Archives: Press Releases

Vilvoorde, Belgium, (Feb. 16, 2024) – Life Time (NYSE: LTH) is collaborating with Flanders Classics to designate the first-ever qualifier event in the 20-year history of the iconic Life Time UNBOUND Gravel. Set for Aug. 9-11, 2024, Heathland Gravel takes place in Maasmechelen, Belgium and exemplifies the same standard set by UNBOUND for professional and amateur gravel cycling in the United States and globally. Organized by Flanders Classics, the 2024 edition of Heathland Gravel provides the opportunity for 50 participants to qualify for the 2025 running of UNBOUND Gravel in Emporia, Kansas. Fifty percent of the entries will be awarded based on performance, while the other half will be drawn at random.

Life Time chose Flanders Classics given the organization’s substantial track record in event promotion in Europe, and the relationship aligns with Life Time’s goal to grow international participation at its events, including UNBOUND Gravel.

“We are honored to be working with renowned Flanders Classics as we expand accessibility to Life Time Unbound Gravel with this first-ever European qualifying event’, said Kimo Seymour, President of Life Time Events. “Tomas and the entire Flanders Gravel team produce incredible cycling experiences, and we are excited to grow the reach and appeal of our UNBOUND Gravel across Europe.”

“By combining the unmatched reputation and experience of our organizations, we are building a truly unique concept,” says Tomas Van Den Spiegel, Flanders Classics CEO. “UNBOUND Gravel is to gravellers what Kona in Hawaii is for triathletes: a monumental sporting goal and exceptional experience. And it is filling up fast; Heathland Gravel in 2024 is the very first and only qualifier event for UNBOUND Gravel 2025. In Maasmechelen, at least 50 participants will be able to claim their spot for next year. Everyone has a chance. Very exceptional.”

Heathland Gravel takes place in Limburg in the shadow of the Maasmechelen mine shaft – a location that has hosted rounds of the UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup the past two years. Organized by Flanders Classics, the Heathland Gravel event and schedule will include social rides, a unique gravel atmosphere, live music and, of course, a fantastic race on the final day through Hoge Kempen National Park.

“We have found in Maasmechelen what a gravel event and course needs,” says Van Den Spiegel. “From the start, we immediately dive into the greenery for which the province of Limburg is so well known. We then head over the slag heaps to the majestic Mechelse Heide – a renowned tourist attraction as we cycle through the Heathland. This also explains the choice of the name Heathland Gravel, because ‘heide’ is Dutch for ‘heathland.’”

Any rider who participates in the longest, 160-kilometre (100-mile) course has the chance to win a spot in Life Time UNBOUND Gravel 2025. A bucket list event for many, entry to UNBOUND Gravel is a daunting task that can only be achieved through performance or an exclusive lottery. Demand for UNBOUND is incredibly high and, as the official qualifier, Heathland Gravel offers a chance for riders to test their luck and secure a coveted entry.

Heathland Gravel also offers plenty for riders seeking an adventure through the unprecedented gravel paths of Limburg. In addition to the 160 km qualifier distance, the event also offers 110 km (68-mile) and 70 km (43-mile) distances. Registration is now open at www.heathlandgravel.com.

Additional information may be found at www.heathlandgravel.com and www.unboundgravel.com.

About Life Time®, Inc.

Life Time (NYSE: LTH) empowers people to live healthy, happy lives through its portfolio of more than 170 athletic country clubs across the United States and Canada. The Company’s healthy way of life communities and ecosystem address all aspects of healthy living, healthy aging and healthy entertainment for people 90 days to 90+ years old. Supported by a team of more than 37,000 dedicated professionals, Life Time is committed to providing the best programs and experiences through its clubs, iconic athletic events and comprehensive digital platform.

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Marblehead, Mass. (Feb. 15, 2024) – After tens of thousands of miles trekking, rafting, and biking in Cairns, Bedrock’s flagship sandals are getting an upgrade for SS24 with the new Cairn Evo series—an evolution in both fit and function. From the ground up, Cairn Evo and Evo PRO sandals are now more durable and grippy than ever thanks to new Vibram soles. The Cairn Evo line gets a traction boost with outsoles made from Vibram’s new XS TREK EVO compound, giving more stability on loose rock, water, and even snow.

