Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps (ESCC) Completes Successful 2024 Trail Work Season

[Bishop, CA] October 15, 2024 – Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps (ESCC) is proud to announce the completion of its 2024 trail work season, marked by significant contributions to trail maintenance and wilderness restoration across California’s national forests and state parks. From May 28 to September 20, ESCC’s dedicated crews worked at locations including Eldorado National Forest, Klamath National Forest, Limekiln State Park, San Jacinto State Park, and Inyo National Forest.

Key achievements from the season include maintaining over 17 miles of trails, building 81 causeways, installing 40 rock steps, and restoring over 70,000 square feet of campsites. Crews also cleared 88 logs, constructed rock walls, and completed 109 drain clearings to improve trail safety and sustainability.

“Our crews not only honed their technical skills in trail maintenance but also grew as leaders through immersive experiences in remote wilderness settings,” said Agnes Vianzon, founder and executive director of ESCC. “Their resilience and teamwork, even in the face of unpredictable weather and tough terrain, were remarkable. The work they’ve done will have a lasting impact on both the land and the outdoor community.”

This season’s success also reflects ESCC’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion. Crews included participants from historically underrepresented communities in the outdoors, including Black, Indigenous, AAPI, Women, and LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals. The 2024 season crew was also ESCC’s first all trans-identifying trail crew. Their collective efforts not only enhanced the work accomplished but also helped foster a more inclusive outdoor culture.

In addition to trail maintenance, ESCC’s work focused on environmental stewardship. Crews contributed to long-term efforts by rehabilitating damaged ecosystems, building sustainable trail infrastructure, and mitigating erosion, ensuring that these natural spaces will remain accessible and protected for future generations.

Looking ahead, ESCC is excited to build on the successes of 2024. “This season laid a strong foundation for future trail work projects and deepened our mission of making the outdoors accessible to all,” said Vianzon.

To learn more about ESCC and how to get involved, visit https://www.easternsierracc.org/.

To Donate to ESCC, visit https://www.easternsierracc.org/donate

About Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps (ESCC):

Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps is a developmental leadership organization committed to building a stronger, more inclusive outdoor community. Since 2016, ESCC has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the field of trail work, pioneering inclusivity and community-building initiatives while undertaking vital conservation projects across California’s wild spaces. ESCC actively recruits and empowers leaders from historically marginalized communities, striving to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

 

 

SENIQ, Apparel Designed for Women By Women, Debuts 2024 Ski System with Nuanced, Purposeful Silhouettes With Fresh, Modern Design Available Oct. 15

COLUMBUS, Ohio – (October 15 2024) – SENIQ, the outdoor apparel brand built for women by women, today introduced its 2024 Ski Collection, arriving at retail October 15. It embraces a fresh design approach using bold color blocks blended with flattering, feminine style lines and female specific performance features. The collection includes five jackets, bibs, wool baselayers, and fleece pullovers meeting the functionality demands of today’s skier while keeping fashion at the forefront. Priced from $128 to $498, the SENIQ 2024 Ski System will be available at SENIQbrand.com and at select retailers.

“Most women’s ski lines make you choose between style and performance,” said Tina Thompson, co-founder of SENIQ. “SENIQ changes the game. Our ski collection delivers fresh, trend-forward design without compromising technical functionality. Finally, women have apparel that empowers them on the slopes with both style and performance.”

SENIQ’s ski collection is designed by snowsport athletes for a wide range of winter activities. The line incorporates entirely distinct pocketing solutions enabling wearers to access each layer in a system seamlessly and intuitively. The SENIQ Snow System pushes the technical and fashionable advancement for winter enthusiasts.

SENIQ’s head designer, Georgia Newman, brings over fifteen years of fashion and lifestyle expertise, having worked at Calvin Klein, The Row, Faherty and Tory Burch Sport.

“Snowscapes are some of nature’s most beautiful contours,” said Newman, “Wind and temperature variables carve out cliffs and drifts. Echoing these snowscapes, SENIQ’s style lines highlight the feminine form. In contrast to this curvature, we incorporated straight diagonal seaming and pocketing, highlighting the best in class performance and concentration often needed when exploring snowy terrain.”

To launch the 2024 Ski Collection, Founders Thompson and Hilson will travel to select winter resorts in Colorado and Utah to host pop-up events where consumers may try and purchase. Driving an INEOS Grenadier, they will make stops at key destinations, bringing both adventure and innovation to the heart of the winter sports community.

