Fleet Feet Acquires Flying Feet Sports Shoes in York, Pennsylvania

YORK, Pa. and CARRBORO, N.C. (Feb. 3, 2025) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of specialty running stores, announced the grand opening of its newly acquired location in York, Pennsylvania. Located at 1511 Mount Rose Ave., York, PA 17403, the new store takes over the space previously occupied by Flying Feet Sports Shoes. With stores in Mechanicsburg and Harrisburg, this marks the third Fleet Feet location owned and operated by Shelby and Fred Joslyn.

Flying Feet owners Greg and Celine Baum recently announced their retirement after more than 40 years of serving the York community. The Joslyns aim to continue the Baums’ legacy of exceptional customer service and community engagement, while introducing the community to Fleet Feet’s signature experiences, including their outfitting expertise and technology.

The store launched its soft opening as Fleet Feet York on Jan. 4. A grand opening celebration will take place on March 8, beginning at 9 a.m. with a three-mile community run from the store, complete with demo shoes and accessories to test from HOKA, Karhu, Mizuno, OOFOS, On and Superfeet. Customers will have a chance to take home giveaways throughout the day, and will receive a free custom Fleet Feet shirt with any purchase over $100.

“We’re beyond excited to open our third location and serve the incredible York community,” said Fred Joslyn. “Greg and Celine built Flying Feet with a strong foundation of personal service and a commitment to their customers, and we’re dedicated to carrying that forward. Our goal is to create a welcoming space where runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities can find the products, expertise, and support they need.”

Fred and Shelby Joslyn bring years of experience and a deep passion for running and community involvement. The couple met as high school students, and their journeys together as runners and employees at Fleet Feet Syracuse inspired them to own their own store. Together, they have grown their presence in Central Pennsylvania, coaching Fleet Feet training programs, hosting charity events for local animal shelters and youth programs and supporting initiatives like Girls on the Run and Communities Rising.

Fleet Feet York will operate with the brand’s exclusive personalized outfitting experience, fit id®, which includes 3D foot-scanning technology that allows the brand to accurately assess the size and shape of customers’ feet and how each foot moves through the gait cycle. This personalized, expert-led approach allows outfitters to offer the right fitting footwear and accessories for each customer.

“York is a growing area with a strong sense of community, and we’re thrilled to welcome Fred and Shelby’s third store to the Fleet Feet family,” said John Moloznik, vice president of retail development at Fleet Feet. “Their passion for delivering outstanding customer experiences and supporting their community embodies everything that Fleet Feet stands for.”

For 49 years, Fleet Feet owners, operating partners, and employees have created welcoming environments that allow runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities to conquer their goals at every level, on every surface, at every distance with personalized solutions, knowledge, and empowerment. Fleet Feet’s nationwide network of community-based retail stores are a place of inspiration, showing people how Running Changes Everything®.

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About Fleet Feet

Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 275 Fleet Feet stores in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and has been recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter, the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Best in Business, Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers and America’s Best Online Shops, and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.

 

 

 

 

 

Tariffs Threaten Industry Growth Says Outdoor Industry Association

(Boulder, CO: February 4, 2025) Today, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) President Kent Ebersole released the following statement in response to recent trade policy developments:

“Tariffs on outdoor products threaten to raise costs for businesses and consumers alike, creating new economic pressures for an industry that fuels $1.2 trillion in consumer spending and supports 5 million jobs. For businesses of all sizes, these rising costs could slow job growth, stifle innovation, and potentially force some to close their doors,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA President. “Outdoor recreation is a crucial force in the U.S. economy, and OIA remains committed to working with our members and policymakers to champion a balanced trade agenda that supports industry growth and success.”

To support the outdoor industry, OIA is providing members with timely alerts and resources on new U.S. tariff actions. Members can access these updates in the OIA Member Portal. 

MATADOR LAUNCHES GLOBAL TRAVEL ADAPTER: POWERING ALL YOUR ADVENTURES

BOULDER, Colo. (February 4, 2025) – Matador Travel Equipment, renowned for its commitment to innovation and quality, is proud to introduce the latest addition to its product lineup: the Matador Global Travel Adapter, a compact, smart international outlet adapter for wherever the road may lead. This launch marks Matador’s first product in the electronics space, as the brand brings its travel design expertise to the tech world.

