Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Announces New Hires to Strengthen Leadership Team, Deepen Support for Members and Industry

BOULDER, Colo. — Aug. 26, 2026 — Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), the leading trade association for the outdoor industry, today announced a series of key leadership hires and promotions that reflect the organization’s continued investment in the talent and expertise needed to serve its members and advance the industry’s shared priorities. Its two new leadership hires include Adam Pugh, Sr. Director of Advocacy & Government Affairs, and Lindsay Hogan, Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications.  

The additions and promotions span government advocacy, marketing, operations, and sustainability, bringing together leaders with deep roots in the outdoor industry. Chief Operating Officer Andy Fletcher was hired on full-time at the end of 2025; Keelin Christensen was promoted to Sr. Manager of Sustainability in August; and new hire Robert Kyte is joining the organization as Marketing Specialist in September. As a collective, the team has senior experience at outdoor companies including Patagonia, Backcountry.com, VF Corporation, Vail Resorts, and Alpenglow Expeditions, alongside proven expertise in federal policy and sustainability-focused business strategy.  

“As the issues facing our industry grow more complex, from federal policy to sustainable business practices to the evolving needs of our members, the strength of our organization depends on the strength of our team,” said Kent Ebersole, President of OIA. “These hires and promotions represent a significant investment in the expertise, leadership and continuity our members count on. Each of these individuals brings deep experience and a genuine commitment to this industry, and together they position OIA to deliver even greater value to our members and to advance the work of the outdoor economy.” 

Adam Pugh, Sr. Director of Advocacy & Government Affairs 

Adam Pugh joined OIA as Sr. Director of Advocacy & Government Affairs on Aug. 24 and will be based in Washington, D.C., strengthening OIA’s capacity to serve its members. In this role, Pugh leads OIA’s federal government affairs strategy, advising OIA’s leadership and its members on legislative and regulatory developments affecting trade, recreation, permitting, and environmental policy, and representing OIA’s interests before Congress and federal agencies. 

Pugh brings a decade of federal government affairs experience to OIA. He most recently served as Director of Government Affairs for the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association, where he led federal advocacy strategy on agriculture, energy, environmental permitting, and tax and trade policies for the aggregates and construction materials industry. His work included drafting legislative language for major federal permitting reform proposals and leading direct engagement with congressional offices and federal agencies on policy initiatives affecting industry timelines and regulatory certainty. He previously held policy and advocacy roles at the National Association of Home Builders, the National Association of Counties, and the National Association of Conservation Districts, where he advanced advocacy on environmental regulation, land-use policy, and infrastructure funding affecting member companies and local governments nationwide, and began his career in the U.S. House of Representatives.  

Pugh has a deep personal passion for the outdoors and believes some of life’s most meaningful experiences happen outside, whether camping with family, exploring a new trail or simply giving kids the opportunity to experience something beyond a screen. As a father, he is especially passionate about ensuring the next generation has opportunities to experience and enjoy the outdoors. This connection is a big part of what motivates his work to help ensure the outdoors remains accessible, welcoming and vibrant for generations to come. 

Lindsay Hogan, Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications 

Lindsay Hogan joined OIA as Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications on July 13. In this role, Hogan is responsible for executing the strategic direction for OIA’s marketing, branding, and communications work. She is central to the execution of OIA’s signature events, including Switchback and Rendezvous. She’s focused on building a broader channel strategy and thought leadership platform for the organization, designed to amplify and give voice to OIA’s voice in the outdoor industry, including its government affairs and advocacy work. Her role will continue to support the development of member-facing programs, services, and products. 

Hogan brings more than two decades of marketing and communications leadership in outdoor, travel, and member-based organizations. She most recently served as Sr. Director of Communications at Vail Resorts, where she led enterprise-wide integrated marketing and communications strategy across 42 destination resorts in four countries — overseeing digital and social strategy, brand positioning, media relations, community engagement, and crisis communications. She previously spent 13 years at the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, where she served as Sr. Director of Marketing Communications, leading promotions and publicity for Team USA at multiple Olympic Games, collaborating with broadcast partner NBC Universal on promotional campaigns and events, and delivering measurable value for corporate partners.   

