Archives: Press Releases

BOULDER, Colo. (February 4, 2025) – Matador Travel Equipment, renowned for its commitment to innovation and quality, is proud to introduce the latest addition to its product lineup: the Matador Global Travel Adapter, a compact, smart international outlet adapter for wherever the road may lead. This launch marks Matador’s first product in the electronics space, as the brand brings its travel design expertise to the tech world.

Matador’s Global Travel Adapter is compatible in over 170 countries and can safely charge and power up to six devices simultaneously. Its lightweight and compact design allows travelers to seamlessly pack and store for any adventure.

“We’re really excited to introduce the Global Travel Adapter and enter into a new category of travel essentials,” said Chris Clearman, founder and CEO of Matador. “Our goal was to bring consumers the same innovation and quality they can trust with our travel equipment, now to their electronics, so they can continue to explore without limits.”

The Global Travel Adapter powers all technology, including laptops (AC plug only), tablets, smartphones, eReaders, camera equipment, power banks, headphones, smartwatches, satellite communication devices, portable game consoles and more. Key features also include an integrated High-Capacity PD35 port for larger devices and fast-charging smartphones, as well as built-in protection against overtemperature and overcurrent – with an integrated fuse.

Matador’s Global Travel Adapter (MSRP: $35.99) is available in Black now at select retailers and online at http://www.matadorequipment.com/.

ABOUT MATADOR TRAVEL EQUIPMENT
Matador, based in Boulder, CO, designs high-performance adventure travel equipment engineered for objective-based travel. The team’s strengths in design, material technology, and construction give them an edge in developing innovative products that bring outdoor expertise to the pursuit of travel. For more information about Matador, visit MatadorEquipment.com

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – Feb. 4, 2025 – Selkirk Sport, the leader in pickleball paddle innovation, today unveils the LABS Project 008, a groundbreaking pickleball paddle featuring Selkirk’s first high-density PureFoam core technology.

Designed to redefine durability and performance, the LABS Project 008 will be released in three distinct core thicknesses to cater to various playing styles: a control-focused 16 mm, a hybrid 13 mm and a power-driven 10 mm.

The PureFoam Core
Traditional pickleball paddles often rely on polypropylene cores, which over time can crush and deform, leading to inconsistent responsiveness and the need for frequent replacements.

The PureFoam core introduces a durable, high-density foam formula that resists deformation and maintains consistent performance over prolonged use. This new core technology not only increases the lifespan of the paddle but also enhances playability by offering an enlarged sweet spot and a softer, more responsive feel.

“With its ability to flex on impact, the PureFoam core truly transforms how a paddle performs,” said Tom Barnes, Selkirk director of research and development. “It increases dwell time, enhances spin and ensures consistent performance across the entire paddle face. Players get exceptional control without losing the power and pop needed for dynamic play.”

Three core thicknesses for every style of play
LABS Project 008 will be released in three installments, each featuring a unique core thickness to suit different playing styles:

• Hybrid 13 mm: Ideal for all-court players seeking a balance of power and control.
• Control-focused 16 mm: Designed for tactical precision and players prioritizing finesse at the net.
• Power-driven 10 mm: Perfect for those who rely on explosive power and aggressive gameplay.

Selkirk LABS: Pioneering Innovation in Pickleball
LABS Project 008 continues Selkirk’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of paddle technology. As part of the Selkirk LABS program, all Selkirk customers can offer feedback on the Project 008, which will then be used to perfect the paddle design before it is released on the Selkirk Sport main line.

“The LABS Project 008 reflects Selkirk’s relentless pursuit of innovation,” Barnes said. “By introducing the PureFoam core, we’re addressing a critical need in the market — a paddle that is performance-driven and built to last.”

The Project 008 retails for $288. The 13 mm is on sale now and the 16 mm is available for preorder. The 10 mm will launch in mid-Spring.

For more information about LABS Project 008 or to join the Selkirk LABS program, visit SelkirkLabs.com.

