Archives: Press Releases

DENVER, April 12, 2024 – Gates (NYSE: GTES), a global provider of innovative highly engineered power transmission and fluid power solutions – and pioneer in belt-driven micromobility – has raised the stakes for mountain bike racers around the world. Gates announced a massive €100,000 belted purse for the first elite racer to win a Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Mountain Bike Downhill race on a Gates belt-driven bike.

This Gates Belted Purse Prize, which will roll over if not claimed this season, is intended to inspire teams and athletes to consider the unique performance advantages a belted downhill bike offers.

“With the advancements Gates has achieved through materials science and engineering innovation, the time has come to make history,” said Chris Sugai, General Manager, Gates Global Mobility. “Gates intends to show that the benefits of belt drives and advanced gearing solutions are applicable at the highest levels of mountain bike racing. And along with sport fans around the world, we’re eager for the 2024 UCI downhill races as the Gates Carbon Drive Prize adds to the excitement.”

Using a belt drive in conjunction with a gearbox on a mountain bike offers several key advantages. A rider has greater control, improved balance, and better handling due to lower unsprung mass in the rear wheel and concentration of mass in the center of the bike. Unsprung mass refers to the weight of components that are not supported by the suspension system, such as wheels, tires, and drivetrain. Reducing the unsprung mass of the rear wheel allows for more control and less rebound forces when riding. Navigating tight corners and technical sections are improvements enabled by this radically different drivetrain configuration.

Another benefit of a belt drive mountain bike is reduced risk of malfunctions versus a traditional chain system. Chains are prone to stretching, derailleurs are often damaged, and cassettes can clog with dirt and debris which can lead to poor performance and frequent mechanical issues. Gates Carbon Drive belts are made from highly durable materials that are resistant to stretching and corrosion, and importantly have no weak link.

Downhill racing has always been an adrenaline-fueled sport that pushes athletes and bicycle technology to their limits. Skill, courage, and determination are critical for success, and technical improvements to the bike can lead to race-winning seconds off the clock. With the Gates Carbon Drive €100K Prize, we’re about to see history in the making. It’s going to be a great season.

For more information including contest rules, visit www.landingpagelinkhere.com

#GatesMTB100K #GatesBeltDrive

About Gates

Gates is a global manufacturer of innovative, highly engineered power transmission and fluid power solutions. Gates offers a broad portfolio of products to diverse replacement channel customers, and to original equipment manufacturers as specified components. For more than a century, Gates has pushed the boundaries of materials science to engineer products that exceed expectations in many sectors of the industrial and consumer markets. Our products play essential roles in a diverse range of applications across a wide variety of end markets including industrial on-highway, industrial off-highway, mobility and recreation, automotive, energy and resources as well as diversified industrial. Our products are sold in more than 130 countries across our four commercial regions: the Americas; Europe, Middle East & Africa; Greater China; and East Asia & India. More about Gates can be found at www.gates.com.

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Washington, D.C. (April 10, 2024) — Yesterday, on a voice vote, House lawmakers passed the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, a first-of-its-kind bipartisan package of outdoor recreation policy to improve outdoor recreation on America’s public lands and waters. The passage of this outdoor recreation policy package creates opportunities to improve how public lands are managed to enhance outdoor experiences for all. The EXPLORE Act includes many key bills that Outdoor Alliance and its partners have helped develop and refine alongside lawmakers. The Senate is expected to take up the bill in coming weeks, as it has already introduced bipartisan companion legislation, America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA) that has passed out of committee.

Millions of Americans get outside on public lands and waters each year, with participation growing rapidly, according to recently released economic and participation data. The EXPLORE Act aims to improve outdoor recreation on America’s public lands and waters and will also help land managers coordinate their efforts to improve access to nature and expand green space in communities that need it most.

“Outdoor Alliance is thrilled to see the House pass the EXPLORE Act, a first-of-its-kind package of outdoor recreation policy that will improve and protect outdoor recreation experiences on public lands and waters,” said Louis Geltman, VP of Policy and Government Relations, Outdoor Alliance. “Millions of Americans get outside each year, and the EXPLORE Act will improve management for climbing and mountain biking, enhance how agencies manage outdoor recreation and invest in parks where they are needed most with the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership.”

