Grassroots Outdoor Alliance announces 2026 Specialty Awards nominees

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (May 21, 2026) — Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, the national organization dedicated to the health and growth of specialty outdoor retail, today announced its slate of nominees for the 2026 Grassroots Outdoor Specialty Awards.

The awards recognize excellence across the Grassroots community, celebrating retailers, vendors, and industry leaders for achievements in business, advocacy, community impact, philanthropy, and specialty retail innovation.

Winners will be announced at the upcoming Grassroots Connect retail buying show, June 8–11, 2026, in Reno, Nev., where more than 290 exhibitors and more than 150 retailers will gather for line showings and strategic business conversations supporting Spring 2027 order writing. The awards ceremony will take place during lunch on Monday, June 8.

“These awards recognize the people and businesses pushing specialty outdoor retail forward,” said Gabe Maier, President of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance. “Independent specialty retail succeeds because of strong partnerships, innovation, service, and an unwavering commitment to community. The businesses and individuals recognized through these awards represent the very best of our industry — retailers and vendors who continue to lead with passion, resilience, and purpose while helping shape the future of the outdoor specialty channel.”

The nominees for the 2026 Grassroots Outdoor Specialty Awards include:

Retailer Awards

  • Retailer of the Year: Bill Jacksons (Pinellas Park, FL); Outdoor Experience-ID (Sandpoint, ID); Pack Rat Outdoor Center (Fayetteville, AR); Skinny Skis (Jackson, WY); The Trail Head (Missoula, MT)
  • Community Giveback: Footsloggers Outdoor & Travel Outfitters (NC); Tahoe Mountain Sports (Truckee, CA), The Trail Head (Missoula, MT), Mountain Chalet (Colorado Springs, CO), Chopwood Mercantile (Crested Butte, CO)
  • Retailer Growth Award: Causal Adventures (Arlington, VA); High Country Outfitters (Atlanta, GA); Mountain High Outfitters (Multiple Locations); River Rock Outfitter (Fredericksburg, VA); Saratoga Outdoors (Saratoga Spring, NY)
  • Retail Wow Award: Bill Jacksons (Pinellas Park, FL); Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus (Grand Rapids, MI); Great Outdoor Store (Sioux Falls, SD); High Country Outfitters (Atlanta, GA); Pack Rat Outdoor Center (Fayetteville, AR)

Vendor Awards

  • Vendor Partner of the Year: HydraPak; Patagonia; Rab; Smartwool; Sockwell
  • Excellence in Hardgoods & Accessories: EDELRID; HydrPak; LEKI; NEMO Equipment; Nomadix
  • Excellence in Apparel and Softgoods: Helly Hansen; Patagonia; Rab; Roark; Smartwool
  • Excellence in Footwear: Altra; La Sportiva; Oboz; Salewa; Superfeet

New for 2026, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance will also recognize the Top 25 Independent Sales Representatives in specialty outdoor retail. Honorees were selected through nominations and feedback from both retailers and vendor partners, highlighting the critical role independent reps play in building relationships, supporting brands and retailers, driving product education, and strengthening the specialty marketplace.

“The specialty outdoor industry is built on relationships, and independent reps are often the connective tissue that keeps this community strong,” added Maier. “These individuals work behind the scenes every day to support retailers, represent brands with integrity, and help create meaningful long-term partnerships. We’re excited to recognize and celebrate their contributions alongside our retailers and vendor partners.”

Additional honors presented during the ceremony will include Appreciation for Board Service and Friend of Grassroots.

About Grassroots Outdoor Alliance

Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is a retailer-owned network of 100+ independently owned outdoor retailers and vendor partners, working together for the health and growth of specialty outdoor retail. Through data collection and analysis, direct member support, specialty events and deep vendor partnerships, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is creating both a vision and roadmap for the long-term success of independent specialty retail. Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is recognized as a catalyst for the success of its retailers and vendor partners; an advocate for specialty independent retail; a promoter of education and community within the specialty channel; and a key influencer of the national outdoor industry. Grassroots Outdoor Alliance also operates Connect, a twice-annual legacy show experience that spans four days, offering an efficient and structured format for retailers to conduct pre-season line showings and business conversations.

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UDisc Unveils the 25 Best Disc Golf Courses at Ski Areas in 2026

MINNEAPOLIS — May 21, 2026 — Just in time for summer adventure seeking, UDisc has released its list of the 25 Best Disc Golf Courses at Ski Areas around the world. Comprised of the highest-rated disc golf courses at downhill ski venues in UDisc’s extensive directory, it’s a definitive, data-driven ranking full of sweeping vistas and top-tier amenities.

