Astral adds record setter Billy Meredith to ambassador team

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

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

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

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

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

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

View all of Astral’s Archetypes, including fellow thru hiking legend, Jennifer Pharr Davis here explore.astraldesigns.com/ambassadors. For more information about Astral, its products, and initiatives, please visit Astraldesigns.com.

ABOUT ASTRAL
Established in 2002, Astral designs high performance wilderness equipment created in the least toxic, lowest impact ways. Built on decades of experience and experimentation, Astral has assembled athletes, artists, and craftspeople to build the cleanest, most beautiful, and highest performing gear. Astral has significantly reduced toxic PVC foam from the PFD industry, invented breathable life jackets, won awards for their paradigm changing footwear designs, and developed the stickiest rubber ever worn on wet rock. Visit www.astraldesigns.com for more information.

 

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Glerups Expands its Footwear Collection with the Introduction of its First Lace Shoe

Newfields, N.H. and Aars, DK – June 25, 2024 – Glerups, producers of Danish-designed natural wool slippers and boots, is excited to announce the launch of its first lace shoe, the culmination of over 30 years of development and design.

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Glerups

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

NESTOUT Debuts Compact 5000mAh Power Bank – Built Tough for Your Next Adventure

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

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

Built for Adventure

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

Compact and Travel-Friendly

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

Safe and Reliable Fast-Charging

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

Award-Winning Design

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

Unique Modular Ecosystem

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

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

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

Availability and Pricing

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

Embrace the adventure. Empower your exploration. Discover NESTOUT.

About NESTOUT

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

Meindl USA Celebrates Five Years of Success and Introduces New Hiking Footwear for Summer 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Meindl USA

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

 

Imbox Protection, World’s Only In-Store Shoe Protection, Is Getting Summer- Ready with Dillard’s; U.S. Consumers Can Easily Protect Footwear at Checkout with Cost-Effective, 60-Second Treatment for $7-8

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

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

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

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

About Dillard’s

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

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