Outdoor Industry Association

Outdoor Industry Association� Establishes Online Forum  for Made in America Working Group

2013-05-23

Outdoor Industry Association® Establishes Online Forum  for Made in America Working Group Basecamp Tool to Facilitate Industry-Wide Collaboration on Domestic Manufacturing Issues Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) has launched an online collaboration tool for its new Made In America Working Group, a subgroup of the OIA Business Advisory Council (OIABAC). The online community uses a collaboration tool called Basecamp to enable members to exchange information, share links to news articles or research papers, provide access to U.S. supplier factory databases, and pose questions to spur discussions among group members. Any outdoor industry company that currently or is seeking to manufacture products in the United States is welcome to join the working group and online forum. “OIA is always looking for ways to foster industry collaboration,” said Kirk Bailey, vice president of government affairs for OIA. “This forum makes it really easy for companies to get conversations going and share ideas — with OIA serving as facilitator and organizer.” This Made in America Working Group kicked off at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market in January with a listening session to explore what OIA can do to help outdoor industry companies manufacture or source more products and/or components domestically. The goal of the group is to bring together outdoor companies that make products in the United States in order to provide opportunities for them to support one another in domestic manufacturing efforts and share successes. This session identified the need for a forum for industry-wide collaboration, with two initial focuses in mind: 1) The requirements for labeling a product as “Made in USA” and 2) Identifying the capacity of American factories to produce some of the most technical products in the world. “We manufacture all of our products in the United States, so we’re very familiar with the obstacles to domestic manufacturing,” said Carolyn Brodsky, president of Sterling Rope Co. and member of the OIA Board of Directors. “This forum will be a great way for outdoor companies to share ideas, and organize around issues in order to educate legislators about the challenges they face in bringing manufacturing to U.S. soil.” OIA’s International Trade and Business Program represents the diversity of the OIA membership, including outdoor companies whose products are conceived, designed and produced in America and those companies that utilize global value chains to bring their products to retail markets. From some of the largest companies in the world, to small, family-owned businesses, OIA works to ensure that U.S. federal trade policy fosters and promotes a stable and predictable environment for all outdoor industry businesses, while seeking to lower costs for outdoor businesses and their customers. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org/advocacy/trade. For more information about the Made in American Working Group or to join the forum, contact Alex Boian at aboian@outdoorindustry.org . About Outdoor Industry Association Based in Boulder, Colo., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353. ###

SORP Announces 2013 Award Recipients � OIA Receives National Leadership Award

2013-05-23

Society of Outdoor Recreation Profressionals Announces 2013 Award Recipients Outdoor Industry Assocation Receives National Leadership Award The Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals (SORP) is pleased to announce its 2013 award winners. The awards recognize outstanding accomplishments in the field of outdoor recreation research, planning, management, and policy. The SORP Board of Directors will present eight awards in three categories during the awards luncheon that takes place on May 23 at the National Outdoor Recreation Conference in Traverse City, Michigan. National Leadership Award We are proud to announce that the recipient of this year’s National Recreation Resources Leadership Award is the Outdoor Industry Association. Each year the SORP Board of Directors presents this prestigious award to a select individual or organization considered to have had a significant national impact on outdoor recreation and the outdoor recreation profession. Selection criteria include an individual or organization deemed to have: (a) demonstrated national leadership through science, education, policy change or advocacy, (b) had a significant national impact, and (c) had a lasting national impact. The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) was founded in 1989 by outdoor industry professionals to preserve and promote standards for their industry. In addition to this core mission, the OIA works with more than 4,000 members to advocate for issues critical to the future of the outdoor industry; build stronger business leaders; and celebrate, inspire and grow the active outdoor community. Among many other relevant activities, the OIA has supported full funding for the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, promoted youth participation in the outdoors, and has been an active and important national leader on a wide range of outdoor recreation issues. Distinguished Service Award The Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to up to three individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the outdoor recreation profession. The award may recognize one specific contribution or a series of contributions over one’s career. Selection criteria include: (a) employment as an outdoor recreation professional, and (b) significant and lasting contributions to the profession. Recipients of the 2013 Distinguished Service Award are: Dr. Lowell Caneday, Regents Professor, Oklahoma State University During his 32 year career at Oklahoma State University Dr. Caneday has instructed hundreds of future outdoor recreation professionals and served on or chaired about 200 Masters Thesis and Doctoral Dissertation committees. He has also completed hundreds of presentations, research reports, monographs and publications. His numerous administrative roles include Associate Dean of both Graduate Programs and Undergraduate Programs. Dr. Caneday has received numerous awards, including three separate awards as the university’s Outstanding Faculty Member. He is a devoted advocate for the outdoor recreation profession and the benefits of outdoor recreation for everyone. Robert A. Fonte, Director, Stark County (Ohio) Park District Mr. Fonte was nominated by his staff for his “… exceptional advocacy and leadership since 1994 that has transformed the Stark County(OH) Park District from a 4-park, 400-acre district to a district providing 14 parks with 4 lakes, 7,500 acres, 80 miles of multi-use trails, including 25 miles of the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and hundreds of educational programs.” Annual revenues increased from $750,000 to over $7 million as a result of four countywide park levies approved by voters during his tenure. A park commissioner noted: “His visionary leadership and emphasis on long-range planning leaves no doubt that Stark Parks will continue to be an asset to our community.” Dusty Shultz, Superintendent, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore During her amazing 40 year career with the National Park Service, Superintendent Shultz has worked her way up the ladder from a high school summer job with the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site to superintendent of four different National Park Service units. She was the first female superintendent at three of those units, including Sleeping Bear Dunes. She has also served on numerous committees, panels and boards; taught classes for the NPS; managed special programs; and has stayed involved in local community and civic efforts wherever she has lived and worked. While crediting those who have helped her in her career, she is quick to point out the importance of mentoring others as they strive to advance their careers. Project Excellence Award The Project Excellence Award is presented annually to exemplary projects in the field of outdoor recreation research, planning, management, and policy. Selection criteria include: 1) Unique or special circumstances, 2) Problem solving, 3) Level of innovation and creativity, 4) Impact or effect of project, 5) Collaborative team planning effort. Recipients of the 2013 Project Excellence Award are: Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Partners – North Eastern State Trail This 71 mile Michigan Rail Trail connecting 11 rural communities in the northeastern tip of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan was a project of true collaboration among the Michigan Departments of Natural Resources and Transportation, the Top of Michigan Trails Council, and local governments. It is the longest trail in the regional system and offers an extended journey for snowmobilers, hikers, bikers and equestrians through some of the most remote and unpopulated regions of the state. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, (M-NCPPC) Montgomery Parks; Montgomery County Department of Recreation; and GreenPlay, LLC – Vision 2030 Strategic Plan and 2012 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan, Montgomery County, Maryland The 2030 Strategic Plan, along with the 2012 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS)Plan, includes both an innovative, long-term vision component and a practical, analysis-based implementation component to guide the two agencies in meeting the needs of one of the fastest growing and urbanizing communities in the country. The planning process was one of problem solving, innovation and creativity, and collaborative team planning. The Strategic Plan provides the vision, goals, objectives and action items that will shape the parks and recreation system for years to come. The PROS Plan gives planners and decision-makers the tools they need for an urbanizing county. Jeffco Parks and Open Space, Jefferson County, Colorado – Elk Meadow Park Dog Off-leash Area An informal dog-training ground that grew into a 107-acre dog off-leash area was at risk of being “loved to death”. A concerted effort by Jefferson County Open Space staff and stewardship-minded teens and volunteers resulted in the installation of 3.2 miles of designated trails, sustainable water crossings, and amenities for 2 and 4-legged visitors. This helped control erosion, trespassing, hazards and confusion for visitors. All of this was completed two years ahead of what was promised to the public. Community engagement was a key to the success of the project and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Missouri State Parks – Trail Inventory Database and “Trails of Missouri State Parks” book The database and book will provide better customer service, fulfill internal management needs and provide an outstanding trail guide, all of which is the result of collective staff ingenuity. An exhaustive and complete inventory resulted in the development of a groundbreaking database that contains information, images and maps of every trail within the system. This is available to and used by staff for a variety of planning, development and management purposes. The beautifully illustrated book responds to visitor demand for more trail information and maps.

Icebreaker to Open First Store in Chicago

2013-05-23

Icebreaker , the New Zealand company that pioneered the merino wool adventure apparel category, today announced it will open its first “TouchLab” store in Chicago, Illinois, USA. This is the company’s first Midwestern location and its tenth North American retail store. The new store will be feature a completely new design that brings to life the New Zealand sheep stations that supply Icebreaker’s all-natural merino wool.  The new 2,225-square-foot concept store will open downtown in October 2013 at 44 East Walton Street in Chicago's popular Gold Coast/Magnificent Mile shopping area, just off Michigan Avenue. Icebreaker will be the latest addition to a growing cluster of outdoor and activewear brands that have staked a claim in the heart of the city, including Burton, lululemon and Patagonia. “We are excited to have active, style-savvy Chicagoans be Icebreaker’s Midwest ambassadors,” says Jeremy Moon, founder and CEO of Icebreaker. “Our high performance apparel is perfect in every season and for every activity, from a run or bike ride along the Lake Michigan shoreline to a destination ski trip. Fashion-conscience shoppers will love our expanding line of lifestyle apparel.” The Chicago TouchLab store will feature Icebreaker's complete line of innovative merino wool apparel, including its Outdoor, Run/Fitness, Kids, Underwear and Travel/Lifestyle collections and Socks and Accessories, all made from merino wool sourced from the Southern Alps of New Zealand. Noted Moon, “Merino regulates temperature, which means it warms in the cold and cools in the heat – a significant selling point for the Midwest, given its sweltering summers and freezing winters.” New Design Features The Chicago store will debut a number of new interior design features that tell the Icebreaker story and engage shoppers. Upon entering the store, customers are met by a “mountain” display that demonstrates how to maximize Icebreaker apparel through layering. New Zealand sheep stations, home to the sheep that provide the all-natural merino wool used by Icebreaker, served as inspiration for the materials and textures throughout store, from the natural woods specified for the walls, fitting rooms, floor fixtures and shelving on the wall fixtures to the natural steel incorporated into the design of the tables and floor hang bars. Finally, a community/library provides the space to spark conversation and discovery regarding Icebreaker’s heritage and brand. Icebreaker has nine other North American TouchLabs: Portland, Oregon (home of its US headquarters); New York City (SoHo and the Meatpacking District), California (San Francisco and San Jose), Montréal, Vancouver and British Columbia (Kitsilano and North Shore). It will open its first store in the Washington, DC area, in Bethesda, Maryland in September 2013. The Icebreaker Chicago TouchLab will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm. Chicago Icebreaker TouchLab  44 East Walton Street, Chicago, IL, USA About Icebreaker Icebreaker merino clothing for the outdoors, technical sports and lifestyle includes underwear, mid layer garments, outerwear, socks and accessories for men, women and children. Icebreaker is based in Wellington, New Zealand, and is sold in more than 3000 stores in 44 countries. See icebreaker.com for more information about Icebreaker, and jeremymoon.me for more information on Icebreaker founder and CEO Jeremy Moon.

Polar Bottle� Expands Charitable Contributions With New Discount Program

2013-05-23

As part of an ongoing effort to expand its charitable contributions and advocacy work, Polar Bottle has launched a new discount program that rewards customers with a 50% off coupon for donating to a charitable cause. Every two weeks the company will highlight a new charity, non-profit or advocacy group on its website http://www.polarbottle.com/polar-bottle-shop/donate. Customers can then make a donation of at least $5 through the Polar Bottle website or provide the company with a donation receipt to receive a coupon code for 50% off their next order on the Polar Bottle online store. The first organization featured is local food bank Community Food Share, which Polar Bottle has volunteered with for the past several years. The donation program follows several new philanthropic initiatives the Boulder-based company has taken on over the past year. Last spring, for example, Polar Bottle designed a line of custom bottles benefiting a range of local, national and international non-profits and advocacy groups. For every $14.99 bottle sold, Polar Bottle donates $5 to the corresponding charity. Today, the bottle line includes more than a dozen bottles supporting causes ranging from ocean preservation to cycling advocacy. By including the new donation program, where the benefiting organization is continuously shifting, the company hopes to contribute to an even bigger range of worthy causes. The patented Polar Bottle water bottle features an insulating layer between two walls of plastic, so it keeps liquids cool twice as long as other water bottles. The Made in America bottle fits standard bike water bottle cages and features a convenient, removable carrying strap. All Polar Bottle products are, and always have been, BPA-free and Phthalate- free. For high-resolution photos or to request a media kit please email Adeline Bash at adeline@polarbottle.com

Beyond Coastal Sun Care Products Receive Top Ratings by Environmental Working Group

2013-05-23

Beyond Coastal premium sun care products received top ratings by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) published in EWG’s 2013 annual report on sunscreens released May 20, 2013. The Environmental Working Group analyzed over 738 sunscreens currently on the market and gave each a score between 0-10, with “0” being the best possible. (There were no “0”s given.) Based on EWG criteria, sunscreens with a score of 0 to 2 are “ Recommended.” In this year’s EWG report, seven Beyond Coastal products received the top rating “2” in both the mineral and non-mineral ‘beach and sport’ sunscreen categories. Of the 413 mineral and non-mineral sunscreen products included in the EWG report, Beyond Coastal products dominated the list of top rated formulas with only two other brands making the cut. Two of Beyond Coastal’s new sunscreen formulas received top ratings in the EWG report, including: Beyond Coastal’s Natural (mineral) Sunscreen is formulated to give broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, is water resistant up to 80 minutes and goes on clean and clear. Beyond Coastal Natural Sun Screen contains antioxidant rich inactive ingredients to nourish, repair and hydrate skin. Beyond Coastal’s Active (non-mineral) Sunscreen provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is the ultimate skin care for the outdoor athlete. Non-greasy and quick absorbing, Beyond Coastal’s updated Active formula is water resistant up to 80 minutes. Available in SPF 16 and 34, as well as a SPF 30 Face Stick. In the EWG’s non-mineral lip balm category, over 110 lip balms were tested. Of those, only Beyond Coastal’s five lip balms received top ratings. Beyond Coastal’s Lip Balm comes in five great-tasting flavors and provides SFP 15 protection. Available in .15 oz tube. “We couldn’t be more thrilled with this year’s EWG ratings,” said Tom Ferries, vice president of marketing for Beyond Coastal. “With May being National Skin Cancer Awareness Month and Memorial Day weekend just days away, the timing of this year’s EWG report is important for consumers so that they can make informed choices when selecting sunscreen products.” Ferries continued, “Offering the healthiest formulas has been the foundation of Beyond Coastal since the company’s inception in 2006. We recently launched a newly reformulated sun care line and these new formulas are packed with moisturizing antioxidant rich inactive ingredients and provide as always, broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, water resistance up to 80 minutes and ease of application.” The reformulated line includes Active Sunscreens , Natural Sunscreens , Active Lip Balms and AfterSun Moisturizer . All Beyond Coastal products are made and packaged in the U.S. For additional information on Beyond Coastal, click here . About the EWG EWG’s ratings indicate both efficacy and the relative level of concern posed by exposure to the ingredients in each particular sunscreen product. EWG provides information on sunscreen products from the published scientific literature, to supplement incomplete data available from companies and the FDA . For more information on the Environmental Working Group, please visit ewg.org . About Beyond Coastal Suncare Beyond Coastal's mission is to offer clean and healthy sun care products for the active outdoor and natural lifestyle. From the mountains to the ocean and everywhere in between, Beyond Coastal has developed a comprehensive line of formulas trusted worldwide by everyone from professional athletes to active families. Our mission is to offer healthy alternative sunscreens that Protect, Nourish, Repair and Hydrate your skin. For more information, please visit www.beyondcoastal.com or join the conversation on Facebook .

Nikwax Boosts Dealer Services with New Hires

2013-05-23

Committed to providing the best service to its customers, officials from Nikwax North America announce a new customer service hire and a newly created inside sales specialist position. Aaron Langhorne has been promoted to the new sales position, and the company has hired Clint Hensley in customer service. As Nikwax's Inside Sales Specialist, Aaron Langhorne will be responsible for working with a multitude of Nikwax dealers throughout the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, Langhorne will support the Nikwax sales team and attend regional tradeshows and events around the Pacific Northwest.  Having spent the last two years in customer service, Langhorne has in-depth knowledge of the Nikwax business and has developed excellent rapport with the company’s customers. “I am excited to have him join the Nikwax sales team and believe he will deliver a high level of service to our dealers and be a tremendous asset in growing their Nikwax business,” said Ben Palliser, sales manager, Nikwax N.A. Clint Hensley brings a wealth of outdoor experience with him to his new post at Nikwax. He is an avid runner, cyclist, camper and backpacker, and recently completed his Masters Degree in Environmental Education from Western Washington University. Prior to returning to school, Hensley was the Customer Service Lead for Northwave. In his new position at Nikwax, Hensley will be able to reconnect with many of the retailers and reps that he worked with in the past. “We strive to lead our category in every way,” said Chas Fisher, President, Nikwax N.A. “With the hiring of Aaron and Clint, I’m confident Nikwax will continue to provide not only outstanding product innovation, but stellar dealer services as well.” To contact Aaron Langhorne, please email: aaron.langhorne@nikwax.com . Email Clint Hensley at customer.service@nikwax.com. About Nikwax®: Nikwax was founded in 1977 and is the global leader in environmentally safe aftercare and waterproofing solutions that extend the life and performance of technical footwear, apparel and equipment. Nikwax uses formulations that deliver maximum effectiveness while minimizing environmental impacts and promoting sustainability. Nikwax is the only major aftercare company to have never used aerosols, fluorocarbons, or volatile organic chemicals. All Nikwax products are fluorochemical-free, derived from nature-based ingredients, not tested on animals, and biodegradable. Nikwax currently exports to 50 countries across the globe, is the recipient of numerous awards including the prestigious Queen’s Award (2x), Sunday Times Best Green Award, and the Green Apple Award, and is ISO 9001 and 14001 certified.

Outdoor Gear Giveaway: Win A $600 Outdoor Prize Pack From Tahoe Mountain Sports!

2013-05-23

Tahoe Mountain Sports has teamed up with Nemo Equipment , Smith Sunglasses and Active Junky to bring you a great outdoor gear giveaway! Win a summer camping package including a Nemo Rhapsody 15-Degree women’s spoon-shaped sleeping bag, a Nemo Fillo inflatable backpacking pillow AND a pair of Smith Mastermind sunglasses. That’s a $600+ value! Between May 21 and June 12, visit the contest page on Facebook to be entered to winl! One random entry will be selected after the giveaway ends, they will be contacted via email and notified that their stoke-meter can now rise a few levels. The partnership between Tahoe Mountain Sports, Nemo Equipment and Active Junky marks a new twist to the outdoor industries take on social media. By teaming up with a retailer, brand partner and media outlet - this giveaway works to benefit all the partners involved and get a bigger prize package into the hands of the winner. "Its most important to get the lesser known brands in front of a wider audience", said David Polivy, owner of Tahoe Mountain Sports, referring to the involvement of Nemo Equipment in this partnership. "Working with Active Junky has also been fantastic as their technology platform is second to none and they do a great job of getting the word out to their users when an opportunity like this arises" continued Polivy. The "Girlfriend Gear Giveaway", valued at over $600, will be live from May 21st to June 12th, so make sure you enter for your chance to win! Enter here for your chance to win.

OIA Hires Christie Hickman  as Vice President of Market Insights

2013-05-22

Outdoor Industry Association® Hires Christie Hickman  as Vice President of Market Insights Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) announces the hire of Christie Hickman as vice president of market insights. Hickman brings more than 20 years of experience in research, insight and strategy to her new role. “We are excited to welcome Christie to the OIA leadership team. Her extensive experience in working with high profile clients like Proctor & Gamble, Walmart and Sony Electronics; her knowledge gained as a specialty wine retailer; combined with her social media expertise will be a great asset to OIA and our members,” said OIA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer. “The outdoor industry faces significant shifts in consumer expectations and best business practices, and we look forward to Christie helping our members better understand their path to success.” Christie Hickman comes to OIA from J.D. Powers, where she was the acting director and senior manager of consumer insights and strategy and responsible for their social media research group. Christie led the team that specialized in conducting consumer quantitative and qualitative social media research and analysis for numerous Fortune 500 consumer package goods and retailer clients. Hickman started her career in insights at an integrated marketing agency called Upshot Marketing in Chicago where she was a vice president, managing a 30+ person staff across the account services and creative teams. Her clients included the cosmetics division of Proctor & Gamble (Oil of Olay, Max Factor and Cover Girl brands), Microsoft and Sony Electronics, where she led market research efforts for building brand and communication strategies. Christie and her husband shared a passion for living in the mountains, so they moved to Colorado in 2001 and opened a boutique retail wine store. Eventually, Christie returned to independent consulting for clients like PepsiCo, 7UP, Walmart, Gatorade, Nike and Colgate-Palmolive, to name just a few. “The outdoor industry membership is facing unprecedented shifts in consumer behavior,” said Hickman. “It is vital that small specialty brands and retailers have the same level of market insights as the most sophisticated brands in the world. Outdoor Industry Association will play a significant role in making this happen, and I am thrilled to be a part of it.” Hickman graduated Cum Laude from the University of Arizona, Tucson, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Media Arts. She will officially join the OIA management team on June 3. About the Outdoor Industry Association Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives, and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353. ###

Memphis Announces Major Initiatives for Protected Bike Lanes

2013-05-22

BOULDER, Colo. — The city named as one of the worst for biking in the U.S. by Bicycling Magazine only five years ago is now aiming to be the best in Tennessee. Memphis Mayor AC Wharton announced groundbreaking plans today to implement a network of protected bike facilities as a part of their commitment to the Green Lane Project , a program associated with PeopleForBikes to catalyze the creation of world-class bicycling facilities in the U.S. The Mayor publicly announced Memphis’ first-ever Complete Streets Policy, a timeframe for new bike facility installations in summer 2013, and a commitment to build 15 miles of protected bike lanes (also called green lanes) over the next two years. Green lanes are dedicated spaces for people on bikes in the roadway; many are physically separated from car and sidewalk traffic by curbs, planters, parked cars or posts. The bicycle-friendly mayor, who is credited with reversing Memphis’ reputation from worst city for bicycling to most improved, reaffirmed his reputation today, stating “We’re working hard to make sure we’re not just building quantity, but that we’re building quality bike lanes. We want all our citizens, young and old, to be able to make the choice to bicycle and feel safe and comfortable when doing so. Green lanes are how we’re going to take the next step to make Memphis the most bike-friendly city in Tennessee.” To put Memphis’ plan for 15 miles of future green lanes into perspective, Memphis currently has zero green lanes, and between 1874 and 2011, only 62 such protected bike facilities were built nationwide. Memphis is playing an influential role in the exponential growth of protected bike lines nationwide ; by the end of 2013, more than 200 green lanes will be on the ground. The Green Lane Project is supporting this growth. In addition to collecting data and research, sharing best practices, and hosting leadership summits and study tours, the Green Lane Project has distributed over $250,000 in grant money between six U.S. cities (Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, Memphis, TN, Portland, OR, San Francisco, CA, and Washington, DC) to assist in getting green lanes on the ground since the Project kicked off in May 2012 . The Project has granted $45,000 over the past year to Memphis alone. “Memphis is a Green Lane Project star and a great example for cities nationwide. With a clear vision and committed leadership, any community can make bicycling a safe, convenient, and accessible way of getting around,” said Green Lane Project Director, Martha Roskowski. “For the people of Memphis, green lanes will lead to health, safety, congestion and economic improvements over the next two years, and beyond.” Follow the progress of protected bike facilities in Memphis and other Green Lane Project focus cities at: www.greenlaneproject.org/blog . The Green Lane Project is working in tandem with the citizen movement PeopleForBikes to transform America through bicycling.