About Selkirk Sport

Selkirk Sport, a premium manufacturer of pickleball paddles and accessories, is a family-owned and operated company. Selkirk Sport is based in Hayden, Idaho, in the shadows of its namesake, the Selkirk mountain range. Founded in 2014, Selkirk Sport was born from a passion for sport and the Western outdoor leisure lifestyle that was afforded to the company’s founders, Rob and Mike Barnes, along with their father Jim, who is Selkirk’s production manager. Backed by the philosophy of always pushing the limits, Selkirk Sport is committed to manufacturing products that deliver the highest performance with unmatched quality and service. Selkirk Sport has become one of the industry’s fastest-growing companies, with paddles used by many of the game’s premier players, such as Jack Sock, Catherine Parenteau, Dylan Frazier, James Ignatowich and a host of others premier players and national/regional champions.

Media contacts:

Kyle Whatnall: Kyle@Selkirk.com

Brynn Grissom: Brynn@Selkirk.com

 

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (February 4, 2025) – RECCO, a leading developer of advanced rescue technology, is proud to announce the continued expansion of its RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector network with a recent deployment in Kathmandu, Nepal. This launch makes Nepal the 11th country where the helicopter-carried system is operational. Simrik Air crews, along with other pilots, have been trained and equipped with the system, enhancing their ability to assist in missing person searches.

In January, former head of mountain rescue in Zermatt, Bruno Jelk, rescue specialist Matthias Hofer, and RECCO instructor Tshering Pande Bhote (President of the NMIA) conducted a RECCO SAR training session. The training included three pilots from Simrik Air—Capt. Siddartha Jung Gurung, Capt. Surendra Paudel, and Capt. Bimal Sharma Sapkota—along with six mountain guides from the Nepal National Mountain Guides Association (NNMGA) and Nepalese rescue specialists. The specialists trained were Tshering Pande Bhote, Pimba Tenjing Lama, Tul Singh Gurung, Chhiring Dhenduk Bhote, Abiral Rai, and Dawa Sangay Sherpa. All participants are now fully trained operators of the system.

“The RECCO system appears to be highly helpful for rapid search and rescue operations in the Himalayas,” says Tul Singh Gurung, President, NNMGA. “The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector will be more effective in search and rescue operations for missing people. Since the helicopter can fly up to 6000 meters, we can also employ the helicopter detector if there are any avalanche accidents up to this altitude. I want to express my gratitude to the RECCO family and to the teaching team.”

The training included low-altitude searches in open terrain around Pokhara and high-altitude searches in conditions of snow and crevasses from Chumrung and Annapurna base camp area. More RECCO SAR operators will be trained in the coming months.

The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector allows rapid, large-area searches for missing individuals year-round, scanning up to one square kilometer in just six minutes. This technology reduces search times and minimizes the time and risk exposure for rescue teams.

Since its launch in 2016, the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector has expanded the application of the system from winter rescue to all-season use, making it ideal for locating lost hikers, trekkers, and mountaineers. The system complements the RECCO handheld detector and can be deployed across diverse terrains, from lowland forests and bushland to high-altitude mountainous areas.

“The RECCO SAR system will contribute to saving lives here in Nepal. We’ll be able to locate you if you’re carrying a rescue reflector, whether you’re a trekker or a mountaineer in need of rescue,” says Capt. Siddartha Jung Gurung.

For over a decade, RECCO handheld detectors have been utilized in Nepal. In 2012, during the Manaslu avalanche near Camp 3, rescue teams from France and Nepal employed the RECCO detector to assist in locating avalanche victims. Currently, 10 handheld detectors are strategically positioned with rescue partners like NMIA, NNMGA, Simrik Air, Seven Summit Treks, Heli Everest, Imagine Nepal, and Adventure 6000, and dispatched on each 8000m peak base camps at the start of each season, enabling rapid response to avalanches and missing person incidents. Lightweight and portable, these detectors can be carried in a backpack or operated from a helicopter.

Starting with the 2024 climbing season, new regulations require all climbers on peaks above 6,000 meters in Nepal to carry mandatory search-and-rescue equipment. The RECCO reflector is one option that complies with these requirements, ensuring that climbers are searchable in case of an emergency.

“The addition of the RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector in Nepal is an important milestone, to make more people searchable year round,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO. “Our technology is designed to make rescue operations faster and safer, and with this new system, we’re proud to enhance safety in the Himalayas. Together, we’re better equipped than ever to support local rescue teams and the growing number of adventurers in the region.”

RECCO reflectors are embedded in outdoor gear from more than 150 leading brands, including Nepalese brands like Everest Outfit. Other international partners like SCARPA, Kailas, Millet, Blackyak and Asolo also integrate reflectors into high-altitude equipment. A complete list of partner brands is available at recco.com.