Key Pieces from the Collection Include:

  • Slopestar Ski Jacket ($448): Engineered for extreme weather conditions with a helmet-compatible hood; body-mapped insulation because women tend to get colder faster: and pit zips for ventilation. A cinchable waistband provides a feminine fit option while vibrant neons enable devotees to express their personality.
  • Slopestar Ski Bib ($398) To be worn with the Slopestar Jacket, this bib has superior mobility with articulated patterning and ergonomic pockets for all storage needs. The open-back design helps with movement and adjustable straps deliver a flattering, functional fit, while thigh vents and abrasion guards make it an essential for serious skiers.
  • Half-Baked Fleece Pullover ($198) – This high-pile wool-blend fleece pullover has color-blocked designs and neon accents. The Half Baked Fleece provides cozy warmth and easy storage solutions with multiple pockets and a waist length for a laid-back fit.
  • Cabin Fever Baselayer Mock Neck ($128) – Crafted from a luxurious wool blend, this midweight baselayer delivers trusted warmth and breathability. It pairs perfectly with any snow apparel and features a form-fitting design with thumbholes for added comfort.
  • Cabin Fever Baselayer Legging ($128) – Designed to move with the wearer, these baselayer leggings feature a no-itch waistband and breathable mesh for temperature control. Worn solo or layered, the leggings provide next-to-skin comfort with moisture-wicking and odor-control properties.
  • Powderpuff Down Jacket ($498) – Overstuffed with premium down for warmth on cold resort days, this jacket features an asymmetric front zip, preventing chin irritation. Extra-large pockets that allow bib access and a dedicated ski pass pocket provide convenience for the slopes.

One percent of each purchase goes to Women’s Wilderness, a non-profit enabling girls, women, and non-binary people of all ages and backgrounds to find their place in the outdoors and The Mental Health Coalition, a coalition of organizations, brands, and individuals who joined forces to end the stigma surrounding mental health. Consumers choose which nonprofit to support at check-out. Founders Hilson and Thompson focused on mental health because of their own personal struggles.

For more information, please visit SENIQbrand.com.

About SENIQ

SENIQ, launched in 2024 in Columbus, Ohio, is an outdoor apparel brand for women by women with a goal of empowering a community of outdoor enthusiasts to unlock their optimal wellness without compromising their style. Co-founders Madison Hilson and Valentina Thompson, accomplished veteran retailers and designers, have over a decade of experience at iconic brands including Backcountry.com, Outdoor Voices and Victoria’s Secret. SENIQ’s innovative performance wear is intentionally designed to excel at being both technical and trend driven supporting women for their entire lifestyle from street to trail. The brand uses bold, rich colors to stand out in the marketplace, aligning with the adventurous spirit of the modern outdoorswoman. SENIQ’s chief mission is to empower minds through the outdoors and encourage the prioritization of mental health and wellbeing. By connecting mind to movement, the outdoors becomes more than just grounds for physical activity, but more importantly, an oasis for mental reset and growth.

SENIQ donates 1% of sales to various foundations that provide mental wellness resources to underserved communities. Shop the collection and learn more at www.SENIQbrand.com

Media Contact: Charlotte Daher de Garcia, CGPR, 781-710-7284

charlotte@cgprpublicrelations.com

Nite Ize Reinvents the Ratchet Strap with Four Fully Loaded Systems

BOULDER, Colo. – October 15, 2024Nite Ize®, a leading manufacturer of innovative solution-based products, today launched the groundbreaking CamJam Ratchet Strap collection. Available at niteize.com now, the ratchet strap systems and accessories reimagine the classic commodity product with an unparalleled, user-friendly approach, delivering the first major innovation to the category in over 50 years. The new systems promise adjustable positioning, secure attachment, and easy tensioning and release.

“This proprietary ratchet program is our greatest innovation to date,” said Rick Case, Nite Ize founder and CEO. “Developed over 7 years, the CamJam system precisely addresses all the pain points users have come to know with ratchet straps; I can’t wait to see people experience the difference.”

CamJam Ratchet Strap System: This patented system provides the first-ever removable, adjustable ratchet for customizable positioning. The built-in Tension Boost Technology supports long-lasting performance, enabling easy tensioning of medium to heavy loads. Users can attach the strap using a versatile girth hitch and release high tension with ease. The small system has a working load limit of 500 lbs. and is offered in a single and two-pack. The large system has a working load limit of 1,000 lbs. and is available in a two-pack. MSRP $34.99 – $74.99.

