Skratch Labs Unveils 2026 Summer Seasonal Flavor Series

May 7, 2026—Boulder, CO—Skratch Labs, the Boulder-based performance nutrition company, launches its largest seasonal flavor lineup to date with four new summer limited-editions of Sport Hydration Drink Mix, Super High Carb Drink Mix, and Energy Chews. Rolling out from May through early June, the 2026 summer seasonals series gives athletes a fresh take on the products they already trust for training, racing and long days in the summer heat. From the return of fan-favorite Cucumber Lime Hydration Sport Drink Mix to the bold addition of Sour Apple Energy Chews, each seasonal flavor is designed to feel bright, relevant, and built for summer—without changing the performance athletes rely on.

Each product stays true to Skratch’s core philosophy: real ingredients, no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners, and a lighter taste profile designed to reduce flavor fatigue and support consistent hydration and fueling over long efforts.

“We love taking the products athletes already count on and giving them a fresh, seasonal twist,” said Mellisa Allen, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Skratch Labs. “These limited releases keep summer training fun while staying true to what matters most—real ingredients, great taste, and products that perform when the effort gets hard. We’ve had great feedback on our previous seasonal flavors, so this year, we’re excited to expand the annual tradition across more of our core product lines!”

The 2026 seasonal lineup introduces limited flavor runs across three core product lines:

  • Hydration Sports Drink Mix, Cucumber Lime and Watermelon, 20-serving bag ($23.95), Available May 5 and June 2: Two summer seasonals join the Sport Hydration rotation this year: the return of fan-favorite Cucumber Lime and the addition of Watermelon. Hydration Sports Drink Mix delivers 19 grams of carbohydrates and 400 milligrams of sodium, with an 80-calorie profile designed to replace electrolytes lost in sweat. Like all Hydration Sport Drink Mix flavors, Cucumber Lime and Watermelon are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and Kosher, with no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners.
  • Super High-Carb Sport Drink Mix, Mango, 16-serving bag ($41.95), Available April 28: A tropical take on Skratch’s high-performance fueling system, Mango Super High-Carb Sport Drink Mix is powered by Cluster Dextrin™, a highly complex carbohydrate designed to digest easily and steadily, more like real food. Each serving delivers approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates and 200 calories of energy for sustained fueling with less gut strain during long, hard efforts. It’s built for endurance athletes who need high-carb fueling when intensity rises and real food becomes harder to manage.
  • Energy Chews Sport Fuel, Sour Apple, Single Pouches and 10-pack caddy ($2.75-26.95), Available May 19: A sour-forward, seasonal twist on Skratch’s portable race-day fuel. Each serving delivers fast-acting carbohydrates in a compact, easy-to-carry format built for efforts when stopping isn’t an option.

Products from the Skratch Labs 2026 Seasonal lineup will be available while supplies last at www.skratchlabs.com, Skratch Labs Table and select retail partners nationwide. For more information on Skratch Labs, Skratch Labs Table, and the latest product releases and innovations, please contact Tim Nooney at tim@darbycommunications.com.

About Skratch Labs:

Born in Boulder, CO in 2012, Skratch Labs is a performance nutrition innovator that helps athletes be better. Founded by two cycling pros who spent years on the Pro Cycling Tour watching teammates consume bad-tasting sports nutrition products that caused digestion issues, they created a “secret drink mix” composed of real sugar, salt, and fruit powder mixed in a 5-gallon paint bucket for their team. More than a decade later, Skratch Labs’ approach is the same: help athletes perform better by solving their nutrition problems without causing new ones, using real food ingredients. You can learn more at Skratch Labs, follow on social, join Skratch Labs’ Strava Club, enroll in the affiliate program, or visit the Skratch Labs Table and Flagship Store.

RECCO and adidas INFINITE TRAILS Partner Up

STOCKHOLM, Sweden – May 5, 2026 – RECCO, a global leader in rescue technology, has entered into a partnership with adidas INFINITE TRAILS. At this unique trail running race, taking place September 4–6, 2026, in the Gastein Valley, RECCO reflectors are now part of the mandatory equipment for the 30K, 45K, and 60K courses as well as the team competition, thereby enhancing participant safety.

The highlight of the adidas INFINITE TRAILS, held annually since 2018, is the Team Race, in which teams of three tackle the stages together—true to the motto “One for all—all for one.” Individual participants can find suitable challenges on four routes of varying lengths.

