Outside Summit Announces Featured Speakers

DENVER, Colo. – January 30, 2025 – The Outside Summit is thrilled to announce its return in 2025 with a slate of featured speakers that includes some of the biggest names in the outdoor industry. As part of the larger Outside Festival, the Summit brings together key stakeholders, career veterans, and emerging talents to set a vision for the future. The multi-day program is designed to foster networking and offer strong professional development opportunities.

The 2025 Outside Summit speaker lineup features sessions with celebrated pioneers and rising stars, including Reed Hastings (Co-Founder of Netflix and CEO of Powder Mountain), Caroline Brown (Global Brand President, The North Face), Albert Lin (National Geographic Explorer and TV Host), Alyssa Ravasio (Founder, Hipcamp), Carrie Besnette Hauser (President and CEO, Trust for Public Land), Kent Ebersole (President, Outdoor Industry Association), Luis Benitez (VP Global Government Affairs, Lululemon), Mike de la Rocha (Co-Founder, Revolve Impact), Nicole McLaughlin (Multidisciplinary Designer), Sen. John Hickenlooper, Joey Montoya (Founder, Urban Native Era), Dhani Jones (Former NFL Linebacker, TV Host & Entrepreneur), Lauren Bash (Climate Creator and Storyteller), Jessica Wahl Turner (President, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable), Conor Hall (Director, Colorado Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry), Wynter Mitchell-Rohrbaugh (Digital Brand Strategy Consultant, Two Six Eighty Productions) and Alex Zhang (Chief Creative Officer, Powder Mountain). The lineup of speakers is subject to change and will be regularly updated at theoutsidesummit.com.

“The Summit is an embodiment of our mission at Outside, and serves the larger vision behind the Outside Festival,” said Robin Thurston, Founder & CEO of Outside Interactive Inc., who will also be speaking at the Summit. “Last year’s inaugural Summit brought together changemakers from across the outdoor industry to spark important conversations about the future of our businesses. Our 2025 speaker lineup will continue building on last year’s success with an inspiring group of individuals who will empower more people to enjoy, discover, and protect the outdoors. I’m eager to hear their valuable insights.”

Last year’s Outside Summit saw 35 speakers, 27 panel discussions, and a sold-out audience of more than 500 attendees. In 2025, the program will expand to a dedicated campus adjacent to Denver’s Civic Center Park from Thursday, May 29 to Sunday, June 1. Sessions will take place at the Denver Art Museum and newly renovated spaces within the Denver Public Library, providing a vibrant backdrop for connection and inspiration.

“The Outside Summit is where outdoor culture and bold vision converge, and it’s only getting better,” said Melanie Strong, Founding Partner of NEXT Ventures. “The speaker content last year was top-notch, the networking opportunities were unparalleled, and the connections I made continue to shape my work in the outdoor industry. The Summit offers something the outdoor industry has long needed—a dedicated space to meet, collaborate, and drive meaningful change. The 2025 Outside Summit is a must-attend for anyone looking to be part of the future of the outdoors.”

The 2025 Outside Summit program will focus on entrepreneurship, storytelling, access, and sustainability, and will include a pitch competition for industry startups, plus networking activities and gatherings. The complete schedule will be released early in the spring. Industry professionals interested in attending are encouraged to secure their spot today.

Outside Summit registration and badge pick-up will begin Thursday, May 29, following an industry job fair hosted that same day in partnership with Basecamp. A full day of programming takes place on Friday, May 30 (8 a.m. – 6 p.m., approximate), followed by evening festivities, setting the stage for the larger Outside Festival on Saturday and Sunday in Civic Center Park (festival times are 1 p.m. – 10 p.m., approximate). The Outside Summit badge grants ticketholders access to both days of the Outside Festival, as well as pre-festival activities and gatherings over the weekend, plus entry to an Outside Summit lounge on the festival grounds. Summit badge holders will receive a complete schedule of Outside Festival and Summit events, times, and locations in advance.

Tickets to the Outside Summit, which include meals and a two-day General Admission+ pass to the Outside Festival, start at $745 for a limited time. Group discounts of $50 off per ticket are available for purchases of five tickets or more. Outside+ members also enjoy a $50 discount. For attendees who prefer an upgraded experience, the Summit Badge with Outside Festival VIP Upgrade is available for $810, including access to all Summit programming, plus a two-day VIP pass to the Outside Festival. A limited number of discounted badges are available on an as-needed basis for students, those who work in education and government, nonprofits, and smaller brands or startups.

For tickets, programming updates, and more information, visit theoutsidesummit.com. Sponsors for the 2025 Outside Summit include REI Co-op, VF Corporation, The State of Colorado, Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, Outdoor Industry Association, Trust for Public Land, Visit Denver, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Outside for Business, Denver Art Museum, and Denver Public Library.