Bedrock’s patented sole-hugger wings now feature a stitch box that buries threads and keeps them from abrasion. The toe-triangle on its 3D models have been mellowed-out for more comfort. Bedrock has redrawn the top-down profile of the original Cairn, adjusting the toe swing to accommodate a wider range of feet. Cairn Evos now also match US-standard sizing for a familiar, predictable fit.

In response to consumer demand, Bedrock has also added a new edition to the lineup: the Cairn Evo C. Kicking the cushion up a few notches, the Cairn Evo C is built around a thicker, padded Vibram footbed, ideal for lake lounging, long jogs, or all-day city strolls. Cairn Evo C are the cozy-sweater siblings of Bedrock’s full Cairn line, with the same rugged DNA. Cairn Evo is available in five models along with a host of fresh colorways.

Dropping alongside the new Evo line is a brand-new colorway for the popular Mountain Clogs, Desert Clay in Suede Leather – expected to be a new favorite among capable clog enthusiasts.

About Bedrock

Bedrock is a homegrown outdoor adventure sandal company founded on the principles of adventure-grade durable design, sustainable repair and resole practices, and community roots. Bedrock works with Vibram, among other partners, to create and source the best materials both globally and locally.

About Vibram

Vibram is the world leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance rubber soles for outdoor and leisure activities, workwear, fashion, orthopedics, and correction. For more than 80 years, the yellow octagon that symbolizes Vibram has been synonymous worldwide with quality, performance, safety, and innovation in the footwear industry. With its international headquarters in Albizzate (Varese) Italy, Vibram produces over 40 million soles every year, dedicates over one million kilometers to testing, is present in 120 countries and has manufacturing, research and representation bases in the USA, China, Japan, Brazil, and Italy. For more information, visit www.vibram.com.

DURANGO, Colo. (Feb. 15, 2024) – Tailwind Nutrition announces its 2024 Tailwind Athlete Team which includes 21 athletes whose specialties range across the spectrum of endurance sports. The team includes Tailwind athlete and ultrarunning icon Courtney Dauwalter, who last year won the Western States 100, Hardrock 100, and Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc in the span of three months.

Dauwalter is once again working with Tailwind, having been with the brand the past 6 years and launching her limited edition ‘Dauwaltermelon’ Endurance Fuel flavor last year. Courtney and the brand have exciting plans for 2024 in the works. Dauwalter is joined on the team by other notable ultrarunners such as Annie Hughes, Sarah Ostaszewski, and Harvey Lewis, who all continue their relationships with the brand.

As Tailwind returns to its cycling roots, Sonya Looney is a new addition to the team for 2024. Looney is a 24 Hour Mountain Bike World Champion, a performance coach, and hosts The Sonya Looney Show, a podcast about how to live a high performance life. Looney is joined by fellow cyclist Ellen Campbell. Born and raised in Durango, Campbell competes in the premiere Life Time Grand Prix series,  where she uses Tailwind’s products to fuel efforts in races such as the feared Unbound Gravel 200 and Leadville Trail 100 MTB race.

In addition to these athletes, the team includes a cast of runners, cyclists, skiers, and triathletes who trust Tailwind Nutrition’s suite of products–Endurance Fuel, Recovery Mix, and Rapid Hydration–to support their fueling, recovery, and hydration needs throughout training and competition.

“It brings me great pride to call these athletes part of our Tailwind Team,” said Maggie Guterl, Tailwind Athlete & Events Manager. “They epitomize sportsmanship on and off the course. Each one of them pushes the boundaries to what is humanly possible and Tailwind will continue to be their support crew.”