CamJamHookLock Ratchet Strap System: This fully loaded system offers adjustable ratchet positioning, effortless tensioning and easy release. Bolstered by a spring-actuated HookLock Strap Hook, the hook instantly secures to various anchor points and stays attached without tension. The included storage bags offer easy organization of the system between uses or while in use. The small system has a working load limit of 500 lbs. and the large system has a working load limit of 1,000 lbs. Both are sold in a two-pack. MSRP $89.99 – $99.99

The CamJam HookLock Strap Hook is sold separately as a two-pack, threading onto one-inch straps as a superior hook alternative, with a working load limit of 1,000 pounds. MSRP $27.99

The CamJam™ Strap Wrap transforms a tangled tie down into a tidy bundle, allowing users to easily store their straps between uses or secure excess strap while under tension. MSRP $5.99

For more information, visit the product collection.

To learn how Nite Ize reinvented the ratchet strap, watch this video.

About Nite Ize

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Nite Ize designs, manufactures and globally distributes innovative, inventor-driven products that creatively solve everyday challenges. Nite Ize offers more than 500 products across various channels including: Waterproof Protection, Mobile, Hardware, Illumination, Bike + Fitness and Pet. Led by original founder Rick Case, Nite Ize team members are passionate about their products, customers, partners and the environment. For more information, visit NiteIze.com.

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Media Contact: 

Lindsey Clinkingbeard, CGPR

lindsey.clinkingbeard@offmadisonave.com

602-432-1667

 

 

 

FeatherSnap Announces Expansion into Brick-and-Mortar Retail

Decorah, IA – October 14, 2024 – FeatherSnap, a brand created to revolutionize birdwatching, proudly announces its expansion into brick-and-mortar retailers nationwide. Beginning this month, FeatherSnap’s state-of-the-art Wi-Fi enabled smart bird feeders will be available at several retailers across the U.S., including Bass Pro Shops, SCHEELS, and more. This represents a significant milestone for the emerging brand, previously available only through e-commerce platforms.

Launched in June 2024, FeatherSnap offers smart bird feeders that combine advanced camera technology with ornithologist-trained AI to bring the wonder of birdwatching to your fingertips. FeatherSnap allows you to watch the birds at your feeder from anywhere in the world, as well as capture high-res photos and videos to share with family and friends. The FeatherSnap App elevates the customer experience through expert-trained AI identification of more than 275 North American species, a Bird Book to track and categorize sightings, Fun Facts, and more. With a design philosophy rooted in simplicity, FeatherSnap is at the forefront of smart feeder technology that everyone can enjoy.

“This is a tremendous step forward for FeatherSnap as we introduce our smart bird feeders to retail customers across the country,” says Abigail Knox, FeatherSnap’s Director of Brand Management. “We’re honored to partner with retailers that share our passion for outdoor adventure and wildlife appreciation. Being present in physical retail allows us to connect with even more nature enthusiasts in a tangible way. And this is only the beginning – we’re planning more retail partnerships in 2025 to expand our reach even further.”

If you are a retailer interested in carrying FeatherSnap bird feeders, please reach out to support@feathersnapcam.com. For more information about FeatherSnap products, go to www.feathersnapcam.com or contact Suzanne Hermann at suzanne@darbycommunications.com.

About FeatherSnap

FeatherSnap revolutionizes birdwatching, seamlessly connecting users to nature through Wi-Fi-enabled smart bird feeders. As leaders in the camera industry, we deliver unrivaled quality and user-friendly experiences. Simplicity is at the core of our design philosophy, making our feeders easy to use, maintain, and pair with no need for technical expertise. Engage effortlessly with our smart bird feeders through the FeatherSnap mobile app, featuring unique storage and identification features like Bird Book and expert-trained AI models. FeatherSnap offers a blend of technology and nature, creating moments of joy, excitement, and endless fascination in the world of birdwatching.

Striker Brands Expands Open Water Fishing Apparel Lineup

October 11, 2024 – Hudson, WI Striker Brands, a leading name in innovative fishing gear, is proud to introduce the Tournament Pant and Barricade Hoody. These new additions are designed to provide anglers with unmatched comfort and protection during long days on the water, no matter the conditions.

“Striker Brands continues to expand our lineup of open water fishing apparel designed for dedicated anglers,” says Marketing Manager Richard Pata. “Whether you’re competing at the highest level or exploring new waters, the Tournament Pant and Barricade Hoody are sure to become trusted favorites.”