“As outdoor recreation grows in popularity, we need more tools to get people outside safely and responsibly. The EXPLORE Act will streamline the federal recreational permitting process to enable more people to experience the outdoors through organized group experiences facilitated by outdoor leaders and educators,” said Tom Vogl, CEO, The Mountaineers.” The Mountaineers is thrilled to see the House pass the EXPLORE Act, and is grateful to Representative Westerman and Representative Grijalva for their leadership to help connect more people with their public lands and waters.”

Highlights from the policy include:

• The Biking on Long Distance Trails Act (BOLT Act) identifies and creates more long-distance bike trails
• The Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act (PARC Act) safeguards Wilderness climbing
• The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act (SOAR Act) improves recreational permitting for outfitters and guides
• Codifies FICOR and the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership, which funds parks and green spaces in neighborhoods that need it most

“The International Mountain Bicycling Association is thrilled the House of Representatives understands the physical, mental, and economic importance of outdoor recreation on our public lands, evidenced by the passage of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act,” said Todd Keller, Director of Government Affairs, International Mountain Bicycling Association. “The mountain bike community is specifically excited about the Biking on Long Distance Trails (BOLT) Act that has been included within the text of the underlying bill. The BOLT Act will identify at least 10 existing long-distance bike trails and identify at least 10 areas where there is an opportunity to develop or complete such trails. The bill will also direct the Department of Interior to publish and distribute maps, install signage, and distribute promotional materials. We now look to the Senate for quick action this summer to pass the EXPLORE Act and get it to the President’s desk before the August recess.”

“Winter Wildlands Alliance is excited that this legislation recognizes the need to improve recreation management and equitable access on public lands in all seasons,” said Hilary Eisen, Policy Director, Winter Wildlands Alliance. “Among other positive elements of the bill, we are pleased that the EXPLORE Act would prioritize completion of meaningful travel planning in order to minimize resource impacts and use conflicts in winter, followed by the long overdue publication of practical winter use maps for the recreating public.”

“I applaud the U.S. House of Representatives for passing a bipartisan recreation package that benefits climbers, our public lands, local communities, and all of us who love recreating and spending time in nature,” said Heather Thorne, Executive Director, Access Fund. “And I urge the Senate to build on this momentum by quickly passing America’s Outdoor Recreation Act so that President Biden can sign legislation protecting sustainable Wilderness climbing access into law.”

To learn more, please visit www.outdooralliance.org.

About Outdoor Alliance

Outdoor Alliance is the only organization in the U.S. that unites the voices of outdoor enthusiasts to conserve public lands. A nonprofit coalition comprised of 10 national advocacy organizations, Outdoor Alliance’s members include American Whitewater, the American Canoe Association, Access Fund, the International Mountain Bicycling Association, Winter Wildlands Alliance, the Mountaineers, the American Alpine Club, the Mazamas, the Colorado Mountain Club, and the Surfrider Foundation. By working with its member coalitions and helping mobilize the involvement of individuals to protect public lands and waters, OA helps ensure public lands are managed in a way that embraces the human-powered experience. Outdoor Alliance — conservation powered by outdoor recreation. Learn more at OutdoorAlliance.org.

 

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FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (April 10, 2024) –Kahtoola, in partnership with Q Stories, a Flagstaff-based multimedia production company, debuts an inspirational documentary “Designed by Disaster” at the 17th annual 5Point Adventure Film Festival April 24-28, 2024 in Carbondale, Colorado.

The film’s world premiere is Saturday April 27 at 3 p.m. at the Crystal Theatre (teaser preview).

Directed by award-winning filmmaker James ‘Q’ Martin, “Designed by Disaster” (28 minute total run time) is a deeply personal and inspiring story about Danny Giovale, a passionate climber whose life-changing accident in the Italian Dolomites compels him to address a critical safety gap in mountain travel. With tireless dedication and through an iterative process, Giovale develops a revolutionary type of crampon, discovering a great deal about himself in the process. Three decades later, and equipped with the product he invented, Giovale returns to complete the climb that nearly took his life.