Matador’s Global Travel Adapter is compatible in over 170 countries and can safely charge and power up to six devices simultaneously. Its lightweight and compact design allows travelers to seamlessly pack and store for any adventure.

“We’re really excited to introduce the Global Travel Adapter and enter into a new category of travel essentials,” said Chris Clearman, founder and CEO of Matador. “Our goal was to bring consumers the same innovation and quality they can trust with our travel equipment, now to their electronics, so they can continue to explore without limits.”

The Global Travel Adapter powers all technology, including laptops (AC plug only), tablets, smartphones, eReaders, camera equipment, power banks, headphones, smartwatches, satellite communication devices, portable game consoles and more. Key features also include an integrated High-Capacity PD35 port for larger devices and fast-charging smartphones, as well as built-in protection against overtemperature and overcurrent – with an integrated fuse.

Matador’s Global Travel Adapter (MSRP: $35.99) is available in Black now at select retailers and online at http://www.matadorequipment.com/.

ABOUT MATADOR TRAVEL EQUIPMENT
Matador, based in Boulder, CO, designs high-performance adventure travel equipment engineered for objective-based travel. The team’s strengths in design, material technology, and construction give them an edge in developing innovative products that bring outdoor expertise to the pursuit of travel. For more information about Matador, visit MatadorEquipment.com

Selkirk Sport introduces LABS Project 008 pickleball paddle with revolutionary PureFoam core technology

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – Feb. 4, 2025 – Selkirk Sport, the leader in pickleball paddle innovation, today unveils the LABS Project 008, a groundbreaking pickleball paddle featuring Selkirk’s first high-density PureFoam core technology.

Designed to redefine durability and performance, the LABS Project 008 will be released in three distinct core thicknesses to cater to various playing styles: a control-focused 16 mm, a hybrid 13 mm and a power-driven 10 mm.

The PureFoam Core
Traditional pickleball paddles often rely on polypropylene cores, which over time can crush and deform, leading to inconsistent responsiveness and the need for frequent replacements.

The PureFoam core introduces a durable, high-density foam formula that resists deformation and maintains consistent performance over prolonged use. This new core technology not only increases the lifespan of the paddle but also enhances playability by offering an enlarged sweet spot and a softer, more responsive feel.

“With its ability to flex on impact, the PureFoam core truly transforms how a paddle performs,” said Tom Barnes, Selkirk director of research and development. “It increases dwell time, enhances spin and ensures consistent performance across the entire paddle face. Players get exceptional control without losing the power and pop needed for dynamic play.”

Three core thicknesses for every style of play
LABS Project 008 will be released in three installments, each featuring a unique core thickness to suit different playing styles:

  • Hybrid 13 mm: Ideal for all-court players seeking a balance of power and control.
  • Control-focused 16 mm: Designed for tactical precision and players prioritizing finesse at the net.
  • Power-driven 10 mm: Perfect for those who rely on explosive power and aggressive gameplay.

Selkirk LABS: Pioneering Innovation in Pickleball
LABS Project 008 continues Selkirk’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of paddle technology. As part of the Selkirk LABS program, all Selkirk customers can offer feedback on the Project 008, which will then be used to perfect the paddle design before it is released on the Selkirk Sport main line.

“The LABS Project 008 reflects Selkirk’s relentless pursuit of innovation,” Barnes said. “By introducing the PureFoam core, we’re addressing a critical need in the market — a paddle that is performance-driven and built to last.”

The Project 008 retails for $288. The 13 mm is on sale now and the 16 mm is available for preorder. The 10 mm will launch in mid-Spring.

For more information about LABS Project 008 or to join the Selkirk LABS program, visit SelkirkLabs.com.

About Selkirk Sport

Selkirk Sport, a premium manufacturer of pickleball paddles and accessories, is a family-owned and operated company. Selkirk Sport is based in Hayden, Idaho, in the shadows of its namesake, the Selkirk mountain range. Founded in 2014, Selkirk Sport was born from a passion for sport and the Western outdoor leisure lifestyle that was afforded to the company’s founders, Rob and Mike Barnes, along with their father Jim, who is Selkirk’s production manager. Backed by the philosophy of always pushing the limits, Selkirk Sport is committed to manufacturing products that deliver the highest performance with unmatched quality and service. Selkirk Sport has become one of the industry’s fastest-growing companies, with paddles used by many of the game’s premier players, such as Jack Sock, Catherine Parenteau, Dylan Frazier, James Ignatowich and a host of others premier players and national/regional champions.

