Archives: Press Releases

SEATTLE (June 26, 2024) — Astral, the leader in equipment designed for high performing wilderness athletes, adds record-setting thru hiker Billy “Wahoo” Meredith to its Ambassador team. As an Archetype, advisor and ambassador for the brand, Meredith will lend his expertise to developing and finetuning Astral’s new generation of long distance hiking footwear.

In 2023, Billy Meredith set the new Fastest Known Time (FKT) of the Calendar Year Triple Crown (CYTC), hiking the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail in a blistering 234 days. Meredith averaged 32 miles and 5,556 feet of climbing per day to complete the feat. Through the experience of his record-setting expedition, he gained unparalleled insight into the limits and demands of his equipment. Meredith’s partnership with Astral represents his trust in the brand’s products and direction, including its ability to provide the highest-performing footwear made for greater durability and sustainability.

“Adding Wahoo to our team of Archetypes is an honor,” said Philip Curry, Founder and CEO of Astral. “Astal was founded to support the needs of top wilderness athletes, to equip them with the tools to crush boundaries . Billy knows more than anyone about what it takes to push limits in his sport, and having him on the team helps Astral do the same.”

As an Archetype, Astral will support Meredith’s upcoming projects as the hiker seeks new long distance milestones. Meredith’s adventures intrinsically test his equipment to the limit, providing Astral with valuable insight as the brand develops its new generation of trail footwear that will address the needs of the most avid long distance thru hikers.

“I’m particularly excited to work with Astral after learning about some new and exciting innovations they have coming down the pipeline in the long-distance hiking footwear space – especially around expanding the lifespan of shoes and reducing our impact on the environment that we long to be in and protect,” says Billy Meredith. “Thru hiking as a sport has been exploding and it’s evident Astral has been paying attention. Pair this with the fact that Astal uses hemp and recycled materials to make their footwear as sustainable as possible and it seemed like a no-brainer to team up.”

To learn more about Billy, what got him into backpacking, his recent hikes, and his passions outside of hiking, check out Astral’s recent interview with him.

View all of Astral’s Archetypes, including fellow thru hiking legend, Jennifer Pharr Davis here explore.astraldesigns.com/ambassadors. For more information about Astral, its products, and initiatives, please visit 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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Newfields, N.H. and Aars, DK – June 25, 2024 – Glerups, producers of Danish-designed natural wool slippers and boots, is excited to announce the launch of its first lace shoe, the culmination of over 30 years of development and design.

The new Langdal is designed for year-round, everyday wear with natural comfort as its key element. Uppers are made with 100% pure, natural wool and soft, chrome-free leather, organic cotton laces, and a natural rubber outsole. As part of Glerups’ Project Zero Waste Initiative, the insoles and midsoles are constructed with coconut, a residual product from the food industry, to provide wearing comfort underfoot.

“Launching the Langdal, named after the piece of nature that surrounds our home and farm where Ove and I first raised our Gotland sheep, has been a wish since the beginning,” said Nanny Glerup, founder of Glerups. “We started research and development several years ago but never felt we had reached our goal for a first step into natural year-round, everyday shoes until now with the Langdal.”

The Langdal is available in six colors: Charcoal, Grey, Brown, Cream, Light Green, and Rose (MSRP $250). The Charcoal and Brown colorways will be available in various outsole color options for styling with any outfit for all occasions. Sizing: EU 35-42 (women) and EU 41-48 (men); wear with or without socks.

The original pairs of Glerups were handcrafted by Nanny at a rate of two pairs per day. With increased popularity, the production grew to include a factory that was built from the ground up by the brand to expand distribution while maintaining direct control over quality. Today, Glerups slippers and boots are sold worldwide – from Japan and Europe to New Zealand, Canada and the USA. Over the years, the brand has perfected its wool mix by blending Gotland wool from Denmark with soft quality wool from New Zealand farmers, all living up to the highest standards for consistent quality and humane animal welfare. Glerups works with its farmers every step of the way.