Tailwind Nutrition 2023 Athlete Team Roster

• Mounah and Hannah Assoum – Cyclists and YouTubers
• Ellen Campbell– Mountain biker and gravel cyclist
• Brittany Charboneau – Marathoner and trail runner
• Catra Corbett – Ultrarunner
• Kyle Curtain – Ultrarunner
• Courtney Dauwalter – Ultrarunner
• Keiran Eagen – cyclist
• Leah Fair – Track and skeleton
• Annie Hughes – Ultrarunner
• John Kelly – Ultrarunner
• Sarah Keyes – Ultrarunner
• Harvey Lewis – Ultrarunner
• Sonya Looney – Cyclist
• Jacquie Mannhard – Ultrarunner
• Mario Mendoza – Ultrarunner
• David Norris – Nordic skier and trail runner
• LJ Miller – Cyclist and professional bike fitter
• Sarah Ostaszewski – Ultrarunner
• Pam Reed – Ultrarunner and triathlete
• Alayna Sonnesyn – Nordic skier
• Jessica Yeaton – Nordic skier and cyclist

Tailwind Nutrition celebrates its 12th birthday in 2024. For more information on Tailwind Nutrition and to keep up with Tailwind Nutrition athletes, please visit: www.tailwindnutrition.com, Tailwind’s blog and follow their adventures on Instagram (@tailwindnutrition) and Facebook.

About Tailwind Nutrition

Since 2012, Tailwind Nutrition has been manufacturing all-natural endurance nutrition products that are free of GMOs, dairy, soy, and gluten, are easy to digest, and support an athlete’s fueling and recovery needs during exercise. Owned, operated and manufactured in Durango, CO, Tailwind Nutrition’s specially formulated drink mixes help athletes perform and compete at their highest level without the worry of food allergies or sensitivities. Tailwind is all you need, all day. Really.

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Mingus, Texas – February 15, 2024 – Today, Slim Pickins Outfitters, the first Black-owned outdoor gear shop in the nation, announced its relocation from Stephenville, Texas, to Mingus, Texas, to be closer to the personal residence and community of its owners, Jahmicah and Heather Dawes. The new location will open February 17, 2024, with grand opening festivities taking place throughout the month of March to celebrate its seventh anniversary.

Since it was founded in 2017, Slim Pickins Outfitters has been a community mainstay and a purveyor of positivity in Stephenville, population 21,000, known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” The store and its owners, Jahmicah and Heather Dawes, intend to have Slim Pickins operate the same way it started, bringing together people from all walks of life as a go-to supplier of outdoor and adventure-ready goods and services.

“This move means change and growth,” said Jahmicah Dawes. “When we opened the shop in 2017, we were different people. We were newly married and weren’t even parents yet. This move and the new shop honors what our family desires and pays homage to our roots, how our relationships have grown and changed both within our home as a couple but also as parents and outside of our home with brand partners, supporters, and customers.”

The new store is located at 239 Private Rd 741 Exit 367, Mingus, TX 76463, minutes from Palo Pinto Mountain State Park in Strawn, Texas, and is directly off Interstate 20, between Dallas-Fort Worth and Abilene. Slim Pickins Outfitters will continue to operate its e-commerce site with the same inventory as available in the store, shipping within the US.

“We are excited to be on the ground floor of the growth in the tri-cities area of Strawn, Mingus, Gordon, and the ghost town of Thurber,” said Heather Dawes. “And it’s extra sweet to be located next door to  the historic  Smokestack Restaurant where my parents hosted their wedding rehearsal dinner in 1991.”

Along with its new location, Slim Pickins Outfitters will drop a new collection paying homage to the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop. The collection will feature bucket hats and crewnecks, including some styles featuring the Dawes’ beloved Basset Hound, Bill Murray.

ABOUT SLIM PICKINS OUTFITTERS

Opened in 2017 in Stephenville, Texas, Slim Pickins Outfitters is the first Black-owned outdoor gear shop in the U.S. The store and its owners, Jahmicah and Heather Dawes, have been a fixture within the community. Slim Pickins brings together people from all walks of life and is the town’s go-to supplier of outdoor and adventure-ready goods and services. slimpickinsoutfitters.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bainbridge Island, WA – February 12, 2024 – Ignik, a Seattle-based brand known for its innovative and solution-based outdoor heating products, proudly announces the continued growth of its first-to-market Refillable Fuel line with the new compact Gas Growler 3.8 and new colorways for the flagship Gas Growler Deluxe and Gas Growler X.  With over 40 million 1-pound not-so-green, single-use propane bottles ending up in landfills each year, Ignik, the leader in refillable fuel for outdoor recreation, is committed to providing easy solutions that make an impact by offering even more refillable Gas Growler options for outdoor adventure, travel, and more.