“Thirty years ago, after a life-changing event, I realized the importance of being given a second chance and making a positive impact,” said Danny Giovale, owner and founder of Kahtoola. “This understanding led to the creation of our company, with a dual purpose: to innovate outdoor gear and be a force for good locally and globally. Without the intent to significantly contribute to both areas, I wouldn’t have started this journey.”

When Giovale made the decision to return to the Dolomites, the obvious partner was his long-time friend and adventure buddy, Timmy O’Neill. O’Neill, a professional rock climber, shares Giovale’s commitment to fostering positive social impact.

For the 5Point Adventure Film Festival’s full lineup of films, including “Designed by Disaster”, to purchase tickets, or to preview the festival’s calendar of events, please visit https://www.5pointfilm.org/festival.

About Kahtoola: Established in 1999, Kahtoola crafts exceptional outdoor gear with a commitment to philanthropy, conservation, and sustainability. Kahtoola’s gaiters, hiking crampons, and flexible footwear traction systems, including MICROspikes®, EXOspikes™ and NANOspikes®, are built to improve safety and performance. Every product is thoughtfully designed and vigorously tested at the brand’s Flagstaff, Ariz. headquarters high on the Colorado Plateau. Owned and operated by founder Danny Giovale, Kahtoola proudly grants 1% of annual sales through the Kahtoola Philanthropy Program to organizations that support indigenous cultures, outdoor community and environmental responsibility. For more information, please visit Kahtoola.com.

About Q Stories: Since its inception in 1998, Q Stories has evolved from the vision of James “Q” Martin into a collective of passionate storytellers dedicated to sharing impactful narratives from the outdoor world. With a foundation rooted in the outdoor industry and a drive to address complex environmental and social issues, Q Stories specializes in crafting narrative-driven media with a global reach. Leveraging their diverse expertise, the team at Q Stories excels in bringing unique stories to life, emphasizing the “Why” behind each project.

Media Contact:

Catherine Donovan

Terra PR

323-708-6953

CatherineD@terrapublicrelations.com

 

SEATTLE (April 10, 2024) — Astral, the leader in equipment designed for high performing wilderness athletes, introduces the Indus™, the world’s first freestyle-inspired high float life jacket.

Built on over three decades of experience, the all-new Indus™ uses Astral’s Foam Tectonics™ architecture from Astral’s GreenJacket™, the current safety and performance standard for rescue PFDs. The Indus becomes the first life jacket in the world to offer 22 lbs. of buoyancy in a design that prioritizes full mobility and performance. The 33-percent increase in flotation offered by the Indus™ significantly improves chances of survival, especially on high or flooded bodies of water.

“People are running rivers at higher flows than ever before. As a brand that makes gear to promote calm confidence in extreme places, it’s obvious that more buoyancy was needed in case of a swim. The obstacle has been how to do it in a manner that doesn’t interfere with your body’s natural biomechanics.“ explains Philip Curry, Founder and CEO of Astral. “The answer is our signature “Foam Tectonics” architecture that allows the various foam panels to work independently of each other .”

The Indus™ is designed for advanced whitewater athletes, guides and swiftwater professionals on larger volume whitewater who seek a higher buoyancy, low profile and mobility-forward fit. Designed with reinforced shoulders, a quick release belt for swiftwater rescue, Astral’s proprietary Flotection™ impact protection system, multiple storage options and an industry-high 22 lbs. of buoyancy, the Indus™ is built to usher in the next generation of large volume whitewater descents.

“Modern PFDs have to balance function, fit, and style. The Indus™ puts function first by significantly increasing flotation without compromising comfort or fit,” said Benny Marr, big water kayaking legend. “This is an important consideration for the whitewater industry as more and more paddlers take on huge-volume whitewater. More flotation for safer progression in the sport.”