Mountain Khakis� Survey Reveals Khakis Are Swiss Army Knife Of Apparel

2013-05-21

What’s the Swiss Army Knife of Apparel? Why Khakis, of Course. A new survey shows that men wear their khakis in nearly all situations—from the trail to weddings, and everything in between. It’s the one piece of apparel that “works” in almost every situation. It’s the versatile “tool” that goes with you everywhere. More than 80 percent of men said that when they aren’t sure what to wear, they wear khakis, according to a new survey by Mountain Khakis ®, a leading mountain-inspired lifestyle apparel brand based in Jackson Hole, Wyo. “Khakis take men everywhere they want to go, from the boat to the boardroom, from a day of hiking to a date, from yard work to a wedding,” said Jen Taylor Muhr, creative director for Mountain Khakis, often referred to as “ The Best Damn Khakis .” In fact, more than 60 percent of respondents said that when it comes to bottoms, khakis make them feel most confident. Said one respondent, “You can fish, hunt, go to work, a date…all in the same pant! They can be spruced up or laid back, just by changing the shirt or shoes.” Almost half reported wearing khakis to a wedding (46%) and just over 5 percent of respondents said they wore khakis to their own wedding. More than one-quarter of respondents reported owning seven or more pairs of khakis, and more than half reported owning five or more pairs. As for commitment to their kindred khakis, close to half of respondents (47%) said they have a pair of khakis older than their current relationship. Almost 45 percent have khakis that are five years or older, and 6 percent have khakis that span more than a decade. Amazingly, 60 percent of respondents said they would rather give up beer than their favorite pair of khakis. Almost one in three (28%) said they would rather give up their girlfriend. However, fewer reported being willing to give up their dog (12%). And how do the ladies feel about men in khakis? Close to all women (96%) who responded to the survey said they like a guy in khakis. More than half of women respondents (54%) said a man in khakis is sexier than in jeans. About Mountain Khakis ® Rugged. Authentic. Reliable. Timeless. What started as a casual conversation at the Shady Lady Saloon in Jackson Hole, WY has become a top-performing mountain-inspired lifestyle apparel brand. Established in 2003, Mountain Khakis quickly became a staple in the wardrobe of everyone from ranch hands to golf pros, those who travel by jet, as well as those who travel by thumb. The Mountain Khakis brand story continues to resonate as it connects to the enthusiast who believes that freedom and rugged adventure is a way of life. www.mountainkhakis.com Mountain Khakis can be found at specialty outdoor retailers or at www.mountainkhakis.com . For store locator, go to www.mountainkhakis.com/find-a-dealer/ . MK Facebook • MK Twitter • MK Livin’ Blog • 'Team MK' Facebook

Sherpa Adventure Gear Sponsors Gift of Sight Expedition in Nepal

2013-05-21

Outdoor clothing manufacturer Sherpa Adventure Gear outfits international team bringing eye care to a thousand people in the Mustang area of Nepal Sherpa Adventure Gear is pleased to announce it is supporting the Gift of Sight Expedition currently underway in Nepal. Eye care professionals and supporting staff--sponsored by Dooley Intermed International--are providing free eye examinations, eyeglasses and cataract surgery to villagers in the region. By the end of the expedition on May 29th, the team expects to serve 1,000 villagers who live far beyond the reach of health care. The expedition and its successes can be followed at http://www.dooleyintermed.blogspot.com/. Sherpa Adventure Gear has outfitted the entire team of over thirty people with rainwear, fleece jackets and hats. The company manufactures most of its apparel in Nepal. Scott Hamilton, the Dooley Intermed Director and Vice President of Asia Programs, is leading the expedition. Medical professionals from the Himalaya Eye Hospital in Pokhara, Nepal and five other international eye care specialists are assisting with comprehensive screening exams, refraction, prescription eyeglasses, and cataract and ophthalmic surgery. Also joining the expedition are 16 monks and senior students from a local monastic institute who serve as the advance team to reach potential patients and serve as tri-lingual translators and ambassadors. Hamilton has worked for over two decades in Nepal, organizing research, humanitarian and eye care outreach, including Dooley Intermed’s 2011 Gift of Sight expedition to another area of Mustang. That effort was documented in the film Visions of Mustang, created by Daniel Byers and produced by Skyship Films. According to Hamilton, an estimated 80% of blindness in Nepal is avoidable or curable. A leading cause of blindness is due to cataracts, which can be repaired. There are also many young and old that suffer from easily corrected vision problems that are not costly: just $100 provides prescription eyeglasses to ten patients. Just $25 provides a single eye cataract surgery and lens implant, according to the Dooley Intermed International website. Donations can be made at http://www.dooleyintermed.org/. About Dooley Intermed International Dooley Intermed International (www.dooleyintermed.org) is a New York-based not-for-profit dedicated to providing crucial assistance to those who lie beyond the reach of traditional healthcare. It has been aiding the people of Nepal for 50 years. It is a non-profit, non-governmental, non-sectarian, non-political, private voluntary organization receiving its financial support entirely from private contributions. About Sherpa Adventure Gear In the highest reaches of the Himalayas, the Sherpa people lead the world in mountaineering with warmth, grace and good humour. Tashi Sherpa—upon discovering that his uncle was on Sir Edmund Hilary’s celebrated 1953 expedition to the summit of Everest—founded Sherpa Adventure Gear in 2003 in this spirit, to honour his people by creating the best quality outdoor apparel made in Nepal. The company employs hundreds in Kathmandu and Nepal at its headquarters, stores and manufacturing operations. Marketing and North American sales and distribution is based in Kent, Washington. A portion of every sale benefits the education of Sherpa children through the Paldorje Education Fund, an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable arm the company established in May 2012. For more information, visit www.sherpaadventuregear.com. ### Media Contact for Sherpa Adventure Gear: Boo Turner, Footloose Communications boo@footloose-communications.com cell: 206.554.1596 office: 206.462.5294 Media Contact for Gift of Sight Expedition/Dooley Intermed International Jeff Blumenfeld, Blumenfeld and Associates PR jeff@blumenfeldpr.com 203.655.1600

LOWA Opens Demo Center With YMCA of the Rockies � Estes Park

2013-05-21

LOWA’s newest partner in their expanding Demo Center Program is the YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center in Estes Park, Colorado. The Center is surrounded on three sides by the Rocky Mountain National Park, which was recently recognized as the #1 Outdoor & Adventure Destination in the United States. Colorado and out of state visitors will have the opportunity to check out a pair of LOWA’s at no charge by visiting the Demo Center where several models will be available for a day of testing. This is LOWA’s 4 h strategically located Demo Center including the Sierra Club’s Center out of the Clair Tappaan Lodge in California’s Sierra Nevada and Appalachian Mountain Clubs (AMC) at the Joe Dodge Lodge in New Hampshire and Mohican Outdoor Center in New Jersey. The Estes Park program will launch Memorial Day week-end and continue through Columbus Day. “The Demo Center allows potential LOWA consumers to try before they buy,” commented Peter Sachs, general manager of LOWA in the U.S. “Our goal is to help everyone realize the benefit and enjoyment of top quality footwear designed for specific terrain as opposed to everyday-casual or basketball-type shoes frequently seen on the trails. Based on the program’s success in other areas, we know it works.” Jeff Mabry, Program Director of the Center, went on to say that, “We welcome the opportunity to work with LOWA to promote their products, which are perfect for our terrain. Comfortable footwear will greatly enhance our visitor’s enjoyment of the awe-inspiring mountains and elk, deer and other wildlife that live in the Park.” Demo Center employees are receiving training from LOWA so that they are prepared to help hikers choose from an assortment of men’s and women’s Tempest Lo’s and Renegade GTX Mid’s, men’s Camino GTX, women’s Khumbu GTX Mid and Kody Jr’s. LOWA Boots LLC, with headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, is a partnership with LOWA Sportschuhe Gmbh founded in 1923 and based in Jetzendorf, Germany. The U.S. company, launched in 1996, sells, markets, and distributes a complete line of four season outdoor footwear for walking, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering as well as everyday use. In addition, LOWA offers collections of specialized footwear for field sports and professional task force use.

The North Face Explore Your Parks Encourages Families to Enjoy Outdoor Activities

2013-05-20

Summer is just around the corner and it’s the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors with some help from The North Face Explore Your Parks ( www.exploreyourparks ), an award-winning outreach effort. For the fourth consecutive year, The North Face is partnering with state parks around the country to encourage participation in outside activities. The 2013 program, running now through August, has been expanded to 13 markets, including state parks in 12 states and the Chicago Park District. This marks the first time Explore Your Parks has partnered with a city park district. Offered again this year is the highly popular Camping 101 program events for first-time or novice campers. The overnight experience, guided by park rangers, will focus on camping basics including campsite set-up, campground etiquette, outdoor cooking, safety tips and staff-led nature education sessions. Camping 101 activities are customized in each of the 13 markets with some state park locations offering family-oriented activities like fishing, hiking and canoeing. In Chicago, participants will learn first-hand how to camp in an urban setting, under the stars and with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop. Currently, The North Face Explore Your Parks reaches approximately 25 percent of the U.S. population and the company is committed to expanding the program every year to boost interest in outdoor exploration. “Research shows that only half of Americans currently participate in outdoor activities,” said Ann Krcik, director of Outdoor Exploration for The North Face. “The North Face looks to encourage people of all ages to get off the couch and venture outside to enjoy the beauty and wonder of nature– especially our parks.” The success of the Explore Your Parks campaign was recognized this year when it was named “Best Cause Program” by Outdoor USA Magazine. The award gives recognition to those companies that excel in the design and implementation of innovative marketing and communications programs. “Our mission is to foster a love of the outdoors,” Krcik said. “With Explore Our Parks and family involvement we are reaching kids at an early age. If youth experiences outdoor activities in a positive way, it’s possible to set long-term trends for an overall healthier life.” To register for a Camping 101 activity, find parks near you, plan activities and generally learn more about parks across the country, or find a store where you can receive a free park pass, visit the interactive Explore Your Parks website at www.exploreyourparks.com.

BIC Sport wins 2013 Outside Magazine Gear of the Year for WING SUP Series

2013-05-20

BIC Sport is proud to announce and honored to receive the 2013 Outside Magazine GEAR OF THE YEAR award for the 12’6 and 11’ WING Stand Up Paddleboards. Shaper Patrice Remoiville, working closely with the BIC SUP team in Europe and North America, has designed two fun, functional, user-friendly touring boards. Partnered with BIC Sport’s exclusive ACE-TEC manufacturing technology, the WING series offer a truly unique combination of durability, lightweight performance and affordability. Receiving this type of award is both humbling and extremely gratifying. It goes a long way in validating the time, energy and passion that goes into designing and testing the boards. It also highlights the company’s commitment to manufacturing high-quality, high-value products at our own facility in Vannes, France. Here are a few quotes from the 2013 Outside Magazine Summer Buyer’s Guide feature: “A Killer flatwater SUP” “The WING Ace-Tec is bombproof…more durable than most boards on the market” “A speedy, raceworthy ride that cuts through chop” “Stable but won’t feel like a dog to seasoned paddlers” “In short - A practical, durable, affordable, fun-to-paddle SUP” We’re also excited about the tremendous response to the BIC SUP One Design Challenge race series, in which all racers use the 12’6 WING board. We now have over 50 partners in North America and more than 30 internationally who will be running races throughout the 2013 season. This means 300+ events in the inaugural year! To learn more about this fun, friendly and exiting race series that’s open to all ages and skill levels visit www.bicsuponedesign.com.

Verde PR & Consulting Announces Events Planning and Management Division

2013-05-20

Celebrating more than 12 years as a leading brand communications agency, Verde PR & Consulting today formally launches a new events planning and management division: Verde Events. Integrating with existing Verde service divisions in brand communications, marketing, social media/digital and Content Solutions, Verde will now provide event planning, management and execution for a range of projects targeting media as well as consumers. Over the past decade, Verde has planned a wide variety of events, including press trips, media suites, store openings, promotional events, races and expos in North America, Europe and Asia. Verde launched its first event at Outdoor Retailer in 2003, with the goal of engaging media in an experiential environment, ultimately giving media practitioners more perspective about Verde’s client partner brands and products. “Our agency’s experience gained through years of organizing individual events for clients as well as larger agency initiatives, coupled with client demand, made investing in and launching a formalized events division an obvious next step,” said Kristin Carpenter-Ogden, Verde CEO and founder. “Experiential events have always been part of Verde’s DNA and through our Verde Events division launch, we’ve invested in a seasoned team of pros focused on raising the bar for best-in-class events for media and end consumers in our markets of focus.” Verde’s signature brand communications service approach centers on integration, which enables Verde to maintain a consistent voice throughout every point of entry for its clients’ brands and products. Verde’s experiential events will further build and grow communities of brand advocates for clients and extend the reach of the messaging and positioning to new audiences. “From storytelling to brand positioning and experiences, our team understands the importance to curate and empower a brand’s authentic voice,” said Carpenter-Ogden. “Bringing this voice alive through cleverly planned experiences and events leaves a lasting, meaningful impression with event participants ranging from media influencers to brand evangelists to potential new retailers and consumers.” Verde’s dedicated events planning team has the creativity, network, proficiency and integrated promotional perspective and skill set necessary for all aspects of event planning and management. Promotion is a key element for event success, and that ties directly into Verde’s daily work in a variety of different facets of communication. Verde works closely to further brands’ overall communications and marketing goals, and over the past 12 months, Verde has organized successful media events in Boulder and New York City. Also this past year, Verde has planned experiential events on behalf of K2 Skis and Snowboards, Atlas and Tubbs Snowshoes, Ibex, Julbo, Wolverine and TransRockies Run. "Verde’s team consists of experts in outdoor industry communications, including outdoor events,” said Aaron McConnell, President TransRockies Events. “We were very impressed with their work on the GORE-TEX® TransRockies Run, where they drove substantial earned media value around the event and helped us to build a legendary event brand through vibrant story development and engaged media relationships." To learn more about Verde or for information on Verde Events, please contact Kelly Blake, Kelly@verdepr.com . About Verde PR & Consulting With offices in Jackson, Wyo., Durango and Boulder, Colo., Verde is a full-service brand communications, public relations, social/digital marketing, branding, content, event planning and consulting agency, with an emphasis in sustainability. Verde’s clients are rooted in the active outdoor lifestyle industries of outdoor, bike, and snowsports, and also in the consumer electronics, travel, and the Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) markets. For more about Verde, visit: http://www.verdepr.com .

Black Diamond Equipment� Presents 4th Annual Salt Lake Climbers Association Fundraiser

2013-05-20

Black Diamond Equipment®, a global innovator in climbing, skiing, mountain sports equipment and clothing, is hosting the 4th Annual Salt Lake Climbers Alliance (SLCA) Fundraiser on Thursday, May 30. This climbing community event will take place in the parking lot of Black Diamond’s headquarters in Salt Lake City. “We are excited to build on the success of the last three years and continue our support of the SLCA,” says Jonathan Thesenga, Black Diamond Equipment’s Global Sports Marketing Manager. “It’s a great event for the Salt Lake climbing community and highlights the important role SLCA plays regarding stewardship in the Wasatch. The Salt Lake Climbers’ Alliance is a 501c(3) non-profit organization. Created to promote climbing opportunities, the SLCA preserves local climbing access and encourages stewardship of the environment. Located within minutes of Salt Lake City, the Wasatch Mountains are a climber’s paradise. The Wasatch host an incredible variety of climbing terrain, from long, multi-pitch routes in alpine settings to a lifetime of bouldering. Unknown to most climbers however, is the patchwork of private and public lands that make up the boundaries of this area. In the past, infrequent use of many areas kept access problems to a minimum. These days, visitation to the Wasatch canyons is at an all-time high, not only from climbers, but also from a large pool of user-groups. The SLCA works to alleviate potential access conflicts that may arise in the future. To learn about the SLCA or to get involved, visit saltlakeclimbers.org The fundraising event will run from 6-10pm on May 30th and will include beverages from the Red Rock Brewery, food from Barbacoa, live music from Ajlishus, arm-wrestling and cratestacking competitions and a silent auction to benefit the SLCA. Tickets for $25 are currently being sold at the Black Diamond retail store, White Pine Touring and online at saltlakeclimbers.org. After May 28, tickets will retail for $30. Associated sponsors include : Backcountry.com, Barbacoa, Bobcar, The Front Climbing Club, Jans, Liberty Mountain, Momentum Climbing Gym, Petzl, and Red Rock Brewery. Please join us in celebrating the 4th Annual SLCA Fundraiser! Black Diamond Equipment is a manufacturer of equipment and clothing for climbing, skiing and mountain sports. By consistently building innovative, standard-setting products and actively preserving the mountain/canyon environment, Black Diamond Equipment has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community. For more information on Black Diamond Equipment, visit BlackDiamondEquipment.com

StreetStrider Expands Into Caribbean, Central America

2013-05-17

StreetStrider International today announced a significant expansion into Central America, Columbia, and the Caribbean by securing a deal with retail membership powerhouse PriceSmart (NASDAQ: PSMT). PriceSmart has purchased StreetStrider’s Eclipse model to be initially sold in 15 of 30 PriceSmart stores in 13 countries throughout the region. StreetStrider’s director of business development, Dan Theade, said that the expansion south of the border is a part of the company’s development plan to become a world-wide brand. “PriceSmart is the largest membership-based retailer south of the United States, with over one million members, and we’re really been impressed with their vision for StreetStrider. They see our product as not only a revolutionary fitness tool, but also a significant mode of family and urban transportation due to its stable design and efficiency.” The StreetStrider, which is unlike any other piece of exercise equipment on the market, offers the combined benefits of jogging, skiing and cycling. The StreetStrider generates a full-body weight-bearing workout, high calorie burn rate, adjustable resistance and low joint impact – all without the physical stresses of other exercises. The StreetStrider can also be used indoors, making it the world’s first 2-in-1 outdoor/indoor elliptical machine. The Eclipse model (MSRP USD$999) is StreetStrider’s newest, and features a chromoly steel frame. The single-speed Eclipse uses a chainless Hartmann Hub paired with a caliper brake in the rear and disc brakes on the front wheels, and folds down with a quick–release lever for easy storage. The innovative and intuitive lean-to-steer system and reciprocating arm levers not only provide smooth steering, but also an unequaled core exercise. The StreetStrider was invented and patented by David Kraus, PhD, StreetStrider’s president. After riding his bicycle to work for more than 20 years and regularly working out on a stationary elliptical cross-trainer, Kraus was inspired to combine the two into an efficient, fun outdoor machine. After years of development, the first StreetStrider models were introduced in 2009. StreetStrider offers multiple models for adults as well as a children’s model, plus branded accessories for indoor use and car transportation.

GoPro Mountain Games Draws Top Talent for Mountain Bike Race

2013-05-17

On June 8, some of the country’s best mountain bikers will line up to race at the GoPro Mountain Games on Vail Mountain. The start list includes Olympic medalists, world cup racers and national champions. The favorite in the women’s race will likely be 2012 Olympic bronze medalist and three-time Mountain Games champion, Georgia Gould ( Luna Chix ) who is taking time out of her World Cup race schedule to compete again in Vail. The list of ladies working to dethrone Gould and take home the $3,000 first place prize includes her Luna teammate Teal Stetson-Lee, Heather Irmiger (Trek), Erin Huck (Tokyo Joes), Judy Freeman (Crank Brothers) and Vail Valley local Gretchen Reeves (Tokyo Joes). The men’s field is also stacked with Olympians and national champions including Todd Wells (Specialized) and Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski (Trek). Joining them will be Ben Sonntag (American Interbanc/Cannondale) and Colin Cares (Kenda-Felt) who are both off to fast starts this season, as well as young guns Fernando Riveros Paez (Rotor USA/Twenty2 Cycles) and Keegan Swirbul (Orbea-Tuff Shed). Locals Jay Henry (Tokyo Joes) and Jake Wells (NoTubes/Twenty2 Cycles) will also be contenders with home field advantage on the challenging Vail Mountain course. “I look forward to the Mountain Games in Vail every year,” says five-time champion Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski. “It's become one of my favorite races. It's unique to have so many different events together in one place and I love the energy of the weekend and festival atmosphere. The MTB course is a great one, and I'm excited to be there again in 2013.” About the GoPro Mountain Games The GoPro Mountain Games are the nation’s largest celebration of mountain sport, lifestyle and music featuring top professional and amateur athletes from around the world. The environmentally-friendly adventure sporting event hosts approximately 3,500 outdoor athletes, along with an estimated 45,000 spectators. Athletes converge on Vail’s mountains and rivers to compete in nine sports and 25 disciplines for over $100,000 in prize money. Events include kayaking, rafting, stand up paddling, mountain biking, road cycling, World Cup Bouldering, amateur climbing, fly-fishing, trail running, the slackline world championships and a half marathon. Additional events at the GoPro Mountain Games include: a film series, Outdoor Reels; a photography competition, Mountain Click; an interactive expo area, Gear Town; DockDog canine competitions and free concerts at Mountains of Music. The GoPro Mountain Games are a project of the Vail Valley Foundation. www.gopromountaingames.com / 888.883.VAIL(8245) About GoPro GoPro makes the world's most versatile cameras, enabling people to capture immersive and engaging footage of themselves during their favorite activities. GoPro's HERO line of wearable and gear mountable cameras are used collectively by more consumers, professional athletes, and video production professionals than any other camera in the world. Based in San Mateo, California, GoPro's products are available in more than 30,000 stores in over 100 countries worldwide and direct via GoPro.com. GOPRO®, HERO®, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Woodman Labs, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other company, product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their rightful owners.

Green lanes �game-changing� for many businesses and communities

2013-05-17

BOULDER, Colo.– One year into its work to catalyze the creation of world-class bicycling facilities in the U.S., Bikes Belong’s Green Lane Project announces the opening of a major new protected bike lane in Austin, Texas. The City of Austin Bicycle Program worked to create the protected bike lane at Barton Springs Road as part of their commitment to the Green Lane Project. Barton Springs Road previously lacked bicycle facilities, making it an unfriendly route for those on bikes. The arterial road now boasts a westbound protected bike lane, or green lane, and an eastbound widened buffered bicycle lane. The improvements make the road a complete street to serve motor vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic, and provide safer, more convenient access to local businesses. According to Hill Abell, owner of Bicycle Sport Shop in Austin, the new green lane is a long-needed improvement to the bicycling network in Austin. “This area was already heavily traveled by cyclists, as it’s in the center of the city and connects Zilker Park to downtown; but it was a tight and congested roadway for everyone traveling it,” he said. “Now, its smooth sailing and seeing greatly increased use by cyclists, and the driving public is not slowed by the increased number of riders using the corridor." Green lanes create a protected space to ride on the road, making bicycling more appealing to the 60% of people who say they are interested in bicycling but are concerned about their safety. As bicycling becomes safer, more appealing, and more convenient for a broader population through these advanced facilities, local bicycle retailers are also feeling the impact. A sample of bicycle retailers in the Green Lane Project focus cities ( Chicago, Memphis, Portland, Ore., and San Francisco , and Washington D.C.) were recently surveyed about the effect of protected bike lanes on business and their community. Ninety-two percent of the shops said the green lanes were having a positive impact on bicycling in their city, and that sales were up or steady at their stores. Half of those retailers attributed the increase in sales in part to new green lanes in their communities. “Protected bike lanes have been game-changing in our community; they absolutely appear to be getting more people on bikes,” said Denise D’Amour, owner of Capitol Hill Bikes in GLP focus city, Washington D.C. “ People comment that they feel safer getting around by bike. New customers try commuting using the bike share and graduate to their own bikes after experiencing cycling through the city. Sales are up due, in part, due to the protected lanes.” For more information about the progress toward protected bike lanes in the Green Lane Project focus cities, visit the http://www.greenlaneproject.org/blog The Green Lane Project is working in tandem with the citizen movement PeopleForBikes to transform America through bicycling.