Attachable RECCO reflectors can be purchased online or locally through Samatra Trading, Kathmandu, as well as from NNMGA, NMIA and Everest Outfit shop in Thamel.

For more information, visit the RECCO website

About RECCO

RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

Media Contact

Siena Teare

Verde Brand Communications

(307) 200-7003

siena@verdepr.com

 

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Boulder, Colo. [February 4, 2025] – Paradox Sports, a national nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives and communities through adaptive climbing, is excited to announce the appointment of Alex Kosseff as its new Executive Director. Kosseff, who has served as Interim Executive Director since June of 2024, steps into the permanent role following an extensive national search process.

“Since stepping in as Interim Director, Alex has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, and a steadfast commitment to strengthening and building the Paradox community,” said Jake Gaventa, Paradox Sports Board Chair. “His ability to navigate challenges with clarity, inspire collaboration, and lead with integrity has already made a lasting impact.”

Kosseff brings a wealth of leadership experience in the outdoor industry. He previously served as Executive Director of the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) from 2015 to 2023, where he led the organization through significant growth, navigated the COVID pandemic, and initiated a national political advocacy strategy. Before joining the AMGA, Kosseff founded the Outdoor Safety Institute, where he worked with dozens of outdoor recreation and education organizations to enhance risk management and program quality. He has served as a board member or advisor at the National Science Foundation, Outward Bound USA, and Montana Wilderness School, is a seasoned climbing instructor, and is the author of a bestselling book on outdoor leadership.

“I’m honored to continue leading Paradox Sports and working alongside such a remarkable team of athletes, volunteers, supporters, and staff,” said Kosseff. “The community was incredibly supportive while I was in the interim role, and it’s clear to me that the supportive character of this organization is one of its greatest assets. Paradox’s mission, and its community, have already made a lasting impact on my life. I look forward to building on the sense of belonging we’ve created, while growing our programming and community of athletes.”

Paradox Sports has seen remarkable growth since its humble origins at Walter Reed Military Medical Center in 2007. Today, the organization reaches thousands of adaptive climbers, and is expanding its programs across the country. With Kosseff at the helm, the organization is poised to strengthen its impact, foster an inclusive climbing community, and continue breaking down barriers to the outdoors.

About Paradox Sports

Paradox Sports is a Boulder, Colorado-based nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives and communities through adaptive climbing opportunities that defy convention. We redefine what’s possible by facilitating accessible climbing opportunities for people with disabilities, proving that adventure has no limits. Our nationwide programs include gym, rock, and ice climbing, mountaineering, and training for adaptive climbing facilitators. Through these experiences, we foster resilience, independence, and a sense of belonging. Learn more about our mission and how to get involved at www.paradoxsports.org.

Media Contact

Becky Lindstrom

Communications Manager

720.638.5593

becky@paradoxsports.org

 

Bellevue, WA – February 4, 2025 – Ombraz, the award-winning pioneer behind armless sunglasses, announces the launch of their Limited Edition Leggero with Polarized Blue Mirror Optics. Driven by customer feedback and the growing popularity of armless sunglasses for water and alpine adventures, Ombraz recognized the need for mirrored lenses to filter harsh light on open water and in reflective, high-altitude environments.

The new Ombraz Polarized Blue Mirror Leggero is designed for those who demand lightweight performance without compromising on style. These armless sunglasses set a new standard for comfort and durability, featuring polarized blue mirror lenses that reduce glare and deliver enhanced clarity in any setting—from shimmering open water to bright, sunlit mountain peaks. Ideal for anglers, water enthusiasts, and high-alpine adventurers, the Polarized Blue Mirror optics elevate color perception and provide crystal-clear vision, even on the brightest days.

“At Ombraz, customer feedback drives our design philosophy,” said Jensen Brehm, co-founder at Ombraz. “As armless sunglasses become a go-to for water activities, especially fishing, we recognize the need for mirrored lenses to filter harsh light on open water, enhance color perception, and improve visual clarity on full-sun days. The Blue Mirror Leggero pairs one of our most popular frames with world-class mirrored optics.”