“It is part of our brand DNA and important to us to be able to follow our products from farm to foot,” said Allan Timm, director of sales & marketing and Glerups partner. “From the laces to the rubber sole, every part of the Langdal is produced and constructed at our factory in Poland. Owning and managing our production facilities ensures every pair of glerups are designed, developed and produced with respect for nature, animals, and humans.”

Visit Glerups.com to see the brand’s entire product line or for more information about its Project Zero Waste initiative.

About Glerups

Founded in 1993, Glerups has evolved from a modest cottage industry into a globally renowned brand celebrated for its premium wool felt slippers. Headquartered in Denmark, we are committed to crafting the finest woolen footwear in the world while upholding strict environmental and ethical standards. Our journey began with the heartfelt dedication of Danish mother Nanny Glerup, who handcrafted her first pair of slippers using the natural wool from her own beloved Gotland sheep. The overwhelmingly positive reception from family and friends prompted the transformation of Nanny’s hobby into a small-scale production, initially yielding just two pairs a day. Today, Glerups “addicts” around the world indulge in the daily luxury of 100% pure, natural wool, which continues to be crafted with the same love and care, from the sheep to your feet. For more information, visit www.Glerups.com.

NESTOUT, the innovative brand in eco-friendly power solutions, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest addition to its award-winning lineup – the 5000mAh battery. This slim and compact powerhouse joins the existing 10000mAh and 15000mAh batteries, ready to fuel your adventures and explorations.

The new 5000mAh battery is designed for the modern explorer, offering a lightweight, portable solution without compromising on power. Available in five colors (black, beige, blue gray, olive green, and mustard), it caters to personal style while providing the rugged durability needed for any adventure. Whether hiking through wet and rocky terrain, camping under the stars, or navigating urban jungles, the NESTOUT 5000mAh battery ensures devices stay charged and ready for whatever challenges come your way.

Built for Adventure

The NESTOUT 5000mAh battery is engineered to endure tough outdoor environments. It is rugged, waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, with an IP67 rating that guarantees resilience against the elements. This makes it the perfect portable power solution for hiking, camping, and any activity where durability and reliability are paramount.

Compact and Travel-Friendly

Weighing just 4.9 ounces and measuring 5.3 x 1.4 inches, the NESTOUT 5000mAh battery is incredibly compact and slim, taking up minimal space in a backpack. Its sleek, lightweight design ensures that it can easily fit into the tightest spots, making it an ideal companion for travelers and adventurers who need a reliable power source on the go.

Safe and Reliable Fast-Charging

Featuring smart power distribution and fast charging capabilities, the batteries are designed to provide efficient, reliable power. The smart power distribution ensures optimal charging for all your devices, while the fast-charging feature minimizes downtime, keeping you on the move. Additionally, the battery includes six circuit protections, ensuring safe and secure operation under various conditions. Equipped with one USB-C and one USB-A port, the power bank can simultaneously charge two devices.

Award-Winning Design

NESTOUT’s focus on creating functional and beautifully designed products has earned prestigious accolades, including the IF Design Gold Award and the Good Design Award. These recognitions reflect NESTOUT’s dedication to sustainable and innovative design.

Unique Modular Ecosystem

The new 5000mAh battery seamlessly integrates with our existing modular ecosystem, which includes:

• Lighting Accessories – NESTOUT’s versatile lighting solutions are custom-fit to connect to the power banks, maximizing convenience and functionality. Whether illuminating a campsite or navigating at night, the integrated system offers reliable lighting powered by the durable NESTOUT battery.
• Solar Panels – The batteries fit perfectly into the custom solar panel pouch, allowing users to harness solar energy efficiently. This combination provides a sustainable energy solution for extended outdoor activities.

The modular lineup is engineered to work together, providing a comprehensive solution for all your power needs. Use the dual-port 15000mAh battery to charge devices and power lighting accessories simultaneously, while the 10000mAh and 5000mAh batteries serve as a perfect supplement for additional lighting and charging needs. Harness the power of the sun with the SOLAR-1 solar panels to keep batteries topped up and ready for the outdoors at all times. Whether you’re charging your devices, lighting up your campsite, or generating renewable energy, NESTOUT products are built to support your adventurous spirit.