Headlined by two destination disc golf courses at Vermont’s Smugglers’ Notch Resort, the list spans several of the United States’ mountain regions, as well as resorts in Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Germany, and Latvia. That distribution is a testament to disc golf’s value to communities and businesses alike – no matter the time of year.

“This list further proves that disc golf is a versatile, durable form of outdoor recreation,” UDisc CEO and Co-Founder Josh Licti said. “Whether it’s a downhill ski area, a campground, or an accessible public park, there’s no need to worry about the offseason when you install a disc golf course.”

The 25 Best Disc Golf Courses at Ski Areas are a follow-up to the successful release of the 100 Best Disc Golf Courses in the World, as well as awards celebrating the best courses in every U.S. state and dozens of countries. These all come amid a surge in the game’s global growth: Disc golf participation has jumped roughly 86% since 2020, with more than 21 million rounds played annually and over 17,000 courses now spanning nearly 100 countries worldwide, according to UDisc’s 2026 Disc Golf Growth Report.

Explore more about how disc golf injects offseason life into ski resorts and download the UDisc app to record your rounds, discover new courses and build your bucket list.

About UDisc

UDisc is the world’s #1 disc golf app, trusted by millions of players to record rounds, discover courses, and measure their progress. UDisc’s mission is to empower the world to play more disc golf by supporting players and organizers worldwide. Now the industry standard for measuring disc golf participation, infrastructure, and reach, the company’s Disc Golf Health Index focuses on the places where new courses can be most impactful. Learn more at UDisc.com.

Aventon Welcomes Jen Whalen as Creative Director

BREA, Calif. – May 19, 2026 – Aventon, a leader in accessible ebike innovation, today announced the appointment of Jen Whalen as Creative Director. A former procyclist and award-winning creative producer, director, and filmmaker with over 15 years of experience across Hollywood studios and global brand campaigns, Whalen brings a rare combination of high-production storytelling expertise and authentic cycling background to her new role.

Whalen joins Aventon from a distinguished freelance career, where she partnered with brands including Apple, Netflix, Levi’s, Specialized, SRAM, and Hulu across creative direction, production, and storytelling. Prior to that, she spent nearly a decade as a Senior Producer for the in-house creative studio at Warner Bros., producing trailers, promos, and digital campaigns for major global releases, earning Promax and Telly Awards for her work.

Her connection to cycling runs deep. Whalen came up through the fixed gear scene and rode for Aventon’s original pro team during the Red Hook Crit era. She went on to become a competitive road cyclist, winning a California State Championship title and competing at US Nationals. In recent years, she has built a second creative lane in the outdoor industry, producing athlete-driven and documentary-style storytelling, including a docuseries around the inaugural women’s Tour de France Femmes.

Whalen is also the writer, director, and producer of CALI GIRLS, a feature comedy inspired by the world of women’s bike racing, which has earned Best Female Director and Best Sports Film recognition on the festival circuit. The film is releasing this year.

In her role at Aventon, Whalen will lead creative direction and brand storytelling across campaigns, product launches, social content, and athlete partnerships, driving culture-led work that grows Aventon’s brand reach and community connection.

“Jen is a rare find: someone who has genuinely lived inside cycling culture at every level, from the fixed gear underground to the pro circuit, and who also knows how to tell stories that move people,” said Kris Heineman, Senior Brand Director at Aventon. “She brings a creative point of view that is bold, authentic, and deeply human, which is exactly what we need as we continue to grow the brand.”

“Aventon has always been a fun success story to follow, from its fixie roots to where it stands today in the ebike world,” said Whalen. “I want to get more people on bikes and out of their cars. It excites me to bring my ideas and creativity to this team, since I have a natural passion for cycling and it feels serendipitous to bring my energy back to a brand that supported me during my “glory” days of bike racing. Apparently the race isn’t over yet.”

Whalen is based in Los Angeles and joined Aventon in early May 2026.

About Aventon:
Aventon was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Brea, California. Born from a passion for bicycle racing, Aventon has grown into one of the leading ebike brands in North America. The company’s mission is to redefine adventure by combining innovative technology, thoughtful design, and an outstanding riding experience. Aventon controls the majority of its value chain internally and employs hundreds of staff worldwide to shape the future of two-wheeled e-mobility.