Registration Open for 2013 Rendezvous

2013-05-16

Registration Open for 2013 Rendezvous Hundreds Planning to Attend the Outdoor Industry Leadership Conference Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) has opened online registration for 2013 Rendezvous, the annual leadership forum for the outdoor industry. An early-bird rate of $100 off the normal registration fee is available through June 13. This year’s Rendezvous is designed for both experienced and emerging leaders and will take place at Loews Coronado Bay Resort in San Diego from Sept. 30- Oct. 2. Launched 18 years ago by a small group of visionary industry leaders, Rendezvous has grown to become the must-attend annual conference for the outdoor industry. This year’s theme — Learn. Connect. Ignite. — describes what industry leaders will do at Rendezvous. OIA has created a robust educational line-up, with a focus on millennial consumer behavior and the future of outdoor retailing. The forum will include tracks dedicated to leadership in a changing world, diversity and inclusion strategies to meet your customer and employee needs, and branding and marketing strategies. Participants will learn how to: Promote innovation and accelerate company culture to meet the demands of today's 24/7 world. Engage, hire and retain the best and brightest millennials . Explore why diversity and inclusion are critical to a company's health. Reach the next generation of customers . Investigate retail of the future . In addition, Rendezvous will kick off this year with the 15th annual Rendezvous Service Project Sponsored by Timberland. This is the perfect way to roll up your sleeves, get dirty and give back to the local community. This year OIA is partnering with WILDCOAST, an international conservation team that works to conserve coastal and marine ecosystems and wildlife, to help clean up the Tijuana River Valley, one of the largest open space areas in south San Diego County. Registration for Rendezvous is limited, and prices increase on June 14, 2013. Register now at outdoorindustry.org/rendezvous . About Outdoor Industry Association Based in Boulder, Colo., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353. ###

Osprey Raises Support for Southwest Colorado Nonprofits

2013-05-16

Osprey Packs, Inc. , a leader in creating top-quality, high-performance, innovative packs to comfortably and efficiently carry gear, raised $3500 for the Four Corners Child Advocacy Center and the Mountain Studies Institute through their Spring Local’s Sale, which was held in Cortez on April 13, 2013. The much-anticipated Local’s Sale is Osprey’s biannual fundraiser for regional nonprofits. Osprey donates a percentage of all proceeds from the one-day special sale to organizations carefully selected by the company’s Green Team. “The biannual Local’s Sale is a reflection of Osprey’s appreciation for and dedication to the Southwest Colorado regional community, of which we’re proud to be a part,” said Sam Mix, Outdoor Marketing Manager of Osprey. “Thanks to our community, the spring sale was a resounding success. We’re delighted to help support these two local organizations, which are each doing such important work in our corner of the state.” The Four Corners Child Advocacy Center, located in Cortez, provides a safe, child-friendly environment that eases the emotional trauma experienced by children during the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases. The Mountain Studies Institute is an independent nonprofit mountain research and education center in Silverton that develops science for addressing environmental issues facing the San Juan Mountains. “We greatly appreciate being a beneficiary of Osprey’s annual sale. The Center relies heavily on contributions from our community, and Osprey’s generosity means a lot to our organization,” said Terry Gorsuch, Four Corners Child Advocacy Center board member. Said Marcie Demmy Bidwell, Executive Director of Mountain Studies Institute, “We are thrilled to know that Osprey and their customers support Mountain Studies Institute’s efforts to develop research and education opportunities for the San Juan Mountains.” Osprey Packs Independent since 1974 and anchored by the design genius of company founder and owner, Mike Pfotenhauer, Osprey Packs has long set the standard for creating innovative, high quality gear carrying equipment. The collection includes packs and bags designed to help adventurers enjoy their outdoor, biking and travel pursuits. The location of company headquarters in Cortez, Colorado, near the rugged San Juan Mountains on the edge of desert canyon country, provides a constant inspiration and a superb testing ground for Osprey products. Osprey also maintains a product development office in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, near the factories where they manufacture their products, ensuring face-to-face relationships and transparency with their suppliers. In 2009, Osprey opened a design office in Mill Valley, California, a hub of design talent and the birthplace of mountain biking. All three of these offices play a crucial role in creating Osprey gear that lasts a lifetime. To celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2009, Osprey launched the All Mighty Guarantee, an enhancement of a lifetime warranty that was already one of the most robust in the industry. Free of charge, the company will repair any damage or defect in its product – whether it was purchased in 1974 or yesterday. Every Osprey product reflects the company’s commitment to protect the wild places its customers love to explore. For more information, visit www.ospreypacks.com.

Veteran Outfitter O.A.R.S. by Longstanding Agreements With Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks Offers Guests Unique Access and Experiences

2013-05-16

Guests of veteran river outfitter and nature-based adventure travel company O.A.R.S. are members of a very special group. They are the only outfitted paddlers who are permitted to overnight on an island camp on Jackson Lake lying at the base of Mount Moran in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park. "This unique indulgence in privacy is possible because O.A.R.S. is the only National Park concessioner authorized to operate overnight trips on Jackson Lake," said Steve Markle, spokesperson. "We were one of the first outfitters authorized to operate commercial trips here in the heart of Grand Teton National Park and the camp that we are permitted to use on Grassy Island is exceptionally unique." O.A.R.S. ( http://www.oars.com/ ) has fashioned programs from a half-day of sea kayaking on Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park to week-long multi-sport programs exploring two of the most iconic regions of the United States—Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. And, according to Markle, this company’s style of travel—comfortable, catered camping with gourmet dining and panoramic views of the Tetons—saves money when compared to the alternative of a lodge or hotel stay in these popular resort areas. “But most important,” notes Markle, “our guests are getting off the beaten track and into the backcountry where sightings of wildlife are common and active exploration is far from the ever-present tourists that crowd the parks.” Frequently seen are Bald eagles, elk, moose, beaver, otters and even bear foraging along the banks. A two-day guided Jackson Lake Kayaking Trip in Grand Teton National Park offers one or two nights with island camping. Jackson Lake’s calm, clear waters are ideal for paddlers learning their first kayaking strokes. There’s ample time built-in for hikes, fishing and honing one’s photographic skills on the landscapes that surround. Departures are weekends, mid-June through mid-September. Rates are from $329 adult and $279 youth (ages 4 years and up). See: http://www.oars.com/wyoming/jacksonholeguide.html . Guests can add a day of tranquil rafting on the Snake River beneath the Tetons on a three-day / two night Jackson Lake Kayaking | Snake River Rafting Combo Trip . Rates are $659 adult and $554 youth ages 4 and up. See: http://www.oars.com/wyoming/jacksonlake.html . The five or six-day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Explorer is the company’s flagship program in the region taking active travelers off the beaten path and beyond the boardwalks of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Included are kayaking, rafting, hiking and sightseeing from the geothermal wonders of Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake’s West Thumb Geyser Basin to the cool, reflective waters and pristine wilderness of Jackson Lake and the Snake River beneath the Tetons. Trips run June into September. Rates are from $1,389 adult and $1,261 youth (ages 7 and up). In addition to their regular departures, O.A.R.S. offers trips for solo travelers (June 11 & August 27) and a special photography trip on June 16. See: http://www.oars.com/wyoming/yellowstonemultisport.html . For time-stressed travelers, O.A.R.S offers morning and afternoon Half-Day Yellowstone Lake Kayaking trips on the continent’s largest alpine lake. Steamy geysers gush at water’s edge, mud pots bubble and hot springs sear, and all are easy to spot from the unique perspective of a sturdy, stable sea kayak. For the best shot at spotting wildlife, consider a sunrise paddle, launching at 6:30 AM July through early August. Rates are $99 adult and $76 youth (ages 7 and up). http://www.oars.com/wyoming/yellowstoneparktours.html . About O.A.R.S. Some 500,000 guests later, O.A.R.S. has been providing whitewater rafting vacations since 1969. Over the decades the company has set the standard in first-class rafting, sea kayaking and multi-sport adventure, with destinations and unparalleled experiences on over 35 rivers and coastlines around the world. O.A.R.S. caters to active travelers of all ages and abilities with more than 75 unique itineraries, including one-day and weekend escapes. In 2012, for the sixth consecutive year, Condé Nast Traveler recognized Mindy Gleason, O.A.R.S. Reservation Manager and International Adventure Travel Consultant, as Condé Nast Traveler’s standalone Top Travel Specialist in the River Rafting category. In 2013 Outside, America’s leading multimedia active-lifestyle brand, named it one of the top two companies in its annual Active Travel Awards recognition program. # # #

Magdalena Boulet Returns to GU Energy; World Class Runner to Lead Research & Product Development

2013-05-15

GU Energy Labs, creators of the original energy gel, is pleased to announce that Magdalena Boulet, one of the finest distance runners in American history, has returned to GU Energy to lead the company’s product development team. It is a role that Boulet knows well -- from 2000 to 2007, she was GU’s Director of Research & Product Development. Her professional and athletic experience is singular: she is a 1997 graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and earned a Master’s in Exercise Physiology from Cal State University East Bay, Hayward in 2000. In addition to her academic background, she also competed at the highest levels of track and cross country, culminating in an appearance at the Beijing Games in 2008 on the U.S. Olympic Marathon team. Her storied athletic career also includes team bronze medals in 2010 and 2011 at the World Cross Country Championships as the captain of Team USA. She was the nation’s #1-ranked marathoner in 2010 and has a personal best of 2:26:22 at that distance. She is a two-time US Road national champion and is the sixth-fastest woman in American marathon history, behind only Deena Kastor, Desiree Davila, Joan Benoit Samuelson, Shalane Flanagan and Kara Goucher. She has served as head coach of the UC Berkeley cross country team and co-founded the Bay Area Track Club, one of only seven approved USA Distance Centers. In her role as Director of Research & Product Development, Boulet will be responsible for guiding GU’s ongoing effort to create the world’s best performance nutrition for athletes. “In essence, I have never left GU,” noted Boulet. “It has been a part of my training, my racing and my life since the 1990s. The company has grown since I last worked here on a full-time basis, but its central mission has never changed. I look forward to not only helping to create new products, but to helping every athletes from every country determine their best and most effective nutrition performance possible.” Brian Vaughan, the Chief Endurance Officer of GU Energy, said, “Magda has long been an inspiring presence here, that’s why her posters are on our office walls. But more importantly, she is utterly attuned to the performance nutrition of athletes and uniquely qualified to help us develop and sustain our products and inform the marketplace on critical nutritional needs.” About GU Energy Labs: GU Energy Gel, the original energy gel, was developed in 1993 in Berkeley, CA. To this day, GU remains the market share leader by a margin of more than 2 to 1, and is still the premium gel available to endurance athletes. GU, Roctane, Chomps and Brew are designed to provide athletes with scientifically-based, performance-tested nutrition. For more information about GU, log onto www.GUenergy.com.

Fitsok Retains The Walton Works as PR Agency of Record

2013-05-15

Chanhassen, MN (May 15, 2013) – Fitsok , designers and innovators of performance socks, announced today the hiring of The Walton Works as their public relations connector effective immediately. “We’re really excited about our partnership and are looking forward to working with The Walton Works team,” says Jeff Bull of Fitsok. “The Walton Works’ unique understanding of our needs and the running industry are the perfect fit for our brand.” Fitsok is a running focused sock brand whose premium product is made 100% in the USA. Currently, their simple, clear lineup consists of four core models, each with unique engineering and fabric. Fitsok offers all products in 3-packs at an excellent value so that runners always have a fresh pair. Featuring an Engineered Heel, Max Arch Support and FLOWTEK® Channels, Fitsok products are built from years of research, wear testing and tech for moisture dispersion and temperature regulation. “Fitsok is a growing brand dedicated to exceptional manufacturing and retailer support,” says Todd Walton, President and Founder of The Walton Works. “The socks are durable, fit great and feel great. I’m not saying which are my favorite, but my favorite’s come in a pack of three. We are proud to be a partner with Fitsok to grow their brand awareness and customer enthusiasm.” About Fitsok The mission at Fitsok has always been to give athletes the best in engineered fit and performance by building products that allow everyone to excel. Each sock is built to perform. From the athletic CF2 to the advanced CX3 and feature-rich F4 , the entire FITSOK lineup is designed to keep your feet dry, comfortable and cool. Whether running, biking, or training, each Fitsok product pushes the boundaries of moisture and temperature management. When a sock enables athletes to excel, it becomes more than a sock – get out there and RUN FOR IT. To view the products and learn more, visit: www.fitsok.com . About The Walton Works The Walton Works began in 2010 to offer a unique approach and veteran experience to organizations looking to enhance their brands, create marketing strategy, develop PR buzz and enhance customer experience. W e a r e ad v o c a t e s, u s e r s an d b r i d g e - bu il d e r s bet w ee n th e ph ysic a l p r odu ct a n d e m ot i ona l c onne c t i o n customers create with brands . W ew an t b r and s t o b e a cc e ssi b l e , i n s p i r i n g , atta i nab le a n d pa ssi onate . Our mission is the blend of function, fashion and passion in product, representation and ourselves. www.thewaltonworks.com ###

LOWA Renews Partnership with Sierra Club

2013-05-15

Goal is to Convert Hikers into LOWA Users and Raise Funds for Clair Tappaan Lodge. LOWA Boots has renewed their partnership with the Sierra Club and Sierra Magazine to run a Demo Center out of the flagship Clair Tappaan Lodge, on top of Donner Pass in California’s Sierra Nevada. Hikers will once again be able to enjoy a day hiking the surrounding trails in LOWA boots at no charge. For every subsequent questionnaire filled out, LOWA makes a donation to the Sierra Club’s initiative to upgrade the lodge and take it off the grid. The center will officially open Memorial Day weekend and stay active until Columbus Day. “The Demo Center will allow consumers to try at no charge before they buy,” commented Peter Sachs, general manager of LOWA in the U.S. “Our goal is to help potential customers realize the benefit of top quality footwear designed specifically for the terrain as opposed to everyday-casual or basketball-type shoes frequently seen on the trails. Hikers will have more fun, enjoy better support and comfort and thus be inspired to continue enjoying the outdoors. At the same time, we can contribute to the Sierra Club’s goals for the Lodge. It’s a win-win.” Lodge employees will receive training from LOWA so that they are prepared to help hikers choose between seven different models, including one for juniors. There are literally millions of potential customers from Northern California to the Reno, Nevada area that can reach the lodge as an easy day trip. The goal for both LOWA and the Sierra Club’s Lodge is to convert as many as possible into LOWA aficionados and Clair Tappaan users and contributors. A network of nearby trails offers miles of hiking. The well-known Pacific Crest Trail is only a mile away and can be reached right out the back door of the lodge. 95% of LOWA footwear is produced in the center of Europe, following the strictest environmental laws in the world. They are the only outdoor footwear manufacturer in the world to be granted the prestigious ISO 9001 status that holds them to the highest quality construction and process standards. Their company mantra to reduce, reuse and recycle is synonymous with the Sierra Club's mission to "explore, enjoy and protect the wild places of the Earth. “Sierra magazine is thrilled to partner with LOWA boots for a 2 nd consecutive year to produce our signature demo center at the Sierra Club’s own Clair Tappaan Lodge,” commented Kristi Rummel, national advertising director for Sierra Magazine. “Lodge guests are treated with cutting-edge outdoor gear to use on their outdoor adventures and during their stay,” “The premise behind this demo center is to put our partner’s gear into the hands of a hard-to-reach audience of outdoor enthusiasts.” Clair Tappaan Lodge is the Sierra Club's flagship lodge and offers a wide-variety of outdoor and environmental education programs. The lodge was built in 1934 by volunteers of the Sierra Club as a state of the art building and named after Clair Sprague Tappaan, a longtime official of the Sierra Club. Clair Tappaan was a club outing leader and sat on the board of directors, even holding the position of president for a term from 1922-24. Clair Tappaan embodied the ethics of the Sierra Club by introducing new members to the wonders of the Sierra Nevada and then turning these new members into strong advocates for the wild places of the earth. The Clair Tappaan Lodge community thanks LOWA for their partnership as we look forward to the “greening” of the Lodge. To learn more about the lodge, go to www.sierraclub.org/outings/lodge/ctl . For information on Sierra, the official magazine of the Sierra Club, go to www.sierraclub.org/sierra. LOWA Boots LLC, with headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, is a partnership with LOWA Sportschuhe Gmbh founded in 1923 and based in Jetzendorf, Germany. The U.S. company, launched in 1996, sells, markets, and distributes a complete line of four season outdoor footwear for walking, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering as well as everyday use. In addition, LOWA offers collections of specialized footwear for field sports and professional task force use.

X-1 Audio Builds Ambassador Team

2013-05-15

X-1 Audio , the leader in waterproof and sweatproof headphones, cases and accessories shows its continued commitment to the endurance and paddling communities with the announcement of Olympic triathles Laura and Greg Bennett and World-Champion Stand Up Paddler Slater Trout on their athlete roster. The company, at the forefront of personal audio solutions for athletes , introduces Slater and the Bennetts as the brand’s X-1 Team Ambassadors for 2013. Dana Swanson, X-1 Marketing Director, stated “It’s a natural fit. Greg and Laura are two of the most recognizable triathletes in the world, and X-1 is the perfect partner for their high caliber training and competition needs. Slater is also highly accomplished in the waterman community across SUP, surf, and outrigger canoeing. These athletes really push themselves in their respective sports, and we’re excited to support them.” Greg Bennett holds six World Cup titles, and was ranked the number one triathlete in 2002 and 2003. Bennett competed at the second Olympic triathlon at the 2004 Summer Olympics and won the Life Time series for three consecutive years in 2006, 2007 and 2008. Bennett placed second in the 2009 Life Time Fitness series after recovering from a training accident the prior year, then went on to win the Ironman 5150 Championship in 2011 and three Ironman 70.3 titles. He still holds the record as all time prize money leader for Triathlon. Laura Bennett, also a world champion triathlete, has competed on the International Triathlon Union racing circuit since 2001, earning medals at the 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2007 World Triathlon Championships. She was the first American to qualify for the 2008 Olympic Triathlon team, placing fourth at the games. Bennett was selected as the 2010 Olympic/ITU Female Athlete of the Year for her consistent performances and end of season ranking during the 2010 racing season, as well as ranking first in the 2010 swim rankings. Maui, Hawaii-based Slater Trout, named “2010 Junior of the Year” by the Stand Up Journal, is a six-time podium finisher at the famous Gerry Lopez-Rainbow Sandals Battle of the Paddle (known as the World Championships of Stand Up). Slater was named US Champion in the 2012 Hennessey’s Paddleboard Championships, 14ft. Men’s Elite Class, and earned the title of Trials Winner of the first stop of the 2010 Stand Up World Tour. About X-1 Powered by H20 Audio Breaking the barriers of sound. Powered by H20 Audio technology, X-1 creates the most advanced audio solutions for athletes. With seven patents and over a decade of technological innovation, H20 Audio, the foremost leader in headphones, cases and accessories for aquatic athletes, has evolved to the next level as X-1. Designed for all athletes, X-1 offers audio solutions to harness the power of music regardless of sport or climate. For more information or to shop online, visit www.X-1.com

U.S. City Leaders Convene in Austin for Summit on Bike Lanes and Equity

2013-05-15

City leaders from six U.S. cities will convene today in Austin, Texas to kick off an unprecedented two-day leadership summit to discuss green lanes and equity. The focus of the summit is on building support for modern, next-generation green lanes, also called protected bike lanes or cycletracks, and related street safety improvements in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. The summit has assembled transportation professionals, policymakers and community leaders from Austin, Chicago, Memphis, Portland, San Francisco and Washington, DC, who are working to transform their cities’ streets to provide balanced, equitable urban mobility . The city leaders will share experiences and lessons learned to work toward a deeper understanding of the issues, identify best practices and brainstorm on next steps. The issues surrounding equity in bicycle transportation are complex, ranging from the current wave of gentrification in cities to cultural barriers for bicycling in African-American and Hispanic communities. While the Summit does not aim to “solve” these complex and often emotional issues, it plans to initiate a robust conversation, improve collective understanding, and identify effective approaches. Hosting this leadership summit is the Green Lane Project , a program associated with the citizen movement PeopleForBikes to catalyze the creation of world-class bicycling facilities in the U.S. and build national momentum for green lanes. Green lanes are dedicated, inviting spaces for people on bikes in the roadway, protected from cars and separated from sidewalks. “Changes to streets that invite more human-scaled interaction and encourage physical activity as part of daily life offer well-documented health, safety and economic benefits ,” said Martha Roskowski, director of the Green Lane Project. “Despite the many studies that show these benefits, some proposals to install better bike lanes in low-income neighborhoods and historically underserved communities have met resistance. Our goal this week is to facilitate the conversation, addressing concerns specific to these communities, and highlight the many reasons all Americans should have access to safe bicycling.” The Austin Bike Lanes and Equity gathering is part of a series of best practices workshops hosted by the Green Lane Project and held in the most advanced bicycling cities in the United States and Europe. For more information about the Green Lane Project, visit www.greenlaneproject.org.

Despite Company Growth, REI Achieves Absolute Reduction in Operational CO2 Emissions

2013-05-15

Despite Company Growth, REI Achieves Absolute Reduction in Operational CO2 Emissions New stewardship report details environmental performance, community partnerships and employee engagement SEATTLE – Each day, REI takes actions to decrease its impact on the planet, partner in the community to ensure the availability of natural spaces, and provide a rewarding workplace. In its 2012 stewardship report the leading outdoor retailer updates customers, members, employees and other stakeholders on its social responsibility work for the year. The 2012 report includes metrics and highlights in the categories of Sustainable Operations, Community, Product Stewardship and Workplace. Sustainable Operations While REI grew by 7.4 percent last year, the company made progress in decreasing its environmental footprint in several areas, including an absolute reduction of operational CO2 by 7.6 percent and a 53 ton decrease in its waste to landfill contributions. While electricity is the largest share of its greenhouse gas impact, REI’s total energy use was essentially flat despite adding five new stores during the year. Since 2008, the company has opened 31 stores while total energy consumption increased by only 2 percent. Limiting the increase is attributed to efforts such as renewable resources, energy efficiency projects and self-generation investments such as solar technology. Community Partnerships REI works with local and national nonprofit organizations that protect and maintain trails, waterways, parks and backcountry destinations where communities enjoy the outdoors. Last year, REI granted nearly $4 million to more than 300 local and national nonprofits. The funding led to 396,000 volunteers caring for natural places and 54,000 miles of trail maintained and 94,000 acres of land restored. Product Stewardship For its branded products, REI is actively working to implement the HiGG Index, an indicator-based tool that allows clothing and footwear companies to evaluate material types, products, facilities and processes based on a range of environmental and product design choices. Engaging Workplace For 16 consecutive years, FORTUNE magazine has recognized REI as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For.” Through the company’s annual anonymous employee engagement survey, results showed that 86 percent of its employees are engaged. Additionally, the company works to ensure factories making REI-brand gear and apparel offer safe, fair and non-discriminatory workplaces. Last year, the company completed audits representing 27 percent of its supply chain. REI annually publishes a stewardship report to provide visibly to its social and environmental efforts. To read the 2012 report visit http://www.rei.com/stewardship/report/2012.html . An infograph highlighting REI’s results is at http://www.rei.com/stewardship/report/2012/our-commitment/infographic.html . The co-op’s previous six stewardship reports are archived and maintained with open access for future reference at REI.com. About REI REI is a $2 billion national multichannel retail co-op headquartered outside of Seattle. With more than 5 million active members, REI serves the needs of outdoor adventurers through innovative, quality products; inspiring classes and trips; and integrated customer service that allows shoppers to buy great gear and clothing in any way they want. REI has 129 stores in 32 states, as well as REI.com and REI.com/outlet. This year REI will invest $3 million in local communities to help care for outdoor spaces. ###

Gregory Celebrates �The Trail� at Trail Days 2013

2013-05-15

Gregory, the world’s leading pack maker for over 35 years, will celebrate “The Trail” at the annual Trail Days event in Damascus, Virginia later this week. Long a supporter of the Appalachian Trail, the organizations that maintain it, and the characters that hike it, Gregory will again maintain a presence at the event by repairing backpacks and providing tips on proper pack fit. Gregory’s well-known and gregarious founder, Wayne Gregory, will be present to greet hikers and perform personalized pack-fitting demos. “Trail Days is a wonderful community event that celebrates the Appalachian Trail and those who love it,” says Andy Yorkin, marketing manager at Gregory. “All trails are part of our DNA and those memorable trail experiences are what define us as a company. It makes sense for Gregory to support the one of best known trails of North America.” Gregory representatives will be available during all three days of the event and hikers can stop by for pack repair, a pack fitting, or just to chat. Hikers can also enter a drawing for a chance to win their own Contour or Cairn (male/female) backpack, new for 2013. Wayne Gregory will also be on hand to personally fit packs, sign autographs and swap stories about days on the trail. For 2013, Trail Days runs from May 17-19 in Damascus, Virginia. Highlighted by the Hiker Parade, the Hiker Talent Show, and live music throughout the weekend, event organizers expect thousands of hikers and supporters to attend. For more information, visit: traildays.us .

BUYSTAND Partners with the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation

2013-05-15

Durham, N.C., May 15 th , 2013 – BUYSTAND , a Durham, N.C. e-commerce start-up, announced last month the public beta launch of buystand.com, an online marketplace that allows consumers to buy the outdoor gear they want at the price they want to pay. Apart from this core technology, BUYSTAND features staff-curated Collections, offering consumers valuable insights into the best gear for various adventures and activities. Today, BUYSTAND announces a partnership with the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation and the release of its newest collection, the Act with Love Collection. Dr. Susan Love is one of the pioneers in breast cancer research, engaging women to share their health data in search of a cure. Until a cure is found, one of the most important tools Dr. Love has found to prevent breast cancer is physical fitness. This Sunday, the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation will host the 6 th Annual Walk With Love 5k in Pacific Palisades, CA. In support of the foundation and the event, BUYSTAND is donating 50% of all proceeds from the Act with Love collection and 10% of all other Buystand.com proceeds to the Dr. Susan Love Foundation through Sunday, May 19 th , 2013.