The Indus™ retails for $375, and is available now at astraldesigns.com and at participating retail partners. For additional information about Astral and the new Indus™ high float life jacket, 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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Media Contact:
Max Akselrad | Verde Brand Communications | (917) 699-8491 | max@verdepr.com

 

 

 

AMHERST, Mass. (April 10, 2024) – OrthoLite®, the global leader in comfort and performance footwear insoles, announces that its patent protection has been extended for the speckled appearance of its OrthoLite® Hybrid® Technology line, including Hybrid®, HybridPlus-Bio®, and HybridPlus Recycled®.

Every OrthoLite insole, since the company’s founding in 1997, has included at least 5% recycled rubber. In addition to the strict performance qualities of OrthoLite insoles, this was an early commitment to reducing the use of virgin materials. This is the origin of OrthoLite’s distinctive speckled appearance. OrthoLite Hybrid® is GRS certified, and blends OrthoLite’s standard inclusion of 5% recycled rubber with a select range of 15% to 43% production waste foam.

To the more than 550 footwear brands OrthoLite works with, the speckled appearance indicates OrthoLite premium quality. In the case of the OrthoLite® Hybrid® line, these patents protect the colored foam speckled design that represents quality, comfort, and the inclusion of at least 20% recycled materials.

As of April 2, 2024, OrthoLite holds three design patents protecting the visual aesthetics of the Hybrid® line. That’s three times the defense against any knock-off products, and three times the defense if a competitor tries to challenge OrthoLite’s intellectual property claim.

“For OrthoLite Hybrid, the distinctive speckled aesthetic is inextricable from our proprietary chemistry and, therefore, is inextricable from the function of the product,” explains Glenn Barrett, founder and CEO of OrthoLite. “The patents ensure that no other insole supplier can imitate the visual design and try to confuse or obfuscate buyers around the product they’re selling.”

The three U.S. design patents on OrthoLite® Hybrid® foam:

• D941568, granted in the U.S. on Jan. 25, 2022
• D991659, granted in the U.S. on July 11, 2023, covers speckles on a “seed pearl” color foam as the background of the insole
• D1020199, granted in the U.S. on April 2, 2024, is a continuation of patent #D991659 that covers colored speckles on any color foam as the background color

What differentiates OrthoLite’s three design patents is the color and foam background for a shoe insole. U.S. patent protection for the visual “look” of the colored foam speckles in its Hybrid® shoe insoles means that no other company may sell or market anything visually similar in a shoe insole within the United States. Doing so would violate the granted patents.

The distinctive and authentic Hybrid® design combines three, responsibly-sourced options:

1. Post-production recycled foam. OrthoLite owns the means of production and also has recycling facilities where it reclaims and grinds the waste to meet its exclusive foaming specifications.
2. Hybrid® uniquely utilizes OrthoLite’s proprietary chemistry along with reclaimed PU waste plus recycled rubber. OrthoLite virgin PU is combined with its post-production PU waste foam along with recycled outsole rubber to help further close the loop on manufacturing waste.
3. All Hybrid® technologies are third-party certified validating the authenticity of its claims.

Along with verifications, like Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification and Recycled Claim Standards (RCS), patents provide an added layer of confidence that the OrthoLite supply chain is delivering precisely what it claims. “We embrace the critical importance of accountability and providing full transparency through globally recognized third-party resources that demonstrate our ongoing progress and leadership in environmental sustainability in both product and process,” Barrett stated.

For additional information about OrthoLite and its patents, please visit https://www.ortholite.com/patents/.

OrthoLite is the leading manufacturer and supplier of OEM and open-cell foam insole technologies for more than 550 global footwear brands. As a vertically integrated company with facilities around the globe, OrthoLite collaborates with its brand partners to create and produce custom insole formulations that deliver unrivaled comfort and performance. OrthoLite is the first name in comfort and performance foams with a stalwart commitment to an ongoing journey toward producing excellence with less-impactful manufacturing practices. Learn more at ortholite.com.