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Media Contact:

Rachel Weiss rachel.weiss@backbone.media

Photo and Video Assets (Credit Outside)

About the Outside Festival and Summit

The second annual Outside Festival and Summit will take place in downtown Denver from May 29 – June 1, 2025. The Outside Festival presented by Capital One and REI, May 31 – June 1, is a celebration of everything outdoors, featuring music, films, speakers, gear, and more. The event is driven by a partnership between Outside Interactive, Inc., The State of Colorado’s Outdoor Recreation Office, and Visit Denver—all with a shared vision to make the outdoors more accessible and more inclusive. The Outside Summit, May 29 – June 1, 2025, is the outdoor industry’s premier networking conference. For more information, including tickets, please visit theoutsidefestival.com.

About Outside Interactive, Inc.

Outside Interactive, Inc. is the premier destination for outdoor inspiration, activation, and celebration. Each year, Outside reaches more than 300 million unique users and has more than 100 million registered users across its network of 25 media, service, and utility brands, including Outside, MapMyFitness, Velo, Yoga Journal, Pinkbike, Gaia GPS, Trailforks, athleteReg, and more. Outside’s mission is to get everyone outside, experiencing healthy, connected, and fulfilling lives by creating an experience for both longtime adventurers and those just getting started. Outside’s subscription offering, Outside+, bundles best-in-class storytelling, videos, gear reviews, mapping apps, online courses, discounted event access, and more. Learn more at outsideonline.com/outsideplus

REI Co-op to relocate Eugene, Oregon store in early 2026

SEATTLE – Specialty outdoor retailer REI Co-op will relocate its Eugene, Oregon store in early 2026. The co-op will move to Oakway Center, an established shopping destination centrally located in the city. The larger store will feature broader footwear, cycling and camping departments.
“We’ve proudly served the Eugene community for more than three decades at our original location that today is one of the smallest in the country. Once open, REI Eugene will be the second largest store in the state, following our Beaverton location that opened last year,” said Bob Cagle, REI regional director. “Our Oakway Center space will be one level and nearly 10,000 square feet larger than the current store, enabling an incredible experience for customers and staff through a highly accessible floor design, larger product assortments, improved dressing rooms, and ample warehouse space.”
REI Eugene currently has 41 employees who will be welcomed to relocate to the new site. Decisions for hiring additional employees to staff the larger store will be made later this year. Interested individuals can set a job alert on REI.jobs to be notified if positions post. All employees receive a wide variety of benefits, including medical coverage, competitive pay, retirement plan contributions, generous product and service discounts, and two paid annual “Co-op Way Days” for community service, civic participation, outdoor recreation or stewardship. Staff also receive a paid day off on Black Friday to Opt Outside.
Store Facts        
  • Location: 95 Oakway Center, Eugene, OR
  • Store size: 30,120 square feet
  • Store features: Full-service bike shop and ski and snowboard shop, Re/Supply used gear and apparel department
  • REI Co-op membership: More than 137,000 lifetime members in Eugene and 988,000 members in Oregon
  • REI stores in state: Beaverton, Oregon (107 miles away, opened 2024); Bend, Oregon (89 miles away, opened 2005); Clackamas, Oregon (99 miles away, opened 2007); Hillsboro, Oregon (121 miles away, opened 2004); Medford, Oregon (167 miles away, opened 2012); Salem-Keizer, Oregon (66 miles away, opened 2014); and Tualatin, Oregon (94 miles away, opened 1990). REI Re/Supply Clackamas opened in 2023 to provide members with access to high-quality, used outdoor gear and apparel at great prices.
As the country’s largest consumer co-op, everyone is welcome to shop at REI. Co-op members enjoy a wide range of benefits, including bike and snow shop discounts, member coupons and discounts, access to a used gear trade-in program, annual member reward of 10% back on eligible purchases, extended satisfaction guarantee window of one year, free U.S. standard shipping, and more.
With each new membership purchased, the co-op donates $5 to support the REI Cooperative Action Fund, a community-driven nonprofit that supports nonprofits across the country doing essential work to create a more equitable outdoors for everyone and research nature’s impact on health. Since its inception in 2021, the Fund has provided 698 grants totaling nearly $24 million. Last year, nearly $468,000 went to Oregon nonprofits, including Eugene Parks Foundation, NatureQuant, Northwest Youth Corps and Oregon Adaptive Sports.
About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 24 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.
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Wilderness Exchange Reopens as Black Diamond Wilderness Exchange

[Denver, CO] – January 30, 2025 – Black Diamond Equipment, a global leader in mountain sports gear, is proud to officially announce the grand reopening of Wilderness Exchange as Black Diamond Wilderness Exchange. The overhaul marks the evolution of an iconic independent outdoor retailer into a new kind of partner-run mountain shop, merging Black Diamond’s innovative designs with Wilderness Exchange’s community-driven mission to make outdoor activities more affordable and accessible across the board.