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Press Contact:
Tom Sweeney / Affiliate Marketing Manager
tsweeney@aventon.com

Turtlebox Launches Americana Blue Limited-Edition Colorway for Ranger and Original Gen 3

HOUSTON (May 19, 2026) – Turtlebox, the maker of rugged, waterproof outdoor speakers, announces the launch of Americana Blue, a limited-edition colorway for the Ranger and Original Gen 3 speakers. Available today, Americana Blue brings a striking new patriotic style to two of Turtlebox’s versatile speakers, celebrating summer and America’s semiquincentennial anniversary.

“The new Americana Blue limited-edition speakers are built for the summer ahead. It’s a color that matches the spirit of the season and will be right at home on the water, the trail or the tailgate,” said Jonathan McKenzie, CMO at Turtlebox. “Americana Blue is a nod to 250 years of the country we call home, the freedom that comes with it and the ability to chase the pursuits that keep us outdoors.”

Americana Blue is a visual statement as rugged and dependable as Turtlebox speakers themselves. The limited-edition color complements the brand’s core identity while delivering the same premium performance and durability that define the Turtlebox lineup.

Ranger Specs:

  • Dimensions: 3.15″ L × 3.15″ W × 9.05″ H
  • Weight: 2.4 lbs
  • Maximum Volume: 105dB
  • Battery Life: All-day
  • Features: Waterproof, drop-proof, Party Mode, Bluetooth 5.4

Original Gen 3 Specs:

  • Dimensions: 12″ L × 10.25″ H × 7″ D
  • Weight: 10 lbs
  • Maximum Volume: 120dB
  • Battery Life: 3-day
  • Features: Waterproof, buoyant, drop-proof, Party Mode, Bluetooth 5.4, microphone input

“Whether you’re on the water, in camp or in your backyard, the Americana Blue will fit right in with any adventure you have planned this summer,” continued McKenzie.

For more information about Americana Blue and other Turtlebox products, visit www.turtleboxaudio.com.

About Turtlebox

Turtlebox was born out of necessity after breaking every so-called “loud” speaker on the market during outdoor adventures. Originally built in a garage for personal use, it became clear that nothing else could handle the elements and deliver the volume needed for environments like beaches, boats, and ATVs.

Recognizing the demand, Turtlebox set out to create the world’s loudest, most rugged outdoor portable speaker—built to go anywhere and be heard everywhere. For more information, visit TurtleboxAudio.com.

Backpacker’s Pantry Celebrates 75 Years in the Wild

Boulder, Colo. (May 19, 2026) — Boulder, Colo.-based Backpacker’s Pantry, the family-owned maker of gourmet adventure meals, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. To commemorate the occasion, the company will launch a multi-channel heritage campaign called “Raised By the Wild,” which aims to engage the outdoor community in the celebration while enhancing its commitment to fueling people’s adventures.

“A lot has changed since 1951, but the reason people take our meals into the backcountry really hasn’t. They want food they can count on after a long day outside. Backpacker’s Pantry has always been built around that idea,” said Aidan Smith, CEO of Backpacker’s Pantry. “For 75 years, we’ve stayed focused on making satisfying meals for people spending real time outdoors, and we’re proud the brand has stayed true to what made people trust it in the first place.”

The Backpacker Pantry story begins in 1951 with Anne Benedict, a Girl Scout trip leader who came home from a grueling backpacking trip carrying a bag full of empty cans and convinced there had to be a smarter way to eat on the trail. She began experimenting in her garage with dehydrating food to reduce pack weight, and from those humble beginnings, Dri-Lite Foods took shape. Nearly two decades later, in 1970, an entrepreneur named Ron Smith stumbled upon Dri-Lite’s meals in a small Southern California ski shop and recognized untapped potential. By 1972, he had reimagined the brand entirely — renaming it Backpacker’s Pantry and introducing freeze-dried ingredients that would dramatically extend shelf life while improving the nutritional value of the meals. Read about the full history of the brand here.

Today, the Smith family legacy continues into a new generation. In 2025, Aidan Smith stepped into the role of CEO, working alongside his brother Talvin to help chart the company’s next chapter. Together, they carry forward the same entrepreneurial spirit their grandfather embodied when he first walked into Jonas’ Ski Chalet in Inglewood, California, more than 55 years ago.

To celebrate the “Raised by the Wild” anniversary campaign, catch the Backpacker’s Pantry team at Outside Days in Denver (May 29–31). Limited-edition anniversary merch, including a hoodie and t-shirt, will be available online, alongside special anniversary packaging.