Availability and Pricing

The 5000mAh power banks will be available in June 2024 on www.NESTOUT.com with an MSRP of $39.99.

Embrace the adventure. Empower your exploration. Discover NESTOUT.

About NESTOUT

NESTOUT is dedicated to creating innovative, durable power solutions that empower adventurers and explorers around the world. The modular lineup of power banks, solar panels, and lighting accessories is designed to work together, providing reliable and sustainable energy for all your journeys. NESTOUT products have won multiple awards, including the IF Design Gold Award and the Good Design Award.

SIDNEY, Neb. (June 24, 2024) — Meindl USA, the exclusive provider of premium handcrafted Meindl footwear in North America, is excited to celebrate its 5-year anniversary of providing high-quality footwear and customer service to outdoor enthusiasts.

Founded in 2019 by experienced professionals in the footwear and outdoor industry, Meindl USA was born from a passion to make Meindl’s legendary footwear and proprietary technologies available to hunters, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts in North America. Since its launch, Meindl USA has built a strong reputation for its commitment to craftsmanship, the performance and value of its footwear, and its outstanding customer service.

To mark this significant milestone, the brand is rolling out updates to its website, introducing new footwear and expanding existing product lines.

“The last five years have been such a fun and exciting journey,” said Phil Francone, founder and president of Meindl USA. “It was an honor to create Meindl USA, and our team is proud to work alongside such an amazing brand and partner in Meindl. Reaching this point and continuing toward a path of growth, expansion and innovation is a testament to the hard work of our team, the quality of our products and the loyalty of our customers. We couldn’t be more excited for the future.”

In celebrating their 5-year anniversary, Meindl USA will be unveiling a new Seasonal Select collection this summer. This launch will feature a diverse assortment of over a dozen footwear styles being offered in the U.S. Market as a limited release. Among the highlights are the introduction of all-new hikers, light hikers and walkers, each designed to cater to the varying needs of outdoor enthusiasts showcasing the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. Meindl USA plans to continue expanding its assortment this fall by introducing a new lineup of hiking and hunting boots blending cutting-edge technology with Meindl’s signature craftsmanship.

Since the Meindl family built its first boot in 1683, the Meindl brand has been rooted in tradition, quality and innovation while defining itself by the durability, fit and function of its footwear. Every pair is created by proven craftsmen and women using the finest leather, the best materials, and centuries-old knowledge steaming from Meindl’s extensive history.

To learn more about Meindl USA’s history, product offering and technology, or to shop available products, visit www.meindlusa.com.

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About Meindl USA

Founded in 2019 by experienced professionals from the footwear and outdoor industry, Meindl USA was born from a passion to make Meindl’s legendary footwear and proprietary technologies available to customers in North America. Meindl USA is the exclusive provider of Meindl footwear products in North America. Its product offering includes footwear for hunting, hiking and walking in addition to socks and footwear accessories. For more information about Meindl USA, visit www.meindlusa.com.

 

CHICAGO (June 24, 2024) – Imbox Protection, the world’s only in-store footwear protection, is ready for summer enabling U.S. consumers to protect their footwear at checkout for $7-8 in 60 seconds at over 100 Dillard’s stores across the United States.

Dillard’s associates put footwear in the Imbox Protection units with nozzles dispensing a PFA-free, water-based formula; consumers can watch the treatment through an internal camera that live streams to the machine’s front screen. The treatment guarantees precise application, drying, and heating tailored to the specific needs of each shoe, protecting suede, leather, textile, nubuck, and synthetic components, among others. After the treatment is completed in-store, shoes are ready for immediate wear.

“As customers spend more time outside in warm weather, footwear needs more protection against the elements,” said Francisco Lopez, manager of North American sales at Imbox Protection. “Our treatment is ideal for preventing stains from summer BBQs, parties, festivals, camping and trips to the beach. It works on casual style footwear including, sandals and ballet flats, to performance shoes, e.g. hiking boots, trail running shoes, and sneakers for casual looks. IMBOX Protection is in 233 retailers throughout the U.S and Dillard’s is responsible for nearly 50% of our installations. We are grateful to be a part of the Dillard’s community.”