Vasque Named Official Footwear Partner of FloydFest 2013

2013-05-14

Over 15,000 music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts are expected to converge in the woods off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Floyd, Virginia this July 25-28 for the 12th annual FloydFest , a roots-rock, art and outdoors celebration. Vasque is pleased to be the official footwear partner of the event this year which includes headliners such as Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros , The Lumineers and Yonder Mountain String Band , as well as hiking, biking, trail running, watersports, workshops and more. As the official footwear and 5k trail race sponsor, Vasque will be on hand to help festival-goers gear up and enjoy all the event has to offer. To kickoff the partnership, Vasque will give away two VIP festival tickets plus two pairs of Vasque shoes, valued up to $1600, through a contest running May 15-June 15 at select outdoor retail stores in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. “FloydFest is one of the highlights of the summer in the Blue Ridge,” says George Curleigh, vice president of Vasque. “The festival’s combination of music, art and outdoor adventure is a perfect fit for us and it’s great for Vasque to be a part of it.” Hungry festival-goers will be treated to a free pancake breakfast at the Vasque booth on Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27, from 9:30 to 10:30 am. Throughout each day of the festival, the company will offer giveaways and shoes for sale, capped on the final day with the Vasque 5K Trail Race, which gets underway at 9:15 am on Sunday, July 28. The first three male and first three female finishers will win a pair of Vasque Pendulum trail runners. A lightweight, breathable shoe with a full mesh upper, the Pendulum is a top choice for trail runners, but can be called into duty for a range of adventures, in the woods or at a summer festival. To enter the FloydFest VIP ticket giveaway in stores, contestants just need to try on a pair of Vasque shoes at participating retailers and receive a card to enter the contest online. Participating retail stores include: Walkabout Outfitters Stores , Blue Ridge Mountain Sports , Hudson Trail Outfitters , Mountain Trails , Outdoor Trails , Casual Adventures , Diamond Brand Outdoors , The Trail House , Footsloggers , Rock Fish Gap Outfitters , Mahoney’s , Townsend Bertram and Mt. Rogers Outfitters . The winner will be announced June 17. For more information about Vasque, see www.vasque.com or contact Angie Houck at angie@darbycommuniations.com . For more information on FloydFest 12, visit www.floydfest.com . About Vasque Vasque footwear was established in 1964 in response to a need for performance hiking footwear in the US market. With a passion for performance and fit, Vasque’s mission to this day is to bring the latest in technology and design to outdoor enthusiasts by making quality, rugged footwear for all types of trail conditions. Every shoe in Vasque’s collection of backpacking, performance hiking, insulated and trail running shoes are designed to give adventurers a perfect fit for all day comfort on the trail.

Headsweats Raises $5000 for The One Fund of Boston

2013-05-14

At the one-month anniversary of the tragic bombing at the Boston Marathon , Headsweats has raised $5000 for The One Fund of Boston through the sale of its limited Boston Collection of Race Hats and Supervisors. Headsweats donates 50 percent of collection sales to the fund. “As runners and athletes ourselves, we wanted to show those affected by the bombing that we are with them. The Boston Collection was the best way for us to do that as a company,” says Mike McQueeney, president of Headsweats. “The response has been overwhelming. We’re far from alone in the desire to show the people of Boston that we care.” Hats and visors in The Boston Collection feature a silhouette of the Boston skyline in red, plus the monogram B. The date of the marathon appears below the logo. The One Fund of Boston is helping those affected by the tragic events that occurred at the Boston Marathon and the days that followed. For more information about Headsweats visit www.headsweats.com or contact Angie Houck at angie@darbycommunications.com. For more information on The One Fund go to www.onefundboston.org . About Headsweats The Headsweats line includes ultra-light, supremely wicking performance headwear that dominates the triathlon, cycling, running and endurance markets. A spirit of innovation and well-developed partnerships, along with unsurpassed customer service, has established Headsweats as a market leader for more than a decade. With a dedication and commitment to cutting-edge materials, innovative designs and the most comfortable, best fitting headwear in the industry, the Headsweats team is constantly looking towards the future of performance headwear. Keep a cool head. www.headsweats.com

LED Lenser Donates Lights to Pacific Crest Trail Association

2013-05-14

Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA), a nonprofit organization that protects, preserves, and promotes the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is honored to receive a generous donation of LED flashlights from LED Lenser® USA, manufacturer of LED headlamps, handheld and diving lights for outdoor enthusiasts, based in Portland, Oregon. LED Lenser's contribution to PCTA marks the second year of a productive, committed partnership between the two organizations. The PCTA coordinates thousands of hours of volunteer efforts to keep the PCT open and safe for the millions of hikers and equestrians who enjoy it every year. With the support of LED Lenser, PCTA will “light the way” for the many high school students we engage in volunteering on the trail every year. Many of these young people don't have the equipment they need to enjoy and sustain the PCT, and these flashlights will ensure they have safe and enjoyable experiences while helping out and getting healthy on the trail. In 2,650 miles from Canada to Mexico, the PCT unifies the most spectacular natural places in California, Oregon and Washington into one epic experience. According to Liz Bergeron, Executive Director of the PCTA, “The Pacific Crest Trail travels across deserts, over mountains and beautiful wilderness through three states. The young people who enjoy and maintain the PCT have life changing experiences and carry a love for the trail for the rest of their lives. We thank LED Lenser for providing our young volunteers with the quality flashlights they need to explore, enjoy and steward the PCT.” According to Marketing Communications Manager Juli Warner, “When we began distributing LED Lenser lights and headlamps in the U.S. we wanted to find partners to help us spread the word and get these incredible lights into the hands of the outdoor community. With our donation to the PCTA, we've re-committed to their mission to protect the quality recreational experiences enjoyed by millions every year, and their efforts to engage young people in stewarding the PCT. We are honored continue our partnership and help PCTA and their youngest volunteers.” About LED Lenser LED Lenser, a Leatherman Tool Group, Inc. company produces a line lights and headlamps, for everything from camping, diving, running, hunting and fishing to industrial trades, DIY and law enforcement. Sizes range from keychain to 1000+ lumen, heavy-duty defense lamps. All lights are backed by a five-year warranty. For more information about the Leatherman Tool Group, Inc., or LED Lenser U.S., please contact PR Specialist Kitri McGuire at kitri.mcguire@leatherman.com. About the Pacific Crest Trail Association The Pacific Crest Trail Association is a nonprofit, membership organization, formed in 1977. The mission of the Pacific Crest Trail Association is to protect, preserve and promote the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail as an internationally significant resource for the enjoyment of hikers and equestrians, and for the value that wild and scenic lands provide to all people. Learn more about the Pacific Crest Trail Association at www.PCTA.org, or call (916) 285-1846.

National Trails Day� Events Slated for all 50 States

2013-05-14

American Hiking Society ’s 21st annual celebration of National Trails Day® will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2013. National Trails Day® is devoted to appreciating America’s trails and the hard-working individuals who build and maintain them. In honor of this day, thousands of public events will be hosted nationwide, and tens of thousands of trail enthusiasts will be outside as they hike, peddle, ride and paddle through some of America’s most beautiful areas. National Trails Day® activities will be available in all 50 states and also the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. “With the total number of National Trails Day® recreation activities increasing year after year, finding an event near you has never been easier,” commented John Michels, National Trails Day® Manager at American Hiking Society. “Events have a huge depth of variety, ranging from leisurely guided hikes to trail building, horseback riding, kayaking and more. Regardless of whether you consider yourself a hiker, mountain biker, equestrian, bird-watcher, or simple nature enthusiast, there is bound to be an event to fit your needs. Many events offer family options, so even the littlest ones can participate.” Here is a sampling of events that convey the variety of experiences that will be available: For history buffs, Valley Forge National Historical Park at King of Prussia, PA, will host a Trails Fair that will feature guided hikes, educational clinics, and volunteer projects. The event will also include a showcase of the latest developments in outdoor equipment and gear. People who like to live on the edge will enjoy the XtremeFest of the Blue Ridge in Waynesboro, VA. The local Department of Parks and Recreation has partnered with local outfitters and will introduce event attendees to exciting adventure sports like rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking. If you have children with you, or simply prefer something a little less heart-pounding, Theatre-Hikes Colorado will be hosting “Snow White,” by Marjorie Sokoloff, at Boulder’s Chautauqua Park. In this exciting and innovative retelling of the classic “Snow White,” audience members and actors will hike from scene to scene along beautiful open trails. The full production will be performed in this family-friendly, low impact outdoor entertainment hike. In Woodstock, VT, National Trails Day® attendees can celebrate both local trails and local food at the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, where each trail in the 5th Annual Trek to Taste will lead to samples of delicious farm-fresh treats prepared by area students. Event attendees will also enjoy family-friendly arts and crafts activities, trail games, displays, live animals and music. For bird enthusiasts, the World Bird Sanctuary in Valley Park, MO, is planning a family-friendly event with free, child-focused activities. The event will also offer three different trails that will feature naturalists with live animals at interpretation stations along the way. National Trails Day® is made possible by the generous support of event sponsors, including The North Face , Merrell , Adventure Medical Kits , Columbia , Gregory and Gerber . Other supporters include American Park Network, Backpacker magazine, Boy Scouts of America, REI, YMCA of the USA, the Bureau of Land Management, Federal Highway Administration, National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Join American Hiking Society and thousands of others on Saturday, June 1, for National Trails Day® as we come together to explore, learn about, and celebrate America’s trails. Find the nearest National Trails Day® event by visiting AmericanHiking.org and clicking on National Trails Day ®. About American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day® American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day® is a nationally recognized trail awareness program that occurs annually on the first Saturday of June and inspires the public to discover, learn about, and celebrate trails while participating in outdoor activities, clinics, and trail stewardship projects. National Trails Day® is a registered trademark of American Hiking Society. About American Hiking Society Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national, recreation-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience. To learn more about American Hiking Society and its mission and programs, visit www.AmericanHiking.org or call (301) 565-6704. ###

Celebrating Healthy Forests, by Choose Outdoor

2013-05-13

Monday, May 20 10:00a to 2:00p Business leaders, elected officials and organizations including Brookfield Homes will join forces during a half-day event celebrating successes connected with beetle-killed pine trees and forest health. Participants will also discuss ways to increase their effectiveness in the challenge of the pine-beetle issues. U.S. Sen. Mark Udall will make a special video address, and former U.S. Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell will be recognized for his Capitol Christmas Tree cross country campaign. http://calendar.denverpost.com/golden_co/events/show/326310343-celebrating-healthy-forests-by-choose-outdoors

Outdoor Product Sales Post Slight Gains in April

2013-05-13

Outdoor Product Sales Post Slight Gains in April Hardgoods the Bright Spot in Preliminary Fiscal April Results;  Apparel and Footwear Soft Due to Inconsistent Spring Weather Outdoor Product sales grew in fiscal April by 1.2 percent to $673.6 million, slower than the year-to-date trend, according to the latest monthly sales report from OIA VantagePoint™. Growth was driven primarily by Outdoor Hardgoods, while Footwear and Apparel sales slowed due to inconsistent spring weather. The National Accounts Internet and Discount/Mass trade channels continued to provide the strongest growth. Outdoor Apparel sales declined by 3.2 percent to $142.6 million for the four-week period ended May 4, 2013. After double-digit growth in the first three months of 2013, Apparel sales suffered as seasonal weather finally arrived in much of the United States. Sales slowed in cold-weather categories (such as Outerwear, Headwear and Handwear). Warm-weather categories struggled to improve on inconsistent weather trends throughout the month and due to tough comparisons to last year’s strong sales when spring and summer arrived early. Following a strong March, Outdoor Footwear sales slid back to negative territory, down 3.0 percent to $192.0 million. While most Footwear categories — namely Functional Outdoor Footwear, Running Footwear, and Sandals — were down, Comfort Casual Footwear posted positive growth. Sales of Outdoor Hardgoods increased 5.8 percent to $339.1 million in fiscal April, a slight improvement over last month’s trend but still below the double-digit growth seen in January and February. Most Hardgoods categories increased over the comparable month last year, with the exception of some key camping and climbing/mountaineering equipment, which saw declines as winter held on longer than usual in many parts of the country. The National Accounts Internet and Discount/Mass channels continued to gain share of Outdoor Product sales in fiscal April. National Accounts Internet accounted for 9.5 percent of all Outdoor Product sales (up from 7.2 percent in April 2012), while Discount/Mass stores accounted for 5.1 percent of sales (up from 2.7 percent in April 2012). Final results for the month will be published this week in the OIA VantagePoint monthly trend report, available free of charge to Outdoor Industry Association members at outdoorindustry.org/vantagepoint . For more information on becoming an OIA member, visit outdoorindustry.org/membership or contact Ingrid Malmberg and the OIA membership team at 303.444.3353. OIA VantagePoint is the first and only full market point-of-sale data platform built specifically for the outdoor industry. OIA VantagePoint monthly trend reports provide the broadest and most timely view of outdoor product sales available. Category reports are available at no charge to Outdoor Industry Association members and provide comprehensive visibility into the outdoor marketplace by tracking weekly point-of-sale data from more than 10,000 retail doors and websites that carry outdoor products, including nearly 450 outdoor specialty locations. It is the broadest view of both brick and mortar and Internet sales of outdoor products available in the market. In-depth sales information is available online within four days of the prior-week close — a competitive advantage for businesses who can shift critical resources and react quickly to ever-changing consumer preferences. Outdoor Industry Association Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353. The SportsOneSource Group The SportsOneSource Group is a full service market research company delivering solutions through consumer insight research, retail insight research and retail point-of-sale trending and analysis. The company provides the most reliable, timely and comprehensive sports and outdoor industry information available in the market today. SportScanInfo is a SportsOneSource technology platform developed to compile, aggregate and disseminate aggregated retail point-of-sale information. SportsOneSource also publishes the Sports Executive Weekly and The B.O.S.S. Report executive newsletters, along with the SGB and SGB Performance print publications and their related online, email and digital products. For more information about The SportsOneSource Group call 303.987.3450 or go to SportsOneSource.com . # # #

Balega International Hires Ben Hernandez as Brand Manager

2013-05-13

Balega International, a leading performance sock brand in the American run specialty market, announces a new addition to its team with new hire Ben Hernandez. Hernandez holds the position of Brand Manager, and will primarily focus on managing the brand’s presence within key retailer Fleet Feet Sports. Tanya Pictor, Balega’s Director of Sales and Marketing, stated “Ben is a great fit – he is passionate about the sport, understands the retail environment and loves what the Balega brand stands for. We’re thrilled to have him on the team, and confident in his ability to progress Balega’s solid relationship with Fleet Feet Sports.” In partnership with Fleet Feet, Hernandez will coordinate employee training, merchandising, in-store promotions and event sponsorship. Prior to joining Balega, Hernandez managed several specialty running stores. Based out of North Carolina, Ben will chronicle his travels on Balega’s blog, balegamovewithspeed.blogspot.com . About Balega Sports International A leading performance sock brand in the American run specialty market, Balega is a designer and manufacturer of technical performance socks. A proud American-South African initiative, the company develops all of its product at a South African production facility utilzing the best performance yarns produced in the United States. Crafted for a superior fit and unbelievable comfort, Balega is commited to the technical excellence, quality and performance offered in Balega socks. For more information visit http://www.balega.com .

Gerber Joins Sponsorship Team for GoPro Mountain Games

2013-05-13

Portland, Ore. – (May 13, 2013 ) Gerber, a leading global supplier of knives, tools and activity-specific gear, today announced its partnership with the GoPro Mountain Games. The country’s premier celebration of mountain sports, lifestyle and music, the GoPro Mountain Games run June 6-9, in Vail, Colorado, and align perfectly with Gerber’s Unstoppable campaign and rich brand heritage. As the official knife and multi-tool sponsor of the GoPro Mountain Games, Gerber will exhibit at the event’s “Gear Town” showcasing the brand and its products alongside the company’s tricked out all-terrain vehicle nicknamed the “Black Boar.” Gerber has also partnered with GearJunkie.com, one of the outdoor industry’s most respected sources for news and product reviews, to present a one of a kind media experience around the GoPro Mountain Games. Dubbed ‘Live at the Games’ , this new content channel aims to be the most comprehensive media source at the GoPro Mountain Games and will feature interviews, original videos and race results. Edited live at the event, and enabled through innovative Brandlive communications software, ‘Live at the Games’ will be broadcast from Vail Village at the Gerber booth throughout the four-day event. “The GoPro Mountain Games couldn’t be a better metaphor for the passion and drive that embody the unstoppable spirit of the Gerber brand and we’re honored to be a part of this event and this community,” said Joe Mattson, Gerber senior brand manager. “We’re coming loaded for bear and look forward to being part of the incredible line up of activities, showcasing our expanded line of problem-solving Outdoor gear and generally just mixing it up with everyone throughout the weekend.” Gerber has produced a number of limited edition ‘golden axes’ that will be awarded to winners of each of the Mountain Games competitions. The golden axes are a symbol of determination, trial and triumph and are sure to be a coveted honor by Mountain Games athletes. For a complete schedule of events, including activities and interviews in the Gerber booth, go to the official GoPro Mountain Games website here, http://www.gopromountaingames.com . About Gerber: Gerber is a leading global supplier of personal outdoor, tactical and industrial gear. Founded in 1939 as Gerber Legendary Blades, the trusted brand now includes a diverse portfolio of innovative activity-essential equipment for enthusiasts and professional end users. For more information please visit www.gerbergear.com About Gear Junkie: GearJunkie.com, launched in 2006, is regarded as a top blog and online publication for product reviews and news in the outdoors world. The site contains thousands of pages of content -- gear reviews, news, travel and adventure stories, a video section, photo galleries, and giveaway contests. The site's "Daily Dose" blog is often cited as a top source for industry news and product reviews. Gear Junkie is owned and operated by Monopoint Media LLC , a company founded in 2006 by Regenold and two business partners. About the GoPro Mountain Games, Vail ( June 6 – 9, 2013): The GoPro Mountain Games are the nation’s largest celebration of mountain sport, lifestyle and music featuring top professional and amateur athletes from around the world. The environmentally-friendly adventure sporting event hosts approximately 3,500 outdoor athletes, along with an estimated 45,000 spectators. Athletes converge on Vail’s mountains and rivers to compete in nine sports and 25 disciplines for over $100,000 in prize money. Events include kayaking, rafting, stand up paddling, mountain biking, road cycling, World Cup Bouldering, amateur climbing, fly-fishing, trail running, the slackline world championships and a half marathon. Additional events at the GoPro Mountain Games include: a film series, Outdoor Reels; a photography competition, Mountain Click; an interactive expo area, Gear Town; DockDog canine competitions and free concerts at Mountains of Music. The GoPro Mountain Games are a project of the Vail Valley Foundation. www.gopromountaingames.com / 888.883.VAIL(8245) ###

Vasque to Celebrate Thru-Hikers at Annual Trail Days Event

2013-05-12

Each year, the trail town of Damascus, VA rewards Appalachian Trail thru-hikers who have made it to the half-way point of their journey with a three-day ‘Trail Days’ celebration. For the third year in a row, Vasque footwear will take part in this celebration with a free minor boot repair service for thru-hikers, hiking boot giveaways and an opportunity for hikers to record their tales from the trail. “Vasque specializes in performance footwear for the trail and Trail Days gives us the opportunity to support the hikers and hear stories from those who are putting our footwear to the ultimate test, thru-hiking the 2,200 mile Appalachian Trail,” says Chris Miller, National Sales Director of Vasque. Thursday and Friday at the Vasque booth, in the manufacturers’ camp, hikers can enter to win a pair of Breeze 2.0 hiking boots. The new Breeze 2.0 boots are designed with the thru-hiker in mind, with a combination of dual density EVA and a newly designed wishbone molded TPU plate midsole that ensures ample torsional stability and comfort for moments when the trail gets tricky. There is also an improved rubber toe cap for added durability at the front of the boot and a lightweight mesh upper for breathability. In addition to giveaways, Vasque representatives will be on hand at the booth to make minor repairs to thru-hikers’ existing boots and they will also be collecting hikers’ tales from the trail on video to capture the true essence of trail life. For more information about Vasque, see www.vasque.com or contact Angie Houck at angie@darbycommuniations.com . About Vasque Vasque footwear was established in 1964 in response to a need for performance hiking footwear in the US market. With a passion for performance and fit, Vasque’s mission to this day is to bring the latest in technology and design to outdoor enthusiasts by making quality, rugged footwear for all types of trail conditions. Every shoe in Vasque’s collection of backpacking, performance hiking, insulated and trail running shoes are designed to give adventurers a perfect fit for all day comfort on the trail. ###

Two Oregon Purveyors of Fine Living, A Chocolatier and a Brew Master, Spice Up Father�s Day on the Rogue River with O.A.R.S.

2013-05-10

Veteran river outfitter and nature-based adventure travel company O.A.R.S. will share two Oregon purveyors of fine living with guests on a three-day, family-friendly Rogue River rafting and craft beer & chocolate tasting trip that begins on Father’s Day, which is June 16th this year. Lillie Belle Farms’ Handmade Chocolates of Central Point, OR, and Standing Stone Brewing Company of Ashland, OR, will tickle the palates of guests who have laughed their way through Class IIl rapids on this iconic river. This 40-mile Rogue River adventure in southern Oregon includes three days of Class III whitewater rafting through scenic forests, meadows, and narrow gorges, two nights of comfortable camping on large sandy beaches, and gourmet wilderness cuisine including hand-crafted chocolate, and artisan goat cheese paired with craft-brewed lagers and ales. The river winds through the storied Siskiyou Mountains, explored for centuries by Indians, trappers and gold prospectors. This trip encompasses one of the most beautiful pine-forested canyons in North America, and in 1968 the Rogue became one of the first rivers to earn national “Wild & Scenic” wilderness designation. The per person rate for O.A.R.S. ’ June 16-18 Rogue River Beer & Chocolate Tasting Adventure http://www.oars.com/oregon-rafting-hiking-vacations/rogueriverrafting.html is $989 inclusive of two nights of comfortable catered camping, all river equipment, dry bags for gear, meals from lunch on day one through lunch on day three, craft beer and cheese tasting, all-you-can-eat chocolates and chef-prepared gourmet dinners. Chocolatier Jeff Shepherd The truffle wizard is Jeff Shepherd who encases his bubbling cayenne caramel mixture into signature organic dark chocolate and rolls out his smoky blue cheese truffle in chopped toasted almonds. Spending upwards of 15 hours a day in his factory kitchen and retail store, and even more on summer weekends gathering organic fruit from his harvest, this unique chocolate artisan, who began his career selling four flavors of hand-dipped truffles out of his Jeep trunk at Oregon Farmers’ markets, now creates more than 100 exclusive flavors of chocolates and truffles, caramels and bars. His accolades include: Winner of the 2013 and 2012 Good Food Awards in San Francisco, being declared one of America's Top 10 Chocolatiers in 2009, winning the 2008 Grand Prize Scovie Award for fiery cayenne caramels, voted “Best Caramels in the West” by Sunset Magazine, with an esteemed spot as Oprah's “Must Have Christmas Gifts.” Craft Brew Master Larry Chase Larry is an award-winning brew master of Standing Stone Brewing Company whose forte is discovering new flavors from local and regional ingredients for specialty and seasonal beers. Their latest is Chocolate Ale featuring Criollo variety cacao bean sourced by none other than LillieBelle Farms. “Whether beer is served with a chocolate dessert or the chocolate is brewed right into the beer, the two play incredibly well together,” notes Steve Markle, O.A.R.S. spokesperson. He added that the truffle chef may be up for demonstrating how to make fresh chocolate from roasted cocoa beans using a metate, a traditional stone grinding slab for making fresh Mexican-style drinking chocolate. Other craft beer adventures with O.A.R.S. this season are May 14 for two days on the Tuolumne River, CA, with Sierra Nevada Brewing Company & July 4 for three days with 21st Amendment Brewery; June 29 for four days on the Rogue River with Southern Oregon Brewing Company; July 14 for four days on Idaho’s Lower Salmon River with Big Sky Brewing Company; and August 15 for five days on the Lower Salmon with Grand Teton Brewing Company. For more information, availability, reservations and a copy of the 2013 O.A.R.S. Adventures catalog call 209-736-4677 or 800-346-6277, email info@oars.com , or visit: http://www.oars.com/ . About O.A.R.S. Some 500,000 guests later, O.A.R.S. has been providing whitewater rafting vacations since 1969. Over the decades the company has set the standard in first-class rafting, sea kayaking and multi-sport adventure, with destinations and unparalleled experiences on over 35 rivers and coastlines around the world. O.A.R.S. caters to active travelers of all ages and abilities with more than 75 unique itineraries, including one-day and weekend escapes. In 2012, for the sixth consecutive year, Condé Nast Traveler recognized Mindy Gleason, O.A.R.S. Reservation Manager and International Adventure Travel Consultant, as Condé Nast Traveler’s standalone Top Travel Specialist in the River Rafting category. In 2013 Outside, America’s leading multimedia active-lifestyle brand, named O.A.R.S. one of the top two outfitters in the world in its annual Active Travel Awards recognition program. # # #

Ultimate Direction launches new Jurek Collection running gear at Boulder Running Company on May 15 and Runners Roost on May 16