Ignik’s Gas Growler 3.8 is the newest Growler to redefine the outdoor experience by allowing users to cook and stay warm without the waste. Gas Growler 3.8 is highly portable, easy to pack, and makes using refillable propane easier than ever. With each refill, users get nearly four times the fuel compared to a single-use bottle and at the same price. It’s designed with high-quality construction and extra durable rubber edging and is the optimal size for all camp stoves, lanterns, and small portable heaters (hose adapter sold separately). Tanks are pre-purged, ready to fill at any commercial propane filling station, and are DOT-approved with a 12-year valve certification. Gas Growler 3.8 is perfect for car camping, rooftop camping, compact overlanding rigs, RVing, boating, and tailgating.  MSRP: $79.95

Later this spring, Ignik will introduce Gas Growler 3.8 Deluxe, which will include a 4-foot adapter hose that’s compatible with all single and double-burner camp stoves and portable heaters. It will also include Ignik’s signature protective, rugged, and easy-to-carry case. MSRP: $99.95

“Producing sustainable outdoor heating products has always been at the core of Ignik’s mission,” says Peter Pontano, Ignik’s VP of Brand & Product. “Since we launched our flagship Gas Growler Deluxe in 2019, we’ve sold over 75,000 Gas Growlers, which has helped to keep over 700,000 single-use propane bottles from our landfills – and that’s just off of one fill. The best part about our Gas Growlers is that those numbers will continue to double, triple, and so on with more refills. By providing outdoor enthusiasts with more options, like the incredibly compact 3.8, we are truly excited to see a shift in behavior by ingraining the idea of refillable propane into the outdoor adventure lifestyle.”

This spring, Ignik will also debut additional colorways for both Gas Growler Deluxe and Gas Growler X. Gas Growler Deluxe will be available in the new Arctic Camo colorway (MSRP: $129.95). Gas Growler X will be available in the new Black colorway (MSRP: $169.95). Gas Growler Deluxe provides up to 5 pounds of fuel for cooking and portable fire pits, and Gas Growler X provides 10 pounds of propane, ideal for heating and cooking on longer outdoor excursions.

Ignik’s refillable Gas Growlers are available now at ignik.com and major outdoor retailers including REI, Backcountry.com, Bass Pro Shop, L.L. Bean, and more. To learn more, visit Ignik.com or contact Stacy Kline at stacy@darbycommunications.com.

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About Ignik

Ignik was born out of some epic gear failures. Hand warmers that didn’t warm in the Arctic and disposable green propane bottles that are neither disposable nor actually “green.” Ignik, meaning fire or lover of fire, is about solving problems, be it around the campfire or making family comfortable in the cold. By creating environmentally thoughtful outdoor heating products that actually work, Ignik helps more people get outside sooner and stay outside longer. Made by outdoor people for outdoor people, each product we produce is more sustainable than what it replaces. Ignik is a proud member of 1% For The Planet. For more information, visit Ignik.com.

Boulder, CO—The American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) is pleased to announce the launch of the 2024 AMGA Affinity Programs. Since 2018, the AMGA, with support of community and corporate partners, has been able to offer 32 Affinity Programs for 231 participants with scholarships totaling $253,744. The AMGA is looking forward to continuing this important work and will be offering nine AMGA Affinity Programs in 2024.

AMGA Affinity Programs play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment and breaking down barriers to empower individuals who may have traditionally faced limited access or representation in the industry. AMGA Affinity Programs provide like-minded spaces, mentorship, and networking that enables aspiring guides and instructors from under-served communities to feel supported while they develop their skills and pursue careers in the field.