Located in the heart of Denver, the newly rebranded store maintains its independent spirit while benefiting from a new partnership model that supports independent retail. Black Diamond Wilderness Exchange will continue to serve as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts in the Front Range by offering weekly and monthly events, educational programs, and partnerships with local organizations.

“The Black Diamond Wilderness Exchange store represents a novel approach to supporting independent retail while growing our brand in one of the premiere outdoor activity markets in the U.S.,” says Neil Fiske, President of Black Diamond Equipment. “We’re working together to elevate everything that the outdoor enthusiasts of Denver knew and loved about the original Wilderness Exchange:  premium gear, expert advice, and a thriving outdoor community.”

New Look, Same Mission

The reimagined store will feature a full selection of Black Diamond gear and apparel catering to climbers, skiers, trail runners, and hikers. Customers will also find an expertly curated selection from complementary brands including La Sportiva, Tenaya, Smith, Atomic, Tecnica, Western Mountaineering, Topo, BCA, ATK, Mammut, Petzl, and SmartWool.

One of the original store’s defining features, the legendary consignment and used gear section, will remain part of the new model. Staying true to Wilderness Exchange’s 25-year history, the downstairs space will continue to showcase a range of affordable second-hand outdoor gear in support of circularity and access.

“Our partnership with Black Diamond allows us to continue our longstanding mission of making the outdoors more accessible and affordable to the local outdoor community in Downtown Denver,” says Don Bushey, owner and founder of Wilderness Exchange. “The new store combines the best of Wilderness Exchange’s legacy, with the ability to provide our customers with an immersive brand experience and a world class mountain shop where they can find the best outdoor equipment available for their adventures.”

Grand Reopening Celebration: February 8-16, 2025

Black Diamond Wilderness Exchange will host weeklong Grand Reopening festivities featuring:

  • Multiple giveaways, including chances to win full kits of Black Diamond equipment and apparel
  • Screenings of “BD Presents” adventure films
  • Swag, discounts, contests, gift-with-purchase opportunities, and more

About Black Diamond Equipment:

Black Diamond Equipment is a global leader in designing innovative outdoor-engineered equipment and apparel for climbing, skiing, and a wide range of other year-round outdoor activities. Headquartered in Salt Lake City at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Black Diamond is synonymous with performance, innovation, and durability in the outdoor community. For more information on Black Diamond Equipment, visit www.blackdiamondequipment.com.

About Wilderness Exchange:

Founded in Denver, Wilderness Exchange has been a trusted source for high-quality outdoor gear at affordable prices for over 25 years. Known for its legendary consignment section and commitment to fostering the local outdoor community, it remains a go-to hub for adventurers of all levels as Black Diamond Wilderness Exchange.

Visit Black Diamond Wilderness Exchange:

2401 15th Street #100

Denver, CO 80202

(303) 964-0708

 

 

Nutriex Announces Partnership with Legendary Rock Climber Chris Sharma

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – [Jan 2025] – Nutriex, a leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals through research-based nutritional supplements and education, today announced a formal partnership with world-renowned professional rock climber Chris Sharma. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, building upon Sharma’s two-decade personal experience with Nutriex Sport, the company’s flagship supplement.

Chris Sharma, widely recognized as one of the world’s most influential climbers, has been at the forefront of rock climbing progression for over 25 years. His groundbreaking first ascents and contributions to the sport have earned him recognition as one of climbing’s greatest athletes.

The partnership emerges naturally from Sharma’s long-standing relationship with Nutriex. For over 20 years, Chris has independently chosen Nutriex Sport as part of his nutritional regime, well before any formal partnership discussions began.

Chris explained, “I’ve been taking Nutriex Sport since 2005 and it has accompanied me on all of my hardest climbs, in the 20 years since. It’s been a key part of my tool kit in my climbing pursuits and in maintaining my overall health.  As I continue to push my limits going on 44yrs old, Nutriex plays an important role in my longevity as an elite athlete.”

Chris continues, “I’m super excited to be taking my partnership with Nutriex to the next level, working alongside their team to introduce people to Nutriex Sport as well as develop new products. Nutriex has been a fundamental part of my climbing and health journey and I’m really happy to help spread the word so that others can benefit from these amazing products.”

“Chris’s authentic connection to our products makes this partnership particularly meaningful,” said Kathleen Deffner, Head of Product at Nutriex. ”He is a great example of how our products support the grueling training regimen of elite athletes. The high levels of joint and connective tissue nutrients in Nutriex Sport act “preventively” to manage the effects of hard training year after year. This allows Chris and other athletes to stay competitive and achieve new goals, even as they mature/age.”