2013-05-09

Ultimate Direction launches new Jurek Collection running gear at Boulder Running Company on May 15 and Runners Roost on May 1 6 Scott Jurek will present his Collection to the public for the first time, answer questions, and lead a group Fun Run BOULDER, COLO. (May 9, 2013) – Ultimate Direction is proud to announce the public launch of the new Scott Jurek-designed Jurek Collection at the Boulder Running Company Wednesday, May 15 at 5:30 p.m, and Runners Roost Lakewood, May 16 at 5:30 pm. This launch represents the first public availability of the much anticipated Jurek collection of running accessories. Scott Jurek will show the new products, answer questions, and run with attendees. Featuring the Endure hydration belt, Essential accessories belt, and Grip hand-held water bottle holder , the Jurek Collection is the lightest, most comfortable, and functional solution for runners to carry water, energy food, and other important items such as a smartphones. The Jurek Collection builds on the success of the Signature Series by combining very technical fabrics with contemporary styling. “Scott Jurek is one of the most well-known, successful, and experienced long distance runners in the world, and his input has been instrumental in creating this excellent line of products,” said Buzz Burrell, Brand Manager for Ultimate Direction. “We think Scott had some amazing ideas, and runners will be really happy to use his Collection, which is unique in its category. The Boulder Running Company is located at 2775 Pearl St. in Boulder, CO. The Runner’s Roost is located at 7978 W Alameda Ave. # A in Lakewood, CO. Events are scheduled for May 15 and May 16 respectively, both starting at 5:30 pm. More information on the individual components of the Jurek Collection follows. All three will be featured and available for purchase at the Boulder Running Company and Runner’s Roost during the events. With dual 10 oz. water bottles for better balance and quick hydration, the Jurek Endure is great for any length run. A water-resistant pocket is sized right for cell phones while a stretch mesh pocket will easily handle keys, energy food, or gloves. A bungee system lets you carry additional gear such as a lightweight jacket. Offering a water-resistant pocket for your phone, a stretch mesh pocket for food, and a secure smaller pocket for your valuables that can be re-positioned as needed, the Jurek Essential is a great companion to any of our hand-held water bottles. Uber comfortable and breathable, you won't be able to tell you have it on. About as minimalist as a hand-held hydration system can be, the Jurek Grip consists of two elastic straps and a single, adjustable hand strap that allow you to hydrate on the fly. And less weight in the hand means more energy for moving forward. The Grip comes with a 20-ounce UD water bottle but is compatible with any similar-sized bottle. Ultimate Direction Fueling the ambitions of anyone embracing and active lifestyle, Ultimate Direction designs and creates best in class hydration solutions to maximize performance wherever your two feet take you. Our athlete-inspired Signature Series hydration vests and the new Scott Jurek Collection join an extensive line-up of water bottles featuring the innovative Kicker Cap®, fuel belts, waist packs, and backpack hydration systems to keep you hydrated and moving forward with comfort, ease and innovative functionality. www.UltimateDirection.com ###

Outdoor Industry Association May Outdoor University Curriculum Announced

2013-05-09

Outdoor Industry Association® May Outdoor University® Curriculum Announced Live Sessions and Newly Released Recordings Explore a Wide Range of Business Issues Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) has announced a diverse Outdoor University® lineup for May, with live sessions that explore online strategies and sustainability initiatives, as well as six newly released recordings, on topics that include e-commerce, brand development and other key business insights. Outdoor University is OIA’s education platform, which delivers a robust curriculum of professional development seminars each month. Outdoor University® workshops and online sessions break down complex challenges and issues specific to outdoor industry businesses. Led by industry experts and business influencers, they offer outstanding opportunities to learn about current business trends and tips for how to be more profitable. The following live sessions are being presented in May. May 15 – 10 am (MDT): How Retailers Can Win Online: Nine Core Elements of a Successful Strategy Bill Leake, ApogeeResults.com Caught between Amazon on one hand and Google on the other, and laced with ample helpings of mobile and social confusion, the world of e-tail is more complex than ever. Bill Leake, former McKinsey & Co. consultant and frequently cited Internet retail expert, will provide you with the tools to formulate and execute a successful action plan for your online store. May 16 – 10 am (MDT): New Equipment Higg Index: Benchmark the Sustainability of Your Gear Product Members of the Equipment Index Working Group Join us for the launch of the Higg Index for Equipment web tool and pilot program. The Higg Index for Equipment will provide indicators tailored specifically to gear products while using the same format as the other Higg Index modules. May 30 – 10 am (MDT): Introduction to the OIA Sustainability Working Group – Spring 2013 Beth Jensen, OIA This webinar is designed to educate brands, retailers, suppliers and other outdoor industry stakeholders on the benefits of participating in the OIA SWG and integrating smarter business practices into their supply chains. In addition, the following recently recorded sessions are now available online: Getting Unstuck: Overcoming Key Strategic Barriers for Retailers and Manufacturers Jim Jelak & Curt Hanke, Shine United More competition. More price sensitivity. Less loyalty. Less time. The experts at Shine United surveyed retailers and manufacturers from across the country to identify where they are “stuck” — and to gain insights into key business and brand barriers. Learn what others are facing and new strategies to get “unstuck.” Dopamine and Adrenaline – How to Create, Evolve and Grow a Great Brand Leif Steiner, Kelly Gray, Kate Young & Evan Farber, Mozie Sozo Open your eyes to unconventional branding philosophies and strategies that can inject your brand with a shot of adrenaline. This webinar explains how to engage new customers, re-energize your core, and possibly even change the future of your company. Effective E-Commerce: How to Intelligently Improve Your Online Sales  Shaun Tinney, The Good Learn the most effective techniques to increase online sales without overhauling your website or frustrating your distributors. With a focus on understanding customer motivations and making sense of analytics, this research-driven talk provides a comprehensive path to stronger e-commerce. Keeping Your Brand Promise: Insight Into Three Powerful Brands Jeff Welch, Mercury CSC; Steve Bendzak, ExOfficio; Steve Hemkens, Orvis Rod & Tackle; & Bruce Palmer, NOLS Learn how three veteran and successful brands — ExOfficio, Orvis and NOLS — approach defining the customer experience to ensure each delivers on expectations of the brand promise. Avoiding Patent Pitfalls – Protecting Your Business’s Crown Jewels Kassim M. Ferris and John (Jay) A. Rafter, Jr., Stoel Rives, LLP Many issues, if overlooked, can have drastic consequences on patent rights. This webinar explores a common product development scenario, illustrating potential perils of joint development, vendor relationships, field testing, secret commercial activity, provisional patent applications and more. It also examines potential pitfalls resulting from recent changes in U.S. patent law. Establish a Proactive Chemicals Management Strategy with the CM Framework Chemicals Management Working Group Steering Committee Members If you think you can turn a blind eye to more proactive chemicals management in your supply chain and final products, think again. The good news is, we have a tool for you: the “Chemicals Management Framework.” This webinar explains why you should engage with the CM Framework, how it functions, and what benefits you and your company can achieve by engaging in the CM Framework pilot program. Outdoor University recordings are free to all employees of OIA member companies. For non-OIA members, some sessions are free and others require payment of a nominal per-session fee. Learn more at outdoorindustry.org/ou . About Outdoor Industry Association Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353. ###

Industrial Revolution to Represent Swedish Morakniv� (Mora Knife) In US Market

2013-05-09

Industrial Revolution announces today its partnership with Mora of Sweden for US distribution of Morakniv. In Sweden, this line of specialty knives for craft, hunting, fishing and other pursuits has been synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship and precision since 1891. Knife making has been the primary trade in the Mora region of Sweden for over 400 years. Based on generations of refinement and cumulative expertise, Mora of Sweden began manufacturing knives for use by anglers, adventurers, hunters and other skilled workers. Made of high-quality steel, Morakniv blades are fashioned for accuracy. Woodcarving tools reflect the specific needs of artisans, such as a tapered blade for tiny cuts or a hook for spoon making. The handles are designed to fit the contours of the palm, in effect, making the blade an extension of the hand. “We’ve gained a reputation for introducing some of the best quality, most innovative European outdoor brands to US customers,” says Graeme Esarey, Industrial Revolution’s Director of Marketing and Product Development. “Morakniv extends that expertise into traditional outdoor markets and beyond and we are proud to represent products of such exceptional quality.” Industrial Revolution also represents Light My Fire ® , the Swedish manufacturer of the Spork, Swedish FireSteel ® fire starter and other camp kitchen products. Light My Fire’s Swedish FireKnife™—a multi-purpose knife that includes FireSteel in the handle—is made in collaboration with Mora of Sweden. For additional information, contact Industrial Revolution, Inc. at 888-297-6062 or visit www.industrialrev.com/morakniv . About Morakniv Building on over 400 years of Swedish tradition, Morakniv has produced knives of unparalleled quality for artisans, hunters, adventurers, anglers, farriers and other skilled trades and hobbyists since 1891. Thoughtfully designed for precision and power, Morakniv products are made by Mora of Sweden. www.morakniv.com About Industrial Revolution Since its founding in 1971 as UCO, the Original Candle Lantern company, Industrial Revolution has expanded to become a leading manufacturer and distributor of innovative products that promote fun, safety, and comfort in the outdoors. In addition to UCO candle lanterns and Stormproof Matches, Industrial Revolution makes YayLabs! Ice Cream Balls, Pedco tripods and clamps, and Grilliput portable grills. The company is the US distributor of cutting-edge product lines from around the world, including Swedish Light My Fire products such as the Spork and FireSteel®, German-based Esbit solid fuel stoves and cookware, DAJO Adventure Gear knives, myFC PowerTrekk Fuel Cell Charger and now Morakniv ® (Mora knives). For more information on Industrial Revolution, see www.industrialrev.com .

GU Energy Welcomes New Senior Marketing Manager

2013-05-09

GU Energy Labs, creators of the original energy gel, is pleased to announce the addition of new Senior Marketing Manager Lauren O’Connor to the GU Energy team. Having most recently served as Senior Marketing Manager for Austin, TX based Trigger Point Performance, O’Connor brings over eight years of marketing, public relations, and advertising experience to the table. Her professional background also includes a Director of Integrated Marketing and Social Media position at Pivotal Fitness, as well as Global Customer & Channel Marketing Communications Manager position with Hewlett-Packard. “We are thrilled to have Lauren on board as the new Senior Marketing Manager,” said Tal Johnson, President and COO at GU Energy, “Between her wealth of professional experience and personal passion for this industry and our products, we are looking forward to the creativity and direction she’ll bring to our marketing efforts.” As Senior Marketing Manager O’Connor will be responsible for overseeing consumer marketing strategy, as well as implementation of PR, Social Media, advertising and media planning, consumer promotions, and strategic partnerships. “GU Energy Labs is a global leader and has over two decades of expertise in the industry,” said O’Connor, “Joining the GU crew and helping continue their success through integrated marketing planning presents a unique set of opportunities, as well as challenges – which is exciting. I’m thrilled to be part of such a great organization, while helping support athletes do what they love.” ABOUT GU ENERGY LABS GU’s original Energy Gel was launched in 1994 in Berkeley, CA. GU Energy Labs consistent innovation keeps GU at the forefront of the industry. Roctane, Chomps and GU Recovery Brew are staples of endurance athletes’ worldwide, providing scientifically proven, performance-tested nutrition. For more information about GU, log onto www.GUenergy.com ###

Raleigh Bicycles Wants You to Win a Trip to DealerCamp 2013

2013-05-09

Raleigh Bicycles and Lifeboat Events want to send one super-lucky cycling enthusiast to Bike DealerCamp 2013 at the Deer Valley Resort in Utah this July. DealerCamp, one of the premier annual summer bike events produced by Lifeboat Events , offers an exclusive experiential buying opportunity showcasing 2014 bikes and accessories taking place July 25-27. “Take advantage of this sweepstakes for the chance to experience Raleigh and other brands from a new perspective,” said Chris Speyer, COO of Accell North America. “This is the prime opportunity to demo the latest gear, hang out with the pros, and meet the folks behind the scenes who bring your favorite bikes to life.” The show is only open to the public on Sat. July 27. However, the sweepstakes winner has an exclusive invitation to attend the full four-day industry event. Raleigh will cover expenses for airfare (within the U.S.) and lodging, arriving July 24 and departing on July 28. The package offers a unique insider’s look into the bicycling industry and a sneak peek at the debut of 2014 product lines. The winner will also ride away on their choice of the Revenio or Capri Carbon 4.0 road bike, equipped with the Shimano Di2 components, get VIP access to Raleigh’s third-annual Midsummer Night's Cyclocross Race and Ride 2 Recovery Honor Ride events. So, how do you win? Register to win by visiting Raleigh’s news feed on Facebook today through May 24. All you have to do is hit “Like” and fill out the registration form to be eligible to win free travel and accommodations to the event. One winner will be randomly selected. DealerCamp provides bicycle industry brands with an open-air venue to conduct a more intimate and interactive style of business with the country’s top retailers. At the event, Raleigh will be displaying its 2014 bike line which includes a broad spectrum of bicycles from road and mountain to cyclocross and commuters for all ages and abilities. For more about Raleigh Bicycles visit: www.RaleighUSA.com . For more about DealerCamp 2013 visit: www.bikedealercamp.com and register online . About Raleigh Bicycles: Raleigh Bicycles offers a broad spectrum of bicycles including road, mountain, cyclocross, and commuter for all ages and abilities. Raleigh focuses on supporting the commuter, the family and local cycling, and partners with numerous non-profits around the U.S. each year to help grow the sport, including Ride 2 Recovery. Raleigh also sponsors Raleigh UK and Raleigh/Clement competitive cycling teams. About Lifeboat Events: Led by industry veterans Lance Camisasca and Chad Battistone, Lifeboat Events hosts PressCamp and DealerCamp, two trend-setting events for the bicycling industry.

Outdoor Retailer Launches Upgraded Website

2013-05-09

To make it easier for attendees and exhibitors to find information relevant to their individual needs and interests, Outdoor Retailer today announced they have launched a redesigned website at www.outdoorretailer.com . The new site features a more organic look and feel with intuitive and consistent navigation. For attendees, information about the show’s Zones – market-specific neutral territories highlighting latest news, technologies and events taking place at the show -- are separated into seven different categories for Summer Market under the “Show Info” tab. To help exhibitors and attendees pre-plan their trip, the site features ground transportation information with interactive maps of the Salt Lake City area and a complete shuttle schedule. During show time, it will also include time schedules for the TRAX light rail system that services the convention center and hotels. Intended to be a destination for exhibitors and attendees to find show and industry specific information, the Industry Resources section contains industry news, association and advocacy news and downloadable PDFs of past and present O.R. Dailies. Show organizers switched to a new website platform with an easier-to-use content management system allowing them to update and add new content as it becomes available. The above are just a few examples of the changes to the site. To see more, go to www.outdoorretailer.com . About Outdoor Retailer Outdoor Retailer (OR) brings together retailers, manufacturers, industry advocates and media to conduct the business of outdoor recreation through tradeshows, product demo events and web-based business solutions. Produced by Nielsen Expositions and based in San Juan Capistrano, California, Outdoor Retailer also provides and promotes retailer education, advocacy, responsibility and critical face-to-face business initiatives within the outdoor industry. Named among Trade Show News Network's 25 fastest-growing trade shows by attendance, Outdoor Retailer ( www.outdoorretailer.com ) connects approximately 46,000 attendees on a semi-annual basis for its Summer and Winter Market shows, and thousands more through its year-round online resources and platforms. # # #

ENO and the ATC Strengthen Relationship with ATC Limited Edition Hammock Combo

2013-05-09

After more than 10 years living as neighbors to the Appalachian Trail, Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO), the leading producer of camping and travel hammocks based in Asheville, NC, announces a continued partnership with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) to extend their support of the 2,180 mile hiking route. ENO first partnered with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in 2012 with a limited edition combo product comprised of their most popular hammock, the DoubleNest, and the SlapStrapPro, designed with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s colors and a one-of-a-kind logo. All net proceeds from every combo sale – which retails for $99.95 – is donated towards support of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s efforts to preserve and manage the trail. “The Appalachian Trail Conservancy enjoys and works to partner with companies, such as ENO, who understand the importance and value in supporting the ATC’s efforts,” stated Amy McCormick, Assistant Director of Development for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. “ENO has become one of our most generous supporters.” ENO’s General Manager, Lane Nakaji, who thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2001, thinks the relationship with the non-profit is a great way for the company to give back to the environment for which outdoor recreation, such as hammocking, depends on. “We love what the Appalachian Trail Conservancy stands for and protects,” noted Nakaji. “The trail is iconic and we are proud to help support an organization whose primary focus is to keep it healthy and accessible.” ENO’s first batch of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Combo hammocks/straps proved an immediate hit, netting over $12,000 for the organization in just three quarters. Nakaji hopes to match that number and exceed it in 2013. Although this year’s combo is the same style as its predecessor, the current option includes the Atlas Suspension System – the newest and most popular hammock strap. It is available on www.enonation.com or at www.atctrailstore.org. “With this mutually beneficial partnership, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy hopes to educate, excite and raise awareness among ENO’s fans and customers about the splendor of the Appalachian Trail and the importance of supporting and taking care of this iconic trail for future generations,” said McCormick. The limited edition ENO-ATC hammock combo. All net proceeds go towards supporting the ATC’s efforts to preserve the Appalachian Trail. About the Appalachian Trail Conservancy The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come. For more information please visit www.appalachiantrail.org. About ENO Eagles Nest Outfitters, the brain child of brothers Peter and Paul Pinholster, was founded in the summer of 1999. Growing steadily from a two-man, one-van operation to the leading provider of ingeniously crafted parachute hammocks and outdoor accessories, the company offers the highest quality relaxation products for adventure travelers and outdoors lovers everywhere. The company’s products are sold in 750 specialty outdoor and sporting goods retail stores nationwide and online at www.enonation.com .

Ruffwear� Selects Revolution House Media For its Public Relations & Communications Efforts

2013-05-08

Ruffwear, the leading producer of high performance dog gear, has selected Revolution House Media to lead its public relations and communications efforts. "Ruffwear is excited to partner with Revolution House Media. Kate Ketschek is a perfect fit for our brand and will continue our efforts of sharing the Ruffwear story and inspiring outdoor adventures for dogs and their human companions," says Susan Strible, Director of Marketing for Ruffwear. “My office assistant, Charlotte, is probably the most excited about our new client. She’s been running with Ruffwear products for years, from the Singletrak Pack™ for longer days on the trail to The Beacon™ light for nighttime jaunts, and she’s thrilled for the opportunity to add some more gear to her quiver. For me, I’m excited to work with a brand that has continually shown innovation in its products and a desire to make the most comfortable, practical and durable gear for active, outdoor-loving dogs. I look forward to joining the pack and continuing to build on an already strong brand image,” said Kate Ketschek, owner of Revolution House Media. Backpacker Magazine recently recognized Ruffwear’s Approach Pack™ in its prestigious Gear Guide , applauding its harness design for comfort and stability, while offering enough space to pack everything needed for a day hike or an overnight excursion. Along with improvements to its TubeLok™ proprietary webbing construction and advancements to its manufacturing processes to minimize post-industrial waste, the company is forecasting sales to remain strong for 2013. Customers can find the more durable and comfortable TubeLok™ webbing in both new and redesigned products online and at specialty outdoor and pet retailers now. Since 1994, Ruffwear has been building performance products to enhance and inspire outdoor adventures for dogs and their human companions. For more information, please visit www.ruffwear.com. For sales inquires, support@ruffwear.com. Revolution House Media , started by Kate Ketschek, focuses on building recognition and increasing market share for innovative brands in the outdoor, tactical and lifestyle markets. Delivering quantifiable results through media relations, editorial coverage, social media management and strategic partnerships, RHM works with partner brands to put the best communications plan in place to reach their goals.

Bergans Base Layer Packaging Wins Design Award

2013-05-08

Bergans of Norway's new packaging for its wool base layer program has been awarded the Norwegian “Merket for God Design” (Award for Design Excellence) by the Norwegian Design Council. The Prize was awarded at Oslo Design Day, which was held last month in Oslo, Norway. “This Award goes to the most innovative and courageous companies and designers we have in Norway right now,” said Thea Mehl, project leader at the Norwegian Design Council. Packaging for the Bergans wool base layer collection consists of an inner box made of recycled card stock covered by a bag made of Tyvek®, a synthetic fabric of flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers made by DuPont. The bags are very strong, difficult to tear, and lightweight. They can be re-purposed as a stuff sack for Bergans base layers, and the special surface texture makes it easy to find in a backpack. Tyvek® is also recyclable material. The Jury of the Norwegian Design Council emphasized the possibility to re-use the packaging after buying the product, its special feel and its use of color codes to help consumers identify the different base layer weights Bergans offers. Bergans wool base layer collection was launched in fall 2012 and is made of 100 percent Merino wool. In North America, the line is available in several styles for men and women in two different weights, 150 and 210 grams. For more information about Bergans of Norway and its products, go to www.bergans.com . For North American sales questions, contact Keith Patterson at keith.patterson@bergans.com . About Bergans of Norway Bergans was established in 1908, when Ole Ferdinand Bergan invented the first anatomical backpack. Today backpacks, functional outdoor clothing and tents are part of the portfolio of Bergans of Norway, as well as the ALLY brand of packable canoes. Adventurers such as South Pole conqueror Roald Amundsen, Mount Everest pioneer Sir Edmund Hillary, and Heroes of our time such as Polar explorers Rune Gjeldnes or Cecilie Skog trust Bergans equipment on their expeditions. The headquarter of Bergans Fritid AS is situated in Hokksund, Norway, 60 km southwest of Oslo, where 90-plus employees work in development, research, design and sales. Bergans is a market leader in Norway and steadily growing in several export markets in Europe and North America ( www.bergans.com ). # # #

Conservation Alliance Awards $25,000 Grant for Appalachian Mountain Club�s Work to Protect Maine�s 100-Mile Wilderness Region

2013-05-08

The Conservation Alliance has awarded a $25,000 grant to the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) for its work to protect Maine's 100-Mile Wilderness Region. AMC's Maine Woods Initiative represents a multi-pronged strategy for regional land conservation that addresses ecological and economic needs through outdoor recreation, forest protection, sustainable forestry and community partnerships. The Conservation Alliance's mission is to engage businesses to fund and partner with organizations to protect wild places for their habitat and recreation values, and has contributed nearly $12 million to grassroots conservation since its inception in 1989. Alliance funding has helped save more than 42 million acres of wildlands; protect 2,748 miles of rivers; stop or remove 25 dams; designate five marine reserves; and purchase nine climbing areas. "We are grateful for The Conservation Alliance's continued support of our conservation efforts in the 100-Mile Wilderness Region," said Bryan Wentzell, Maine Policy Manager. "Land protection plays a major role in the Maine Woods Initiative and AMC's overall efforts to protect the region, and over the past nine years we have conserved 66,500 acres, in part due to Conservation Alliance support. This grant will allow us to continue our work in conserving the region's land for outdoor recreation, ecological protection, and sustainable forestry." AMC's long-range goal for the Maine Woods Initiative is to protect at least 100,000 acres in Northern Maine through land purchase and conservation easements, while also preserving public access for recreation. The project also builds on AMC's core strengths in grassroots conservation organizing to generate local and statewide support for public funding from such programs as the Forest Legacy Program, the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Land for Maine's Future program. "AMC has a rich history of protecting wild places in the Northeast, an important region for outdoor recreation," said John Sterling, Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance. "Our member companies are proud to invest in AMC's vision for landscape-scale protection in the 100-Mile Wilderness region." More information about the Appalachian Mountain Club's Maine Woods Initiative is available at http://www.outdoors.org/mwi . More information about the Conservation Alliance is available at http://www.conservationalliance.com . About the Appalachian Mountain Club Founded in 1876, the Appalachian Mountain Club is America's oldest conservation and recreation organization. With more than 100,000 members, advocates, and supporters in the Northeast and beyond, the nonprofit AMC promotes the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the mountains, forests, waters, and trails of the Appalachian region. The AMC supports natural resource conservation while encouraging responsible recreation, based on the philosophy that successful, long-term conservation depends upon first-hand enjoyment of the natural environment. About The Conservation Alliance The Conservation Alliance is an organization of outdoor businesses whose collective contributions support grassroots environmental organizations and their efforts to protect wild places where outdoor enthusiasts recreate. Alliance funds have played a key role in protecting rivers, trails, wildlands and climbing areas.