“The power of affinity programs became evident to me during those early interactions. The program served as a bridge that connected people who had felt like outsiders in the broader context of climbing and outdoor communities. It was a place where we could not only learn the technical skills of climbing but also find a sense of belonging and acceptance that had often eluded us in other settings.”  – 2023 AMGA Affinity Program Participant

AMGA Affinity Programs have been developed in collaboration with a distinguished lineup of corporate partners, including The North Face, Black Diamond, Arc’teryx, and Mountain Hardwear. These industry leaders and the AMGA share a vision for elevating the mountain guiding and climbing instruction professions through diversity and inclusivity. The support provided by corporate partners creates a welcoming and financially-accessible pathway into these professions that might not have existed otherwise.

2024 AMGA Affinity Programs include a Women’s Ski Guide Course, Women’s Rock Guide Course, BIPOC Rock Guide Course, LGBTQIA2S+ Single Pitch Instructor Course and Assessment, Women’s Single Pitch Instructor Course and Assessment, and BIPOC Single Pitch Instructor Course.

Additional information can be found on the AMGA website.

About the AMGA

The American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit organization that provides training and certification for climbing instructors, mountain guides, and ski guides throughout the United States. Founded in 1979, the AMGA institutes international standards for the mountain guiding profession and serves as an educational body for land management agencies, guide services, outdoor clubs, and others wishing to establish internationally-recognized standards for guided climbing and skiing activities.

 

 

FRISCO, Texas (Feb. 12, 2024) – Wiley X, the global pioneer and leader in premium protective eyewear, is proud to announce that the brand will now assemble all new products from its 2024 lineup and beyond in-house at its Frisco, Texas headquarters. This move signifies a commitment to creating additional jobs at the company’s Frisco location, ensuring quality control, and streamlining production processes.

“As a Veteran-founded and second-generation American business, this has been a dream of ours for quite some time,” said Dan Freeman, CEO and Co-Owner of Wiley X. “We are proud and excited to continue building our business by not only designing but also assembling products in Frisco. We look forward to the opportunities it will create for our hardworking teams in the U.S. that made this all possible.”

Wiley X has built a reputation for providing world-class eye protection for those who serve, work, and play in life’s harshest environments. With the decision to assemble its new products at the Frisco headquarters, the company aims to further expand its manufacturing capabilities with additional product options and services for customers. Streamlined U.S. production will lead to quicker response times, faster product availability for customers, and an accelerated warranty and replacement program.

“For over 30 years Wiley X has provided the best possible protection and performance for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike,” says Myles Freeman, President and Co-Owner of Wiley X. “By bringing assembly of new products under our own roof we’re taking even greater control of the manufacturing process, guaranteeing the highest quality standards while creating exciting opportunities for our team here in Frisco.”

The decision to assemble new products at the Frisco headquarters also brings economic benefits to the local community. By creating more job opportunities in the area, Wiley X continues to contribute to the growth and development of Frisco, making it an even more vibrant hub for innovation and opportunity.

For more information about Wiley X and its range of eyewear products, visit www.wileyx.com.

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About Wiley X

Veteran-founded in 1987, Wiley X has been producing the world’s most protective eyewear to various markets that rely on impact resistance for over 30 years. Myles Freeman Sr., a military veteran, started Wiley X to protect the eyes of those who protected America. The company’s military heritage helped carve a roadmap for Wiley X in the years to follow for many well-respected weekend warriors. Every adult sunglass style made by Wiley X meets ANSI Z87.1 High Velocity and High Mass Impact Safety Standards, for protection that goes far beyond the harmful rays of the sun. Several styles also meet U.S. military MIL-PRF-32432 (GL) standards for ballistic eye protection, a key reason why Wiley X has been a leading provider of vision protection equipment to the U.S. military and law enforcement for more than 30 years.

 

 

 

WILLISTON, Vermont (Feb 8, 2024)  – Leading performance mountain equipment manufacturer for more than 160-years,  Mammut welcomes Lindsey Hamm to its roster of elite mountain athletes. Hamm, an American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) certified guide, has traveled the world establishing routes in Zanskar, India and Pakistan.