The Limited Edition Leggero combines a featherlight TR-90 aerospace-grade nylon frame with world-class Polarized Carl Zeiss Blue Mirrored lenses that ensure crystal-clear vision, exceptional durability, and all-day comfort. Like all Ombraz sunglasses, the new Leggeros feature the brand’s innovative armless, hinge-free design, paired with a Japanese-woven, 100% recycled adjustable nylon cord for a customizable, secure fit. This thoughtful combination eliminates common pain points of traditional sunglasses—such as broken sidearms, slipping, and temple pinching—resulting in superior protection and rugged performance, even in the saltiest and most extreme environments.

This small-batch, Limited-Edition Polarized Blue Mirror Leggero is available in Regular and XL sizes and can be found at Ombraz.com for $160. Customers receive free shipping, 30-day returns, and a lifetime warranty with every pair purchased. For media inquiries, please contact stacy@darbycommunications.com.

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About Ombraz Sunglasses

Ombraz is a revolutionary armless sunglasses brand making a fundamental shift to sunglass design. Since the introduction of the Ombraz Classic in 2018, Ombraz has been building carbon-negative, armless sunglasses that solve what frustrates people about sunglasses. Whether on the river, trail, slopes, climbing wall, or singletrack, Ombraz can be worn comfortably and securely all day. With no arms to break and a cord to keep them in place, (or slung around your neck), Ombraz won’t get lost, slip off your nose, or break in your bag or pocket. Additionally, Ombraz plants 20 mangrove trees for every pair of sunglasses sold. A member of 1% For the Planet and Carbon Neutral Certified, Ombraz sequesters 1713x more carbon than it takes to produce and deliver each pair. Learn more about the brand and the full collection of armless sunglasses on Ombraz.com, or follow @Ombraz on Instagram.

 

CONCORD, N.C. and CARRBORO, N.C. (Feb. 3, 2025) — Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores, today announced the grand opening of its newest store in Concord, North Carolina. Located at 2420 Herron’s Nest Place NW, Suite 103, in Christenbury Village, the new store is owned and operated by Mark and Kristin Harris, who also own Fleet Feet Huntersville. The store officially opened its doors on January 29. A grand opening celebration is planned for March 15, 2025.

Mark and Kristin Harris were introduced to the Fleet Feet brand in 2007 when Kristin’s sister joined a Fleet Feet running group in Knoxville, Tenn. Inspired by the community and mission, the couple opened their own Huntersville store in January 2010. Now, with over 15 years of experience in the run specialty industry, the Harris family has cultivated a loyal customer base by delivering exceptional service and building strong community ties through training programs, group runs and charitable initiatives.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring Fleet Feet to Concord,” said Kristin Harris. “We’ve seen tremendous growth and support at our Huntersville location, and we’re eager to extend the same personalized service and community engagement to this new market.”

Concord is an ideal location for Fleet Feet’s continued growth. Situated just 20 minutes from the Huntersville store, it provides a convenient option for customers in Concord, Kannapolis, and Harrisburg. With its proximity to Concord Mills Mall, the Highland Creek Community and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, the new store is perfectly positioned to attract visitors and serve the community.

“Concord is a growing, vibrant community, and we’re thrilled to welcome Kristin and Mark’s second store to the Fleet Feet family,” said John Moloznik, vice president of retail development at Fleet Feet. “Their passion for creating meaningful connections, delivering outstanding customer experiences, and supporting their community embodies everything that Fleet Feet stands for.”

Fleet Feet Concord will operate with the brand’s exclusive personalized outfitting experience, fit id®, which includes 3D foot scanning technology that allows the brand to accurately assess the size and shape of customers’ feet and how each foot moves through the gait cycle. This personalized, expert-led approach allows outfitters to offer the right fitting footwear and accessories for each customer.

With a curated selection of the best running and athletic brands, including ASICS, Brooks, Hoka, New Balance, On and Saucony, the store will help customers of all abilities to find the perfect fit for their training, racing and everyday fitness needs.

For 49 years, Fleet Feet owners, operating partners, and employees have created welcoming environments that allow runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities to conquer their goals at every level, on every surface, at every distance with personalized solutions, knowledge, and empowerment. Fleet Feet’s nationwide network of community-based retail stores are a place of inspiration, showing people how Running Changes Everything®.

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About Fleet Feet

Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 275 Fleet Feet stores in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and has been recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter, the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Best in Business, Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers and America’s Best Online Shops, and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.