Costa�s New Rimless Cayan Comes Feature Loaded

2013-05-08

“Barely there, yet loaded with performance technology,” is how Costa describes its newest sunglass style, Cayan. Pronounced KIE-an , this stylish, rimless sunglass style features an extra large rectangular shape, with no-slip temple tips and nose pads. It’s also available in Costa’s patented color-enhancing 580P™ lens technology. Costa’s 580P™ lenses are super lightweight and impact-resistant. The lenses block yellow light – the harshest light – from entering the eye, allowing it to truly relax. The result is razor sharp visual acuity, unparalleled polarization and elimination of reflected glare. Cayan is available in tortoise with copper or silver mirror lenses; thunder gray with gray or blue mirror lenses; or crystal with gray or silver mirror lenses. All Costa sunglasses are 100 percent polarized and protect against harmful UV rays. “When you’re wearing sunglasses, you don’t want to think about wearing sunglasses,” said Chas MacDonald, president of Costa Sunglasses. “ The rimless Cayan is so lightweight, you won’t even feel like you’re wearing them, and yet you still have all of the performance features you’d expect in a pair of Costas.” Cayan starts in retail price at $159. To see more images, or to find an authorized Costa retail partner, visit www.costadelmar.com . About Costa™ As the leading manufacturer of the world’s clearest polarized performance sunglasses, Costa offers superior lens technology and unparalleled fit and durability. Still handcrafted today in Florida, Costa has created the highest quality, best performing sunglasses for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983. It’s currently the fourth-largest brand in the performance sunglasses market. For Costa, conservation is all about sustainable fishing. Many fisheries that should be vibrant and healthy are all but devoid of native fish because they have fallen victim to poor fishing practices, unregulated development, lack of watershed protection or all of the above. Costa works with partners around the world to help increase awareness and influence policy so that both the fish and fishermen of tomorrow will have healthy waters to enjoy. Costa encourages others to help in any way they can. For more information, contact 1-800-447-3700 or visit the company’s web site at www.costadelmar.com . Join the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/costasunglasses or on Twitter @CostaSunglasses . # # #

Outdoor Industry Association Launching Equipment Index Pilot

2013-05-08

Outdoor Industry Association® Launching Equipment Index Pilot Free Webinar on May 16 to Introduce Tool that Measures Hardgoods Product Sustainability The Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) Sustainability Working Group (SWG) is launching a pilot program to test drive the Equipment module of the Higg Index, a new tool to help companies gain insight into the supply chain for outdoor equipment (bicycles, skis, snowboards, backpacks, tents, camp stoves, water bottles, etc.) and how to make more sustainable products. OIA is offering a free webinar on May 16 to introduce the tool and get companies involved. Equipment manufacturers are encouraged to participate in the pilot, which is designed to provide a testing ground for the tool and to gather feedback on how to make it better. “This is the culmination of many years of work and collaboration among dozens of outdoor industry companies,” said Beth Jensen, director of corporate responsibility for OIA. “This tool was developed by and for the industry in order to help companies closely examine their supply chains and identify tangible steps to improve the sustainability of their products. We hope a diverse array of companies will participate in the pilot.” The Equipment Index builds on Higg Index modules for Apparel and Footwear that have already been launched to the industry. From the early days of the OIA Eco Index in 2007, the outdoor industry wanted to ensure that its sustainability indexing tool was applicable to gear products as well as to apparel and footwear. The Higg Index for Equipment will fulfill this purpose, providing indicators tailored specifically to hardgoods while employing the same format as the other Higg Index modules. The Equipment Index Pilot launches May 16, with feedback due July 15. To learn more about the Equipment Index Pilot, visit outdoorindustry.org/equipmentpilot . About Outdoor Industry Association Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives, and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353. About the Outdoor Industry Association Sustainability Working Group The Outdoor Industry Association Sustainability Working Group (OIA SWG) is a volunteer collaboration among more than 250 outdoor industry brands, retailers, suppliers and other stakeholders working to identify and improve the environmental and social impacts of their shared global supply chains. The OIA SWG is currently focusing on four key areas: 1) index development for apparel, footwear and equipment, 2) responsible chemicals management, 3) materials traceability throughout the supply chain, and 4) social responsibility and fair labor issues. Through the OIA SWG, the outdoor industry is demonstrating that it is possible to effect meaningful, scalable change through pre-competitive, business-driven collaboration. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org/sustainability . ###

Gregory Selects New Midwest US Sales Rep Agency

2013-05-08

Gregory, the world’s leading pack maker for over 35 years, has named Gerten Outdoors as its new sales agency in the Midwest. Based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and run by industry veterans Paul Gerten and Charlie Anderson, Gerten Outdoors will focus on enhancing brand awareness and promoting retail partnerships throughout the territory. “Paul, Charlie and the team at Gerten Outdoors have the experience and expertise to really make an impact for Gregory in their territory,” says John Pieper, Director of NA Sales. “The Midwest is a key market for us and Paul and Charlie’s strong relationships with retailers, combined with their on-trail authenticity, will make a strong Gregory statement with buyers and floor staff.” Paul Gerten has been an independent sales rep in the outdoor industry for over a decade and has cultivated Gerten Outdoors into a respected agency that represents several successful outdoor and active lifestyle brands. Prior to working in the outdoor industry, Paul was a high school teacher in an alternative education program with an extensive wilderness component, averaging about 35 school days a year on the trail with students. Charlie Anderson literally grew up in a retail shop and has worked with a variety of outdoor retailers since the age of 15, most recently as a buyer for Midwest Mountaineering. "We are really excited about being part of the Gregory family with its tradition of excellence.” said Gerten. “Gregory has an outstanding reputation for innovation in packs that parallels an impeccable fit story. We are ready and motivated to help retailers in the Midwest see the many benefits to partnering with Gregory, for both their business benefit and the equipment benefit their customers.”

Gregory Supports American Hiking Society as a Sponsor of National Trails Day�

2013-05-08

American Hiking Society is proud to announce a new partnership with Gregory, which has been developing innovative backpacks that enhance the outdoor experience for more than 30 years. In its new role as a sponsor of National Trails Day®, Gregory joins other leading outdoor manufacturers and retailers in supporting AHS’ efforts to promote and protect America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas, and the hiking experience. “By signing on as a sponsor of National Trails Day®, Gregory has clearly demonstrated that the company understands the importance of protecting the special places where its customers enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor sports. In supporting National Trails Day®, Gregory is helping to encourage Americans of all ages to get outside and join the 21st annual countrywide celebration of stewardship, recreation, and exploration on America’s trails,” commented Greg Miller, American Hiking Society’s President. “Gregory is proud to support American Hiking Society and National Trails Day®. A primary focus of our product development is to enhance outdoor experiences and this more often than not, begins on a Trail. Gregory believes strongly in the mission of AHS and the need to preserve our natural resources for outdoor recreation,” stated Bill Kulczycki, Gregory Brand President. National Trails Day® events are organized and hosted across the country by hiking clubs, trail organizations, businesses, community groups, and government agencies. National Trails Day® events can involve a broad array of activities, including hiking, backpacking, bike riding, trail maintenance, birding, wildlife photography, geocaching, paddle trips, trail running, trail dedications, health-focused programs, children’s activities, and more. “National Trails Day provides an excellent opportunity for us to remind all hikers about the importance of being appropriately prepared so that they can safely enjoy their outdoor adventures, and part of the message involves taking along a well-stocked daypack or backpack that contains essential items such as food, water, and safety gear. We are happy to have a corporate partner who can supply this important item to our members,” said Miller. About American Hiking Society Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national, recreation-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience. To learn more about American Hiking Society and its mission and programs, visit http://www.americanhiking.org/ or call (301) 565-6704. About Gregory For over 35 years, Gregory has been the longtime leader in expedition, backpacking, daypacks and travel gear. World renowned for fit, durability, and performance in all their products, Gregory has won awards for its pack designs from such diverse media outlets as Outside Magazine, Backpacker Magazine, National Geographic Adventure, Popular Science, Men’s Journal, Consumers Digest and Alpinist Magazine. Responsible for many industry firsts in backpacking fit and design, the Gregory research and design team, including company founder Wayne Gregory, continues to lead the way in innovative backpack technology and performance. Gregory operates independently under Black Diamond, Inc. (BDE). For more information about Gregory packs, visit http://www.gregorypacks.com or call 877.477.4292.

Sperry Top-Sider Signs Backbone Media for Performance Line PR

2013-05-08

(Lexington, Mass.) Sperry Top-Sider, the leading nautical performance and lifestyle footwear brand and inventor of the world's first boat shoe, has appointed Backbone Media to manage the public relations for its authentic performance initiatives. “As an agency, we're always looking to partner with brands that have great stories to tell," states Backbone Media PR director, Ian Anderson. "Sperry Top-Sider's story goes all the way back to 1935, when Paul Sperry invented his original boat shoes, with their unique, siped rubber outsoles. Performance and technology have been at the heart of the Sperry Top-Sider brand ever since." Sperry Top-Sider’s grip on performance began over 75 years ago with the Authentic Original™ boat shoe, which, at the time, was state-of-the-art performance equipment. Still driven by the same passion for innovation, Sperry Top-Sider offers a wide variety of lab-proven, athlete-tested solutions. GripX3 Technology™ provides sailors with ultimate grip and traction, SON-R™ Technology offers paddlers with superior stability and agility under foot, and ASV Technology™ dramatically reduces shock and vibration for power boaters and anglers. About Backbone Media Backbone Media is a public relations, media planning and buying, and social media agency that partners with brands to target, engage and inspire the active lifestyle market. For over 15 years, Backbone has worked with leading outdoor gear, apparel, technology, food and beverage brands, as well as tourism destinations around the world. Backbone has offices in Carbondale and Denver, Colorado, and Jackson, Wyoming. About Sperry Top-Sider Since 1935, Sperry Top-Sider has been the leading brand of footwear for those with a Passion for the Sea®. From its introduction of the world’s first siped rubber outsole for non-marking traction to advanced technical fabrication to combat the elements, Sperry Top-Sider remains the standard of high-performance amphibious footwear and apparel for life and activities in, on and around the water. Available around the globe in independent, marine, outdoor, department stores and on www.sperrytopsider.com , Sperry Top-Sider is the title sponsor of the U.S. Sailing Team Sperry Top-Sider , Sperry Top-Sider Melges World Championships, Sperry Top-Sider Charleston Race Week and the Sperry Top-Sider NOOD Regattas. Sperry is also the official footwear of the National Safe Boating Council, the US Sailing Association, the Mid Atlantic $500K and is presenting sponsor of the Salt Water Sportsman National Seminar Series. The brand sponsors more than 30 high profile multi-water sport athletes, who are part of Team Sperry Top-Sider. Since early 2010, the brand has launched 27 Sperry Top-Sider retail stores in the U.S. – retail stores dedicated to the Passion for the Sea® lifestyle. Sperry Top-Sider is a division of Wolverine Worldwide .

Beyond Coastal and Chums Introduce New National Sales Manager

2013-05-07

Chums , the creator of innovative outdoor eyewear retainers and highly sought after outdoor accessories, and Beyond Coastal, manufacturer of premium suncare products, this week announce Matt Patterson as National Sales Manager. Patterson served most recently as Director of Sales and Marketing at Hydrapak, where he led the brand’s global sales development, including the launch of the Hydrapak OEM program. After his arrival at Hydrapak in 2005, the company soon became the hydration industry’s leading manufacturer of OEM reservoirs in partnership with brands like Shimano, The North Face, Marmot, Scott, and Nathan. Patterson will remain on the Hydrapak Sales Advisory Board. Prior to Hydrapak, Patterson spent three years at The North Face, starting in retail management and eventually getting promoted to the marketing department, where he directed the creative marketing and collateral for the TNF sales team. "Chums is an iconic outdoor industry brand, and I am honored to be a part of the Beyond Coastal and Chums family,” said Patterson. “From inception, both of these brands have been leaders in their respective fields in the outdoor, paddlesports, bike, climbing and ski industries, and I’m ready to help continue that trend and further our success.” In his new post, Patterson will lead sales efforts for both brands and help develop new channels and products to continue to drive Chums and Beyond Coastal innovation and leadership. “We could not be more pleased to add Matt to the team,” said Tom Ferries, VP of marketing for Beyond Coastal and Chums. “His experience in the outdoor industry and passion for this category make him a perfect fit for the vision of these brands. Combine that with his proven success in the sales field, and we’re setting the table for significant growth now and into the future.” For more information on Beyond Coastal, click here . To learn more about Chums, click here . About Beyond Coastal Suncare Beyond Coastal's mission is to offer clean and healthy sun care products for the active outdoor and natural lifestyle. From the mountains to the ocean and everywhere in between, Beyond Coastal has developed a comprehensive line of formulas trusted worldwide by everyone from professional athletes to active families. Our mission is to offer healthy alternative sunscreens that Protect, Nourish, Repair and Hydrate your skin. For more information, please visit www.beyondcoastal.com or join the conversation on Facebook . About Chums Chums , the original eyewear retainer company, was founded in 1983 and is still thriving today as a globally-recognized outdoor brand. The brand is the innovative worldwide leader in high-quality, durable eyewear and sporting accessories and is devoted to “Helping You Hang On” to your gear. Chums is proud to be a US manufacturer. For more information, please visit www.chums.com or join the conversation on Facebook .

Vasque Ultra Runner Callahan Takes Second in Collegiate Peaks 50

2013-05-07

Vasque ultra runner Duncan Callahan took second place in his first race of the season this past weekend at Collegiate Peaks in Buena Vista, Colorado. The run, which offers both 25 and 50-mile options, drew over 300 participants. For the 50-mile race, participants follow a horseshoe-shaped course, starting at 8,500 feet and rising over 2,500 feet in elevation. Callahan beat his previous course time from 2 years ago by 20 minutes, finishing the race in 7 hours, 12 minutes. “It was a perfect day for a race, great weather, amazing scenery and an overall positive vibe on the course,” says Callahan. “I raced in the Vasque Pendulums , my shoe of choice right now, and they performed great over the terrain and throughout the entire race.” Callahan, who lives and trains at 7000’ in Gunnison, Colorado is an ultra-marathon coach who counts two Leadville Trail 100 wins, a Moab 100 win, a Grand Mesa Ultra 50 and a Spring Desert Ultra 50 win among his accomplishments. He currently trains and races in the new Vasque Pendulum, a minimalist-minded shoe with a 6mm drop and a tough EVA mid-sole and TPU plate to shield the foot from damage from rocks and roots on the trail. For more information about Vasque, see www.vasque.com or contact Angie Houck at angie@darbycommuniations.com. About Vasque Vasque footwear was established in 1964 in response to a need for performance hiking footwear in the US market. With a passion for performance and fit, Vasque’s mission to this day is to bring the latest in technology and design to outdoor enthusiasts by making quality, rugged footwear for all types of trail conditions. Every shoe in Vasque’s collection of backpacking, performance hiking, insulated and trail running shoes are designed to give adventurers a perfect fit for all day comfort on the trail.

Bomber Gear Sponsorship Efforts Ramp Up for 2013 Season

2013-05-07

Bomber Gear, manufacturer of premium paddling apparel and sprayskirts, has grown its sponsorships program for 2013 to include both whitewater and touring events as well as environmental and community organizations. With an expanded premium apparel line that will keep any paddler protected in even the most extreme conditions, Bomber Gear’s sponsorships for 2013 reflect the brand’s support of all types of paddlesports from SUP, to sea kayaking, to steep creeking. “The range of events that Bomber Gear is sponsoring for 2013, from world kayaking competitions to river festivals to adventure tours, mirrors Bomber Gear’s relevance for any paddlesport,” said Jessica Prescott, marketing communications manager for Bomber Gear. “While Bomber Gear was originally created for whitewater paddlers, our apparel line is now designed for touring and stand up paddlers in addition to whitewater enthusiasts, and our sponsorships this year align with that commitment.” Bomber Gear’s 2013 Sponsorships: Events • GoPro Mountain Games – (June 6-9, 2013). The GoPro Mountain Games, held in Vail, Colo., are the nation’s largest celebration of the outdoor lifestyle, including adventure sports, art, and mountain culture. Professional and amateur athletes from around the world will be competing in a variety paddling events such as the full-contact, 8 Ball Kayak Sprint, Steep Creek Championship, SUP SurfCross, SUP Surf Sprint and the Freestyle Kayak Competition. This year, Bomber Gear is donating a prize to the winner of the Steep Creek Race and will be onsite to support all the different types of on-water activities. • World Championships – (Sept. 2-8, 2013). The 2013 ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships will take place on the Nantahala River. More than 300 of the best international athletes will descend upon Bryson City, N.C., for a week to compete and celebrate all things paddling. Thousands of spectators are expected to attend the event and watch the world’s top kayakers duke it out on The 2013 Wave, a world-class competitive feature created by a Wave Shaper. Organizations • Active Nature Adventures – Team Dagger athlete Jason Beakes and fitness guru Kathy Summers have teamed up to create this organization that specializes in integrated fitness training through kayaking and stand up paddle boarding on the Potomac River and surrounding National Parks. Launching this spring, Active Nature seeks to provide exciting and life-affirming outdoor adventures to challenge participants physically and emotionally. Bomber Gear supports this type of on-water wellness movement and is sponsoring the organization with dry tops and sprayskirts for participants to use. • American Whitewater – Bomber Gear is donating products to American Whitewater fundraisers such as Gauley Fest (Sept 20-21, 2013) to support the organization’s river conservation and access works. Stop by the Bomber Gear booth at Gauley Fest for a chance to win a Bomb Dry Suit, or sign up to win a Shellshock sprayskirt in the silent auction. Video Projects • Currents – Bomber Gear will be sponsoring web episodes covering a variety of kayaking topics including grassroots creekboat races, undiscovered kayaking regions, international whitewater tourism, and regional kayaking stories. About Bomber Gear Bomber Gear was founded in Durango, Colo. in 1992, by expert kayaker Rick Franken. Franken bought his first sewing machine because he and a small group of adventure-seeking friends needed better gear. Better gear that let them push the limits and perform at their best while staying warm, dry and comfortable. The goal was to design and manufacture task-specific paddling gear that worked for everyone. Today, Bomber Gear is a premium, authentic paddlesports brand that continues to specialize in the design of performance whitewater skirts and technical paddlesports apparel. Visit Bomber Gear online at www.bombergear.com . Bomber Gear · Wilderness Systems · Wave Sport · Perception · Dagger · Mad River Canoe · Harmony · Adventure Technology

Sierra Magazine Announces New Pro-Deals for Partners

2013-05-07

(SAN FRANCISCO) – Today Sierra magazine, the official magazine of the Sierra Club, announced a new way to reach outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Exclusive pro-deals will be offered to Sierra Club’s trained and certified outings leaders. Pro-deal listings will be e-mailed to Sierra Club Outing’s national trip leaders this spring. Leaders will be able to take advantage of these exclusive discounts and use the gear and clothing during their trips, giving trip participants a chance to see the products in action. “The new pro-deal program builds brand awareness of outdoor products in print, online, and in person,” said Kristi Rummel, Sierra National Advertising Director. “I can’t think of a better collaboration than that between our advertising partners and the Sierra Club’s outings volunteers, who lead thousands of adventure enthusiasts on trips every year.” Sierra Club Outings leaders have significant influence over the travelers who go on outings trips and within their community. Voted by National Geographic Traveler twice in the past 5 years as one of The Best Outfitters on Earth, Sierra Club Outings is one of the oldest and most popular outdoor adventure outfitters. "This is a great benefit for both Sierra Club leaders and manufacturers,” said Tony Rango, Director of Sierra Club National Outings and Program Safety. “Leaders get an opportunity to purchase the newest and best outdoor gear while manufacturers help support outings leaders and the program." Current sponsors include ExOfficio, Nikwax, LOWA, and Gramicci. If you want your product to reach outdoor influencers, please email Kristi.Rummel@sierraclub.org . About Sierra magazine Sierra is the official publication of the Sierra Club, America's largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 2.1 million members and supporters nationwide. The Sierra Club works to safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and litigation. For more information, please visit www.sierramagazine.com . ###

High Sierra partners with Pale Morning Media for public relations and social media support

2013-05-07

High Sierra ( www.highsierra.com ) has retained Pale Morning Media as their public relations agency of record, effective immediately. Crafting adventure gear for the real world since 1978, High Sierra’s growing collection of value-driven designs includes spacious daypacks for work and school; trail friendly backpacks including hydration and high volume rolling duffels. High Sierra is also proud to be the Official Supplier of bags to the U.S. Ski, U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing teams. “Growing side by side with the outdoor world over the last four decades, High Sierra has built a healthy and vibrant community of retailers and consumers who love our products. With new products and initiatives set to roll out in the coming seasons, it’s clear that the most exciting moments for the High Sierra brand are just around the corner,” said Dawn Sicco, Vice President and General Manager of High Sierra. Pale Morning Media ( www.palemorningmedia.com ) is a national public relations agency dedicated to driving sales by increasing the quality and quantity of brand visibility. Founded in 2001, Pale Morning Media has offices in Vermont and Maine, and supports a diverse roster of core and volume brands in outdoor and lifestyle markets. For High Sierra, Pale Morning Media will be providing comprehensive public relations support, including social media content creation, engagement and strategic initiatives. “Great gear at a great price is always in demand,” said Drew Simmons, president and founder of Pale Morning Media. “We’re excited to bring the High Sierra story to life on the national stage, and to help fuel High Sierra’s ongoing growth and success.” For more information or to shop online, visit www.highsierra.com , like them on Facebook www.facebook.com/highsierrainc , and follow @HighSierrainc on Twitter. For media inquiries, images, and sample requests, contact: Kara Herlihy, kara@palemorning.com , (802) 583-6069. ###

Westcomb Outerwear continues US brand growth with addition of Denne Sport Sales

2013-05-07

To support a steady rise in brand growth and consumer demand, Westcomb Outerwear will partner with Denne Sport Sales, effective immediately. Headquartered in Otsego, Minn., Denne Sport Sales represents outdoor leaders and innovators throughout the Midwest. With a veteran staff including agency principal Joe Denne, Kathy Bullard and Kirby Laughlin, the Denne Sport Sales team will provide more than 60 years of combined agency experience in support of the Westcomb brand. “Westcomb is a great fit for retailers anywhere, particularly in the Midwest,” said Joe Denne, founder and president of Denne Sport Sales. “Their designs are minimal but never simple, blending the finest performance materials with refreshingly comfortable and stylish cuts.” Known for excellence and innovation, Westcomb Outerwear has secured numerous accolades in the last 12 months, including a recent 2013 National Geographic Adventure “Gear of the Year” award. This season, Westcomb debuted their first spring/summer collection – a compelling new assortment of performance apparel designed for warmer weather outdoor adventures. As with all Westcomb designs, the 2013 spring/summer collection is 100% made in Vancouver, British Columbia. “Joe’s experience with industry leaders and innovators is a perfect match for Westcomb, especially as the brand continues to grow,” said Alan Yiu, president and lead designer of Westcomb. “We look forward to seeing the brand grow throughout all of Joe’s retailers.” ABOUT WESTCOMB: Westcomb ( www.westcomb.com ) creates innovative, stylish, performance-driven outerwear for men and women that is 100 percent made in North America and 100% committed to performance. Made to be worn in the most demanding conditions, Westcomb gear achieves a standard of excellence that is attainable only through the constant access and oversight provided by their industry leading commitment to local manufacturing. Conveying a true passion for the outdoor experience, Westcomb’s 2012-13 collection features strategically minimalist designs, blending essential features for active athletes with an international, athletic fit. Westcomb builds their unique performance apparel with a remarkable roster of industry leading supplier brands including Polartec NeoShell, eVent, Schoeller, Primaloft, Pertex, YKK, Mapp, Riri, and the world’s finest Hutterite goose down. For more information on Westcomb, please visit www.westcomb.com . ###

Paddling Icon Danny Mongno to Join Team Kokatat

2013-05-07

As a brand, Kokatat has a long and storied history of sponsoring paddling’s most influential and iconic athletes. Now, the brand proudly welcomes paddling instructor and Werner ambassador Danny Mongno to Team Kokatat. Mongno has been heavily involved in the world of paddle sports since his introduction to kayaking at the age of 18. Although Mongno’s childhood dream of becoming a classroom teacher didn’t pan out in the traditional sense, Mongno, now 40, travels the world teaching clinics that help athletes improve their paddling skills. While an accomplished and multi-faceted paddler, it is Mongno’s industry experience that adds another level of expertise and capabilities to an already powerful athlete program. A full time Werner Paddles employee, Mongno’s industry experience lends him a deeper and refreshing understanding of the industry’s inner-workings. “We’re excited to have Danny on our team and representing us at all the kayaking events he attends throughout the year,” says Jeff Turner, Sales and Design Manager with Kokatat. “He’ll be a great asset to our reps out on the road, but more importantly he’ll be a great ambassador for our company and the sport.” Kokatat is excited and inspired by Danny’s dedication to the sport, and looks forward to a fruitful and influential partnership. To learn more about Mongno and the Kokatat’s complete roster of athlete’s and ambassadors visit www.kokatat.com/team . About Kokatat Inc. Kokatat has been manufacturing paddling gear in Arcata, California for more than 40 years. At a time when many technical apparel brands were moving manufacturing offshore, Kokatat continued to invest in infrastructure in the United States. Kokatat founder Steve O’Meara was committed to the development of the finest and driest paddling apparel in the world and recognized the need to control and continually evolve the development of our dry wear. In the early days, Kokatat worked closely with W.L. Gore & Associates, makers of GORE-TEX®, to refine the sewing and sealing techniques required for full immersion suits and tops. Today, our hands-on approach to manufacturing continues to set the standard in paddling apparel. Into the water with Kokatat! Please visit www.kokatat.com and follow Kokatat on Facebook and Twitter “@kokatat”.