The collaboration will focus on promoting preventive health and optimal nutrition for athletes and active individuals. Sharma will work closely with Nutriex to educate the climbing community about the importance of comprehensive nutrition for performance and recovery. Additionally, Sharma will contribute his expertise to future product development initiatives, bringing his decades of elite athletic experience to help shape the next generation of Nutriex supplements tailored for climbers and high-performance athletes.

“Having an athlete of Chris’s caliber choose Nutriex products independently for so many years speaks volumes about their efficacy,” said Eli Kerr, Head of Marketing at Nutriex. “It is rare to have an individual, like Chris, who has spent their entire career using a product (or brand) and experienced an insane amount of success. Now in his 40’s to be using the products and still performing at such a high level – this isn’t just marketing b.s.!”

This partnership reinforces Nutriex’s commitment to supporting athletes across all disciplines. Nutriex products, developed by medical experts and manufactured in FDA-registered facilities, combine essential nutrients with joint-supporting compounds, making them particularly valuable for climbers and other athletes who place high demands on their bodies.

Chris closed out, “The grind of climbing at your highest limits day in day out is something that’s extremely difficult to sustain, without breaking down your body. The people around me have known for years that I have been using Nutriex Sport as my daily supplement and now I’m about to share it openly with the entire outdoor community.”

The partnership will officially launch in January 2025, with various educational initiatives, campaigns, and future product development.

About Chris Sharma: Chris Sharma is widely considered one of the world’s greatest rock climbers. Since emerging as a climbing prodigy at age 14, he has been a leading force in the sport’s evolution. Sharma has established many of the hardest first ascents in the world, including “Biographie/Realization” (the world’s first 5.15a) and “La Dura Dura” (5.15c) and most recently one of his hardest and best projects, “Vision Quest” (9a+). Beyond his athletic achievements, Sharma is a passionate advocate for climbing education and environmental stewardship.

Nutriex, part of Dry Creek Charity, is a not-for-profit organization based in Salt Lake City, Utah, dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve vibrant health through research-based nutritional supplements and education. Founded in 1999 by medical experts, Nutriex develops comprehensive, synergistic formulations that combine essential nutrients with joint-supporting compounds. Visit Nutriex.com for more information

 

Outdoor Industry Leaders Launch Open-Source Tool to Decarbonize Textile Mills

Cotopaxi, L.L.Bean, New Balance, Patagonia, REI Co-op, W.L. Gore & Associates, Global Efficiency Intelligence, and OIA Collaborate to Drive Industry-Wide Emissions Reductions 

BOULDER, CO [Wednesday, January 29, 2025] — Cotopaxi, L.L. Bean, New Balance, Patagonia, REI Co-op, W.L. Gore & Associates, Global Efficiency Intelligence, and Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) proudly introduce the Textile Heating Electrification Tool, an innovative open-source resource designed to help textile mills reduce emissions by transitioning to efficient, electrified heating technologies. Developed as part of OIA’s Clean Heat Impact CoLab, this initiative underscores the outdoor industry’s commitment to decarbonizing the textile industry and driving progress toward bold climate goals. 

The Textile Heating Electrification Tool equips decision-makers with essential data and insights to replace fossil fuel-based heating systems with electric solutions. This innovation addresses the pressing need for decarbonization in the textile and apparel industry, which accounts for approximately 2% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and faces growing demand due to population increases and consumer trends. 

Key features of the Textile Heating Electrification Tool include:  

  • Data management system 
  • Modeling and simulation module 
  • Implementation checklist 
  • Manufacturer and supplier finder 

The Clean Heat CoLab builds on the findings of the 2023 Electrification of Heating in the Textile Industry study, which highlighted the potential for electric heating technologies to reduce emissions and costs for textile mills. Extending those insights, the CoLab transformed research into actionable solutions. Through beta testing with nominated facilities, the tool was refined to meet the needs of textile manufacturers worldwide. 

“At REI, we believe advancing climate solutions requires broad cooperation. While we have an ambitious goal to halve our emissions by 2030, we can’t meet it without the help of our brand and manufacturing partners,” said Andrew Dempsey, Director of Climate at REI. “Electric heat technologies are a crucial component to decarbonizing textile manufacturing. This tool provides REI and our value chain partners valuable information and analysis to accelerate decision-making about decarbonization investments.” 

Developed under OIA’s Clean Heat CoLab, the tool reflects a collaborative, pre-competitive approach to solving complex climate challenges. OIA Impact CoLabs accelerate industry progress by enabling brands and suppliers to work together, meeting company sustainability goals more efficiently and cost-effectively. Learn more about Impact CoLabs here. 

“Since 2021, Patagonia has partnered with Outdoor Industry Association, through its Clean Heat CoLab, on providing the industry with solutions to decarbonize heating emissions from textile mills,” said Kim Drenner, Head of Environmental Impact at Patagonia. “Over the years, this work has brought together several brands and suppliers funding research and now the development of a tool that supports suppliers in identifying electrified technology to replace fossil fuel-based heat systems in their facilities. This work would not be possible if it wasn’t for the collaborative environment that OIA fosters.” 

