Archives: Press Releases

WILLISTON, Vermont (Oct. 28, 2024) – Leading performance mountain equipment manufacturer for over 160 years, Mammut welcomes Matt Kaplan as its new Managing Director of North America, effective November 18, 2024. With an extensive track record in management and commercial leadership in the outdoor industry, Kaplan will drive the acceleration of Mammut’s growth path as a leading mountain sports brand in North America.

In his new position, Kaplan will oversee Mammut’s business operations in the United States and Canada. His expertise in sales leadership, strategic business development and market expansion within the outdoor and action sports sectors will be instrumental in propelling Mammut’s growth in North America, an area which is at the heart of the global brand’s strategic focus.

Most recently, Kaplan served as Vice President of Sales at Vail Resorts. He also held leadership positions at Outdoor Industry Association, Timberland, Ibex, and he led Suunto North America under the Amer Sports collection of brands.

“We are beyond excited to welcome Matt to our team,” said Felix Münnich, Chief Commercial Officer at Mammut. “With his years of experience and leadership in the outdoor sports market, Matt will be critical in driving profitable growth and strengthening our position as a premier mountain sports brand in North America.”

“I am thrilled and honored to join this remarkable brand with a 162-year legacy that has significantly shaped the outdoor industry. I look forward to collaborating with the global team to elevate Mammut to new heights through exceptional products and unparalleled brand authenticity.”

Kaplan replaces Kris Kuster, who served as head of North America since 2019. Under Kuster’s guidance, Mammut has generated consistent double-digit growth each year, built strong connections with leading ski resorts and the National Ski Patrol, and established Mammut as the brand of choice for serious mountaineers and skiers in America and Canada. Kris has chosen to explore new opportunities outside of Mammut, for which we wish him the best of luck and success.

About Mammut Sports Group

Established in 1862, Mammut stands as a global leader in providing high-quality products and unique experiences for mountain sports enthusiasts. With over 160 years of heritage, this Swiss-based premium brand is a hallmark of safety and innovation. Mammut’s offerings, known for their functionality, responsible performance and contemporary design, make it one of the most comprehensive suppliers in the outdoor industry. The brand’s extensive range includes hardware, footwear, and apparel, catering to a wide spectrum of activities. As of 2024, Mammut Sports Group AG operates in around 40 countries and employs approximately 800 people, continuing to forge a legacy of excellence and adventure. Learn more on Mammut’s website and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @MammutNA and @MammutNorthAmerica.

Media contact: Becca Katz | Becca@verdepr.com

 

 

Boulder, Colo. (October 25, 2024) — Boulder, Colo.-based Backpacker’s Pantry, the family-owned maker of gourmet adventure meals, and its sister company Astronaut Foods, celebrating its 50th anniversary and who specializes in freeze-dried snacks, most famously their freeze-dried ice cream, announces its participation in the fall 2024 We Keep it Wild campaign. Organized by The Conservation Alliance (TCA), these brands join 10 others for the week-long initiative aimed to raise awareness and funds for the protection of wild places and outdoor spaces.

During the campaign, which runs from October 24 to October 30, Backpacker’s Pantry and Astronaut Foods will donate 5% of its online revenue to The Conservation Alliance. These funds will support TCA’s ongoing advocacy efforts and help fund a handful of priority campaigns by the end of the year. The Conservation Alliance is focused on protecting areas – like the proposed Chuckwalla National Monument and the Dolores River Canyon Country – with the highest value from a conservation, biodiversity, and climate perspective.

“On behalf of both Backpacker’s Pantry and Astronaut Foods we are excited to partner with The Conservation Alliance for the fall 2024 We Keep it Wild campaign,” said Duane Primozich, CEO of American Outdoor Brands. “As passionate outdoor enthusiasts, we recognize the significance of preserving our natural landscapes for future generations. Through this campaign, we aim to support TCA’s critical conservation efforts and encourage our customers to join us in protecting the wilderness we all hold dear.”

For over 35 years, The Conservation Alliance has united businesses that believe the future of business depends on a healthy planet to protect outdoor spaces and wild places. They have awarded over $33.1 million in grants and helped protect over 124 million acres and 4,964 river miles, remove or halt 41 dams, purchase 22 climbing areas & designate five marine reserves. The Keep it Wild campaign serves as a platform for brands to unite in their commitment to conservation. By joining forces with other member companies, Backpacker’s Pantry and Astronaut Foods aim to amplify its impact and raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding our wild places.

