TrainingPeaks Acquires indieVelo, Launches TrainingPeaks Virtual

Louisville, Colo. (October 29, 2024) – TrainingPeaks, the industry-leading training app for endurance coaches and athletes, today announced the acquisition of virtual cycling platform indieVelo, now known as TrainingPeaks Virtual.

The introduction of this solution into the TrainingPeaks ecosystem reinforces the brand’s commitment to providing endurance coaches with the most complete and integrated suite of tools that allow their athletes to train on their terms — indoor or outdoor, year-round.

The beta version of TrainingPeaks Virtual is now available for free through a single-sign-on experience with a new or existing TrainingPeaks athlete account. After March 2025, TrainingPeaks Virtual will be part of TrainingPeaks Premium.

TrainingPeaks Virtual beta features a custom physics engine for better power accuracy, credible racing and more realistic riding, including drafting, cornering, braking and line choice. Athlete schedules and structured workouts from coaches and training plans seamlessly sync to the virtual cycling platform, and ride data automatically uploads back into TrainingPeaks. The seamless syncing of TrainingPeaks zones, FTP, workout compliance and other integrated experiences will be developed in the future.

The announcement of TrainingPeaks Virtual comes on the heels of the recently launched Strength Workout Builder,  which allows coaches to save time, look pro, and gain valuable insights into how their athletes are performing strength training alongside their endurance workouts.

“We want to ensure that coaches have a seamless onboarding experience for their athletes into the world of training,” said TrainingPeaks President Lee Gerakos. “There’s a lot of friction today that creates barriers and challenges for our coaches, and this acquisition helps introduce athletes to that world more easily.”

“indieVelo was created to serve the needs of athletes, coaches and event organizers — a community of people who share a vision of what online cycling and esports could be if their priorities were put first,” said indieVelo founder Dr. George Gilbert. “With its community-friendly features, realistic racing physics, and a focus on credibility, it rapidly became the number one choice for those committed to training and racing.”

The newly acquired assets of IndieVelo now enable TrainingPeaks coaches to strengthen their communities with increased athlete engagement through virtually hosted group rides, events and races. With robust customization features, TrainingPeaks Virtual can look however the coach wants — with custom avatars, bikes, team kits and branded events.

“TrainingPeaks Virtual will provide coaches with a platform to engage athletes year-round, with a reliable and customizable indoor training experience within the same ecosystem of tools that they and their athletes trust,” said Gerakos. “We will continue to develop and integrate these solutions with the coach in mind as we strive to provide the best coaching tools on the market.”

“The core values of trust and authentic achievement are something that both indieVelo and TrainingPeaks share, and as TrainingPeaks Virtual, we are doubling down on that focus in the future,” said Gilbert. “This acquisition brings both the investment and the expertise needed to take it to the next level — creating a fully integrated, seamless training and racing platform, both indoors and out.”

About TrainingPeaks

TrainingPeaks creates endurance training apps and solutions that help athletes and coaches reach their goals. Featuring the world’s largest endurance training marketplace, athletes can find personalized training plans, accredited coaches and easy-to-use apps and integrations to track their progress and reach their goals. TrainingPeaks is trusted by runners, cyclists, and triathletes around the world including Tour de France teams, IRONMAN® World Champions and Olympians. Learn more at trainingpeaks.com.

 

 

 

ROLL Recovery Launches SUPERPLUSH™ Recovery Footwear Collection

BOULDER, Colo. (Oct. 29, 2024)ROLL Recovery, an award-winning leader in the recovery and athletic performance space and innovators of deep tissue massage therapy tools, announces the launch of the all-new SUPERPLUSH™ Recovery Footwear collection. The full lineup offers a performance recovery shoe, slide and flip flop style in an array of colorways.

ROLL Recovery’s Proprietary SUPERPLUSH™ foam midsole, composed of algae and EVA with BLOOM Foam Technology—a premium and sustainable foam that reduces carbon footprint and petroleum use— is the foundation of the line. This midsole offers the optimal ratio of cushioning and support to help athletes throughout the many hours of the day that do not involve active training.

While flip flops and slides are coming soon, the collection debuts with the SUPERPLUSH™ Classic closed-toe shoe featuring ORTHOFIT™ support for arch and midfoot comfort. Its upper consists of ROLL Recovery’s proprietary AIRYARN™ mesh made of recycled PET sourced from ocean plastics. This lightweight, high-stretch yarn offers optimal breathability and comfort. Each style is designed with sizing considerations for men and women which support the structural differences of the foot, weight distribution and required support.

The footwear was designed and developed by Jeremy Nelson — ROLL Recovery co-founder and engineer. Nelson is also the visionary and engineer of ROLL Recovery’s flagship and award-winning recovery and massage devices. Similar to ROLL Recovery’’s existing products, Jeremy’s focus when it comes to footwear was on quality, comfort and minimalist design — with sustainability in mind. ROLL Recovery set out to ensure its recovery footwear delivers optimal comfort, fit and breathability without excess materials.

“The SUPERPLUSH™ line was created to be a refuge for tired feet and promote overall foot health. At ROLL Recovery, we approach sports recovery from a holistic approach and we are thrilled to round out our product offerings with footwear that not only feels great and supports athlete recovery, but with an aesthetic that looks great enough to wear every day,” said Jeremy Nelson, Co- founder and CEO of ROLL Recovery. “We realized most footwear is designed for looks and not foot health. Too tight and restricting with performance footwear. Too soft, squishy, and unsupportive with recovery footwear currently on the market. So after performing extensive research and design the SUPERPLUSH™ line was born.”