About OrthoLite®

OrthoLite is the world’s leading supplier of open-cell foam technology, and the innovator and creator of OrthoLite Cirql™, the patented, revolutionary alternative to conventional plastics that provides footwear brands and their factory partners with the most sustainable, circular choice in materials. OrthoLite’s innovative footwear solutions are available to brands that share a vision for the future of sustainable footwear. OrthoLite is found in more than 550 footwear brands across all categories of footwear. The company also has a long-standing history of meaningful partnerships and sponsorships that demonstrate a dedicated commitment to supporting its customers, consumers, brand partners and the footwear industry. OrthoLite is the Official Insole sponsor of the New York Yankees, supporter of The Conservation Alliance, The European Outdoor Conservation Association, and is a founding supporter of the Two Ten Foundation. Stay up to date with company news by visiting OrthoLite.com and following OrthoLite on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. To learn more about the benefits of OrthoLite, visit www.ortholite.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Verde Brand Communications
Julie Evans
julie@verdepr.com

 

LOS ANGELES (April 10, 2024) – Dometic presents the highly versatile Front Runner Dometic Pro Bed Rack System which will change the way truck owners transport overlanding, camping and adventure gear by offering an easy to install, robust, accessible and lightweight load bed storage solution. The new system is available online and at select dealers.

Dometic launches the Front Runner Pro Bed Rack System, a game-changer for truck owners looking to optimize their gear carrying capacity and accessibility. This system has its roots in the globally recognized Front Runner Dometic roof rack systems, adopting the proven reliability and versatility that is unmatched in the vehicle-based adventure and overlanding industry.

The Pro Bed Rack System is expertly crafted to give gear accessibility to a truck’s load bed area without intruding on valuable in-bed space and provides a hassle-free mounting solution for all overlanding, camping and adventure accessories. The Pro Bed Rack System has multiple accessory channels and T-slots, which make for the quick and easy fitment of a wide range of Front Runner Dometic accessories (see below for full list). The system is reinforced with fixed top cross bars, boosting its structural integrity, while the cross-bracing at the front and rear counter torsional stresses, providing exceptional structural integrity and strength.

The Slimline II, Front Runner Dometic’s iconic overland roof rack, is an exceptional add-on storage option to the Pro Bed Rack. Known for its strength, durability and quality, it seamlessly installs onto the top of the Pro Bed Rack, offering compatibility with over 55 accessories to provide limitless customization for your truck’s load bed. The Pro Bed Rack System is vehicle-specific and can easily be fitted to the existing factory mounting points with minimal modification. The system has been designed to work with all bed liners and most drop-in liners. For more details and pricing, please visit www.frontrunneroutfitters.com.

Note to editors:

● Hi-res images can be found here.
● The Pro Bed Rack System fits the following truck models:
○ Ram 1500 Crew Cab 5’7” bed
○ Ford F150 Super Crew 5-1/2’ Bed
○ Ford Ranger T6 DC / super crew
○ Ford Ranger T6.2 DC / super crew
○ Jeep Gladiator
○ Toyota Hilux DC
○ Toyota Tacoma DC 5ft Bed
○ Toyota Tundra Crewmax 3rd Gen 5.5 ft bed

Attention:
The Pro Bed Rack System has been designed to work with all bed liners and most drop-in liners. However, it’s not compatible with a roll top or any load bed cover. The following Front Runner products can be side mounted onto the Pro Bed Rack system: Recovery Device Mount Bracket, Universal Side Mount Bracket, 20L Water Tank Mount Bracket, Wolf Pack Pro Mount Bracket, Multiple Molle panel mounting options, Rear Barrier Net, Rotopax Mounts, Fishing rod, snowboard or ski holder.

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.

Outdoor Afro, Inc. and REI Co-op are announcing a collaboration for three new fully-guided trip offerings that will operate July through October in New River Gorge National Park, Shenandoah National Park and surrounding regions. Each experience is a four-day guided trip that celebrates Black joy by amplifying belonging, togetherness, and connection with nature.

With itineraries informed by Black outdoor enthusiasts, these small group experiences will be co-guided by Outdoor Afro, Inc. and REI Co-op guides, and were designed with a focus on Black history and culture, past and present. The trips are open to everyone from outdoor enthusiasts and those who are outdoor curious, with adventure-based activities and education about nature and Black history of each region.