To locate a local Imbox Protection system at a retailer, click here.

About Dillard’s

Founded by William T. Dillard in 1938 in Nashville, Arkansas with an $8,000 investment in a hometown department store. Today, Dillard’s, Inc. ranks among the nation’s largest fashion retailers – operating 245 Dillard’s locations and 29 clearance centers spanning 30 states and an Internet store at www.dillards.com. The company focuses on delivering style, quality and value to its customers by offering premium fashion apparel, beauty and home collections from both national and exclusive brand sources. Dillard’s complements this curated merchandise assortment with exceptional, client-focused customer care.

About Imbox Protection Inc.
Launched in 2011 in Denmark as a more sustainable and convenient alternative to protecting shoes, IMBOX Protection is the world’s only in-store footwear protection technology service using a safe and environmentally friendly treatment to protect against water damage, dirt, stains, and color fade. Imbox Protection has more than 7,500 units in retail stores globally selling more than 35 million treatments a year with trusted footwear retailers and partners. Based on surging demand in Europe and Japan, IMBOX Protection has expanded availability in the U.S. with a North American headquarters in Chicago. The PCT patent-protected technology is designed, developed, and manufactured in Denmark. Retailers can learn more about IMBOX Protection and its in-store footwear protection solution at https://imboxprotection.com/us. For more information on Dillard’s and Imbox Protection, please contact Oliver H. Hede, Vice President of Sales, at ohh@imboxprotection.com or via phone at +1 (872) 400 6774.

LOS ANGELES (June 20, 2024) – Dometic introduces the all-new Front Runner Slimline II Roof Rack kit designed specifically for the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser. Engineered for adventure, the Front Runner Dometic Slimline II Roof Rack is already a favorite among overlanders for its modular, lightweight, and incredibly strong design. Bringing unparalleled strength and versatility, as well as over 55 adventure-ready accessories, the Slimline II is the perfect gear-hauling solution for the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser.

Known for cutting-edge innovation and rugged durability, the Front Runner Dometic Toyota Land Cruiser Slimline II Roof Rack kit has been designed exclusively for the reimagined Toyota Land Cruiser model.

Engineered for adventure, the Slimline II Roof Rack kit epitomizes strength and versatility. Its rugged appeal and practical functionality are enhanced by seamlessly integrating with over 55 exciting accessories, from heavy-duty storage solutions to camping gear. This ensures the all-new Land Cruiser can confidently tackle the toughest trails with ease.

Note to Editors

Photos can be found here. For additional  information about the new Toyota Land Cruiser Slimline II Roof Rack kit please visit here.

ABOUT DOMETIC

Dometic is a global market leader in the mobile living industry. Millions of people around the world use Dometic products in outdoor, residential, and professional applications. Our motivation is to create smart, sustainable, and reliable products with outstanding design for an outdoor and mobile lifestyle in the areas of Food & Beverage, Climate, Power & Control, and Other Applications. Dometic employs approximately 9,000 people worldwide, had net sales of SEK 21.5 billion (USD 2.5 billion) in 2021 and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.

ABOUT FRONT RUNNER

Front Runner is a South African manufacturer of camping and vehicle equipment based in Johannesburg. Founded in 1999, the company’s product range includes roof racks, drawer systems, tents, awnings, water tanks, other transport and storage solutions and a variety of camping accessories. It all started with a handful of friends from South Africa, who were equipped with know-how in technology, design, production and a penchant for off-road trips. After suffering from the fact that the existing equipment could not withstand their travels around the world, they developed new patented equipment and made it stronger and smarter. Today, Front Runner products enjoy a well-deserved reputation for quality, design and durability. On May 20, 2021, Front Runner was acquired by Dometic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Munich, Germany (June 20, 2024) – deuter, a global leader in backpacks and outdoor equipment, celebrates the ISPO Award 2024 win for its new Speed Lite Pro backpack series. Designed for ambitious, fast-paced hikers, the Speed Lite Pro prioritizes lightweight construction and exceptional comfort without sacrificing essential features.