To learn more and to stay in the loop about all of the company’s anniversary celebrations, please visit: backpackerspantry.com.

About Backpacker’s Pantry

Founded in 1951 and based in Boulder, Colorado, Backpacker’s Pantry produces freeze-dried meals for the outdoor market. The family-owned and operated company focuses on lightweight, easy-to-prepare meals designed for backpacking, camping, and outdoor adventure. Backpacker’s Pantry donates 1% of every sale to conservation and outdoor access nonprofits through 1% for the Planet and operates out of its 100% solar-powered facility in Boulder. The company also invests in sustainability initiatives and programs that support its employees, local community, and the outdoors. Today, Backpacker’s Pantry products are sold through more than 2,000 retail locations across North America, including outdoor specialty, sporting goods, and natural grocery retailers, as well as through Amazon and at backpackerspantry.com. For more information and a complete list of products, visit https://backpackerspantry.com.

About American Outdoor Products

American Outdoor Products (AOP) is a food manufacturer located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Boulder, CO.  Established in 1951, American Outdoor Products remains an independent, privately held, family-owned and operated company distributing products throughout the world. Inspired by a passion for unique cuisine and exciting adventures, the company produces Backpacker’s Pantry, adventure food for the outdoors; Astronaut Foods, out-of-this-world novelty treats; and Colorado Spice, all-natural and organic artisan spice blends. To learn more, visit: https://backpackerspantry.com

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Media Contacts:

Verde Brand Communications

backpackerspantry@verdepr.com

Downloadable Images HERE (photo credit: Backpacker’s Pantry)

GSI Outdoors Returns to Its Roots: Original Founders Reacquire Iconic Outdoor Brand

SPOKANE, Wash. – May 18, 2026 – GSI Outdoors, a leader in innovative outdoor cooking solutions for more than four decades, today announced that its original founders – siblings Don, Ian, and Kathy Scott – have successfully reacquired the company. The move returns GSI Outdoors to its status as a family-owned and operated business, effective immediately.

Founded by the Scott siblings 41 years ago, GSI Outdoors has grown from a small distribution company into one of the most respected brands in the outdoor industry. After selling the company in 2022 to Pelican International, the Scotts remained closely involved in the brand’s operations. Following a period of corporate restructuring at Pelican over the past year, the family saw a clear path to bring the brand back home.

“GSI Outdoors has always been more than just a business to us: it is our family’s legacy and a community we have helped build for over forty years,” said Don Scott, co-founder of GSI Outdoors. “We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step back into full ownership and lead this talented team once again. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and the outdoor experience is stronger than ever, and we couldn’t be more excited to steer the brand’s future on our own terms.”

Despite the transitions of the past few years, GSI Outdoors has maintained strong performance and a robust presence in the market. Under the renewed leadership of the Scott family, the company plans to focus on its core mission: creating technical, innovative, and fun outdoor gear that brings people together around a campfire or a kitchen table.

The reacquisition marks a significant “full circle” moment for the outdoor industry, signaling a return to the independent, founder-led spirit that has defined GSI Outdoors since 1985. The Scotts intend to focus on strengthening retail partnerships, expanding product lines, and ensuring the brand remains a staple of the outdoor lifestyle for generations to come. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

For more information visit gsioutdoors.com.

About GSI Outdoors

Founded in 1985, GSI Outdoors is dedicated to providing adventurers with dependable, innovative gear designed to bring people together in the great outdoors. Born from the childhood adventures of founders Don, Ian, and Kathy Scott in British Columbia, the company, now based in Spokane, Washington, continues to be family-operated. Committed to responsible manufacturing and environmental stewardship, GSI Outdoors remains a leading force in providing gear for memorable outdoor meals.

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BRANWYN Awarded 2026 “Apparel Product of the Year” By Outdoor Innovation

Bend, OR – May 18, 2026 Outdoor Innovation, the industry’s most robust recognition platform for the innovators and leaders of the Outdoor and Sports Recreation Industry, today announced that the Essential Compressive Leggings from BRANWYN, the women’s seamless Merino Performance Innerwear and activewear brand, have been selected as “Apparel Product of the Year” in the Snow Category in the 3rd Annual Outdoor Innovation Awards Program.

BRANWYN created the first seamless, compressive Merino wool leggings engineered to function as a true technical baselayer for skiing, touring, and high-output winter training. Designed from the inside out around how women move, layer, thermoregulate, and perform in cold conditions.