 

BOULDER, CO (Feb. 3, 2025) – La Sportiva, the leader in mountain performance gear and apparel, announced today their apparel line for fall 2025. The new line expands the winter Alpine Tech collection and sees the introduction of the Lumina Down Jacket Series and new Gore-Tex® Performance shells. From fast-and-light backcountry missions to powder-filled descents and extreme alpine expeditions, these new pieces are designed to meet the diverse needs of mountain athletes.

Engineered with 1000-fill pure white down, the Lumina Down Jacket Series delivers exceptional warmth while remaining incredibly lightweight and packable. Each jacket is constructed with a PERTEX® Quantum shell featuring Diamond Fuse technology, a unique engineered structure that allows fabrics to remain very stable over extended wear and washing. Thoughtful details such as strategically placed down chambers, elastic sleeve hems, and adjustable features ensure that the Lumina jackets perform in the most extreme environments.

“With the Lumina Series, we’ve focused on designing extremely lightweight insulated pieces that meet the demands of alpine athletes in the harshest conditions,” said Jonathan Lantz, President of La Sportiva North America. “This collection is made for those who rely on their gear to perform when it matters most. Whether tackling steep climbs or venturing deep into the backcountry, the Lumina jackets deliver the warmth needed for serious mountain pursuits without weighing you down.”

The Lumina Series offers three distinct options for a variety of backcountry adventures. The Lumina 100 Down Jacket is the lightest in the lineup. Weighing just 5.9 oz and priced at $259, this jacket is perfect for fast-and-light missions where weight is critical. The Lumina 200 Down Jacket, at 8.8 oz and $349, features an elastic hood for added protection and 125g of down insulation for extended exposure to harsh conditions. For the most extreme adventures, the 12.3oz $399 Lumina 300 Down Jacket delivers unparalleled warmth with 175g of premium down and an adjustable bottom hem.

Building on the proven performance of La Sportiva’s Alpine Tech line, the Alpine Guide GTX Performance Jacket and Pants are crafted to meet the demands of alpinists and ski mountaineers. These hardshell pieces are made with GORE-TEX® Performance fabric, offering a 28,000mm water column rating and exceptional breathability. The $499 Alpine Guide Jacket features a helmet-compatible hood, underarm ventilation zips, and an internal snow guard gaiter. Paired with the adjustable $399 Alpine Guide Pants, this system provides reliable protection and comfort for challenging alpine environments.

Designed for freeride skiers chasing deep powder, the Sender GTX Performance Jacket and Bib Pants deliver protection and functionality for free-touring adventures. Made with GORE-TEX® Performance fabric, the Sender Jacket includes a helmet-compatible hood, underarm ventilation zips, and a water-resistant double-slider zipper. The Sender Bib Pants come equipped with ventilation zips and use an articulated construction that allows for excellent mobility during powder-filled descents. The Jacket is priced at $549, while the Bib Pants retail for $449.

The new Alpine Tech collection will be available at select specialty retailers and at lasportivausa.com in the fall of 2025. Select samples for media will be available prior to the release of the line.

About La Sportiva
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.lasportivausa.com or visit their Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/LaSportiva.

 

 

 

 

Jan. 30, 2025 (BOULDER, Colo.) – La Sportiva, makers of the world’s finest mountain gear, today unveiled the Prodigio Max, a highly cushioned trail shoe with an innovative midsole that changes the game for maximalist footwear. Engineered to combine comfort and responsiveness with technical performance, the Prodigio Max is built for runners looking to go further, faster. The new shoe will be available in the fall of 2025 and is designed to excel in all types of terrain. From the buttery singletrack of California to the rocky trails of Colorado, this shoe can do it all.

Maximalist shoes have become a staple in trail and ultra running, providing comfort and protection over long distances. However, they often struggle to provide the control and responsiveness needed in technical terrain. The $165 Prodigio Max bridges this gap, delivering protection, energy return, and precision for steep climbs and tricky descents.

“The Prodigio Max represents the next evolution of La Sportiva’s trail running lineup,” said Jonathan Lantz, president of La Sportiva North America. “It delivers everything runners love about maximal shoes while solving the performance and stability issues that can exist in the category. We’ve delivered the legendary La Sportiva lock-down fit in a maximalist platform. The Max allows athletes to go farther and push harder, whether they’re racing ultras or exploring their favorite local trails.”