“We’re honored to receive the ISPO award for our new Speed Lite Pro series. This recognition reiterates our commitment to innovation, quality outdoor products, and comfort,” says Jonathan Degenhardt, managing director at deuter USA.

The Speed Lite Pro (MSRP $120-140) will be available in sizes 17SL, 19L, 23SL, 25L, and 28SL. The pack achieves its award-winning performance through a combination of key features:

• Unmatched Comfort and Stability – Wide, breathable shoulder straps, comfortable hip fins, and an adjustable sternum strap create a secure, load-bearing fit that minimizes strain on the shoulders and back.
• Quick Access on the Move – Strategically placed pockets on the shoulder straps and hip fins keep essentials like water, snacks, and navigation tools readily available.
• Ultralight Design for Efficiency – The new LiteAir back system minimizes the weight to an impressive 1lb 8oz for the 25L.
• Sustainable Innovation – deuter prioritizes environmental responsibility and offers a lifetime warranty on all The Speed Lite Pro collection is a bluesign® product, Green Button certified, Climate Partner certified, and PFAS free.

“Comfortable and stable backpacks are particularly important for speed hiking. The new Speed Lite Pro impresses with its great fit, good ventilation and low weight,” says the IPSO Award Jury.

The Speed Lite Pro will be available at retailers and online in March 2025. For media inquiries or more information, please email andrea.green@rygr.us.

About deuter: From backpacking to mountain biking, alpinism, and travel, to child-carrying and family adventures, deuter crafts highly functional, comfortable, and environmentally friendly packs for everyone and everywhere. With over 120+ years of experience, deuter has played a vital role in shaping the culture of mountain adventure since its 1898 founding in Germany. deuter inspires every new generation to get outside and experience mountain adventures the way they want to. www.deuter.com

 

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 20, 2024) – Gerber Gear, a leading outdoor brand dedicated to crafting problem-solving tools announces today the next installment of the Gerber artist series. Teaming up with outdoor artist and mountain athlete, Brooklyn Bell, Gerber will debut outdoor-inspired illustrations created by Bell and added to the award-winning USA made Assert folding knife. This artist collaboration is exclusively available on www.gerbergear.com

Bell, renowned for her mountain biking, skiing, and artistic talents, lives in the Pacific Northwest and crafts artwork that reflects outdoor experiences. Blending hand drawings with Photoshop, Bell finds inspiration from friends, music, role models, mountain culture observations, and her favorite colors of the moment.

Bell’s illustration will be available for a limited time on the Gerber Assert. Built in Gerber’s zero-waste Portland, OR factory, the Assert is a lightweight compact carry knife that is purpose-built for exploring outdoors. The S30V plain edge blade balances ruggedness and finesse matched with a textured handle for optimal grip. The Assert is the perfect match for Bell’s designs and will give everyone confidence when spending time outside.

“Expanding the artist series with Brooklyn is a testament to our commitment of inspiring more people to explore the outdoors,” said Ash Williams, Gerber’s Global Head of Marketing. “Bell’s signature outdoor designs are a perfect fit for the Gerber brand as it continues to launch new partnerships and bring unique products to market.”

To learn more about Brooklyn Bell please visit https://www.brooklynbelldesign.com/ or follow her on Instagram.

Like all Gerber products, the limited artist series knives are backed by the Gerber Guarantee, a limited lifetime warranty hailed as one of the best in the industry.

To learn more about the Gerber artists series, please visit www.gerbergear.com or connect with Gerber on Instagram and Facebook.

Download images HERE

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About Gerber:

Gerber is a global outdoor brand founded in 1939 that builds knives, multi-tools, and problem- solving gear for wherever the pursuit may lead you. For 85 legendary years, Gerber products have been used by mountain climbers, trail hikers, backpackers, kayakers, and more. Gerber products are at home on a hunt in the middle of nowhere, and patio campsites right outside the home. All Gerber products are backed by the Gerber Guarantee, a limited lifetime warranty. All Gerber products are backed by the Gerber Guarantee, a limited lifetime warranty. For more information, please visit www.gerbergear.com.