Built using BRANWYN’s proprietary POWRspun™ knit technology, the leggings are made from 76% extra-fine ZQ+ certified Merino wool, blended with nylon and elastane for durability, recovery, and compression. Unlike the cut-and-sew construction traditionally employed in baselayers, the garments are formed through a single circular knitting process that creates both the fabric and garment in one step. This allows BRANWYN to achieve a uniquely second-skin, body-countouring fit with targeted support and minimal bulk.

Developing a seamless compression garment with such a high percentage of Merino wool requires years of technical innovation. Conventional seamless knitting is designed for synthetic fibers, which behave predictably under machine tension. Merino wool fibers require a fundamentally different approach to tension calibration, fiber handling, and stitch formation. BRANWYN’s ability to engineer a stable, compressive, high-performance knit from ZQ+ Merino wool represents a genuine industry first, and the result of years of technical development.

For snow athletes, the payoff is a baselayer that delivers warmth, breathability, and natural odor resistance without bulk. Four-way stretch and targeted compression move with the body and hold their shape across long days on the mountain. The seamless construction eliminates friction points under ski pants or bibs, and the wide waistband stays put from first chair to last run. Thin enough to layer under shells and insulation, the leggings perform equally well for touring and high-output winter training.

The Essential Compressive Leggings are made with RWS-certified regenerative ZQ+ Merino wool and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified yarn that contains no BPA, PFAs, or other “forever chemicals” found in most synthetic performance layers.

“BRANWYN is redefining what Merino wool can deliver in snow sports performance. Although Merino baselayers are a staple in winter outdoor apparel, traditional wool leggings are often loose-fitting, prioritizing warmth over compression, technical fit, and durability. Manufacturers are also challenged by unpredictable shrinkage and the difficulty of running it through seamless knitting machines,” said Travis Grant, Managing Director, Mindful Awards. “By merging seamless compression engineering with high-content Merino wool, BRANWYN has elevated the traditional wool baselayer into a high-performance, technical layer built for modern snow sports. For re-engineering the category, we’re awarding BRANWYN ‘Apparel Product of the Year!”

The mission of the annual Outdoor Innovation Awards program is to recognize and showcase the companies and products that exemplify a commitment to quality and the advancement of outdoor and sports experiences. The ever-evolving outdoor industry is witnessing a surge in innovative outdoor technology and equipment, as well as consumer emphasis on safety, sustainability, and changing preferences. Along with next-generation hiking equipment, camping gear, bikes, bespoke outdoor experiences, and services, activities like off-roading and overlanding are trending with travel enthusiasts. This year’s program attracted thousands of nominations from all over the world.

“Our community expects more from performance apparel, not just how it performs but how it’s made, what it is made from, and how it supports their comfort and health when they are pushing their boundaries on the mountain,” said Deanne Buck, CEO of BRANWYN. “BRANWYN was founded to approach technical fabric and product innovation differently, by building for women from the inside out. These leggings represent years of development focused on creating a true technical baselayer that delivers warmth, compression, breathability, and comfort through the natural performance of ZQ+ Merino wool, without relying on the BPA, PFAs, and forever chemicals commonly found in synthetic layers. We’re incredibly grateful for the recognition from Outdoor Innovation and inspired to continue pushing the standard forward.”

The Outdoor Innovation Award winners represent the finest in innovation and commitment to meeting the needs of modern outdoor adventurers while empowering individuals to explore the great outdoors safely, consciously, and enthusiastically, enjoying the benefits of improved mental and physical health, and the primal connection to nature.

For more information on BRANWYN, please visit www.branwyn.com or direct media inquiries to Stacy Kline at stacy@darbycommunications.com.

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About BRANWYN

BRANWYN, based in Bend, Oregon, produces the world’s first ethically sourced, naturally sustainable Performance Innerwear designed by and for active women. By combining a first-ever blend of ZQ+ Merino and seamless knitting technology, BRANWYN revolutionizes women’s next-to-skin apparel, prioritizing comfort, temperature regulation, anti-microbial properties, breathability, and overall health. Our ethos, rooted in “Find A Way,” was inspired by the radical idea that women could create better underwear for themselves that meets our unique needs. Additionally, we collaborate with organizations that foster a sense of self in girls and women by breaking limiting beliefs through outdoor activities, sports, sweat, and movement. Committed to personal and global health, we use natural, non-toxic fibers and sustainable materials, and prioritize ethical farming and work practices.