Andy Fletcher, Chief Operating Officer 

OIA also announced that Andy Fletcher has transitioned from contractor to full-time Chief Operating Officer, effective December 2025, formalizing the strategic and operational leadership role he has held since joining as interim-COO in June 2025. In this role, Fletcher oversees OIA’s finances, internal operations, and organizational infrastructure, ensuring the association has the systems, resources, and cross-functional alignment needed to execute its strategic priorities and deliver consistent value to members. 

Fletcher brings more than two decades of strategy and operations leadership across the outdoor, retail, and consumer products industries. Most recently he served as Chief Operating Officer at Ellavate Wagon, an electric stroller-wagon startup, where he oversaw finance and operations. Fletcher also served as Head of Strategic Planning at Patagonia, where he led the company’s strategic planning function and guided cross-functional transformation initiatives. He previously served as Head of Owned Brands at Backcountry.com, with multi-million-dollar P&L responsibility for the Backcountry, Basin + Range, and Stoic apparel brands, and held strategy and business development leadership roles at VF Corporation and Nordstrom. 

Keelin Christensen and Robert Kyte 

Rounding out the announcement, Keelin Christensen has been promoted to Sr. Manager of Sustainability, effective Aug. 1, continuing to lead OIA’s sustainable business work since joining the organization as Manager of Sustainability in March 2023. Over the past three years, she has led sustainability compliance for members, enhanced member collaboration opportunities related to sustainability, and supported member education and engagement on climate action. Robert Kyte will join OIA as Marketing Specialist on Sept. 8, bringing cross-channel marketing experience from Alpenglow Expeditions and prior work as Lead Storyteller for The Global Climbing Initiative. 

Together, these hires and promotions reflect OIA’s ongoing commitment to building a team equipped to meet the outdoor industry’s evolving needs — a deliberate investment in talent that strengthens the organization’s ability to serve its members and advance the industry as a whole. 

About Outdoor Industry Association 

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

Offgrid Provisions Selects Darby Communications as PR Agency of Record

August 25, 2026 – West Gosford, Australia- Offgrid Provisions, the Australia-based brand renowned for its chef-crafted, fresh, and shelf-stable meals for outdoor adventures, 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 Offgrid Provisions’ PR agency of record, leading communications strategy as the brand launches its Australian-born, American-made meals in the U.S. market.

Offgrid Provisions was founded in 2020 by James Viles, an Australian chef, author, restaurateur, and food entrepreneur known for his deep commitment to sustainability, local produce, and cooking philosophy centered around ethically sourced wild ingredients. Raised in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Viles started cooking professionally at a young age and has since founded multiple award-winning restaurants and food brands. His love for the outdoors inspired him to create Offgrid Provisions: fully cooked, preservative-free meals designed and crafted to help adventurers eat well, wherever they roam.

Now considered Australia’s premium brand for ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and supplements, Offgrid Provisions will make its stateside debut this fall as the first brand to launch fresh, preservative-free, ready-to-eat meals in the outdoor industry. American customers will have access to favorites like Bloody Good Bolognese, Butter Chicken, and Ranchers Chili— of which some are gluten-free, lactose-free, halal, and made in the U.S. with locally sourced ingredients.

“Making healthy, delicious food for people has been my passion for as long as I can remember,” says Viles. “I started Offgrid Provisions to help people reconnect with what they eat on their adventures, to fuel their adventures with purity and nutrition. I wanted to show them that there’s a better, more natural way to make meals for the outdoors—real, chef-prepared food that’s responsibly sourced and easy to make, with no water required. We’re so excited to bring that model to the U.S. market. Every meal American customers buy will be made in the U.S. using locally sourced ingredients. That means the food is fresher, tastes better, and has a smaller impact on the planet.”

“From the first time we met the OffGrid Provisions team, we knew this was a brand we had to help launch in the U.S.,” states Angie Robinson, President of Darby Communications. “James and his team are dedicated to providing locally sourced, real food that tastes good for folks who are spending time outdoors, and that really resonates with us. We can’t wait to help OffGrid Provisions make a huge impact in the ready-to-eat meals category in the outdoor, overlanding, and hunt, and fish industries.”