Tournament Pant: The Striker Tournament Pant offers anglers the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and performance. Made with quick-drying, UPF 50+ fabric and featuring a breathable laser-drilled crotch gusset, these pants keep you cool and protected on and off the water. Five secure pockets, including a quick-access fishing pliers pocket with a lanyard loop, provide ample storage for essentials. Designed with a durable water-repellent finish and a flexible, straight-leg fit, these versatile pants are built for long days of fishing while maintaining a sleek look for everyday wear. With a full elastic waistband for added comfort, the Striker Tournament Pant ensures a secure fit during active movements. Its rugged 90% Nylon/10% Spandex blend provides the perfect combination of flexibility and durability, making it an essential piece of gear for any serious angler. MSRP: $79.99

Barricade Hoody: The Barricade Hoody is designed for anglers seeking superior warmth, protection, and convenience in cool-to-cold weather. Made from a durable fabric blend of 95% Polyester and 5% Spandex (330gsm), this hoody features PFC-free DWR treatment for reliable water resistance. The integrated facemask offers optimal face protection and can be conveniently stored inside the hood when not in use. For added safety, a killswitch cord loop is fixed to the waist, while a hidden zippered pocket and pouch hand pockets provide secure storage for essentials. The adjustable hood cinch ensures a snug fit during high-speed activities, and the soft fleece interior delivers incredible warmth and comfort. With reflective details and a fit designed to layer over shirts, the

Barricade Hoody is an essential choice for anglers navigating diverse conditions. MSRP: $59.99

For more information on Striker Brands and the latest product releases, please contact Kade Gewanter at kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About Striker Brands:

Striker Brands LLC was founded in 2005 to provide premium technical apparel for snowmobilers before shifting its focus to the fishing industry in 2010. Known for introducing the first ice fishing suits with Sureflote® flotation assist, Striker has since expanded to offer a wide range of apparel for all fishing and marine activities. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and comfort, Striker continues to serve anglers nationwide with industry-leading products designed for every adventure. You can learn more at https://strikerbrands.com/ or follow on social @strikerbrands.

 

Astral Releases 15th Limited Edition PFD in Collaboration with whitewater legend Dave Fusilli

Oct. 10, 2024– Seattle, Wash. – Astral is proud to introduce its latest GreenJacket LE™ in collaboration with whitewater legend Dave Fusilli. This limited edition jacket is about enjoying the river with everyone, rolling deep, and being supportive of each other’s dreams, similar to a wolf pack. Featuring motifs of wolves, waterfalls, and the ‘Brown Claw’, this is Astral’s 15th limited edition life jacket since 2009. The LE collection represents a unique effort to push the limits of innovation at the intersection of performance, design, and creativity alongside athletes, artists, and nonprofits.

This collaboration GreenJacket LE™, available in a Demshitz Purple colorway, is inspired by Fusilli’s desire to celebrate the whitewater community, who have supported his journey and goals as a kayaker. “This LE represents my journey as a whitewater kayaker,” said Fusilli. “The wolf explains a lot about how I became the paddler I am today. I couldn’t have done it without the help and support from my pack of friends. Do not underestimate what just a little bit of help can provide for someone who is motivated.”

Fusilli adds, “The star shines on the mountains, where snow melts into the rivers that run through the valley. After such a journey, which many of us kayakers can relate to, you probably have a change in your perspective. Such great experiences may make you see things differently, which is represented by the 3rd eye of the wolf. I think it’s so important to try to see things from the other side.”

Alaska-based artist and pilot, Meg Smith adds that “When Dave called me to design this LE, I was more than hyped! To create a meaningful piece of wearable art for a longtime friend who has done so much for a sport I love has been an honor and one of my favorite projects.” The LE is Smith’s second collaborative LE design with Astral. “I’ve always viewed Dave as being part of a Wolfpack and him being an Alpha. Demshitz always rolled in a posse. No matter when yinz have come and gone through the wolfpack, yinz are always family to him. I love that about Dave.”

The GreenJacket LE™ available in Demshitz Purple shares the same platform, architecture, and features as the industry-leading GreenJacket™ Rescue PFD. It is available online at astraldesigns.com and at select retailers.

Astral will donate 5% of online sales of its latest GreenJacket LE™to RISE Erwin, a non-profit directly benefiting the rural communities at the intersection of the Nolichucky River and Appalachian Trail in Southern Appalachia that are beginning a long road to recovery after Hurricane Helene.

To check out the full history of the Astral LE, please visit: https://explore.astraldesigns.com/history-of-greenjacket-le/

For more information on Astral, please visit www.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.

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

Downloadable Studio Images

Active Footwear Gets a Refresh

[Seattle, WA, October 10, 2024]— Continuing its mission of keeping outdoor gear and apparel in use longer, Nikwax, the international leader in PFAS-free technical cleaners and waterproofing products, has released Footwear Refresh. The latest product in its Refresh line, Footwear Refresh is a high-powered deodorizing cleaner designed to freshen and prevent odor build-up in all non-waterproof footwear and insoles.