About Outdoor Innovation

Part of the Independent Innovation Awards organization, a global market intelligence and recognition program within the most competitive consumer categories. The Outdoor Innovation Awards honors the most outstanding and innovative companies, services, and products within the rapidly expanding Outdoor Sports Retail Industry. The Outdoor Innovation Awards provides public recognition for the achievements of the outdoor sports industry’s companies and products including Camp & Hike, Climb, Run & Cycle, Water, Snow, Leadership, and more. For more information visit: www.outdoorinnovationawards.com

LOWA Opens New U.S. Headquarters in Salt Lake City Following Record-Breaking Growth

May 15, 2026 – Salt Lake City, Utah – LOWA, the globally respected footwear brand known for its premium outdoor boots and shoes, proudly announces the opening of Tecnica Group’s Salt Lake City hub, now home to LOWA’s new U.S. headquarters. To celebrate this exciting milestone, LOWA and Tecnica Group will host an evening gathering with industry partners, media, and friends of the brand on Tuesday, May 19.

The opening marks a significant milestone for LOWA’s expanding U.S. presence following a landmark year for the brand globally. In 2025, LOWA achieved the highest revenue in company history, reaching $282.5 million in sales and selling more than 3.1 million pairs of shoes worldwide. The company increased both revenue and sales volume despite continued challenges across the outdoor industry, reinforcing LOWA’s strong market position and long-term strategic vision.

“Opening our new U.S. headquarters in Salt Lake City represents an exciting next chapter for LOWA in North America,” said Lance Taylor, General Manager at LOWA USA. “As the brand continues to grow globally, we’re investing in stronger connections with our retailers, media partners, and outdoor communities here in the U.S. Utah’s outdoor culture and industry presence make it the ideal home for this next phase of growth.”

Founded in 1923 in Jetzendorf, Upper Bavaria, LOWA has built its reputation on premium craftsmanship, innovative design, and exceptional fit. Today, the brand continues to evolve alongside modern outdoor consumers, expanding its offerings across hiking, trail running, lifestyle, and performance footwear categories while remaining rooted in its alpine heritage.

The company’s strong performance in 2025 was driven in part by growing demand for more athletic, low- and mid-cut models, as well as trail running footwear. Continued investments in product innovation, operational processes, and retail partnerships have further positioned the brand for sustainable long-term growth in key international markets, including the United States.

Industry friends, partners, and members of the outdoor community are invited to attend the celebration:

Tecnica Group Salt Lake City Hub Grand Opening Celebration

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

5:00 PM-7:00 PM

Sweet Candy Building

224 S 200 W, Suite 110

Salt Lake City, Utah 84101

For more information on LOWA USA and the latest brand news, visit us.lowa.com or contact Katie Richter at katie@darbycommunications.com.

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About LOWA Boots

With over 100 years of hand-crafted European heritage, LOWA Boots is a globally respected footwear brand located in Jetzendorf, in Upper Bavaria. Since 1923, LOWA has created premium outdoor boots and shoes featuring beautiful silhouettes, best-in-class quality, and proprietary technology. Its designers adeptly navigate the outdoor performance, trail running, lifestyle, and tactical categories, always nurturing brand integrity. LOWA is one of the only footwear brands to receive ISO 9001 status for the highest quality construction and process standards. LOWA certified tactical boots are also made to comply with the European Union’s PPE standards. For more information, visit www.us.lowa.com.

About Tecnica Group

A global leader in outdoor footwear and ski equipment, Tecnica Group boasts a portfolio of some of the industry’s most historic brands: Tecnica (ski boots and footwear), Nordica (skis and boots), Moon Boot® (footwear), LOWA (trekking and outdoor shoes), Blizzard (skis), and Rollerblade® (inline skates). Founded in 1963 by the Zanatta brothers, the company has been highly innovative from the very beginning, pioneering the first double-injection plastic ski boot that revolutionized the industry and creating iconic design products such as the legendary Moon Boot.

Today, Tecnica Group is an international company with 10 subsidiaries, along with more than 40 distribution partners, exporting to over 80 countries worldwide. The company employs 3,722 people, around 400 of whom are based in Italy, primarily at its headquarters in Giavera del Montello (Treviso). In 2017, the Zanatta family, still at the helm of the Group, opened the company to external capital with the entry of Italmobiliare as a minority shareholder. For more information, visit www.tecnicagroup.com.