Offgrid Provisions will be available to U.S. customers starting in November 2026 online and through selected retailers across the U.S. For more information, contact Katie Richter at katie@darbycommunications.com.

About Offgrid Provisions

Offgrid Provisions is redefining outdoor food with chef-crafted, fully cooked meals made from real, responsibly sourced ingredients. Founded by Australian chef and restaurateur James Viles, Offgrid brings chef-driven recipes and high-quality ingredients to backcountry and outdoor adventures, without sacrificing flavor or convenience. After establishing itself as a leading ready-to-eat meal brand in Australia, Offgrid is bringing its chef-crafted approach to the U.S., with meals made in America using locally sourced ingredients. For more information, visit https://www.offgridprovisions.com.au/

About Darby Communications

Darby Communications is an East Coast-based public relations and digital marketing agency dedicated to supporting leaders within the outdoor, endurance, 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

PolyCore Showcases Eco-Shield, the Waterborne Face Coating That Extends the Life of Outdoor Gear

TUSTIN, Calif. — July 21, 2026 — As outdoor brands look to reduce reliance on solvent-based and PFAS-dependent textile technologies, PolyCore is highlighting Eco-Shield, a waterborne polyurethane (PU) face coating for technical fabrics. Applied to the face of a fabric, Eco-Shield serves as a product’s first line of defense against the elements, providing durable protection against rain, abrasion, and everyday wear.

Available now, Eco-Shield can be integrated into existing manufacturing supply chains, giving brands across the backpack, luggage, apparel, and outdoor gear industries a practical way to increase product durability while reducing the environmental impact of traditional coating technologies.

Eco-Shield achieves 10,000 mm of hydrostatic resistance, delivers up to four times the tear strength of TPU, and can be customized to achieve a range of hand feels and finishes, all without adding significant weight or bulk.

“Outdoor products should last for years, not seasons,” said Arthur Chen, founder of PolyCore. “Our goal was to develop a face coating that gives brands the durability they expect while moving away from outdated toxic solvent chemistry.”

Unlike conventional solvent-based coatings, Eco-Shield’s waterborne formulation reduces VOC emissions by 98% during coating and contains no intentionally added PFAS. The technology is formulated to support compliance with EU REACH requirements and follows the ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL), helping brands meet evolving chemical standards.

For PolyCore, durability is a key part of sustainability. Products that resist wear, abrasion, and water damage stay in use longer, reducing replacement cycles and extending the life of finished gear.

Eco-Shield is available today for integration into existing supply chains. PolyCore works directly with mills, manufacturers, and outdoor brands to incorporate the technology into current production with minimal disruption.

Brands interested in evaluating Eco-Shield can learn more at polycoresolutions.com or contact the PolyCore team at contact@polycoresolutions.com.

About PolyCore Solutions

PolyCore Solutions develops next-generation high-performance waterborne polymer coatings for the outdoor, travel, and technical gear industries. Its Eco-Coating, Eco-Shield, and ReCirX² systems replace harmful solvent-based and PFAS-reliant coating technologies with waterborne alternatives that match or exceed conventional performance benchmarks. PolyCore implements coatings directly into manufacturing facilities worldwide, with headquarters in Tustin, California, and Taipei, Taiwan.

Outdoor Alliance Welcomes Runners for Public Lands as Newest Coalition Member

Washington, D.C. — Outdoor Alliance is thrilled to announce that Runners for Public Lands has joined the coalition as its newest member organization. Runners for Public Lands joins nine of the country’s most powerful organizations advocating for human-powered outdoor recreation and working together to protect public lands and waters.

As trail running continues to grow in popularity across the country, runners have emerged as an increasingly important constituency for public lands. From local trail systems to national forests, parks, and public lands, runners rely on healthy, accessible landscapes and are often among their most dedicated stewards and advocates.

The addition of Runners for Public Lands strengthens Outdoor Alliance’s collective voice and expands the coalition’s ability to engage outdoor enthusiasts in public lands conservation and advocacy. Together, the organizations will work to ensure that public lands remain protected, accessible, and well-managed for current and future generations.