The routes, which are up to 60 km, lead through alpine and sometimes remote terrain. The safety of participants is therefore the top priority at adidas INFINITE TRAILS. This year, rescue teams have an additional tool at their disposal: RECCO reflectors will be part of the mandatory equipment for athletes on all routes longer than 15 km. In an emergency, professional rescue teams can use a RECCO SAR helicopter detector to pinpoint the location of injured or lost individuals. In Austria, these detectors are used in a collaboration between the Air Police and the Austrian Mountain Rescue Service.

Participants who do not currently carry a reflector in their gear can purchase stand alone reflectors to be attached to a backpack at a discounted price. A portion of the proceeds from the sales donated go directly to the Gastein Mountain Rescue Service.

“At adidas INFINITE TRAILS, we strive for the gold standard in every respect—above all when it comes to the safety of our participants. It’s important to us not only to challenge the community but also to actively educate them on mountain safety,” said adidas INFINITE TRAILS Director Mike Hamel. “Including the RECCO reflector in the mandatory gear is therefore a logical step. What convinces us about the technology is its ingenious simplicity: it requires neither apps nor registration and is completely passive—you simply have to wear it to be searchable by professional rescue teams. The fact that this partnership also allows us to financially support the Gastein Mountain Rescue makes the collaboration perfect for us.”

Fredrik Steinwall, CEO of RECCO, added: “We are very excited to be collaborating with adidas Infinite Trails to raise safety awareness within the trail running community. This partnership underlines how important it is to be searchable and prepared when out in the great outdoors. Safety awareness and education are an essential part of our work. That’s why we’re very happy to be working with a partner who shares our vision.”

Photo Link: https://reccoab.sharepoint.com/:f:/s/RECCOExternalSharing/IgAofMvPJ23dQJh7zqb3goFWAWupirZ76YCdg0uCp4o0trY?e=5ToQ2X

About RECCO

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

Media Contact

Verde Brand Communications

(970) 235-0268

recco@verdepr.com

 

LOWA Selects Darby Communications as PR Agency of Record

May 4, 2026 – Stamford, Connecticut – LOWA Boots, the global footwear brand renowned for its premium outdoor boots and shoes, proudly announces its partnership with Darby Communications, a leading PR and digital marketing agency representing outdoor, hunt, fish, and endurance brands. Effective immediately, Darby Communications will serve as LOWA’s PR agency of record, amplifying product and brand awareness through targeted PR and media relations.

Since 1923, LOWA has crafted premium outdoor boots and shoes that blend outstanding quality and fit through innovative design and proprietary technology. Today, the brand is the market leader in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, producing over three million pairs of shoes a year. Building on its heritage and alpine roots, LOWA continues to evolve alongside today’s outdoorist, investing in innovation to deliver more modern fits, lightweight materials, and performance-driven designs. From rugged mountaineering boots to fast-moving trail running shoes, LOWA is committed to expanding beyond its traditional strongholds while maintaining the craftsmanship and reliability it’s known for.

“LOWA is entering an exciting moment of evolution, building on more than a century of craftsmanship while innovating for today’s outdoor consumer,” said Lesley Christoph, Director of Marketing at LOWA. “We selected Darby Communications as a strategic PR partner because of their deep-rooted expertise in the industries we serve, paired with a modern approach to media relations. Their decades of experience and innovative perspective will help us elevate our brand voice and expand our reach to new audiences in the US market.”

Through this strategic partnership, Darby Communications will leverage its extensive industry expertise and network of media partners to amplify awareness of LOWA within new audiences and build brand affinity for repeat customers. The agency will focus on securing impactful media coverage, crafting compelling brand stories, building social proof through creator relationships, and driving engagement around LOWA’s superior craftsmanship, from best-sellers like the RENEGADE GTX MID to new innovative offerings like the SKYTERRA.

“There are few brands in the outdoor industry I’ve admired longer than LOWA,” states Angie Robinson, President of Darby Communications. “I first discovered them as a young specialty retail employee, fitting customers for boots on the shop floor. Since then, I’ve watched with admiration as they’ve continued to innovate without ever compromising the fit, quality, and heritage that made them iconic. Our team at Darby Comm is thrilled to help introduce LOWA’s legacy to the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.”

For more information on LOWA Boots 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.lowaboots.com.