Backpacker’s Pantry and Astronaut Foods join other leading outdoor brands as part of the #WeKeepItWild campaign. The semi-annual campaign also includes La Sportiva, Oboz Footwear, Gregory Packs, Nomadix, Shar Snacks, Gu Energy Labs, Adventure KEEN, BOCO Gear, Royal Robbins, and Superfeet.

For more information about the We Keep it Wild campaign, visit conservationalliance.com.

For more information about Backpacker’s Pantry, please visit backpackerspantry.com. For more information about Astronaut Foods, please visit astronautfoods.com.

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Media Contact:

Alexa McRoberts, Verde Brand Communications

alexa@verdepr.com

About Backpacker’s Pantry

Backpacker’s Pantry is a Boulder-based, family-owned producer of gourmet adventure meals made with healthy and sustainable ingredients. Since 1951, the company has been delivering high-quality freeze-dried meals with an emphasis on taste. To give back to the community we love, the places we adventure and the planet we must protect, Backpacker’s Pantry donates 1% of every sale, every day to nonprofits around the world through 1% For the Planet and is 100% solar-powered. Today, Backpacker’s Pantry is sold in over 2,000 stores in North America. For more information and a complete list of products, visit https://backpackerspantry.com.

About Astronaut Foods

Founded in 1974 in conjunction with NASA and based in Boulder, Colorado, Astronaut Foods is the original source for freeze-dried ice cream — an out-of-this-world treat. Today, the company sells freeze-dried ice cream sandwiches and freeze-dried fruit. Astronaut Foods can be found in museums, toy shops, amusement parks and outdoor stores all across North America, Europe, and Asia. Additionally, Astronaut Foods is dedicated to supporting people and organizations whose goal is to push the boundaries of space exploration and discovery. For more information and a complete list of products, visit astronautfoods.com.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Oct. 28, 2024) — Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, the national organization dedicated to the health and growth of specialty outdoor retail, this month welcomes Jetty to its national vendor partner network.

As a new Grassroots vendor partner, Jetty, the most recognizable surf brand on the East Coast, joins the upcoming Grassroots Connect Show in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 11-14, as a member. Its addition elevates the group’s vendor community to 67, joining the Grassroots nationwide network of 95 independent retailers with 210 retail locations in 45 states.

Becoming a vendor partner in Grassroots Outdoor Alliance gains brands direct and personal access to the Grassroots retailer community. Through membership, there are numerous opportunities to collaborate, engage and learn, including customized data reports, facilitated learning events, access to the Grassroots staff, and a guaranteed invitation to Grassroots Connect, the group’s super-efficient, twice-yearly buying show each June and November.

“We’re very excited to welcome Jetty into Grassroots as a vendor partner and to support them in their continued growth in outdoor. The leadership at Jetty has a specialty first sales strategy that aligns really well with our retail members and we continue to hear the product is resonating well,” said Gabe Maier, president of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance.

Headquartered in Manahawkin, New Jersey, Jetty was founded in 2003 as a testament to the​ unyielding spirit of surfers and coastal adventurers. Recognizing a void in the market, five friends and founders set out to capture the raw essence of their way of life, where perfection is often found​ in cold waters, foul weather and East Coast grit.

“Jetty is super excited to become a Grassroots Outdoor Alliance vendor partner,” said Cory Higgins, Jetty Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder. “The group’s dedication to the health and growth of the specialty outdoor market aligns perfectly with Jetty’s goals and values. Every aspect of our GOA experience over the past few years has been thoughtful and professional. The brand and retailer curation is top notch, and the Connect Show is efficient and well organized. We’re looking forward to continuing our journey within the GOA and building more long-lasting partnerships.”

Now in its 21st year of business, Jetty continues to offer eco-minded, durable apparel that embodies the fickle conditions of northeast surf and encourages outdoor adventure despite the weather. As a B-Corp Certified company, Jetty prioritizes reducing waste, creating premium products, and supporting coastal communities through its nonprofit, the Jetty Rock Foundation,  a​ registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization that has donated more than $2.3 Million to clean​ water initiatives and disaster relief efforts.​

Retailer attendance at Grassroots’ upcoming Connect Show will be up 13-percent to 157 retail businesses, vendor attendance will increase 8 percent to 134 brands, and total buyers in attendance will rise 3.5-percent to 387, compared to numbers at last Fall’s Connect Show.