“Trail runners build deep connections to public lands through daily use, stewardship, and community,” said Kat Baker, Executive Director of Runners for Public Lands. “Our community understands that the places we run are not guaranteed—they require care, investment, and advocacy. We are excited to join Outdoor Alliance and work alongside other outdoor recreation organizations to level up our ability to protect the trails and public lands that make these experiences possible.”

Outdoor Alliance represents a broad coalition of human-powered recreation communities, including climbers, paddlers, mountain bikers, backcountry skiers, hikers, surfers, and now trail runners. Together, the coalition works to advance policies that protect public lands, expand recreation access, strengthen stewardship, and ensure that outdoor recreation remains a priority in public land management.

“Runners experience public lands in a uniquely direct way. They build deep connections to trails, forests, deserts, mountains, and local parks through daily use and stewardship,” said Adam Cramer, CEO of Outdoor Alliance. “Runners for Public Lands has done an exceptional job turning that connection into advocacy, and we’re excited to welcome them to the Outdoor Alliance coalition. Their leadership will strengthen our collective voice and help ensure that the people who love these places are helping shape their future.”

The addition of Runners for Public Lands comes at a pivotal moment for America’s public lands. Outdoor recreation continues to grow, contributing more than $1 trillion annually to the U.S. economy and engaging millions of Americans in outdoor experiences. At the same time, public lands face increasing challenges ranging from funding shortfalls and maintenance backlogs to development pressures and threats to public access.

By bringing together diverse outdoor recreation communities under a shared vision, Outdoor Alliance helps ensure that the people who use and value public lands have a strong voice in the decisions that shape their future. The addition of trail runners further strengthens that effort and reflects the growing role that outdoor recreationists play in conserving America’s public lands and waters.

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About Outdoor Alliance

Outdoor Alliance is the national coalition of outdoor recreation advocacy organizations working together to protect public lands and waters and ensure sustainable access for human-powered recreation. Outdoor Alliance brings together the voices of millions of outdoor enthusiasts to advance policies that conserve the places where people climb, paddle, ride, run, hike, ski, and surf.

About Runners for Public Lands

Runners for Public Lands mobilizes the trail running community to protect and steward public lands. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, the organization empowers runners to become effective champions for the landscapes and trails they depend on.

Media Contact: 

Outdoor Alliance

Tania Lown-Hecht, Vice President of Communications and Strategy

tania@outdooralliance.org

Sea to Summit Introduces XLite, Its Next-Generation Collapsible Camp Kitchen System

PERTH, Australia & BROOMFIELD, Colo. — July 20, 2026 — Sea to Summit, an award-winning global brand that equips and inspires outdoor enthusiasts with innovative, lightweight adventure gear, today announced the launch of XLite, the brand’s next-generation collapsible camp kitchen system. Building on Sea to Summit’s Frontier Collapsible Collection, XLite is engineered to maximize pack space without compromising cooking performance. Beginning today, a limited assortment of XLite products is available exclusively at REI stores, REI.com and SeaToSummit.com, ahead of the complete XLite collection launch in Spring 2027.

Built on more than 15 years of collapsible camp kitchen innovation, XLite introduces a fully integrated nesting system that packs flatter and more efficiently than ever before. Modular cookware and dinnerware collapse and nest together — from cups into bowls and bowls into cookpots — to eliminate wasted space while delivering a complete cooking and dining solution for backpackers, campers and overlanders.

“A better trail experience begins with smarter design in the studio,” said Liam Higton-Shirt, product designer at Sea to Summit. “With the XLite series, the real challenge wasn’t collapsibility. It was engineering a complete system that works together, packs down without rattling and weighs less than anything we’ve done before. It’s the accumulation of small details, none of them accidental, that makes the difference between a product that works and one that feels genuinely high quality.”