A build-up of sweat, body oils and dirt encourage the growth of bacteria, causing smelly footwear and decomposition of materials and stitching. Cleaning sandals, sports shoes/boots and footbeds with Footwear Refresh prevents bacterial growth, helping footwear last longer and smell better. Works great on running shoes, sandals, climbing shoes, ski boot liners, insoles, Crocs, etc. Like all Nikwax products, Footwear Refresh is PFAS-free, water-based and non-persistent. All bottles and lids are made from 100% recycled plastic and are recyclable. Offered in a 4.2 ounce bottle with a pump application, Footwear Refresh will be available in the US and Canada.

”Our focus at Nikwax has always been to ensure that the gear you invest in lasts a long time; whether it’s a rain jacket, tent, or hiking boots,” said Nikwax CEO, Brian Davidson. “Non-waterproof active footwear like sandals, running shoes, and climbing shoes can degrade prematurely due to odor and bacterial buildup and a general lack of care. Footwear Refresh helps clean, deodorize, and extend the life of active footwear. With the addition of Footwear Refresh to the Refresh line, we are pleased to have more solutions for our customers and retailers for a broader range of year-round activities.”

Footwear Refresh:

  • Cleans effectively and eliminates persistent odors.
  • Extends the life of footwear.
  • Contains no PFAS, is water-based and non-persistent.
  • Recommended for running and gym shoes, sandals, Birkenstocks, insoles, climbing shoes and all other non-waterproof footwear.

About Nikwax

Founded in 1977, Nikwax is the trusted global leader in environmentally safe cleaning and waterproofing solutions that extend the performance life of outdoor clothing, footwear, and equipment. The brand also supplies top-performing PFAS-free hydrophobic down and DWR applications for outdoor brands. Nikwax’s 47-year commitment to clean chemistry means never using PFAS or aerosols, and not testing on animals. Its product line is water-based and non-persistent, and all product bottles and lids are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic that can also be recycled. Nikwax has carbon balanced all 47 years of its operations and became an employee-owned trust in 2022. For media inquiries and more information, please contact Kate Ketschek at Revolution House Media, kate@revolutionhousemedia.com.

 

 

 

Moultrie Expands Edge 2 Series with First Lite Edition

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (October 10, 2024) — Moultrie, the leading innovator in trail camera and feeder technology, has teamed up with First Lite to offer the popular Edge 2 series cell cameras in Specter™ Camo. This partnership merges the bold essence of Moultrie and MeatEater (owners of First Lite) into a camera that equips hunters with the critical intel they need to succeed in the field.

“This camera project with First Lite has been in the works for two years, and we’re thrilled to launch it today,” said Daniel Wilson, Moultrie’s General Manager. “This collaboration helps fully bring to life our partnership with the MeatEater team. Nothing showcases the innovation both of our brands bring to the hunting community more than the Edge 2 in First Lite’s Spectre.”

The Edge 2 and Edge 2 Pro cameras are built for the connected hunter, combining advanced cellular technology, superior image clarity, and a range of smart features designed to improve scouting efficiency and hunting strategy. Now, with the First Lite Specter™ camouflage pattern, Moultrie takes concealment to the next level, ensuring these devices blend seamlessly into a variety of environments, making them virtually undetectable to both wildlife and human eyes alike.

“Moultrie is a name I grew up with and I’ve used their cameras in the past with great success,” says Janis Putelis, MeatEater Director and Executive Producer. “The Edge 2 models are even easier to use and reliable. My favorite features are the lack of an SD card and getting videos delivered through a cellular connection. I get great scouting info from Wisconsin while I’m in Montana, 1,200 miles away.”

The Moultrie Edge 2 ($99.99) and Edge 2 Pro ($139.99) cameras in First Lite Specter™ are available starting today at MoultrieProducts.com and themeateater.com. For more information about Moultrie, their cameras, and the Moultrie Mobile app, please visit http://www.MoultrieProducts.com/.

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About Moultrie

Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Moultrie is the leader in deer feeders and cellular trail camera innovation, building products used by hunters, property owners, and others for real-time remote monitoring. Moultrie is a business unit of PRADCO Outdoor Brands. PRADCO’s hunting brands include Ani-Logics, Whitetail Institute, Texas Hunter, Summit, Knight & Hale, and Code Blue. PRADCO Fishing manufactures and markets products for freshwater and saltwater anglers under 20+ brands, including Rebel, YUM, BOOYAH, War Eagle Custom Lures, Great Lakes Finesse, and Bomber.