At the core of the Prodigio Max is XFlow Endurance, a new nitrogen-infused eTPU midsole that offers plush cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness. The shoe’s higher sidewalls add stability on rough trails, while an aggressive rocker geometry ensures a smooth and efficient stride. The outsole comes equipped with 4mm lugs and combines the brand’s sticky FriXion White rubber in the forefoot with durable FriXion Blue rubber in the heel, ensuring confident traction on all surfaces.

The Prodigio Max features a new wide fit, providing all-day comfort for ultra-distance efforts. La Sportiva is also introducing a cutting-edge upper for the shoe, which centers around its new Comfort Wire fabric. Comfort Wire is made from a combination of TPEE polyester and embroidered yarn, allowing for enhanced durability and support while also reducing weight. A stability wrap provides additional security for the foot, while laser-cut ventilation holes in the forefoot enhance airflow and comfort on ultra-long efforts.

Weighing in at 10.4 oz for men and 9.1 oz for women, the Prodigio Max has a stack height of 37mm in the heel and a 6mm drop. The new model will be available at select specialty retailers and online at www.lasportivausa.com in the fall of 2025.

About La Sportiva
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.lasportivausa.com or visit their Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/LaSportiva.

 

 

 

MAMMOTH LAKES, Calif. — January 30, 2025 —  Following a landmark 2024 event that drew nearly 2,000 runners from 22 countries and 40 states—with 47% female participation—mammoth trailfest. has entered into a new multi-year partnership with Craft Sportswear. This collaboration signals an exciting new chapter for the celebrated trail running festival.

Tim Tollefson, head crafter and founder of mammoth trailfest., reflected on the journey leading up to this partnership. “After losing our title sponsor, it was difficult to be honest,” Tollefson shared. “While we measure success in smiles and the feedback we get from our community, it’s hard not to feel disheartened when a sponsor moves on. But just like the seasons in the Eastern Sierra, change came quickly, and we soon found ourselves in discussions with leading brands in the running industry.”

Tollefson noted the importance of aligning with a partner that shared the festival’s core values. “We believe trail running has the power to change lives and improve communities,” he said. “At trailfest., we pride ourselves on being more than just a world-class event. The focus on experiences with movies, talks, parties, and kids events is our vehicle to reach people. We continue to push for more youth, women, and people from historically underrepresented communities to have access to this sport and it was important for us to find a partner that would help drive that mission forward.”

Enter Craft Sportswear, the Swedish brand renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence in endurance sports. “Much like the upstart underdog we are at trailfest., Craft struck me as a brand ready to make noise,” Tollefson explained. “trailfest. celebrates every runner, from course record breakers to those who persevere to finish against the odds, and Craft is a community-driven brand that aims to inspire and enable athletic progress for world champions and everyday heroes. They made it clear they share the same vision and bring with them a 40 year brand committed to disruption.”

“Partnering with mammoth trailfest. and collaborating with Tim, a true icon in trail running, is an incredible opportunity for Craft,” said Niklas Moberg, Head of Brand at Craft Sportswear. “Trailfest. represents all that is great about the running community—celebrating the joy of running in nature and bringing people together on the trail. This partnership was a natural fit for us, and we’re excited to work even closer with Tim and help elevate trailfest. to new heights while creating a memorable experience for all participants.”

Looking ahead to the 2025 event, Tollefson shared his vision. “Everything we do at trailfest. is checked with, ‘Will this be best for our runners?’ In this new partnership with Craft, we will elevate the trailfest. experience for everyone involved, push industry boundaries in the event space, and launch initiatives to welcome more people into the sport, including an innovative program this summer in Mammoth directed towards high school kids and collegiate running programs.”

From oldtimers and newbies to course record breakers and cutoff chasers, trailfest. is a celebration of community focused on stewardship and storytelling. The 2025 event will take place September 18-21 in Mammoth Lakes, CA. Registration is now open for all events.

For more information and to register, visit https://www.mammothtrailfest.com/.

About mammoth trailfest.

Held on the third weekend in September each year, trailfest. is a multi-day experience designed to increase access to trail running through opportunity, education, and trail stewardship. It offers races of 50k, 26k, Tenkay, hillclimb, and a kids 1k. All festival activities are free and the event elevates local environmental nonprofits, encourages youth participation, and serves as a major economic driver to the Mammoth Lakes community during a difficult shoulder season. It is an event built by community, for community, right in the heart of California. For more information visit mammothtrailfest.com or email info@mammothtrailfest.com.

About Craft Sportswear

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