ROLL Recovery footwear also features a CRADLE DESIGN™ Structured Footbed. It’s not too soft, too rockered, but just right. ROLL Recovery’s footwear has an engineered footbed offering the optimal balance of comfort and structure, with an ergonomic “cocoon effect” where the user has the sensation their foot is inside of it and not simply standing on it.

“As a professional marathoner, my feet and legs take a pounding and while we focus so often on what shoes we wear to run in, few consider what they wear to help promote recovery after long training sessions. In developing this collection, we were focused on offering footwear that is supremely comfortable and engineered in a way with structured support that reduces pressure on the feet,” added Co-Founder Adriana Nelson. “ Last but not least, we are never willing to compromise on the highest quality and sustainable materials.”

SUPERPLUSH™ Classic:

  • Available now at ROLL Recovery
  • 8mm heel-to-toe drop
  • 28mm heel stack height
  • 5 oz (M9)
  • MSRP $110

SUPERPLUSH™ Slide

  • Available mid-November
  • 7 oz (M9)
  • MSRP $69.00

SUPERPLUSH™ Flipflop

  • Available mid-November
  • 5 oz (M9)
  • MSRP $69.00

The footwear will join ROLL Recovery’s flagship, award-winning suite of massage and recovery tools which include the R8 Plus deep tissue muscle roller, R4 Body Roller and the acclaimed R1 Percussion Massager, which are all FDA Registered Medical Devices that have been tested and inspired by elite athletes. ​​

ROLL Recovery products are available at over 500 specialty retail locations and online. For additional information about ROLL Recovery’s full collection of massage and recovery devices and footwear, please visit rollrecovery.com. To keep up with the latest news from ROLL Recovery, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and check out their blog.

About ROLL Recovery
Born in a garage in Boulder, Colorado, ROLL Recovery was created out of a need. The founders, inventor and mechanical engineer Jeremy Nelson and professional athlete Adriana Nelson, set out to create an effective massage tool that would replicate the hands of a massage therapist as much as possible. The company’s mission is to create exceptionally designed, functional tools, unlike anything else on the market, and mobile enough to use anywhere. ROLL Recovery’s massage and recovery tools, led by the R8 which originally launched in 2012, are FDA Registered Medical Devices tested and inspired by elite athletes. The company stands by the values of integrity, hard work, and putting people above all else. For additional information, visit rollrecovery.com.

Media Contact: Lauren Haber, lauren@verdepr.com, Assets Library

Kahtoola Launches MICROspikes® Ghost Footwear Traction for Fall 2025 Hiking and Trail Running Adventures

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (Oct. 29, 2024) Kahtoola, the market leader in flexible footwear traction designed to make people more capable in the outdoors, is excited to announce the launch of its newest traction innovation, the lightweight MICROspikes® Ghost available at retailers in fall 2025. Designed to safely navigate slick, snow-covered trails quietly and efficiently, MICROspikes Ghost offers an improved outdoor experience.

Chain-free, lighter, and more packable than Kahtoola’s legendary MICROspikes®, MICROspikes Ghost features new materials and construction designed over a multi-year testing period to create a smaller, ultralight (42% lighter) version of its predecessor.

“For years, we’ve dreamed of creating a lighter, more packable version of the original MICROspikes – one that provides the same reliable traction, but with significantly reduced weight and bulk,” notes Chris Bunch, Head of Research and Development for Kahtoola. “This vision set us on a multi-year journey that involved rethinking everything, from materials and construction to rigorous testing. For the past nine years, every Kahtoola team member has been instrumental in making this dream a reality.”

Built for fast packers, trail runners and thru-hikers, the high performance, durable MICROspikes Ghost offers chainless performance with minimal bulk and weight (pair size M: 9.6 oz) to maximize valuable pack space. MICROspikes Ghost features a hard-wearing, slim TPU matrix with 12 aggressive spikes per foot for optimal stability, and articulating rivets that move independently to efficiently shed snow. A hybrid elastomer harness features patented reinforced eyelets at key stress points with a raised heel tab that easily slides over running and hiking shoes.

“Since Kahtoola was founded nearly 26 years ago, we’ve always focused on creating lightweight, efficient solutions that enhance adventure and human potential without compromising safety or the overall experience,” said Danny Giovale, founder and owner of Kahtoola. “Every product we make is driven by our own passion for the outdoors and the desire to redefine what’s possible in backcountry travel.”

MICROspikes Ghost is available in unisex sizing XS-XL (US women’s size 6-11, US men’s size 6.5-14) and includes a packable tote sack. MSRP $99.95.

Starting in September 2025, every pair of Kahtoola’s stretch-on traction, including MICROspikes Ghost, will be backed by a new extended 4-year warranty program as part of the brand’s commitment to build long-lasting outdoor gear for increased sustainability. Annually, Kahtoola contributes 1% of its revenue to nonprofits focused on protecting the environment, strengthening outdoor communities and supporting indigenous cultures.

For wholesale information on the new MICROspikes Ghost, please contact sales@kahtoola.com. For details on Kahtoola’s products, retail partners and philanthropic endeavors, please visit www.kahtoola.com.

About Kahtoola:

Established in 1999, Kahtoola crafts exceptional outdoor gear with a commitment to philanthropy, conservation, and sustainability. Kahtoola’s gaiters, hiking crampons and traction systems, including MICROspikes® footwear traction, are built to elevate human potential in the outdoors. 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.

Media Contact:

Catherine Donovan

Terra PR

323-708-6953

CatherineD@terrapublicrelations.com

 

Mammut taps Matt Kaplan as managing director of North America

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

 

 

Backpacker’s Pantry and Astronaut Foods are part of the fall 2024 ‘We Keep it Wild’ campaign to support conservation efforts

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.

##

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.