Designed to be lighter, stronger and more durable than the Frontier Collapsible Collection, XLite introduces a range of thoughtful updates across both cookware and dinnerware, including:

  • New injection-molding technology that creates more flexible sidewalls while enabling brighter, more vibrant colorways.
  • An expanded cookware and dinnerware range designed to nest seamlessly, maximizing pack space and eliminating wasted volume.
  • Products that weigh up to 30% less than previous generations, including the XLite Cup, which starts at just 43 grams.
  • The new Flip Lock Handle, which is 50% lighter, auto-locking, rattle-free, and ergonomically designed for improved handling and transport.
  • Stronger 5 Series aluminum cookware, refined folding construction, and redesigned lids that enhance cooking performance, pack smaller, and provide a more secure seal.
  • Components tested through more than 15,000 opening and closing cycles to deliver proven long-term durability in the field.

This initial XLite launch includes a curated assortment of cookware sets, collapsible pots, kettles, dinnerware and accessories, giving outdoor enthusiasts an early look at the next generation of Sea to Summit’s camp kitchen lineup. Additional XLite products will roll out with the full collection in Spring 2027.

ABOUT SEA TO SUMMIT

Sea to Summit is an award-winning global brand that equips and inspires outdoor enthusiasts with innovative, lightweight adventure gear. Founded in Perth, Western Australia in 1991, the brand has grown into a global leader in the outdoor industry, known for its meticulously engineered products across sleep, carry, travel, and camp kitchen categories.

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ThruDark Womenswear Grows with New, Summer Hiking, Capsule Collection

POOLE, England — (16 July, 2026) ThruDark is excited to launch its first significant foray into women’s outdoor clothing with a range of hiking t-shirts, trousers and leggings ready for summer and beyond. Whilst not the first women’s technical clothing that ThruDark has designed, the Oryon Women’s range builds on the positive foundations laid by the Force Activewear Women’s range that launched earlier this year. With more women than ever now turning to ThruDark for low fuss, highly functional clothing, the new Oryon Women’s range builds on growing demand.

The range itself includes layers that will be familiar to many existing outdoor enthusiasts. Lightweight and breathable merino wool t-shirts, durable hiking trousers and comfortable, stretch fabric leggings. The range provides strong UPF protection, defending wearers against the harmful effects of prolonged UV exposure. The Oryon Women’s range is available in a variety of fits and colours that differ from the brand’s menswear offering giving ThruDark’s womenswear its own distinct look and feel, whilst retaining the brand’s more subtle visual aesthetic.

The new Oryon 72HR T-Shirt is a pure merino wool t-shirt designed for multi-day pursuits where traveling light is essential. Naturally thermal regulated, odour resistant, and fast drying, the 72HR can be worn for days without washing. Seam-lines have been positioned and shaped to contour the female form, improving fit and reducing pressure points over long days on the move.

The lightweight summer hiking Oryon Trousers are built for warm weather routes and extended time in the field, and are UPF protected, quick drying and moisture wicking with an articulated fit shaped for unrestricted movement across technical terrain. An integrated belt with aluminium hook buckle closure ensures a secure, adjustable fit.

To round out the collection, the Oryon Leggings are designed for walking and mountaineering, and are constructed from a smooth matte fabric with UPF 40+ protection, offering full-length coverage and form-fitting performance on technical terrain. The Leggings are similarly moisture wicking and quick drying, with a phone-sized thigh pocket and drawcord waistband adjustment.

“Launching a women’s outdoor range has always been a matter of timing,” said ThruDark co-founder Louis Tinsley. “Whilst women have worn much of our range for years as unisex pieces, we wanted to design highly functional womenswear as soon as we were able to. We now have the team in place and the technical know-how to deliver what we believe is premium women’s hiking clothing that stands toe to toe with our comparable men’s pieces.”

The new Oryon women’s collection is available online and in-store now. For more information on ThruDark and to view the complete lineup of high-performance apparel, please visit www.thrudark.com.

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ABOUT THRUDARK

ThruDark is a high-performance clothing brand founded by former UK Special Forces operators Anthony “Staz” Stazicker CGC and Louis Tinsley. The British brand started in 2018 with a bespoke summit suit that broke world mountaineering records before launching a limited range of cold-weather expedition gear. Since that time, ThruDark’s outerwear offering has expanded to include the latest in activewear innovation, hot- weather clothing, combat-sports attire and premium apparel, alongside its continued development in the world of winter wear. All of ThruDark’s technical products are tested personally in real-world conditions by its founders, using their combined 28 years of military experience.