About Darby Communications

Darby Communications is an East Coast-based public relations and digital marketing agency dedicated to supporting leaders within the outdoor, endurance, and hunting and fishing industries. We blend technical expertise and creative storytelling across a full range of services to grow awareness, strengthen reputation, and turn media and customers into brand advocates. Darby Communications is a trusted partner of respected brands such as KUIU, Shimano, Jetboil, Old Town, Skratch, and HydraPak, and was named Outdoor Media Summit’s 2025 Agency of the Year. For more information, visit www.darbycommunications.com

Outdoor Retailer Announces First Wild Reach Creator Lineup, Powered by Popfly

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (May 4, 2026)Outdoor Retailer, the platform for connection, learning, and outdoor innovation today, announced the first 10 creators as part of the new Wild Reach Initiative, a creator-powered program developed in exclusive partnership with Popfly. Connecting leading outdoor brands with a curated network of storytellers, the program delivers real-time product exposure, authentic content creation, and direct engagement with highly targeted audiences.

Collectively reaching over 6 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook, these creators bring immediate scale to participating brands, providing  a level of visibility and content generation that typically requires significant standalone investment.

Embedded directly within the Outdoor Retailer environment, the Wild Reach Initiative transforms the traditional trade show into a live content engine, where brands debut next year’s products, drive discovery, and generate storytelling at scale, all in one place. By removing barriers to creator access and investment usually required to drive this level of engagement, Outdoor Retailer enables brands to tap into high-impact creator partnerships in a way that is both efficient and measurable.

“At a time when stakeholders are demanding real results, Wild Reach injects a new level of energy, return and authenticity to the show,” said Lindsay Hubley, senior vice president of the Sports and Outdoor division at Emerald. “This program gives brands a powerful opportunity to put products into the hands of creators, spark meaningful storytelling, and extend their reach far beyond the show floor, all within a single, highly curated environment.”

The first group of Wild Reach creators includes:

  • Aaaron Lutze (Second Nature Podcast) 406k, @superridertv – Mountain Biking
  • Alexandria Gallizioli – 121k, @sheroamswild – Hiking, Biking, Skiing, Camping
  • Coach Livingston – 268k, @coach-1981 – Backpacking and Hiking
  • Dan Bernstein – 739k, @outdoorwiseliving – Swimming, Hiking, Connecting to Nature
  • Gordon Crum – 278k, @gordon-crum-27796 – Camping Gear, Wilderness Survival, Conservation Stories
  • Gwyneth Manser – 112k, @gwynandami – Travel, Outdoor Recreation and Lifestyle
  • Keahu Kahuanui – 315k, @keahu – Outdoor Endurance Athlete
  • Myranda Hausheer – 52k, @myranda-hausheer – Hiking, Skiing, Backpacking, Camping, Yoga, Fishing
  • Nataliya Zasadko – 122k, @littleradadventure – Skiing, Travel, Family Adventures
  • Thruhikers – 3,950,000 @thruhikers – Backpacking, Hiking, Skiing

Representing a wide range of disciplines, from hiking and climbing to camping, fishing, trail running, and outdoor lifestyle storytelling, these individuals were selected for their distinct perspectives, engaged audiences, and commitment to sharing authentic outdoor experiences.

“Creators continue to be a key part of how outdoor brands’ reach and inspire their communities,” said Taylor Hoekstra, founder of Popfly. “Through Wild Reach, we’re building the infrastructure helping brands and creators connect, collaborate, and produce authentic content in real time, turning those moments into long-term relationships and measurable impact.”

Wild Reach participants will partner with exhibiting brands through curated activations and a structured engagement model designed to encourage hands-on product discovery and in-the-moment storytelling. The result is content rooted in firsthand experience, highlighting performance, innovation, and the human connection to outdoor gear and adventure.

The program has already generated strong interest within the creator community, with applications continuing to grow week over week. Outdoor Retailer will introduce additional creators in the lead-up to the August event, further expanding opportunities for brands to connect with new voices and audiences.

Outdoor Retailer takes place August 19–21, 2026, at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

About Outdoor Retailer

Outdoor Retailer is where the outdoor industry comes together to move the business of the outdoors forward. Designed in collaboration with brands, retailers, and industry leaders, the event creates space for connection, practical education, and the discovery of innovative products shaping the future of outdoor recreation. Outdoor Retailer is where the outdoor industry gathers to connect, collaborate, and take ownership of what comes next – #MakeItYours. Learn more about and #MakeItYours at outdoorretailer.com

Media Contact: Chris Goddard, CGPR, chris@cgprpublicrelations.com (781) 640-8387 or marybeth@cgprpublicrelations.com

LOWA Selects Darby Communications as PR Agency of Record

May 4, 2026 – Stamford, Connecticut – LOWA Boots, the global footwear brand renowned for its premium outdoor boots and shoes, proudly announces its partnership with Darby Communications, a leading PR and digital marketing agency representing outdoor, hunt, fish, and endurance brands. Effective immediately, Darby Communications will serve as LOWA’s PR agency of record, amplifying product and brand awareness through targeted PR and media relations.