About Grassroots Outdoor Alliance

Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is a retailer-owned network of 95 independently owned outdoor retailers and 66 vendor partners, working together for the health and growth of specialty outdoor retail. Through data collection and analysis, direct member support, specialty events and deep vendor partnerships, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is creating both a vision and roadmap for the long-term success of independent specialty retail. Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is recognized as a catalyst for the success of its retailers and vendor partners; an advocate for specialty independent retail; a promoter of education and community within the specialty channel; and a key influencer of the national outdoor industry. Grassroots Outdoor Alliance also operates Connect, a twice-annual legacy show experience that spans four days, offering an efficient and structured format for retailers to conduct pre-season line showings and business conversations.

About Jetty

Founded in 2003, Jetty was created on a shared love of surf, fishing, art, travel, and music and a desire to draw its own line. Now in its 21st year of business and a Certified B Corp, Jetty continues to offer eco-minded, durable apparel that embodies the fickle conditions of Northeast surf and encourages outdoor adventure despite the weather. For more info, visit www.JettyLife.com or follow @thejettylife on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

 

 

CARRBORO, N.C. (October 24, 2024) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores, today announced its 2024 holiday campaign designed to empower customers to curate their perfect gift lists and enhance their shopping experience.

Fleet Feet’s approach focuses on guiding customers through creating personalized wishlists on fleetfeet.com, complemented by engaging in-store events and exclusive giveaways. Fleet Feet plans to market the campaign across all brandwide marketing and advertising channels to create a seamless omnichannel campaign and shopping experience.

“Fleet Feet is dedicated to making this holiday season memorable for our customers,” said Ashley Arnold, director of brand marketing. “Holiday shopping can be stressful, and our goal is to take the guesswork out of it by offering our customers an opportunity to create a shoppable wish list, down to their preferred sizes and colors, so their loved ones know the perfect gifts to give.”

As a part of the campaign, Fleet Feet is launching multiple giveaway moments, including three chances to win an entire wishlist valued up to $1,500, and 15 Days of Giveaways filled with exciting prizes from brand partners including ASICS, Brooks, HOKA, New Balance, On and Saucony. Each brand will have two giveaway days, and customers will be randomly selected and gifted footwear or apparel from that brand if it is included on their wishlist.

Customers can also visit their local Fleet Feet for festive in-store events, such as Jolly Jogs and Friends and Family gatherings, along with holiday retail moments that foster community and celebration.

Beginning today, customers can create an account on fleetfeet.com to begin building, managing and sharing their wishlists.

Start building your perfect wishlist today at fleetfeet.com.

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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.

 

 

 

 

SEATTLE – October 24, 2024 – Craft Sportswear, the Swedish brand renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence in endurance sports, is thrilled to announce the opening of its first-ever U.S. pop-up store at 437 Broadway in SoHo, just in time for the 2024 New York City Marathon. Open from October 25 to November 3, this unique retail space will serve as the basecamp for Craft’s marathon-week events and exclusive product offerings.

The pop-up store will feature the highly-anticipated Kype Pro, Craft’s latest super shoe designed for elite runners. Engineered to provide unparalleled performance, the Kype Pro is crafted for athletes who consistently push their limits,  offering an advanced blend of speed, comfort, and technology for the serious marathon runner.

In addition to the Kype Pro, the store will offer a range of limited-edition products available exclusively in New York, including Craft’s Elite Run Team kits, a collection of bio-based technical running gear, and special Craft X NYC pieces. Visitors will also enjoy a sleek Scandinavian-inspired store design, reflecting Craft’s commitment to minimalism, functionality, and style.

As part of its NYC Marathon initiatives, Craft is excited to introduce the Stoplight Discount. Understanding the frustration city runners face with frequent stoplights, Craft has created an engaging initiative to turn those stops into rewards. Runners can turn time spent waiting at stoplights to discounts on gear at the SoHo pop-up store by uploading their run to Strava. Every 10 seconds of downtime equals a 5% discount, up to 30%.

“We’re excited to bring Craft to New York City for our first-ever pop-up in the US,” said Jake Rawson, CEO at Craft Sportswear USA. “The energy and passion of the NYC endurance sports community have always inspired us, and we see this as a fantastic opportunity to connect with such a vibrant group of athletes. We can’t wait to introduce the Kype, our latest super shoe, designed for runners who push their limits, just like we do at Craft. We look forward to sharing this experience with everyone and seeing how it unfolds alongside this amazing community.”