Paradox Sports partners with Razom for Ukraine to launch adaptive climbing program for Ukrainian veterans with disabilities

BOULDER, Colo. [July 16, 2026] — Paradox Sports, a non-profit organization that makes rock and ice climbing accessible to people with physical disabilities, is partnering with Razom for Ukraine, a prominent U.S.-based nonprofit, to help launch a new adaptive climbing program for Ukrainian veterans.

Working towards a better future for Ukraine and its people, Razom for Ukraine invited Paradox Sports to help develop the new adaptive climbing program, and host an in-country adaptive climbing training August 2–6, 2026. During the training, Paradox Sports will share adaptive climbing systems and equipment strategies, disability awareness best practices, volunteer and instructor training models, and approaches for growing climbing communities that welcome people with disabilities. In Ukraine, the ongoing program will be supported by local climbing community leaders and nonprofits Second Wind and Petros.

“Paradox is deeply honored that Razom for Ukraine asked us to work with Ukrainian veterans, climbers, and partner organizations to help develop this critical resource,” said Alex Kosseff, Executive Director of Paradox Sports. “Ukraine is facing a massive scale of war-related injuries and trauma including amputations, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and PTSD. The need for rehabilitation, reintegration, and community is profound. This project shares what Paradox has learned over nearly 20 years of adaptive climbing and veteran programming with Ukraine.”

Adaptive climbing is a proven way to rebuild strength, manage PTSD, and regain confidence after life‑altering injuries and the trauma of war. It helps veterans redefine what’s possible with a disability, and reconnect with a sense of purpose, and a supportive community of peers. The program and training come as Ukraine faces a rapidly growing need for community-based support for veterans with disabilities. A recent New York Times article noted that there are now estimated to be at least 100,000 amputees in the country, and highlighted the growing role of sports in helping wounded soldiers rebuild strength, confidence, and connection.

“Nature has a remarkable ability to help people heal, regardless of the depth of their wounds and trauma,” said DJ Skelton, Paradox Sports co-founder, retired U.S. Army Major, and advisor to Ukrainian leadership on veterans’ affairs. “Climbing transcends boundaries, borders, nationality, and language. It brings people together through challenge, trust, and belonging. This work in Ukraine represents the best of what adaptive sports can offer: resilience, recovery, community, and hope.”

Razom for Ukraine has committed $8,000 to help make the training and program possible. Paradox Sports is raising funds to match that support, and expand the impact of the project. Petzl, the manufacturer of premium outdoor and climbing gear, is donating climbing equipment for the program and ongoing use in Ukraine.

For more information about the program and upcoming training, visit Paradox Sports Ukraine Adaptive Climbing Initiative.

About Paradox Sports

Paradox Sports is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives and communities through adaptive climbing opportunities that defy convention. For nearly 20 years, Paradox has helped make climbing more accessible through national trips, community programs, adaptive climbing trainings, Veteran programs, and partnerships with climbing gyms, guide services, volunteers, and adaptive athletes across the United States.

About Razom for Ukraine

Razom for Ukraine was founded in 2014 by Ukrainian and Ukrainian American volunteers inspired by the Revolution of Dignity and united by a shared commitment to Ukraine’s freedom and democratic future. Razom has grown from a grassroots volunteer initiative into an international organization supporting Ukraine through humanitarian aid, health care, advocacy, civil society, culture, and long-term recovery efforts.

Media Contact

Alex Kosseff
Executive Director, Paradox Sports
alex@paradoxsports.org

La Sportiva Introduces New Trail Running Vests and Hiking Backpacks for Spring 2027

BOULDER, Colo. (Jul 15, 2026) — La Sportiva, maker of the world’s finest mountain gear, today announced its Spring 2027 equipment collection, adding new running vests, hiking backpacks, lightweight accessories, and the Challenger 18 alpine pack to its growing mountain equipment line.

The collection gives runners, hikers, and mountain athletes a full range of carry options for moving through the mountains. The Aeris 6 and Aeris 12 Trail Vests are built for running, with breathable, close-to-body storage for hydration, nutrition, layers, and small essentials. The Aeris 26 and Aeris 34 Backpacks offer additional capacity for hiking, mountain travel, and overnight use, while the Challenger 18 pack brings comfort, stability, and technical carry options to more demanding alpine objectives.