In addition to her passion for the mountains – and good jokes – Lindsey has goals of changing the culture of climbing to be more inclusive, and to help create inroads for people from all backgrounds to get into climbing. Hamm is preparing for a third season in Pakistan’s Charakusa Valley. The upcoming expedition, aimed at achieving an ambitious alpine objective, will also see the creation of a short film dedicated to friends she has lost to the mountains, and to a close friend and guide who lost his battle to cancer. This project is a testament to Hamm’s commitment to not only pursuing her climbing goals but also inspiring and motivating the wider climbing and outdoor community.

“We are delighted to welcome Lindsey to the Mammut team. Her passion for mountain sports and the outdoors reflects our values. Lindsey inspires us to appreciate the beauty and challenges of the mountains and to surpass ourselves in the process. Lindsey completes the Mammut athlete team, where she will also contribute to product development together with other professional alpinists such as Stephan Siegrist, Jonas Schild, Nico Hojac and Marek Holecek.” _Harald Schreiber, Head of Corporate Communications at Mammut

Lindsey will be deeply involved in shaping the future of Mammut’s gear, bringing her on-the-mountain experience and technical knowledge to the product development team. Her feedback will be instrumental in ensuring our equipment meets the highest standards of performance and safety. Beyond product development, Lindsey will be a key figure in Mammut’s community engagement, participating in events and contributing to visual campaigns while helping to inspire a growing mountain community in North America.

“Partnering with Mammut is an honor and an exciting progression in my career,” said Lindsey Hamm, Mammut Athlete. “I chose to partner with Mammut because of its deep roots within the mountains. Their team consists of hardworking humans who have engineered the best products with functionality and performance in every piece.”

For additional information about Mammut, their partnership with Lindsey and their award-winning collection of technical apparel and gear for the mountains, visit Mammut.com and follow them on Instagram @MammutNA.

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 I Verde Brand Communications I Becca@verdepr.com I Cell: 360-441-5620

 

 

BOULDER, Colo. (Feb 08, 2024) – La Sportiva, makers of the world’s finest mountain gear, today announced its new fall 2024 footwear collection. The standout of this new collection is the Ondra Comp, a climbing shoe designed, developed, and tested with the world’s strongest climber, Adam Ondra. The Italian brand is also releasing the Trango Pro GTX, an innovative three-season mountaineering boot, and the Akyra II, an update to the popular lightweight hiker.

The Ondra Comp is designed to tackle modern bouldering movements and is set for a limited release before the 2024 Olympics. This cutting-edge shoe incorporates La Sportiva’s new SenseGrip™ rubber technology, a unique compound that offers enhanced grip and sensitivity, which is crucial for challenging holds.

“Our design team worked closely with Adam Ondra to develop a model that fits the needs of the elite climber,” said Jonathan Lantz, president of La Sportiva North America. “The sport of climbing is continuing to evolve, and these athletes need new products that allow them to perform moves that are increasingly more complex and technical. The Ondra Comp’s innovative design is a step forward for climbing footwear and highlights how much the sport has progressed in recent years.”

In modern bouldering, three movements challenge the performance of a climbing shoe: smearing, toe hooking, and heel hooking. Every detail of the $219 Ondra Comp was developed to help climbers perform these crucial moves and send complex problems. The shoe uses a custom shortened half-sole and an innovative heel construction to provide climbers extra support and flexibility to perform technical moves in difficult situations. An adjustable hook and loop closure and LaSpoFlex midsole further enhance the shoe’s functionality, offering climbers a perfect balance of fit and performance.

The new Trango Pro GTX is a testament to La Sportiva’s deep history in mountaineering. This three-season boot is exceptionally lightweight and allows for precise movements in demanding terrain. La Sportiva carefully designed this model down to the smallest detail to create a product that fits the needs of mountain professionals and advanced climbers. A new Trango-Ergo accommodates a variety of different foot shapes, while the Vortex Gaiter with quick closure keeps the boot protected in extreme conditions. La Sportiva equipped this boot with a Vibram Cube Evo outsole with Springlug technology, which provides extra cushioning and comfort without sacrificing durability or performance. The Trango Pro GTX is priced at $499 and weighs 640 grams.