The tool is now freely available here. To ensure widespread adoption, Global Efficiency Intelligence will create comprehensive training materials, including user guides, tutorial videos, and FAQs, in five languages. Additionally, online training workshops will give suppliers an opportunity to interact with the tool and ask questions. Register here for the upcoming information session on February 13. 

“A tool that shortens the discovery and due diligence process for implementing electric manufacturing equipment can significantly accelerate decarbonization in the textile supply chain. We are really pleased with the outcome of this collaboration with leading outdoor industry brands,” said Markus Wieser, Climate Team Leader at W.L. Gore & Associates. 

“We’re proud to have led the development of the Textile Heating Electrification Tool to help textile and apparel companies decarbonize their operations and supply chain. By providing clear, data-driven pathways to electrification, this tool offers a powerful blueprint for cutting carbon emissions at scale,” said Dr. Ali Hasanbeigi, CEO and Research Director at Global Efficiency Intelligence. 

“We are thrilled with the launch of the Textile Heating Electrification Tool, a vital step in our collective effort to decarbonize the textile industry. This tool combines expertise from across the outdoor industry to provide textile mills with actionable insights to transition to cleaner, more sustainable heating technologies,” said Julie Brown, Director of Sustainable Business Innovation at Outdoor Industry Association.  

About Outdoor Industry Association 

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org. 

Mountain House Teams Up with Darby Communications

January 29, 2025 — Albany, OR — Mountain House, a leading provider of freeze-dried meals for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency preparedness, announces its partnership with Darby Communications, a PR and digital marketing agency renowned for its expertise in the outdoor, endurance, and hunt/fish markets. Effective immediately, Darby Communications will serve as Mountain House’s agency of record, focusing on media relations and affiliate marketing services to drive brand authority and increase share of voice in the industry.

Mountain House is turning up the heat and cooking up greatness. Following a comprehensive brand redesign last spring, the heritage freeze-dried food brand has modernized its image and deepened its relevance in the outdoor industry with new product innovation and increased participation across outdoor audiences. Partnering with Darby Communications marks a pivotal next step in the brand’s evolution, leveraging the agency’s stellar outdoor and hunt/fish credentials to amplify Mountain House’s voice and strengthen its connection with outdoor enthusiasts. Through this partnership, Darby Communications will lead efforts to generate impactful media coverage, create compelling brand-driven narratives, and foster engagement through targeted affiliate marketing strategies.

“Darby Communications will be an important partner in helping us reach our marketing goals, which include the introduction of a beloved American entrée to the just-add-water ready-to-eat food category this spring,” said Sally Wilson, Interim Chief of Marketing for Mountain House. “Darby Communications is strategically aligned with our mission to grow and lead in this category in terms of taste, innovation, and nutrition, building upon last year’s rebrand and first-ever integrated marketing campaign.”

Since 1969, Mountain House has pioneered the commercial-scale freeze drying process, becoming the #1 trusted brand for outdoorspeople, backpackers, and preparedness-minded individuals seeking delicious, nutritious, and reliable meal options. From its iconic breakfast skillets to hearty dinner entrees, Mountain House prepares every meal in small batches before drying and packaging, which locks in texture, flavor, and nutrition and sets the gold standard for quality and flavor. Today, the brand continues to push the innovation of quick cook and portable meals in the outdoor industry, and is proudly made in the USA.

“With over 50 years of experience supplying freeze-dried meals to the military, feeding NASA’s space program, and supplying the first ascent of Annapurna, Mountain House is an iconic brand that is dedicated to innovation,” says Angie Robinson, President of Darby Communications. “We’re proud to be their partner during this exciting time to showcase the brand’s leadership. Together, we will amplify the brand’s story and inspire more people to fuel their adventures with Mountain House.”

For more information on Mountain House and upcoming product launches, visit www.mountainhouse.com or contact Katie Richter at katie@darbycommunications.com.

ABOUT MOUNTAIN HOUSE

Named after an Oregon restaurant on the slope of the Cascades that once welcomed outdoorspeople with warm meals after full days of adventure, Mountain House is the freeze-dried meal category leader. With its great taste, ease of use and reliability the brand has been helping backpackers, hikers, anglers and hunters stay out longer and go out further since 1969, offering comfort under any condition. Mountain House has a 56-year legacy proudly serving wholesome, delicious meals to the US military. All of its products are backed by a Taste Guarantee and a proven shelf life of 30 years. For more information and a complete list of products, visit www.mountainhouse.com.