“La Sportiva’s equipment line is rooted in the same mountain-first approach that guides everything we do,” said Jonathan Lantz, President of La Sportiva North America. “For Spring 2027, we focused on creating carry systems that feel light, secure, and natural in motion, giving runners, climbers, and hikers the freedom to move efficiently and confidently in the mountains.”

The Aeris 6 Trail Vest is a lightweight running vest for training runs, race efforts, and shorter mountain outings. With six liters of storage, two 500 ml HydraPak soft flasks, quick-access front pockets, and a minimal rear storage layout, it keeps hydration and essentials close without adding unnecessary bulk. A Spacer AirMesh back panel, adjustable sternum straps, and compatibility with the Aeris Poles Quiver round out the design. The Aeris 6 weighs just 240 grams and retails for $119.

The $149 Aeris 12 Trail Vest is made for longer runs, ultra-distance efforts, and alpine objectives that require more food, water, and gear. It carries 12 liters while maintaining the secure fit and easy access runners expect from a vest, with two included 500 ml HydraPak soft flasks up front, multi-pocket rear storage, a zippered front pocket, and reinforced PowerMesh zones for organization that stays close to the body. Spacer AirMesh and breathable stretch mesh help keep air moving when the effort climbs or the day heats up.

The Challenger 18 brings running-inspired comfort and stability to an ultralight alpine pack. Designed for fast alpine traverses, technical mountain routes, and minimalist objectives, the 18-liter pack uses a vest-inspired harness, dual sternum straps, and breathable 3D mesh to create a secure, comfortable fit while traveling across rugged terrain. A fully seam-sealed roll-top main compartment provides weather protection when conditions change, while an integrated ice axe carry, internal mesh organization, and HydraPak flask-compatible pockets for two 500 ml soft flasks keep gear secure and accessible when the terrain gets more technical.

Built with Challenge Ultra TX50 Sailcloth, UHMWPE-reinforced nylon stretch mesh, and a 3D polyester Spacer AirMesh harness, the Challenger 18 balances ultralight weight, abrasion resistance, and weather protection. The new pack weighs 380 grams and retails for $199.

For hiking, alpine traverses, mountain travel, and overnight use, the Aeris 26 and Aeris 34 Backpacks offer higher-capacity storage in a streamlined design. Recycled 100D high-tenacity nylon, taped main compartments, and expandable roll-top construction help protect gear while keeping the packs light and adaptable. Running vest-inspired shoulder harnesses, thermoformed back support, and hydration-compatible sleeves bring comfort and stability to longer days, while reinforced outer storage, stretch side pockets, waistbelt pockets, and external attachment points keep essentials organized and easy to access.

The $169 Aeris 26 Backpack is a compact option for hikes, summit pushes, and mountain travel, with 26 liters of storage, a 650-gram weight, and a low-profile design that moves well through challenging terrain. The Aeris 34 Backpack is made for longer days, bigger loads, and nights out, with 34 liters of storage, a 750-gram weight, and the capacity to carry extra layers, food, and overnight gear. It retails for $189.

The collection also includes the Aeris 2 Trail Belt and Aeris Poles Quiver. The $49 Aeris 2 Trail Belt provides low-profile storage for shorter runs, training sessions, and race-day essentials, with 2 liters of capacity, reinforced PowerMesh pockets, a front flask sleeve, and rear bungee retention. The $25 Aeris Poles Quiver gives runners and hikers a lightweight, streamlined way to carry trekking poles and is compatible with all Aeris vest systems.

The new line will be available at select specialty retailers and at www.lasportivausa.com in the spring of 2027.

About La Sportiva
With over 90 years of heritage, La Sportiva has unrivaled experience in building the world’s finest performance mountain footwear. Creating innovation through passion, La Sportiva now offers the most versatile technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking shoes on the market, along with a full line of ski mountaineering hardware and apparel. For more information on La Sportiva, visit www.lasportivausa.com or follow @Lasportivana on Instagram.