The new Akyra II combines the lightness of a running shoe with the sturdiness of a hiking boot, offering the perfect blend of agility and durability. This lightweight hiker has been retooled for 2024 with a new upper that provides an improved fit and increased breathability. A well-cushioned midsole is paired with a TPU stabilizer and a custom midfoot wrapping system, which allows for comfort and support during long hikes on uneven terrain. The FriXion® Red outsole provides excellent traction, while the Trail Rocker2 system helps to facilitate a natural rolling gait. The Akyra II weighs 10.7 ounces for the women’s model and retails for $149. This lightweight hiker is also available in a GORE-TEX version, which retails for $169.

The new collection will be available at select specialty retailers and at www.lasportivausa.com in the fall of 2024. Select samples for media will be available prior to the release of the line. Contact La Sportiva PR representative Sean Van Horn at sean.vanhorn@backbone.media for more information.

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With over 90 years of heritage, La Sportiva has unrivaled experience in building the world’s finest performance mountain footwear. Creating innovation through passion, La Sportiva now offers the most versatile technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking shoes on the market as well as ski mountaineering hardware and apparel. For more information on La Sportiva visit www.sportiva.com or visit their Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/LaSportiva.   

 

 

 

 

MANCHESTER, Vt. (Feb. 7, 2024) — Orvis, the family-owned and operated outdoor retailer that pioneered the modern fly rod, announces its next generation of Helios rods. The new Helios is four times more accurate than its ground-breaking predecessor the Helios 3 (H3) and is 25 percent stronger and 10 percent lighter in hand. The result is an intuitive fly rod that is defining a new era in fly rod manufacturing.

“Helios rods are what people think of when they think of Orvis innovation and leadership in fly fishing,” said Orvis President Simon Perkins. “We had something really special with the Helios 3, and we wanted to challenge ourselves with something better. Because the team in our Rod Shop is the best in the world, the result is revolutionary.”

Conceived and built by designers, engineers and rod builders in Manchester, Vermont, the new Helios is the most advanced fly rod in fishing and an unprecedented leap forward in the industry. The new rod displays dramatically increased hoop strength and a radical reduction in rod tip displacement when casting. The result is a rod that is able to deliver a cast that is measurably more accurate than the competition, tracking four times better than the industry-leading Helios 3. It is endorsed by Orvis’s vast network of professional guides and anglers many of whom part of the official testing process across seven countries.

“The new Helios is a reimagining of what’s possible in a fly rod and its ability to deliver the best experience for an angler. Four times more accurate than the industry-benchmark H3 is not hyperbole,” said Shawn Combs, director of fishing design and development. “We’ve built the tools to quantify what’s been measured historically in our industry through feel. This rod is where instinct and innovation meet. The result is the most accurate rod in the world. We know it when we cast it, and we see it in the data.”

The Helios is available in two distinct series, Distance (D) and Finesse (F). The D-Series offers increased line speed, lifting power and stored energy and is available in a variety of sizes, from 4-weight for small stream trout to 14-weight for billfish in saltwater. The F-Series features increased sensitivity optimized for delicate presentations and tippet protection and is available in sizes ranging from 2 weight to 8 weight.

“It’s fun to think of Orvis as a start-up in the 1850s and how Charles F. Orvis wanted to give someone the tool that would introduce them to the natural world in a way that would change their life,” said Perkins. “That’s really what this new generation of Helios does. It makes any angler their best. And when you’re your best, you want to get out and live for more unforgettable moments on the water.”

The Helios fly rod collection (MSRP $1098-$1198) is available online and at select independent fly shops and Orvis retail stores. To explore the Helios collection, please go to www.orvis.com/helios-fly-fishing-rods.

About Orvis

Founded in 1856, outdoor retailer Orvis is the trusted guide to the adventure and wonder in nature. Orvis operates more than 80 retail stores around the United States and maintains a network of over 400 dealers worldwide as a trusted source of discovery and adventure in the natural world through fly fishing, wingshooting and our connection with dogs. A purpose-led company, Orvis was one of the first to establish a corporate philanthropy program in the 1980s. The company commits 5% of pretax profits each year to ensuring the sustainable future of fly fishing, wingshooting, and the natural world for future generations. To learn more visit Orvis.com.