The pop-up store will host a variety of marathon-related events throughout the week, including group runs, community meetups, and exclusive marathon gear releases:

• Friday, October 25
  • Pop-up premiere w/ early access to the Kype Pro
• Saturday, October 26
  • Reckless Run Crew Long Run
• Friday, November 1
  • Take the Bridge Race presented by Craft
• Saturday, November 2
  • Craft Shakeout Run hosted by The Reckless Run Crew
• Sunday, November 3
  • Craft-supported Cheering Zone with Reckless Run Crew at Ray’s Bar (905 Lorimer Street, Brooklyn – 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM)

Craft’s pop-up location will be open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering marathoners and visitors the perfect space to explore top-tier sportswear and connect with the brand ahead of one of the most iconic races in the world.

ABOUT CRAFT

Craft is a Swedish brand specializing in clothing and gear for endurance sports where performance and comfort are crucial for optimal results. Working closely with elite athletes and constantly developing new materials and technical solutions, Craft offers innovative training and competition apparel and footwear for World Champions and Everyday Heroes.  For more information, visit craftsports.us

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANDER, Wyo. (Oct. 24, 2024) – Maven Outdoor Equipment Company, a Wyoming-based direct-to-consumer brand known for offering world-class optics at affordable prices, has expanded its premium RS series with the introduction of the RS.6, a versatile new riflescope. The RS.6 marks Maven’s entry into the LPVO (low-power variable optic) riflescope category.

Built on Maven’s award-winning premium ED glass, the RS.6 is a first focal plane LPVO designed for versatility across various applications—from big-game hunting to tactical shooting and competition environments—the RS.6 is the ultimate multi-purpose riflescope. The RS.6 offers users a choice between MIL (CFR-2) or MOA (MOA-3)-based illuminated reticles, giving users the flexibility to choose the reticle markings best suited for their needs.

“The RS.6 represents a significant expansion of our RS series, addressing the growing demand for versatile, rugged, and high-performing LPVOs,” said Brendon Weaver, Co-Founder and Head of Design/Marketing for Maven. “We’ve leveraged our expertise in premium optics to create a riflescope that excels in both short and medium-range scenarios, offering shooters and hunters unparalleled flexibility.”

The RS.6 boasts a 1x-10x magnification range, providing a wide field of view at low power for close-range employment and the ability to dial up to 10x for mid-range shots. With a 34mm tube and 28mm objective lens, this optic offers an ideal balance of compact size and light transmission. The five-stage illuminated reticle ensures quick target acquisition, making it highly adaptable for variable-light shooting scenarios.

At 10.6 inches long and weighing 20.11 ounces, the RS.6 is designed for quick target acquisition and easy handling, making it ideal for fast-paced shooting scenarios and versatile hunting situations. This makes it a perfect companion for hunters and shooters who demand mobility without compromising on precision.

The Maven RS.6 riflescope ($1,600) is now available at www.mavenbuilt.com. As with all Maven products, the RS.6 is built with durability in mind and backed by the company’s unconditional lifetime warranty, ensuring that it will stand up to the toughest conditions.

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About Maven

Maven is a Wyoming-based direct-to-consumer brand known for offering world-class optics at affordable prices. By cutting out the middleman and selling directly to the consumer, the company eliminates retail markups and is, therefore, able to produce affordable products using best-in-class components. The result is high-quality optics offered at an exceptional value and covered by a lifetime warranty.

Media Contacts

Buck Martin, Backbone Media

buck.martin@backbone.media

(970) 963-4873 ext. 1140

 

 

 

(October 24, 2024) – Twelve leading outdoor brands, spanning categories such as backpacks, apparel, and footwear, have united to support The Conservation Alliance (TCA) through the #WeKeepItWild campaign. From October 24-30, 5% of all online sales from participating brands will be donated to TCA to help protect North America’s wild places. The participating brands include Backpacker’s Pantry, La Sportiva, Oboz Footwear, Gregory Packs, Nomadix, Shar Snacks, Gu Energy Labs, Adventure KEEN, BOCO Gear, Royal Robbins, Superfeet and Astronaut Foods.

During the campaign, consumers can purchase from their favorite outdoor brands while contributing to TCA’s mission of funding and advocating for the protection of wild spaces across the continent. Since 1989, TCA has helped protect 124 million acres of land. Just in the last four years, they’ve played a key role in protecting key landscapes like Alaska’s Tongass Forest, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota, and National Monuments across the U.S.