Art Contest Seeks Military and Tactical Designs for Inclusion on Top-Selling Microfiber Towel

2013-05-07

McNett® Tactical, the leading developer of Ready, Reliable and Required™ tactical gear, is pleased to announce its Towel Art Contest. The six winning contestants with the best design will win a McNett Tactical prize package including a Desert Boot Care Kit, Op Drops™ Anti-Fog, Camo Form® Reusable Camouflage Wrap, an Extra Large Ultra Compact Microfiber Towel featuring their artwork or design as well as an opportunity to have their towel sold at regional retail locations. “We want to see the most badass tactical artwork you can throw at us, and we'll print the best designs on a special run of Ultra Compact Microfiber Towels,” said Gerald Craft, brand marketing director at McNett Tactical. “This is your chance to gain exposure, win prizes and earn some recognition from your peers.” Contestants will submit their artwork to: http://www.mcnett.com/tactical/contest/custom-towel/enter/. Entries will be added to the McNett Tactical Facebook Gallery for judging. Every submission that receives 50 or more Facebook Likes wins a standard Large Ultra Compact Microfiber Towel. Six regional Grand Prize Winners will be awarded by McNett Tactical and will have an opportunity to have their towel sold at regional retail locations. Contestants are encouraged to share and vote for their designs. Multiple entries are permitted. The McNett® Tactical Towel Art Contest runs now until June 3, 2013. Submitted designs/artwork must be your original creation. To enter, please visit: http://www.mcnett.com/tactical/contest/custom-towel/enter/. About McNett Tactical McNett® Tactical works in collaboration with tactical, military and law enforcement professionals to develop innovative products proven effective for peak performance in any situation. Our field-tested and mission-ready products give tactical professionals the superior advantage they need to succeed. Part of the McNett family of brands; see the complete line of our Ready, Reliable and Required™ tactical gear at McNett.com/Tactical. About McNett For over three decades McNett and its family of brands, Outgo™, Gear Aid™, M Essentials™, Aquamira® and McNett Tactical, have provided quality, innovative products for the dive, outdoor, sporting goods and military markets. Through long-term relationships and a great distribution model, McNett enhances the lives of people working and playing outside. For more information, please visit: McNett.com. Contact: David Wiggs Marketing VP 360-671-2227

Drift Innovation Sponsors Vail Beaver Creek Mountain Bike Race Series

2013-05-06

EAGLE, Colo. (May 6, 2013) – A few distinguishable threads that run through cycling clans around the world are community, friendship, and camaraderie. Today, Drift Innovation , manufacturer of high-quality action cameras, extends its commitment and support of its local bike community by sponsoring the Vail Beaver Creek Mountain Bike Race Series . As the official action camera of the Colorado event, Drift will capture the series’ seven mountain bike races using their new HD Ghost action camera for participants, among other contributions. “We understand the tight bonds cyclists have with each other and their communities, and Drift wants to echo those sentiments by continuing to support local events to help grow the sport in our own backyard,” said John Rounds, CEO Drift Innovation Inc (Americas). With 26 divisions open for mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels, the Vail Beaver Creek Mountain Bike Race Series attracts 2,000 competitors from around the area during its seven races. Participants race on world-class terrain in locations around the Vail Valley including Eagle Ranch, Edwards, Red Cliff, Beaver Creek, West Vail, and Vail Mountain. Awards include $5,200 in cash and $30,000 in prizes. Drift is also looking forward to engaging with local racers on product education and user feedback. “This race series is great not only for its sense of community, but also because anyone can come out and race against others of similar skill level and have fun doing it,” said Series Director Beth Pappas. “With Drift onboard helping support the series and the Vail Valley, we can now offer racers HD footage from every race.” Drift joins Bud Light, 1st Bank, Vail Ski Resorts, Under Armor, and other companies as a sponsor. The first race is May 29 with the Eagle Ranch Classic. For more information about the Vail Valley Bike Race Series and a race schedule, visit: vailrec.com/mountainbikeraces.cfm . For more information about Drift Innovation, visit: driftinnovation.com . ABOUT DRIFT INNOVATION Drift Innovation is an action sports technology company specializing in the capture and sharing of digital imagery across all platforms. Drift manufactures quality point of view HD cameras, mounts and accessories, inspiring action sports enthusiasts to document their experiences, capture the emotion and share their vision with friends and family. Drift’s mission is to ensure that their unique product features such as an LCD screen for instant playback, wireless remote control, rotatable lens and intuitive interface, guarantee a simple, positive user experience. Drift- sponsored professional athletes in moto, auto, outdoor, snow, aquatic and airborne sports are an integral part of the R&D process, testing the performance and durability of Drift products in the field. Drift, widely recognized as one of the top three point-of-view camera brands globally, distributes its products in more than 25 countries. For more information about Drift Innovation, visit http://driftinnovation.com. STORE WEB FACEBOOK TWITTER YOUTUBE VIMEO

Brooks-Range Mountaineering Announces Partnership with the American Alpine Club

2013-05-06

Furthering its support for organizations that help protect and conserve the accessibilty of backcountry and mountaineering adventures, Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment Co. signs on as a partner-level member with the American Alpine Club . “We are thrilled to have Brooks-Range Mountaineering join the AAC Corporate Partner program,” said Phil Powers, executive director of the AAC. “The company’s leadership in innovative product development as well as its support of the climbing community promotes the values we all embrace as outdoor enthusiasts.” Matt Brooks, founder of Brooks-Range, is an AMGA certified mountain guide, and an AAC lifetime member. Through his experiences in the mountains, Brooks believes it takes advocacy to conserve and preserve the accessibility of the places in which mountaineers and backcountry enthusiasts recreate and adventure. Matt Brooks instills this same ethos into Brooks-Range Mountaineering and joins other dynamic outdoor brands to support invaluable organizations such as the AAC. “We are proud to support and partner with such an important organization for the mountain community. As a life member of AAC, I am excited to increase my involvement, and use the Brooks-Range brand to raise the profile of the AAC’s mission,” said Brooks. To learn more about the American Alpine Club and how to get involved, visit: http://americanalpineclub.org/ . For more information about Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment, visit: http://www.brooks-range.com . About Brooks-Range Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment Co. offers an innovative, top-quality selection of backcountry and outdoor equipment, gear and tools for professional guides, recreational travelers and users alike for a safe and enjoyable mountain experience. Brooks-Range equipment is tested and trusted by their team of ambassadors comprised of the world’s top mountaineering, avalanche and outdoor experts. Designed with utility, comfort and safety in mind, Brooks-Range also promotes education and safety in the wilderness by supporting a variety of organizations. Mainly produced in the USA, Brooks-Range can be found at outdoor retail shops nationwide and online at www.brooks-range.com .

New Belgium Brewing Toasts PeopleForBikes in Honor of National Bike Month

2013-05-06

Boulder, Colo.— The smiling logo of national bicycling movement PeopleForBikes is found hugging every bottle of New Belgium Fat Tire and Ranger IPA, nationwide through the end of May. PeopleForBikes is a non-profit organization that is on a mission to unite millions of voices to improve the future of bicycling in America and get more people on bikes, more often. With strength in numbers, PeopleForBikes aims to pave the way for a safer, more accessible country for bikes. “It feels great to be partnering with a brand who cares for the future of bicycling as much as we do,” said Kate Powlison, marketing manager at PeopleForBikes. “On our quest to unite millions of bicyclists, we hope to become one voice stronger, one New Belgium beer at a time. Cheers to National Bike Month!” Alternatively powered, and 100% employee owned, New Bel gium’s goal is to maintain an environmentally, socially and economically conscious business by aligning their business practices with nature and its inhabitants. They have helped bike-related non-profits raise over $2 million by selling beer at the Tour de Fat Bicycle Carnival throughout the U.S. Learn more about the company’s sustainable initiatives on their sustainability page . “New Belgium is honored to help spread the good word of the bicycle and encourage folks to sign the pledge,” said Michael Craft, Senator of Tour de Fat Non-Profit Relations. “Much like beer, bicycles make people smile and smiling is something we could all use a bit more of these days. Our brewery is so rooted in bicycles, it just makes good sense to use our craft to encourage advocacy.” To learn more about what PeopleForBikes is doing to make America a better place for bikes, visit www.peopleforbikes.org . Join the movement by signing the “I am for bikes…” pledge. To learn more about New Belgium Brewing Company, visit www.newbelgium.com . About PeopleForBikes: PeopleForBikes is a movement to unite millions of people to transform America through bicycling. They are currently leading the Green Lane Project, which is an effort that focuses on building physically protected and inviting bike facilities in communities across the U.S. Join the movement to improve the future of bicycling at www.peopleforbikes.org. About New Belgium Brewing Company: New Belgium Brewing , makers of Fat Tire Amber Ale and a host of Belgian-inspired beers, is recognized as one of Outside Magazine’s Best Places to Work and one of the Wall Street Journal’s Best Small Businesses. The 100 percent employee owned brewery is a Platinum-level Bicycle Friendly Business as designated by the League of American Bicyclists, and one of World Blu’s most democratic U.S. businesses. In addition to Fat Tire, New Belgium brews eight year round beers; Ranger IPA, Rampant Imperial IPA, Shift Pale Lager, Sunshine Wheat, 1554 Black Ale, Blue Paddle Pilsener, Abbey Belgian Ale and Trippel. Learn more at www.newbelgium.com.

The Retirement Reality Check Webinar

2013-05-05

Gratke Wealth will be presenting at HR.com May 8-9 2013 Virtual Conference, Benefits: Cost Containment, Audits and Legal Risks on the Subject 'The Retirement Reality Check' Wednesday, May 8, 2013 at 1:30 pm (eastern time) 10:30 am (pacific time) Register Here: http://tinyurl.com/cdyk32c Half of Americans do have access to a retirement savings plan at their workplace. For those that do join they tend to save too little and often make unwise investment decisions. The 401(k) arena is in crisis, and workers need sound guidance and help to solve this problem. This presentation will show what sound guidance is needed to help participants make the right choices within their retirement accounts. The goal is to see that all participants are ‘retirement ready’ and have enough replacement income in retirement by helping them: • Save: three steps needed to implement for improved saving and investing for retirement. • Save More: ‘retirement income ratio’ what is it, how to calculate it, why it matters • Save Smarter: ‘how much is enough? for retirement, and how measure it, and how to get there. The retirement replacement income discussion will focus on what it is, how to help employees calculate it based upon their age, personal savings rate, rate of return and participation rate. We will then discuss what steps an employee must take if they are not on track to achieve satisfactory retirement replacement income. Additionally, we will discuss how employee education alone is not enough to move participant behavior in the right direction, and why we must use the tools discussed in this presentation in order to achieve successful retirement outcomes.

Eagle Creek, The Escondido Creek Conservancy and Outdoor Outreach Team Up For Service Day April 2013

2013-05-03

As part of their continuing efforts to give back to the community, the staff at Eagle Creek wrapped another successful Service Day on April 18, 2013 . Partnering with The Escondido Creek Conservancy (TECC), Eagle Creek worked with participants and staff from Outdoor Outreach (OO) to beautify their local natural resources. Service activities were concentrated in Elfin Forest, near Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve outside San Diego. The Service Day team, comprised of Eagle Creek staff, Outdoor Outreach participants and volunteers and TECC volunteers, worked on a myriad of needed activities, including sign installation, cable fencing installation, permanent installation of posts, invasive weed removal, trash clean-up, graffiti removal and vehicle access retention on the Cielo Norte property of Elfin Forest, which was recently acquired by TECC. Eagle Creek has been partnering with Outdoor Outreach for many years, but this is the first time they were able to work together in a combined Service Day effort. Outdoor Outreach does admirable work through their commitment to developing leadership skills in at-risk and underprivileged kids by getting them outdoor to experience life-changing activities and try new things. Creekers were excited to join efforts to provide meaningful mentorship to local kids while helping to conserve and protect the local environment. Eagle Creek is a proud sponsor of the semi-annual Service Day and applauds the commitment and generosity of their employees. For more information on The Escondido Creek Conservancy: http://escondidocreek.org/ https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Escondido-Creek-Conservancy/103634713039104?fref=ts For more information on Outdoor Outreach : http://www.outdooroutreach.org/ https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorOutreach Links: Eagle Creek: www.eaglecreek.com The Escondido Creek Conservancy: http://escondidocreek.org/ Outdoor Outreach : http://www.outdooroutreach.org/ Eagle Creek Service Day Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-tMCO7JM6o&feature=youtu.be ABOUT EAGLE CREEK Eagle Creek is a leading travel outfitter, providing smart, innovative and durable luggage, travel bags and accessories . Founded in 1975, California-based Eagle Creek invented the adventure travel gear category, introduced the industry’s first convertible backpack on wheels, established the first complete travel solution system and is revolutionizing the way travelers pack with its Pack-It™ Folders, Cubes, Sacs and Toiletry Kits. Visit eaglecreek.com for more information. ABOUT OUTDOOR OUTREACH Outdoor Outreach's mission is to empower at-risk and underprivileged youth to make positive lasting changes in their lives through comprehensive outdoor programming. We use outdoor activities to provide youth with the support, resources and opportunities they need to become successful adults. ABOUT THE ESCONDIDO CREEK CONSERVANCY The Escondido Creek Conservancy (TECC) is a non-profit, public benefit, corporation, incorporated in 1991, dedicated to the preservation, restoration and protection of the natural open space within the Escondido Creek watershed. TECC believes the natural lands within the watershed are an irreplaceable natural asset with great community value. We support educational programs and compatible outdoor recreation within the watershed.

Johnson Outdoors Watercraft Unveils New Pro Staff Program

2013-05-02

Johnson Outdoors Watercraft, home to some of the most iconic paddlesports brands in the industry, today rolled out its new Pro-Staff program. Developed as part of the continued effort to engage the kayak fishing community and promote canoeing and kayaking in general, the Johnson Outdoors Watercraft Pro-Staff and Adventure Team will feature over sixty individuals working across the Necky Kayaks, Ocean Kayak and Old Town Canoes & Kayaks, Carlisle Paddle and Extrasport PFD brands. Johnson Outdoors Watercraft Pro-Staff members will be broken down into three levels; Premier Pro-Staff, Pro-Staff and Adventure Team. Expectations, level of commitment and brand support will be managed based on members’ placement within the program. Premier pro-staff members are anglers and outdoorsmen and women that are at the leading edge of their sport. They are viewed as “world-class” in their field and showcase a lifestyle that others aspire toward. Pro-Staff members participate regularly at the upper levels of their sport. They are accomplished anglers, outdoorsmen and general sporting enthusiasts, while Adventure Team members are skilled and enthusiastic regional representatives of their sport. “Our number one goal in launching the new Pro-Staff program is to showcase the adventure paddling affords and to illustrate how accessible canoeing and kayaking can be,” said Luke LaBree, Marketing and Communications Director for Johnson Outdoor Watercraft. “We aspire to grow the program, expand our brand advocates in the field and foster the paddlesports market as a whole and we’re excited to take the program nationwide in the coming weeks and months. “ Pro-Staff members will be categorized in geographic regions across the U.S. as they act as brand advocates for the Watercraft brands. With support from Johnson Outdoors Watercraft Marketing as well as regional sales reps, Pro-Staff responsibilities will include fishing tournament competitions, tradeshow and dealer event appearances, blogging and sharing their adventures with the public. In return, Pro-Staff and Adventure team members will receive product and financial support from Johnson Outdoors. "As the sport of kayak fishing grows and more kayak-specific fishing tournaments are established each year, this new team format will help to both promote the Johnson Outdoors Watercraft lines and give Pro-Staff members a sense of community,” said John Oast , a long time, east coast Ocean Kayak Pro-Staff member. Adds Texas-based team member Captain Fil Spencer , “Johnson Outdoors has always committed themselves to being at the leading edge of the industry and I see some great things coming down the road as we work together to get people outdoors and onto the water.” More information on the Johnson Outdoors Watercraft Pro-Staff and Adventure team members is coming soon to www.adventureonthewater.com . JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global outdoor recreation company that turns ideas into adventure with innovative, top-quality products. The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft, Marine Electronics, Diving and Outdoor Gear. Johnson Outdoors' familiar brands include, among others: Old Town® canoes and kayaks; Ocean Kayak™ and Necky® kayaks; Carlisle® paddles; Extrasport® personal flotation devices; Minn Kota® motors; Cannon® downriggers; Humminbird® marine electronics; LakeMaster® electronic charts; SCUBAPRO® and SUBGEAR® dive equipment; Silva® compasses; Tech4O® digital instruments; and Eureka!® tents. ###

The Road From Karakol wins top award at 5Point Film Festival

2013-05-02

Faced with uncertainty in everything from perilous river crossings to tense encounters at military checkpoints, alpinist Kyle Dempster turned to his POV camera to maintain a video journal during a solo bike and climbing trip through remote parts of Kyrgyzstan in 2011. The camera gave him a place to reflect on the intensity of the journey – one where he didn’t see anyone else for weeks at points during the trip. When he was in Kyrgyzstan, Dempster had no idea his solo bike and climbing trip would be the subject of an award-winning film two years later, but that’s exactly what happened at the 5Point Film Festival this past weekend. The Road from Karakol , edited by Fitz Cahall and his production company, Duct Tape then Beer , and sponsored by Outdoor Research , won the Five Point Film Festival jury’s Best of the Festival Award for 2013 this past Saturday night. “With any of that footage, I never intended for anyone to make a film out of it,” Dempster said. “It’s all just a little unexpected and totally awesome. I did film a lot on the trip, but strangely it was because I was solo, and there were some scary moments, and (taking a trip on a bike) was a new kind of trip for me. I’m more used to alpine-climbing trips. And so I just sort ended up maintaining this kind of video journal. It was very personal.” Those personal moments yield a gripping 25-minute film that depicts very pointedly what it’s like to put oneself in situations where the outcome is far from certain. After he returned, Dempster, who an athlete ambassador for Outdoor Research, put together a very basic film of his own from the footage to show at the 2012 Ouray Ice Festival. There, Christian Folk, grassroots marketing manager for OR, saw the footage, and asked Dempster about submitting it to Cahall to edit and make into a longer film. Dempster had so many clips he had to send Cahall a hard drive brimming with content. Cahall spent the better part of year, in between other projects, sorting through the short clips and pulling the The Road from Karakol together, working right up to the film festival deadline. When Dempster went to the film festival this past weekend, he hadn’t even seen the film; he watched it for the first time along with the rest of the festival audience. “I think it’s pretty cool that in this age of everyone pushing for bigger and bigger budgets and more expensive filming equipment that you can go out there with a $200 camera and win an award like this,” he said. “It shows that a lot of it has to do with the editing skills, which Fitz and his crew are quite talented at." Following his solo cycling and climbing trip in Kyrgyzstan, Dempster rode his bike from Kyrgyzstan through western China to Pakistan to meet two climbing partners and subsequently make an attempt on K7. Known more as an alpinist than an adventure-seeking cyclist, Dempster, along with climbing partner Hayden Kennedy,earlier this month won a 2013 Piolet d’Or Award for their ascent of the Ogre in Pakistan , a peak that has only seen three ascents since its first ascent in 1977. Dempster also won a 2010 Piolets d’Or Award for the first ascent of the north face of 6,422-meter Xuelian West in China. About Outdoor Research Outdoor Research® is Designed by Adventure®. We provide Innovation and Inspiration for the Relentless Adventurer. Based in Seattle – with in-house manufacturing and prototyping capabilities at our company headquarters – Outdoor Research was founded in 1981 after a failed piece of gear on an Alaskan climbing expedition inspired ideas for a better design. Ever since that first product, the X-Gaiter, put Outdoor Research on the map, we have been dedicated to building better outdoor apparel, gloves, hats and an array of other outdoor accessories informed by real-world testing. We develop innovative, functional, bomb-proof products that are beautiful in their simplicity. Design abides by the maxim ‘make it better, not just new or different,’ and our gear is backed by our Infinite Guarantee®. We listen, value and empower each other and our fellow adventurers – we invite input from our customers, athlete ambassadors and the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations Test Team . We’re independent, letting us strive to provide the best value to our customers, not shareholders. We are committed to our core sports: alpinism, rock and ice climbing, hiking, backpacking, paddling, trail running, and backcountry and sidecountry skiing. We’re growing, as a company and as individuals. And we’re having fun along the way.

PORON� Cushioning Partners with 200-Mile Cape Cod Ragnar Relay

2013-05-02

To support athletes and educate spectators about its brand, PORON® Cushioning is teaming up with the Ragnar Relay Cape Cod race taking place May 3-4, 2013. The Relay will take teams from the start line in Hull, MA to the finish line in Provincetown, MA. From the shores in Hull, MA, teams of runners will head towards Plymouth and run along the canal trail. They will continue along beaches and through the historic towns of Cape Cod as they make their way to Provincetown. Each team is comprised of 12 runners (except for "Ultra Teams", which race with 6 runners) who will each run three legs of varying length and difficulty during the 200-mile relay race. "PORON Technologies are engineered to protect, cushion and provide dependable performance during training and competition, helping athletes achieve their most challenging goals," said Dave Sherman, New Business Development Manager, PORON Performance Cushioning. "Teaming up with The Ragnar Relay is a great opportunity for us to showcase our global brand partners who use our product, and most importantly, give Ragnar athletes a chance to experience the benefits of PORON Cushioning." The Ragnar Relay started in 2004 with 22 teams competing in Utah, and has grown to be the largest relay event in the country. The Series has stops everywhere from the Florida Keys to the Northwest Passage. Named after a ninth century Norse King known for being a pirate, a raider, a conqueror, and an explorer, the Ragnar Relay gives runners of all abilities the chance to get out, explore, and experience outdoor adventure. Jeff Pace, one of the Ragnar Relay event organizers states, "We are excited to have PORON Cushioning back as a partner of the event. Athletes who have met the team at past Ragnar and other events love seeing the variety of products where PORON Materials can be found - and of course love the SWAG they hand out!" The PORON Cushioning street team will be staffing booths at Exchange #6 and the finish line. They will be displaying gear made with PORON Products, handing out swag, and entering people into a sweepstakes for a chance to win one of three pairs of Vasque Pendulum shoes. In addition to the race, spectators and athletes will be able to enjoy live bands and other vendor booths stationed along the course. For more information and a complete course map, visit the Ragnar Relay website - www.ragnarrelay.com . About PORON® Cushioning For over 40 years PORON® Cushioning has provided footwear, apparel, and protective equipment brands with a material that supports, protects, comforts, and most importantly, helps athletes stay in the race.　 PORON Cushioning products are durable yet flexible, so they will not wear or break down like other cushioning products.　 So, whether you need an insole that will last your next 50K or searching for a new helmet for the start of little league, look for the PORON Cushioning brand to insure you're buying the best in quality and advanced technology. For more information, visit www.poroncushioning.com . About Rogers Corporation Rogers Corporation (NYSE:ROG) is a global technology leader in specialty materials and components for consumer electronics, power electronics, mass transit, clean technology, and telecommunications infrastructure. With more than 180 years of materials science and engineering experience, Rogers provides product designers with solutions to help them power, protect and connect our world with greater reliability, efficiency and performance. Headquartered in Connecticut (USA), Rogers operates manufacturing facilities in the United States, China, Germany, Belgium, and South Korea, with joint ventures and sales offices worldwide. For more information, visit www.rogerscorp.com .