Since 1923, LOWA has crafted premium outdoor boots and shoes that blend outstanding quality and fit through innovative design and proprietary technology. Today, the brand is the market leader in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, producing over three million pairs of shoes a year. Building on its heritage and alpine roots, LOWA continues to evolve alongside today’s outdoorist, investing in innovation to deliver more modern fits, lightweight materials, and performance-driven designs. From rugged mountaineering boots to fast-moving trail running shoes, LOWA is committed to expanding beyond its traditional strongholds while maintaining the craftsmanship and reliability it’s known for.

“LOWA is entering an exciting moment of evolution, building on more than a century of craftsmanship while innovating for today’s outdoor consumer,” said Lesley Christoph, Director of Marketing at LOWA. “We selected Darby Communications as a strategic PR partner because of their deep-rooted expertise in the industries we serve, paired with a modern approach to media relations. Their decades of experience and innovative perspective will help us elevate our brand voice and expand our reach to new audiences in the US market.”

Through this strategic partnership, Darby Communications will leverage its extensive industry expertise and network of media partners to amplify awareness of LOWA within new audiences and build brand affinity for repeat customers. The agency will focus on securing impactful media coverage, crafting compelling brand stories, building social proof through creator relationships, and driving engagement around LOWA’s superior craftsmanship, from best-sellers like the RENEGADE GTX MID to new innovative offerings like the SKYTERRA.

“There are few brands in the outdoor industry I’ve admired longer than LOWA,” states Angie Robinson, President of Darby Communications. “I first discovered them as a young specialty retail employee, fitting customers for boots on the shop floor. Since then, I’ve watched with admiration as they’ve continued to innovate without ever compromising the fit, quality, and heritage that made them iconic. Our team at Darby Comm is thrilled to help introduce LOWA’s legacy to the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.”

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

###

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.lowaboots.com.

About Darby Communications

Darby Communications is an East Coast-based public relations and digital marketing agency dedicated to supporting leaders within the outdoor, endurance, and hunting and fishing industries. We blend technical expertise and creative storytelling across a full range of services to grow awareness, strengthen reputation, and turn media and customers into brand advocates. Darby Communications is a trusted partner of respected brands such as KUIU, Shimano, Jetboil, Old Town, Skratch, and HydraPak, and was named Outdoor Media Summit’s 2025 Agency of the Year. For more information, visit www.darbycommunications.com

EU CSRD and CSDDD Webinar

What the EU’s New Sustainability Directives Mean for You

The EU’s Omnibus Simplification Package has finalized the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD)—and the implications for the outdoor industry are significant. OIA’s sustainability team was joined by Francesca Fina of Ohana Public Affairs for a webinar that breaks down the finalized requirements, which companies now fall within scope, and how these directives could ripple through outdoor brands even if they sit outside the thresholds. Whether your business is directly in scope or not, understanding these landmark changes is a must.

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Guide to Comply

Stay Ahead of Sustainability Compliance

Keeping up with sustainability laws across the U.S. and Canada is becoming increasingly complex—and the cost of falling behind is rising. OIA’s updated 2026 Guide to Comply cuts through the noise with a 20+ page resource covering the specific regulations impacting the outdoor industry right now, from climate accountability and PFAS rules to Extended Producer Responsibility and green claims best practices. Whether you’re navigating new state-level emission mandates or refining your sustainability messaging, this guide gives your team the clarity needed to stay compliant.

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Sustainability Marketing Webinar

How to Market Sustainability Without the Greenwashing Risk

As outdoor brands increasingly promote their sustainability efforts, global regulators are cracking down on greenwashing—and the legal stakes are rising. OIA Legislative Consultant James Pollack walked through current marketing regulations and key litigation, followed by a panel hosted by OIA’s Keelin Christensen with the Black Diamond team on how their marketing and sustainability departments collaborate to craft compliant messaging that resonates with environmentally conscious consumers. Whether you’re in marketing, product, or materials, this session offers a clear understanding of the regulations to know and strategies for authentic communication.

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Access the recording: Click Here