“As a longstanding partner of REI Co-op, I am thrilled to expand our collaboration by bringing multi-day guided experiences,” said Rue Mapp, founder, and CEO of Outdoor Afro Inc. “This collaboration is meant to bring an unforgettable experience through thoughtfully curated itineraries so there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fun family camping adventure, hiking, and kayaking, or a lodge-based experience filled with adventure and historical tours in D.C., you’ll have the opportunity to explore, reconnect, and enjoy rich cultural experiences celebrating Black joy in nature.”

New multi-day experiences are available to book now:

• Shenandoah Hike and Camp Adventure by Outdoor Afro, Inc.
  A four-day “moderately active” trip priced at $1,799. Guests will immerse themselves with the enchanting landscape of Shenandoah National Park by kayaking the tranquil Shenandoah River, hiking to the iconic pinnacle of Old Rag, through Big Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, and to the park’s highest point, Hawksbill Summit; exploring the waterfalls in Whiteoak Canyon; and unwinding at a local vineyard complete with a tour, tasting and dinner.
• New River Gorge Epic Family Camping Getaway by Outdoor Afro, Inc.
  A four-day “easy active” family-friendly camping getaway priced at $2,499 that is perfect for families with children aged eight years and older, parents and grandparents alike. Guests will explore the country’s newest national park, New River Gorge, through hiking, beginner-friendly whitewater rafting, and a canopy level ropes course. Evenings are spent at a cozy campground complete with rustic charm and comforts such as oversized tents, plush sleeping pads, chef-inspired meals and conveniences of hot showers and flushing toilets.
• Shenandoah and DC Hike and Kayak – Lodge-based-by Outdoor Afro, Inc.
  A four-day “easy active” trip priced at $2,799. Starting and ending in Washington D.C, travelers will kayak and hike while camping at Shenandoah National Park. Beginning in historic Old Town Alexandria, guests will learn about Black history and culture, kayak the Potomac, and hike in Shenandoah Valley and the national park to sweeping views, stunning waterfalls, and the countryside. Highlights also include a local speaker who reflects on the region’s divided history and a tour and tasting at a Black-owned vineyard.

“We’re excited to bring these new trips to life with Outdoor Afro, Inc.” says Justin Wood, REI director of Experiences. “The Outdoor Afro, Inc. team has thoughtfully considered every detail to deliver a meaningful and truly authentic experience for guests, from the food to the activities to the focus on Black history and culture, past and present, in the places we explore. These are memory-making trips, sure to last a lifetime.”

Each trip has been inspired by Rue Mapp and the Outdoor Afro and REI Co-op communities. Low to no cost outdoor experiences are still available nationwide through the not-for-profit Outdoor Afro, Org.. REI members also receive discounts on additional classes, events and multiday trips.

Outdoor Afro, Inc. and REI Co-op have also released new spring products aimed to amplify Black joy in nature. This collection reimagines the comforts of camp by designing a line for everyone with inspiration from the Outdoor Afro community. Apparel and camp gear range from $89.95 to $99.95 and $29.94 to $399.95 respectively.

The new gear collection for spring features graphic prints by artist, Chelsea Alexander, founder of Sqwigl and known for her work with various global brands. Products include a special edition Skyward 4 Tent, camp sleep system featuring a Nature Nap 25 Zip-Up Comforter, and a Nature Nap Satin Pillow to reduce friction and breakage for natural hair. Also new for the season, the collaboration adds a new Outdoor Afro + REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack to help complement its apparel collaboration that also receives color updates for the season.

The collaboration’s spring drop not only introduces the exclusive print, but also features new hues of Rialto Red, Blue Nightfall, Amber Spice, Dark Sand and Blue Aster throughout the men’s and women’s apparel. Like past apparel drops, the collection considers a wide range of body types, shapes, and sizes.

Shop the new styles here.

Outdoor Afro, Inc.

Outdoor Afro, Inc. celebrates and inspires joy, connections and leadership in nature by designing, manufacturing and selling apparel and gear, and providing outdoor experiences informed by Black outdoor enthusiast insights. Not-for-profit partner, Outdoor Afro Org., celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature by offering free or low-cost outdoor education, recreation, and conservation opportunities in more than 30 states across the US.

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 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. If you can’t visit one of our many stores, you 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. More than a retailer, REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.