Media contacts:

Kyle Whatnall: Kyle@Selkirk.com

Brynn Grissom: Brynn@Selkirk.com

 

RECCO expands global reach with new SAR Helicopter Detector in Nepal

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (February 4, 2025) – RECCO, a leading developer of advanced rescue technology, is proud to announce the continued expansion of its RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector network with a recent deployment in Kathmandu, Nepal. This launch makes Nepal the 11th country where the helicopter-carried system is operational. Simrik Air crews, along with other pilots, have been trained and equipped with the system, enhancing their ability to assist in missing person searches.

In January, former head of mountain rescue in Zermatt, Bruno Jelk, rescue specialist Matthias Hofer, and RECCO instructor Tshering Pande Bhote (President of the NMIA) conducted a RECCO SAR training session. The training included three pilots from Simrik Air—Capt. Siddartha Jung Gurung, Capt. Surendra Paudel, and Capt. Bimal Sharma Sapkota—along with six mountain guides from the Nepal National Mountain Guides Association (NNMGA) and Nepalese rescue specialists. The specialists trained were Tshering Pande Bhote, Pimba Tenjing Lama, Tul Singh Gurung, Chhiring Dhenduk Bhote, Abiral Rai, and Dawa Sangay Sherpa. All participants are now fully trained operators of the system.

“The RECCO system appears to be highly helpful for rapid search and rescue operations in the Himalayas,” says Tul Singh Gurung, President, NNMGA. “The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector will be more effective in search and rescue operations for missing people. Since the helicopter can fly up to 6000 meters, we can also employ the helicopter detector if there are any avalanche accidents up to this altitude. I want to express my gratitude to the RECCO family and to the teaching team.”

The training included low-altitude searches in open terrain around Pokhara and high-altitude searches in conditions of snow and crevasses from Chumrung and Annapurna base camp area. More RECCO SAR operators will be trained in the coming months.

The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector allows rapid, large-area searches for missing individuals year-round, scanning up to one square kilometer in just six minutes. This technology reduces search times and minimizes the time and risk exposure for rescue teams.

Since its launch in 2016, the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector has expanded the application of the system from winter rescue to all-season use, making it ideal for locating lost hikers, trekkers, and mountaineers. The system complements the RECCO handheld detector and can be deployed across diverse terrains, from lowland forests and bushland to high-altitude mountainous areas.

“The RECCO SAR system will contribute to saving lives here in Nepal. We’ll be able to locate you if you’re carrying a rescue reflector, whether you’re a trekker or a mountaineer in need of rescue,” says Capt. Siddartha Jung Gurung.

For over a decade, RECCO handheld detectors have been utilized in Nepal. In 2012, during the Manaslu avalanche near Camp 3, rescue teams from France and Nepal employed the RECCO detector to assist in locating avalanche victims. Currently, 10 handheld detectors are strategically positioned with rescue partners like NMIA, NNMGA, Simrik Air, Seven Summit Treks, Heli Everest, Imagine Nepal, and Adventure 6000, and dispatched on each 8000m peak base camps at the start of each season, enabling rapid response to avalanches and missing person incidents. Lightweight and portable, these detectors can be carried in a backpack or operated from a helicopter.

Starting with the 2024 climbing season, new regulations require all climbers on peaks above 6,000 meters in Nepal to carry mandatory search-and-rescue equipment. The RECCO reflector is one option that complies with these requirements, ensuring that climbers are searchable in case of an emergency.

“The addition of the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector in Nepal is an important milestone, to make more people searchable year round,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO. “Our technology is designed to make rescue operations faster and safer, and with this new system, we’re proud to enhance safety in the Himalayas. Together, we’re better equipped than ever to support local rescue teams and the growing number of adventurers in the region.”

RECCO reflectors are embedded in outdoor gear from more than 150 leading brands, including Nepalese brands like Everest Outfit. Other international partners like SCARPA, Kailas, Millet, Blackyak and Asolo also integrate reflectors into high-altitude equipment. A complete list of partner brands is available at recco.com.

Attachable RECCO reflectors can be purchased online or locally through Samatra Trading, Kathmandu, as well as from NNMGA, NMIA and Everest Outfit shop in Thamel.

For more information, visit the RECCO website

About RECCO

RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

Media Contact

Siena Teare

Verde Brand Communications

(307) 200-7003

siena@verdepr.com

 

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