 

 

 

 

Verde Brand Communications Takes the Wheel for Rossmönster Adventure Truck and Van PR Efforts

BOULDER, Colo. (January 29, 2025) — Verde Brand Communications, a leading agency specializing in outdoor and active lifestyle industries, has been appointed as the public relations agency of record for Rossmönster, effective immediately. Verde will work closely with Rossmönster to showcase their innovative approach to adventure truck and adventure van builds to help highlight the brand’s commitment to enabling unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Co-founded by Ross Williamson and Luke Farny, Rossmönster has honed their skills as custom van builders over the past nine years to become a prominent and sought-after name in the adventure vehicle market. The company’s truck and van conversions are designed to provide comfort, functionality, and durability for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore off the beaten path.

“At Rossmönster, we believe that the journey is just as important as the destination,” said Luke Farny, CEO of Rossmönster. “Our adventure vehicles are crafted to empower individuals to embrace the freedom of the open road while enjoying the comforts of home. We’re thrilled to partner with Verde Brand Communications to share our passion for adventure and craftsmanship with a wider audience.”

Rossmönster’s commitment to quality is evident in their meticulous attention to detail and use of premium materials in every build. From solar power systems to innovative storage solutions, each van is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of its owner.

“The surge in interest for outdoor recreation and remote work has created a perfect storm for companies like Rossmönster,” said Julie Evans, CEO of Verde Brand Communications. “We’re excited to help tell the story of how Rossmönster is revolutionizing the way people experience the outdoors. Their dedication to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with Verde’s mission to promote brands that enhance people’s connection with nature and adventure.”

As more individuals seek ways to combine work, travel, and outdoor pursuits, Rossmönster’s vehicles offer a solution that bridges the gap between comfort and adventure. Verde Brand Communications will work to highlight Rossmönster’s unique position in the market and their contribution to the evolving landscape of outdoor recreation.

To learn more about Rossmönster’s storied history and a more detailed look at its line of adventure trucks and vans, please visit rossmonster.com.

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About Rossmönster
Rossmönster redefines the adventure lifestyle, crafting premium trucks and vans that fuel your passion for exploration and discovery. With groundbreaking designs and unmatched craftsmanship, Rossmönster creates vehicles that are more than just a mode of travel — they’re a gateway to the extraordinary. Dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering exceptional customer experiences, Rossmönster is shaping the future of adventure vehicles for those who dare to roam further and live boldly.

About Verde Brand Communications

Verde Brand Communications is a woman-founded, woman-led agency focused on brand communications and strategy, media relations, digital marketing and affiliate management. We specialize in serving the outdoor and active lifestyle industries as well as adjacent specialty markets. Our market-driven approach stems from a nimble, close-knit team of creative thinkers along with proven industry experience since Verde was founded in 2002. We have offices in Durango and Boulder, Colo., and Jackson, Wyo. For more information about Verde, please visit www.verdepr.com or follow our adventures on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: Kevin Nicol-Lints | Kevin@verdepr.com

PHANTOM Glide Releases New Nordic Formula

SALT LAKE CITY (Jan. 29, 2025) — PHANTOM Glide, the permanent, single-application base treatment for skis and snowboards, introduces a new Nordic formula that creates a permanent glide surface that performs across a wide range of snow conditions and can be enhanced with traditional wax for heightened performance in specific snow conditions. PHANTOM Glide Nordic creates an environmentally friendly foundation for all Nordic skis and provides a permanent hydrophobic coating that bonds to the base material preserving base health and improving glide in most conditions compared to traditional waxes.

“For the everyday Nordic skier and racer, PHANTOM Glide Nordic is an essential component to your ski preparation and maintenance. PHANTOM Nordic-treated bases stay healthy and retain glide performance in a broad array of conditions,” says Billy Demong, Head of Strategic Product Development at PHANTOM Glide. “For me the best part is that I don’t have to wax. PHANTOM protects the base from drying out or having the pores close. I wax when I want the best glide I can achieve for racing or for some extreme conditions, like really cold, dry snow. But if I don’t wax for an extended period I can rely on the great glide that PHANTOM Nordic provides.”

PHANTOM Glide and PHANTOM Glide Nordic are a permanent, wax-free treatment applied just once to the base of skis or snowboards. The treatment bonds deep into the base material and allows Nordic athletes to eliminate the time-consuming and intensive process of waxing except for when it is absolutely necessary. PHANTOM Glide provides increased glide for the lifetime of the ski or snowboard and possesses no environmental harm or harm to humans. For maximum efficacy, it is recommended that customers take their skis and snowboards to an authorized PHANTOM Glide dealer with a PHANTOM Glide “Magic Box” cure station.

“With PHANTOM Glide Nordic, I can save time and money on frequently waxing my skis and save the wax for race days knowing that I have an effective foundation for glide on my ski bases.” says Demong. “Simply put, PHANTOM Nordic has been a game-changer for my Nordic performance and ski prep.”