“The #WeKeepItWild campaign unites brands with a shared passion for preserving the outdoors,” said Paul Hendricks, Executive Director of TCA. “Thanks to the support of our members, we can fund grassroots organizations that are actively protecting public lands and waters. We’re deeply thankful to the brands participating in this year’s campaign and encourage shoppers to support them, knowing their purchases will help protect the wild places we all cherish.”

Participating brands are committed to giving back to the outdoor community and supporting the preservation of the wild places we enjoy. The funds raised through this campaign will directly support efforts to protect public lands and waters across North America.

Join the #WeKeepItWild campaign by shopping with these brands from October 24-30, 2024. For more information about The Conservation Alliance, visit conservationalliance.com.

About The Conservation Alliance

The Conservation Alliance is a coalition of over 270 like-minded member companies who pool resources to fund and advocate for the protection of North America’s cherished wild places and outdoor spaces. Through the collective power of their membership – companies from a range of industries – from the outdoor industry to brewers, bankers, sportsmen, and renewable energy – take bold steps to conserve wild public lands and waters. Since 1989, they’ve awarded over $33.1 million in grants and helped protect over 124 million acres and 4,964 river miles, remove or halt 41 dams, purchase 22 climbing areas & designate five marine reserves. For complete information about The Conservation Alliance, visit conservationalliance.com.

Media Contact:
Becca Katz

360-441-5620

becca@verdepr.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PARK CITY, Utah (Oct. 24, 2024) – Rossignol, an industry leader in winter sports equipment for 117 years, has solved one of the most common barriers to the sport of skiing with the introduction of its all-new Vizion ski boot family. Boasting three unique patent-pending innovations, Vizion is the world’s first high-performance, four-buckle ski boot to offer truly hands-free, slipper-like entry and exit.

Since the inception of the plastic ski boot, ease of entry and exit and legitimate alpine performance have never coexisted. Rear-entry boots lack performance and precision, while traditional overlap boots are often challenging to slide into when sized correctly.

The introduction of Vizion has officially eliminated the need to compromise with unanimous positive feedback and “Best in Test” accolades coming from the team at America’s Best Bootfitters. Noteworthy tester comments included, “…the best I have seen for matching ease of entry with legitimate performance,” “something that the market truly needs,” and “Boot of the Year,” highlighting that an all-too-common problem for skiers has finally been solved.

The Vizion boots also secured the top accolades in both SKI Magazine and Outside Magazine.

Offered in multiple flexes and lasts for both men and women, Vizion offers broad market appeal no matter skill level or foot shape. Its ultra-intuitive design is brought to life through Rossignol’s revolutionary Step In Technology.

Composed of three patent-pending innovations, Rossignol’s Step In Technology addresses the problem of pairing ease of use and performance with an innovative design that allows the upper cuff to retract backward on the lower shell, making it extremely easy to get a foot into or out of the boot. Once the foot is in the boot, an integrated mechanism ensures the cuff locks into ski mode at the same time the buckles are closed, ensuring error-free use paired with real alpine power and precision.

Mark Elling, Test Director for America’s Best Bootfitters added, “As far as I can tell, this is a home run. I’m ready to start selling them ASAP. I’ve already got a waiting list.” 

Rossignol’s Step In Technology will feature prominently in its ski boot line looking to future seasons.

Learn more about Vizion here and check out the entire winter collection at Rossignol.com

About Group Rossignol

Headed by CEO Vincent Wauters, Group Rossignol designs, manufactures and markets a broad range of winter sports and outdoor equipment. The Group’s brands provide a continuous, year-round experience accompanying consumers in every moment of sporting effort and leisure, from elite-level athletes to amateurs, from the mountains to the city. The Group’s global headquarters is located in the French Alps near Grenoble with five different industrial sites (Sallanches, Nevers, Saint Etienne de Saint Geoirs, Artès, Montebelluna) across western Europe and a U.S. headquarters in Park City, Utah. The Group houses a strong portfolio of complementary brands: Rossignol – the iconic brand for winter sports, and ready-to-wear fashion and apparel; Dynastar – the specialist ski brand; Lange – the iconic ski boot brand; Look – the long-standing premium manufacturer of ski bindings; Risport – the reference for ice-skating; Kerma – specialized in ski poles and technical equipment; and Dale of Norway – an iconic Norwegian brand known for its high-quality wool-based knitwear. Each has built their own unique identity and draws their inspiration from the mountains. Rossignol is majority owned by Nordic Private Equity fund Altor since 2013.

GROUP ROSSIGNOL: 1413 Center Drive – PO Box 981060 – Park City, UT 84098 – T. 435-252-3300 – F. 435-252-3301