award-winning filmmaker James ‘Q’ Martin, “Designed by Disaster” (28 minute total run time) is a deeply personal and inspiring story about Danny Giovale, a passionate climber whose life-changing accident in the Italian Dolomites compels him to address a critical safety gap in mountain travel. With tireless dedication and through an iterative process, Giovale develops a revolutionary type of crampon, discovering a great deal about himself in the process. Three decades later, and equipped with the product he invented, Giovale returns to complete the climb that nearly took his life.

“Thirty years ago, after a life-changing event, I realized the importance of being given a second chance and making a positive impact,” said Danny Giovale, owner and founder of Kahtoola. “This understanding led to the creation of our company, with a dual purpose: to innovate outdoor gear and be a force for good locally and globally. Without the intent to significantly contribute to both areas, I wouldn’t have started this journey.”

When Giovale made the decision to return to the Dolomites, the obvious partner was his long-time friend and adventure buddy, Timmy O’Neill. O’Neill, a professional rock climber, shares Giovale’s commitment to fostering positive social impact.

For the 5Point Adventure Film Festival’s full lineup of films, including “Designed by Disaster”, to purchase tickets, or to preview the festival’s calendar of events, please visit https://www.5pointfilm.org/festival.

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

About Q Stories: Since its inception in 1998, Q Stories has evolved from the vision of James “Q” Martin into a collective of passionate storytellers dedicated to sharing impactful narratives from the outdoor world. With a foundation rooted in the outdoor industry and a drive to address complex environmental and social issues, Q Stories specializes in crafting narrative-driven media with a global reach. Leveraging their diverse expertise, the team at Q Stories excels in bringing unique stories to life, emphasizing the “Why” behind each project.

Media Contact:

Catherine Donovan

Terra PR

323-708-6953

CatherineD@terrapublicrelations.com

 

SEATTLE (April 10, 2024) — Astral, the leader in equipment designed for high performing wilderness athletes, introduces the Indus™, the world’s first freestyle-inspired high float life jacket.

Built on over three decades of experience, the all-new Indus™ uses Astral’s Foam Tectonics™ architecture from Astral’s GreenJacket™, the current safety and performance standard for rescue PFDs. The Indus becomes the first life jacket in the world to offer 22 lbs. of buoyancy in a design that prioritizes full mobility and performance. The 33-percent increase in flotation offered by the Indus™ significantly improves chances of survival, especially on high or flooded bodies of water.

“People are running rivers at higher flows than ever before. As a brand that makes gear to promote calm confidence in extreme places, it’s obvious that more buoyancy was needed in case of a swim. The obstacle has been how to do it in a manner that doesn’t interfere with your body’s natural biomechanics.“ explains Philip Curry, Founder and CEO of Astral. “The answer is our signature “Foam Tectonics” architecture that allows the various foam panels to work independently of each other .”

The Indus™ is designed for advanced whitewater athletes, guides and swiftwater professionals on larger volume whitewater who seek a higher buoyancy, low profile and mobility-forward fit. Designed with reinforced shoulders, a quick release belt for swiftwater rescue, Astral’s proprietary Flotection™ impact protection system, multiple storage options and an industry-high 22 lbs. of buoyancy, the Indus™ is built to usher in the next generation of large volume whitewater descents.

“Modern PFDs have to balance function, fit, and style. The Indus™ puts function first by significantly increasing flotation without compromising comfort or fit,” said Benny Marr, big water kayaking legend. “This is an important consideration for the whitewater industry as more and more paddlers take on huge-volume whitewater. More flotation for safer progression in the sport.”

The Indus™ retails for $375, and is available now at astraldesigns.com and at participating retail partners. For additional information about Astral and the new Indus™ high float life jacket, please visit astraldesigns.com.

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

###

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