PHANTOM Glide Nordic is available in a bulk spray specifically designed for dealer application. For more info on PHANTOM Glide and PHANTOM Glide Nordic, as well as authorized dealers with Magic Box cure stations, please visit https://phantomglide.com. For media inquiries, please contact Account Manager Ryan Silven at ryan.silven@rygr.us.

About PHANTOM Glide: 

Developed by scientists and engineers, and tested by elite athletes, PHANTOM Glide is the result of advanced material innovation, designed to enhance glide performance with a single application. Unlike traditional wax, PHANTOM Glide permanently integrates into the base of skis and snowboards, optimizing glide for the lifetime of the equipment. It delivers consistently fast and reliable performance across a wide range of snow conditions and temperatures. Additionally, PHANTOM Glide is formulated to remain stable and durable without breaking down over time. For more on PHANTOM Glide visit https://phantomglide.com.

Contact: Ryan Silven
ryan.silven@rygr.us

970-924-0704 ext. 2114

 

 

 

 

Revolutionizing Baking: Ooni Unveils the Ultimate Stand Mixer for Home Chefs

EDINBURGH, Scotland (Jan. 28, 2025) – Today, Ooni Pizza Ovens, the creator and leader of the home pizza oven market, is once again revolutionizing home cooking with the launch of the Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer.

Available for purchase in April 2025, the Halo Pro combines Ooni’s commitment to quality and innovative design to bring revolutionary spiral mixing technology to the home. The Halo Pro enables home chefs and bakers to create everything from restaurant-quality pizza dough to fresh sourdough loaves, big batches of chocolate chip cookies and birthday cakes for those special occasions.

What sets the Halo Pro apart is its revolutionary spiral mixing technology. Until now, spiral mixers have only been found in professional kitchens, bakeries and pizzerias. Home kitchen stand mixers have been dominated by brands with traditional planetary mixers, which are not optimal at mixing bread doughs. Professionals looking for higher quality dough have chosen spiral mixers instead, as the innovative engineering enables the hook and bowl to revolve simultaneously around a breaker bar, creating a dual-action kneading system. Crucially, this creates stronger gluten strands, and independent third party experts determined that the Halo Pro achieves better dough compared to a planetary at-home mixer.

“Ooni has always been about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible cooking at home,” said Kristian Tapaninaho, Founder and Co-CEO at Ooni. “We changed how people made pizza at home forever when we created the first Ooni pizza oven in 2012, and now we’re bringing that same innovative spirit and high standards to change the game with stand mixers in your kitchen.”

The Halo Pro blends incredible precision with huge capacity. An intuitive digital interface allows users to finely adjust between 58 different mixing speeds for unmatched control at a simple turn of a dial, and set a timer to automatically stop. The removable 7.3 quart bowl can handle up to 11 pounds of dough at a time – enough for 20 pizzas or six loaves of bread. In addition to a Spiral Dough Hook and patent-pending Removable Breaker Bar, the Halo Pro includes a Geared Whisk and a Flexible Beater to deliver the versatility that a home user desires for everything from whipping delicate meringues to mixing cake batters with ease.

Darina Garland, Co-Founder and Co-CEO added, “We have learned so much from our global Ooni Community of customers over the past 12 years. We know they care about making truly great dough, and we are so excited to share the Halo Pro with them. Our new mixer will really help everyone level up their dough and baking, and we can’t wait to see folks sharing their epic bakes and pizzas with their friends and family at home. That is the heart of what Ooni is all about.”

The Halo Pro’s modern, minimalist look seamlessly integrates into any kitchen décor, ensuring it is as visually appealing as it is functional. This combination of performance and design cements the Halo Pro as a must-have for bakers.

Beginning April 8, 2025, The Ooni Halo Pro Spiral Mixer will be available for purchase in two colors – Polar White and Charcoal Grey – retailing at $799.00 at Ooni.com. Sign up now to be among the first notified when it’s available to buy: www.ooni.com/pages/explore-halo-pro-spiral-dough-mixer.

About Ooni

Founded by husband-and-wife team Kristian Tapaninaho and Darina Garland in 2012, Ooni Pizza Ovens revolutionized the outdoor cooking landscape and created a new category when they launched the world’s first portable pizza oven. Known for bringing pizza ovens to backyards all over the world, Ooni is a trailblazing company that creates products to elevate the joy of being together.

Ooni’s ovens give users the ability to cook authentic, flame-cooked pizza in just 60 seconds, ready to start cooking in 25 minutes or less and heating up to 950 ˚F — twice the temperature of a home oven and the searing temperature you need for incredible Neapolitan-style pizza. Beyond pizza, Ooni’s ovens are capable of searing steaks to perfection, baking bread, roasting vegetables and so much more.

In addition to offering award-winning ovens, Ooni has a comprehensive range of must-have accessories and carefully curated ingredients for pizza cooks, all available on ooni.com.

There is only one planet to make pizza on, and Ooni believes they have a responsibility to protect and restore it. Ooni’s annual Impact Report gives a detailed summary of their key focus areas, the progress they’ve made, and lays out what’s to come.

In 2022 Ooni became a Certified B Corp™. After undertaking a rigorous assessment and verification process, Ooni has joined a community of like-minded companies and leaders using business as a force for good.

To explore the full Ooni Pizza Ovens product range, visit ooni.com.

Media Contact

Meg Herrington, Backbone Media

meg.herrington@backbone.media

 

 

Craft Sportswear Welcomes New Trail Athletes to Its Elite Run Team

BORÅS, Sweden – January 23, 2025 – Craft Sportswear, the Swedish brand renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence in endurance sports apparel and footwear, is proud to welcome nine outstanding athletes to its Elite Run Team. The new team members bring unparalleled talent, drive, and passion to Craft’s Elite Run Team, marking an exhilarating new chapter in the brand’s commitment to trail running excellence on a global stage.

“I’m really excited to welcome some amazing new people to the Craft Elite Team this season,” said Abel Recknold, Team Manager of the Craft Elite Run Team. “They’re passionate, talented, and deeply connected to the trail and ultra-trail community. I feel lucky to have them on board, and I can’t wait to see how we all grow and push each other this year.”

Meet the new athletes joining the 2025 Craft Elite Run Team:

David Sinclair (United States)
David’s versatility and experience as both a trail runner and a cross-country skier set him apart. Highlights of his career include setting course records and winning events like the Silver State 50-Miler and Mt. Tam Trail 50K. David’s athletic prowess and commitment make him a standout member of the team. @david.a.sinclair.92.

Tommy Sullivan (United States)
A prominent figure in ultrarunning, Tommy’s notable results include a top-10 finish at the Speedgoat 50K and a strong performance in the 2024 UTMB CCC race. His relentless determination and love for the mountains make him an invaluable addition to the team. @letsrun.tom.

Mary Denholm (United States)
An emerging force in ultrarunning, Mary transitioned from road racing to trail running in 2024, where she has already made a significant mark. She won the 2024 Leadville Trail 100 with the second-fastest time in race history (18:23:51), finishing more than three hours ahead of her closest competitor. Her marathon personal best is an impressive 2:36:28. @eatrunandbemary.

Grant Barnette (United States)
Grant’s journey from high school cross-country star to accomplished ultra-endurance athlete has been nothing short of remarkable. His key achievements include 2nd place at the Grindstone 100 Miler and a first place victory at the Telluride Mountain Race. @runwithgrant.

Jupiter Carera (Mexico)
Known for his endurance and speed, Jupiter has become a rising star in competitive trail running. His accomplishments include a 2nd-place finish at the 2024 Black Canyon Ultras (100K) and a strong showing at the Western States Endurance Run. Jupiter’s career continues to flourish as he takes on prestigious races worldwide. @jupiter_careracasas.

Linus Hultegård (Sweden)
Based in Gothenburg, Linus is a rising star in ultra-running with exceptional speed and adaptability. When he’s not racing, Linus works part-time as a heart surgeon, exemplifying his unique balance of athletic and professional excellence. @linushultegard.

Johan Lantz (Sweden)
A skilled Swedish ultra-runner from Ockelbo, Johan is known for his strength and consistency in long-distance trail events. Johan began competing in ultra-marathons in 2012 and quickly established himself as one of Sweden’s top endurance athletes. @johanlantz.

Joacim Lantz (Sweden)
Joacim, a Swedish ultra-runner from Ockelbo, is renowned for his endurance and tactical approach to racing. His entry into ultra-running in 2012 followed years of competing at a high level in other endurance disciplines. @joacimlantz.

Elov Olsson (Sweden)
Elov, one of Sweden’s premier ultra-runners, hails from Ockelbo and is widely respected for his grit and determination in challenging races. He began ultra-running in 2012 and has since competed across Europe in some of the toughest events. @elovolsson.

“The run team is an integral piece of the Craft puzzle right now,” said Niklas Moberg, Head of Brand at Craft. “The insights they provide are invaluable for refining our products, and having access to such elite talent is a dream for any brand builder.”

Each of these athletes demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to their craft, overcoming challenges and achieving remarkable milestones on the trails. By aligning with these exceptional trail runners, Craft Sportswear underscores its dedication to empowering athletes and fostering a community that thrives on determination, resilience, and a passion for adventure.

Current Craft Sportswear athletes include David Laney (U.S.), Tim Tollefson (U.S.) , Ida Nilsson (Sweden), Emkay Sulliven (U.S.), Mimmi Kotka (Sweden), Tommy Rivs (U.S.), Arlen Glick (U.S.), and Aroa Sio (Spain).

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 craftsportswear.com