Kelty Ignite DriDown� 20⁰ sleeping bag wins coveted Outside Magazine Gear of the Year Award

2013-05-02

Kelty Ignite DriDown™ 20⁰ sleeping bag wins coveted Outside Magazine Gear of the Year Award Blending outstanding warmth, comfort, and compressibility, the Ignite DriDown™ 20⁰ rises to the top of the sleeping bag category BOULDER, COLO. (For Immediate Release) – Kelty is proud to announce the new for spring 2013 Ignite DriDown™ 20⁰ sleeping bag has been named an Outside Magazine Gear of the Year Award winner in recognition of its outstanding performance, comfort, and value. The Ignite’s use of DriDown™ , a hydrophobic down insulation technology that enhances the bag’s performance in wet environments, allows users to enjoy the compressibility, weight savings, and warmth of down in situations where heavier, bulkier synthetic insulation would previously have been favored. “Outside Magazine has a team of knowledgeable and experienced gear editors who test volumes of outdoor equipment each year, so receiving this award is truly a great honor,” said Russell Rowell, VP and Brand Manager for Kelty. “The enhanced performance of DriDown™ in varied environments from deserts to rainforests is becoming more evident and our ability to combine this technology with excellent design and attainability allows us to make a more comfortable night’s sleep more accessible to campers everywhere.” Here’s what Outside had to say: “Two hundred bucks for an ordinary down sleeping bag would be a killer deal. It’s even better when that bag is made of water-resistant down, weighs less than three pounds, and packs to the size of a football. That, in a stuff-sack, is why the Ignite DriDown is our favorite bag this year.” Designed for 3-season performance in any environment, the 600-fill Ignite DriDown™ 20⁰ sleeping bag is light, warm, and above all dry in the presence of moisture. Weighing in at just 2-pounds, 12-ounces, this mummy bag outperforms standard down bags. DriDown™ hydrophobic insulation allows the Ignite 20⁰ to stay dry 10 times longer, retain 170% (2.7 times) more loft when exposed to moisture and humidity, and dry 33% faster than items insulated with untreated down. Available in regular, long, and women’s specific sizes in both 20⁰ and 0⁰ versions. KELTY is based in Boulder, Colorado, and uses the natural backdrop of the Rocky Mountains to test, create and continually innovate within their diverse collection of backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and more. Kelty combines the best in new technology with a healthy dose of common sense to create exceptionally made outdoor products that offer outstanding performance for just about any outdoor adventure. For more information on Kelty, please go to www.kelty.com, or call 800.423.2320. ###

Mariner Biomedical Announces Results From an Independent Laboratory Confirming Deter Insect Repellent� Effectively Repels Mosquitoes for 6 Hours

2013-05-02

Mariner Biomedical, Inc. announced the results from an independent laboratory that recently completed efficacy testing of Deter Insect Repellent™, a natural botanical insect repellent. The test results issued in April 2013 confirmed Deter Insect Repellent™ provides effective repellency of mosquitoes for six hours, and significantly outperformed several popular competing brands while demonstrating protection equivalent to 25% DEET. The objective of this independent study was to scientifically analyze the effectiveness of Deter Insect Repellent™ and to compare the product’s efficacy against DEET-based insect repellents (Cutter® 7% DEET and Off® Deep Woods 25% DEET), as well as two commercially available botanical repellents (Repel® Lemon Eucalyptus and Bite Blocker® Xtreme Sportsman). All products were tested against an untreated control. The study was conducted using the Cage Test Method and analyzed the landing/biting activity of female Southern House Mosquitoes (Culex quinquefasciatus). The arms of human test subjects were exposed every 10 minutes during the 6 hour test period. The entire study was replicated twice. The test results issued in April 2013 demonstrated the average mosquito landing rates during the 6 hour test period were 48.5 for untreated control and only 0.25 following treatment with Deter Insect Repellent™. Results also showed that Deter Insect Repellent™ remained effective for 6 hours without a reduction in repellency. The test demonstrated that Deter significantly (ANOVA, p<0.05) out-performed Repel, Bite Blocker and Cutter 7% DEET while remaining as effective as Off containing 25% DEET. “Due to the toxicity and environmental concerns regarding the use of DEET we set out to develop a safe and effective natural insect repellent,” explains Brad Zaro, President & CEO at Mariner Biomedical, the company that developed Deter Insect Repellent. “We conducted extensive scientific research to develop a naturally derived product that effectively repels mosquitoes and other biting insects for an extended period of time. We are very pleased that this study confirmed the efficacy of Deter, and demonstrated that it out performed several competing products while proving to be an effective alternative to DEET”. Deter Insect Repellent™ is one of the only natural insect repellents which has scientifically demonstrated its safety and efficacy. Consumers have a large number of repellent products on the market from which they can choose. DEET-based products remain the most commonly used repellents. However, with growing concerns about the safety and environmental impact of DEET, as well as other chemical based repellents, consumers are increasingly seeking safe natural alternatives. Deter Insect Repellent™ is proven safe, effective and environmentally friendly, providing consumers with a product that truly works and that they can feel good about using on themselves and their families. Details about the Independent Laboratory Testing Reported April 2013 METHOD: Screen Cage Test was employed using the Southern House Mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus. Hungry female mosquitoes were present in a screened cage. The arm of a human volunteer was inserted into the cage for 2 minutes and the landing and feeding rates were recorded. This was repeated every 10 minutes during the course of 6 hours. Six treatment groups were studied: An untreated control was compared to arms treated with Repel® Lemon Eucalyptus, Bite Blocker® Xtreme Sportsman, Cutter® (7% DEET), Off® Deep Woods 25% DEET and Deter Insect Repellent™. The entire test was replicated twice. RESULTS: Between 5 and 6 hours the mean landing rate for the untreated control = 33.67 mosquitoes every ten minutes. This compared to the mean landing rates following treatment with Cutter® (7% DEET) = 7.42, Bite Blocker® = 1.61, Repel® = 7.92, Off® = 0.17. The mean landing rate following treatment with Deter = 0.67. The results showed at 6 hours Deter provided significantly better repellency (ANOVA, p<0.01) compared to the untreated control and significantly better repellency (ANOVA, p<0.05) compared to Cutter® (7% DEET), Repel® and Bite Blocker®. The results also showed that Deter remained effective for 6 hours without reduction in repellency, and was statistically equivalent to Off® Deep Woods containing 25% DEET. About Deter Insect Repellent™ Deter Insect Repellent™ is a highly effective DEET-free, natural insect repellent based on scientific research. Deter Insect Repellent™ is clinically tested safe, Dermatologist approved and scientifically proven effective. Deter Insect Repellent™ repels mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, no-see-ums, biting flies, chiggers and other biting insects for up to 6 hours. http://www.deterinsectrepellent.com About Mariner Biomedical Mariner Biomedical, Inc. is a bio-pharmaceutical company dedicated to developing topical skin care therapies based on scientifically validated natural products that are safe, effective and environmentally friendly. Mariner Biomedical, Inc. has a management and research team with over 50 years of combined pharmaceutical, biotechnology and clinical research experience.

Brooks-Range Mountaineering Awarded Patent for Snow Density Gauge

2013-05-02

Following another variable winter, consistent with eratic weather patterns and snow cycles, Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment Co. is pleased to announce its award by the United States Patent Office of a Design Patent D US 663,225 S for an advanced and innovative snow science tool, the Brooks-Range Snow Density Gauge . Envisioned and developed in the field by Brooks-Range founder, Matt Brooks, an AMGA certified mountain guide and snow science educator, the Snow Density Gauge was first tested and is now used by the world’s most trusted mountaineering and avalanche experts, forecasters and observers including the National Weather Service. “Receiving the patent and officially introducing another effective snow science tool to the exponentially growing backcountry market is an encouraging step in the right direction for furthering snow science education,” said Matt Brooks, founder of Brooks-Range. The Brooks-Range Snow Density Gauge is a compact and highly accurate snow science device used to determine snow pack moisture content. It assists in determining snow pit data, snow loading, precipitation rates, rates of metamorphism, fresh snow quality and snow pack moisture content. All information leading to increased understandings of avalanche hazard on particular slopes, forecasting knowledge and overall snow conditions. The Brooks-Range Snow Density Gauge is offered in two models, the Pocket 100™ Snow Density Gauge , which tests 100 cc samples, and the larger 200™ Snow Density Gauge , which tests 200 cc samples. For more information about Brooks-Range and its expanding selection of snow science tools, please visit: http://brooks-range.com/Snow-Science About Brooks-Range Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment Co. offers an innovative, top-quality selection of backcountry and outdoor equipment, gear and tools for professional guides, recreational travelers and users alike for a safe and enjoyable mountain experience. Brooks-Range equipment is tested and trusted by their team of ambassadors comprised of the world’s top mountaineering, avalanche and outdoor experts. Designed with utility, comfort and safety in mind, Brooks-Range also promotes education and safety in the wilderness by supporting a variety of organizations. Mainly produced in the USA, Brooks-Range can be found at outdoor retail shops nationwide and online at www.brooks-range.com .

Kokatat Outfits Solo Paddle Around Iceland

2013-05-02

In keeping tradition with a history of sponsoring the most historically significant paddle-powered expeditions, Kokatat is proud to announce its support of Guðni Páll Viktorsson’s attempt to circumnavigate his home nation of Iceland. Yesterday, Viktorsson departed on his attempt to circumnavigate the island nation in 60 days or less. It’s a daunting task made more daunting by a set of notoriously dangerous coastal weather patterns that plague Iceland. Viktorsson’s route will cover 1,550 miles of coastline, including 250 miles of the nation’s South Coast, known for large swells and challenging landings. Born in 1987, Gudni started paddling sea kayaks in 2007, and currently holds the British Canoe Union’s 4-star Leader award , an achievement that signifies a high level of paddling competence. Viktorsson’s proposed trip marks his first major solo expedition. Although a full circumnavigation of Iceland is a crowning achievement in the world of sea kayaking, Viktorsson will also paddle on behalf of Symbian , a charity that affords Iceland’s less fortunate food and shelter. Iceland’s coastal climate varies greatly, and is influenced by atmospheric depressions that cross the North Atlantic known as the “Iceland-lows”. To withstand the island’s temperamental and varied conditions, Kokatat will outfit Viktorsson with a Gore-Tex® Expedition Dry Suit , MsFit Tour PFD and TROPOS Light Storm Cag. In conjunction, these three pieces constitute the most comprehensive outerwear system available in paddlesport today. Follow Viktorsson's progress online at www.aroundiceland2013.com . About Kokatat Inc. Kokatat has been manufacturing paddling gear in Arcata, California for more than 40 years. At a time when many technical apparel brands were moving manufacturing offshore, Kokatat continued to invest in infrastructure in the United States. Kokatat founder Steve O’Meara was committed to the development of the finest and driest paddling apparel in the world and recognized the need to control and continually evolve the development of our dry wear. In the early days, Kokatat worked closely with W.L. Gore & Associates, makers of GORE-TEX®, to refine the sewing and sealing techniques required for full immersion suits and tops. Today, our hands-on approach to manufacturing continues to set the standard in paddling apparel. Into the water with Kokatat! Please visit www.kokatat.com and follow Kokatat on Facebook and Twitter @kokatat .

Kelty and Wenzel announce partnership with SM Group (Europe) for brand distribution in the UK and Ireland

2013-05-02

Kelty and Wenzel announce partnership with SM Group (Europe) for brand distribution in the UK and Ireland Focused on expanding markets in Europe, Kelty and Wenzel look to SMG to help grow brand distribution, sales, and service BOULDER, COLO. (For Immediate Release) – Kelty and Wenzel , two well-known, well-loved US outdoor brands will be distributed in the UK and Ireland through SM Group (Europe) LTD., effective immediately. This partnership represents a significant step forward for Kelty and Wenzel sales and brand distribution within the European market. Extremely popular throughout the US, both Kelty and Wenzel are anticipated to appeal to a European marketplace eager for outdoor equipment designed for a wide range of activities. Highly experienced with a deep understanding of the UK market, the Plymouth, England-based SM Group will be instrumental to the success of both brands. “Backed by 40 years’ of experience distributing a wide variety of outdoor gear in the UK and Irish marketplaces, SM Group will be a perfect partner for our highly popular Kelty and Wenzel brands,” said Juan Lopez, International Sales Director for Kelty and Wenzel. “We’re anticipating a very successful and long-lasting relationship.” SM Group distributes a blend of outdoor and electronics brands throughout the UK and is looking forward to the partnership. The Kelty and Wenzel brands complement one another, offering essential equipment for hiking, backpacking, travel, and family camping for a wide range of budgets. Commenting on the new distribution agreement, SM Group’s Managing Director, Chris Northmore said, “We are very pleased to add Kelty and Wenzel to our brand portfolio. Kelty is a very technical, well known and respected brand in the US while Wenzel is a very accessible brand for campers on a budget. We are looking forward to establishing both brands in the UK outdoor market.” For more information on Kelty and Wenzel in the UK and Ireland, please contact SM Group’s Ross Alexander with any questions- RossA@smgeurope.com . KELTY is based in Boulder, Colorado, and uses the natural backdrop of the Rocky Mountains to test, create and continually innovate within their diverse collection of backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and more. Kelty combines the best in new technology with a healthy dose of common sense to create exceptionally made outdoor products that offer outstanding performance for just about any outdoor adventure. For more information on Kelty, please go to www.kelty.com, or call 800.423.2320. Wenzel creates the modern tools that help families escape, recharge and reconnect in the outdoors. We make tents easy to set up, take down, and pack away for next time. Our sleeping bags are roomy and warm, re-packing neatly to fit into tight spaces. Wenzel camp pads smooth out the rough forest floor, making outdoor experiences more comfortable than ever. But more importantly, we are ambassadors to the outdoors, helping families return to the place where memories are made and souls are fueled. www.WenzelCo.com ###

Dagger Sponsors Most Elite Freestyle Competition in U.S.

2013-05-01

Dagger sponsored the most elite freestyle kayaking competition in the US this weekend, drawing the best kayakers from across the country to vie for a spot on the US National Freestyle Team. The top finishers from the Team Trials will compete in the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships in September. The Team Trials, hosted by Nantahala Outdoor Center , are a high-profile preview to the Canoe Freestyle World Championships. Two Team Dagger athletes, the current Freestyle World Champion James Bebbington and Max Karlsson (competing for Sweden) will represent Dagger at the World Championships, which will also be held on the 2013 Wave on the Nantahala River. “Dagger strives to always push the limits of adventure and take kayaking to the next level in everything we do,” said Jessica Prescott, marketing manager for Dagger. “We were excited to support the most elite freestyle kayaking event in the U.S. and are very proud of the Team Dagger members who represented us at the highest level of competition.” As part of the celebration, Dagger also hosted friendly competitions and clinics throughout the weekend. The Dagger RPM Stern Squirt Clinic and Competition took place on Saturday, giving paddlers the opportunity to learn stern squirt techniques from Team Dagger’s Pat Keller and win an iconic Dagger RPM. Dagger participated in a panel at the NOC Ladies’ Night. The panel featured female kayakers, including Team Dagger athlete, Anna Levesque, and Dagger marketing communications associate, Shannon Christy. Levesque and Christy answered questions about confronting fear, competition, and working and paddling in a male-dominated sport. Event attendees had the opportunity to see the latest Dagger kayaks, including the new Jitsu freestyle kayak in the Dagger demo tent at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Learn more about the Team Trials and the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships here , and follow the success of Team Dagger’s elite kayakers on the Dagger community page here . About Dagger: Dagger doesn’t believe in going half-way, or giving “just enough.” In the world of paddling, Dagger is all in, and has been since 1988. From recreational flat-water kayaks to whitewater boats bound for class V creeking and all water in between, Dagger designs and manufactures premier kayaks for all kayaking styles from Greenville, South Carolina. From the mountains to the sea, Dagger represents the relentless pursuit of fun. If your soul is also one with the water, join the Dagger Community and check out the kayaks at www.dagger.com . Dagger · Wilderness Systems · Perception · Wave Sport · Mad River Canoe ·Bomber Gear · AT Paddles · Harmony

Team Wave Sport�s Top Freestyle Kayakers Qualify for the US National Team

2013-05-01

Team Wave Sport represents some of the best whitewater freestyle kayakers in the world, and this weekend four Team Wave Sport athletes qualified for the US National Freestyle Team at the Team Trials on the Nantahala River. Athletes Haley Mills, Elaine Campbell, and Bryan Kirk will go on to compete at the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships in September, joining Team Wave Sport’s Tyler Curtis who will be competing for the Canadian team, James Weight for the UK team, and Martin Koll for the German team. The Team Trials were an action-packed preview to the Freestyle World Championships, as America’s most skilled kayakers performed their best freestyle moves on the Nantahala River’s 2013 Wave. “Wave Sport is dedicated to working and playing hard – on and off the water – 365 days a year, and the Team Wave Sport athletes really brought those qualities and more to the Team Trials this weekend,” said Jessica Prescott, marketing manager at Wave Sport. “Each member of Team Wave Sport has a passion for all things whitewater, and combined with their enviable talents, competitive spirit, and unwavering commitment to our sport, we know it will be an all-star year for these athletes. We are excited to watch as their success continues this season and at the World Championships in September. ” While Team Wave Sport athletes were competing in the Team Trials, Wave Sport joined forces with Endless River Adventures to sponsor the 9th Annual Nantahala Open. The non-competitive event, which took place at Nantahala Falls, was open to kayakers of every skill level. In addition, Wave Sport took the opportunity to give back to the paddling community. All proceeds from the weekend’s Wave Sport raffle prizes will support Team River Runner . Learn more about the Team Trials and the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships here , and the Nantahala open here . Follow the success of Team Wave Sport’s elite kayakers on the Wave Sport community page here . About Wave Sport: Wave Sport was founded in 1986 with a dedication to all things whitewater, and that philosophy holds true today. For Wave Sport, paddling is a journey whether over the course of a day or a lifetime. Some journeys are destined for a local, glassy surfing wave, while the journey for others may culminate in a first descent of some remote and enormous drop. For those who believe paddling is not just an activity, but a way of life, Wave Sport welcomes you to the ride. Join the Wave Sport Community and learn more at www.wavesport.com . Wave Sport · Perception · Dagger · Wilderness Systems · Mad River Canoe · Adventure Technology · Harmony · Bomber Gear

Bomber Gear Sponsors 2013 U.S. Team Trials

2013-05-01

This past weekend, Bomber Gear sponsored the US Kayak Freestyle Team Trials, the most elite US freestyle competition and the qualifying event for September's ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships. Top kayak athletes from across the United States competed on the 2013 Wave on the Nantahala River for a spot on the US team. “Bomber Gear offers some of the most technically advanced paddling gear in the world, and similarly, these elite freestyle paddlers at the Team Trials set out to show off their most advanced skills, making this partnership a natural pairing,” said Jessica Prescott, marketing manager for Bomber Gear. “We were proud to not only be a part of the competition, but to also join in giving back to those who need it. It was a great weekend, and we are looking forward to the continued action at the World Championships this fall.” In addition to sponsoring the Team Trials, Bomber Gear teamed up with Endless River Adventures to provide prizes at the 9th Annual Wave Sport Nantahala Open at Nantahala Falls and also raffle items, which benefited Team River Runner ’s inspirational Wounded Warriors kayak program. Learn more about the Team Trials and the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships here . For more information on Bomber Gear, visit www.bombergear.com . About Bomber Gear: Bomber Gear was founded in Durango, Colo. in 1992 by expert kayaker Rick Franken. Franken bought his first sewing machine because he and a small group of adventure-seeking friends needed better gear. Better gear that let them push the limits and perform at their best while staying warm, dry and comfortable. The goal was to design and manufacture task-specific paddling gear that worked for everyone. Today, Bomber Gear is a premium, authentic paddlesports brand that continues to specialize in designing performance sprayskirts and technical paddlesports apparel. Visit Bomber Gear online at www.bombergear.com . Wilderness Systems · Wave Sport · Perception · Dagger · Bomber Gear · Mad River Canoe · Harmony · AT Paddles

Ed Viesturs to Appear at Eddie Bauer�s Michigan Avenue Store Eddie Bauer Guide and American Climbing Legend to present highlights from his career

2013-05-01

Bellevue, Wash. – April 30, 2013 – Eddie Bauer LLC is pleased to host the special event, A Night with Ed Viesturs, this Wednesday, May 1 at the Michigan Avenue Eddie Bauer store in Chicago. The event will run from 5 p.m. to 7p.m. and is free and open to the public. The first American to have climbed all 14 of the world’s highest peaks, Viesturs will present highlights from his career including a personal slideshow followed by an autograph signing. Also during the event, visitors will be able to enter for a chance to win the trip of a lifetime to one of the following places: Nepal, Morocco, Machu Picchu, Alaska or Dolomites. The sweepstakes will run May 1 – 5 across all Eddie Bauer stores in the US and Canada. Who: Eddie Bauer Guide and American Climbing Legend, Ed Viesturs What: A Night with Ed Viesturs When: Wednesday, May 1, 2013 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Where: Eddie Bauer store on Michigan Avenue, Chicago About Eddie Bauer Established in 1920 in Seattle, Eddie Bauer is a specialty retailer that sells sportswear, outerwear, gear and accessories for the active outdoor lifestyle. The Eddie Bauer brand is a nationally recognized brand that stands for high quality, innovation, style and customer service. Eddie Bauer products are available at approximately 400 stores throughout the United States, Canada, and Japan through catalog sales and online at www.eddiebauer.com . Eddie Bauer is proud to be named a J.D. Power 2011 Customer Service Champion.

Native Eyewear Creates Partnership with MiiR

2013-05-01

Native Eyewear Creates Partnership with MiiR Denver, CO (May 1, 2013) - Native Eyewear and MiiR recently created a partnership to help provide clean water for those who need it most. In a “gift with purchase” campaign, Native Eyewear purchasers will also receive a MiiR water bottle and provide one person with clean, safe drinking water for a year. Beginning May 1, 2013, the partnership between Native and MiiR takes form at select retail partners. Both brands are committed to 6000 units which equivocates 2-3 projects in Liberia. “Our commitment to 6000 water bottles allows MiiR to build 3 water wells in countries throughout Africa,” says Kevin Karch, Vice President of Sales for Native Eyewear. “We'll be starting the offering on May 1st and it will run through the spring and summer while supplies last. We know water is an important part of life, especially on those days where you're hiking a mountain, biking a trail and you need to quench your thirst – we often take it for granted. Nearly a billion people struggle to survive everyday because they don't have access to clean, safe drinking water. This partnership is a way for us to help.” “We are excited to partner with Native Eyewear to bring clean and safe drinking water to those in need,” says Bryan Pape, CEO of MiiR. “We love collaborating with premier brands that share our ethic of helping others. We know Native customers will be delighted with the quality of our hydration line. Also included in every MiiR bottle is an impact bracelet with a unique tracking number. Once registered, this number links the customer's bottle to one of the water projects Native helped fund.' To learn more about MiiR, visit: http://www.miir.com/v/aboutus.asp About Native Eyewear Native Eyewear makes polarized sunglasses for adventurers of all types with the vision to navigate any terrain in any type of sunlight. Featuring interchangeable polarized lenses, exceptional grip & comfort and ultra-light frame technology; Native sunglasses are the perfect companion for seeing the path ahead. Whether you’re approaching the mountain, the water, the trail or the asphalt, you’ll be ready. So go ahead—go Native. http://www.nativeyewear.com . About MiiR At MiiR, we redefine the status quo by empowering you to close the gap between your wants and others’ needs. Our products are crafted to exhibit iconic design while maintaining the highest level of functionality. By purchasing from MiiR, you promote a model of sustainable giving with tangible purpose. ###

Native Eyewear and Paradox Sports Create Unique Partnership

2013-05-01

Native Eyewear and Paradox Sports Create Unique Partnership Denver, CO (May 1, 2013) - Native Eyewear and Paradox Sports have officially joined forces and created a partnership to enhance programs and further the mission of Paradox Sports. “Native Eyewear and Paradox Sports have partnered on successful projects for years and it’s a great fit,” says Al Perkinson, Vice President of Marketing for Native Eyewear. “We are committed to them and want to solidify our long-term partnership in a meaningful way for both of us.” Executive Director of Paradox Sports, Timmy O’Neill, says, “We started Paradox Sports from our ties to family and service and thanks to our friends and associates at Native Eyewear we can engage more participants who want adaptive sport programming and further the discussion on defining normal, success and community. We are very fortunate to have Native's support so we promote well being, in both person and place.” About Native Eyewear Native Eyewear makes polarized sunglasses for adventurers of all types with the vision to navigate any terrain in any type of sunlight. Featuring interchangeable polarized lenses, exceptional grip & comfort and ultra-light frame technology; Native sunglasses are the perfect companion for seeing the path ahead. Whether you’re approaching the mountain, the water, the trail or the asphalt, you’ll be ready. So go ahead—go Native. http://www.nativeyewear.com . About Paradox Sports Paradox Sports, based in Boulder, CO, was founded in 2007. Paradox Sports leads adaptive climbing, Stand Up Paddle and camping programs and meet-ups. They collaborate with regional and national adaptive sport agencies and in 2013 they will offer an Adaptive Climbing curriculum. http://paradoxsports.org/ .

PeopleForBikes and Volkswagen of America Unveil �Roll Together� Campaign to Kick Off National Bike Month

2013-05-01

Boulder, Colo.— National bicycling movement PeopleForBikes , with the support of Volkswagen of America , unveiled its “Roll Together” campaign today, the first day of National Bike Month. The Roll Together campaign asks both bicyclists and drivers to make a promise to ”roll together” and recognize that behind the steering wheel and handlebars are real people. A 60-second public service announcement (PSA), created in partnership with Volkswagen of America, relays the campaign message of traveling with compassion. “No one is perfect. We’re all human, and we all make mistakes out on the road,” said Bruno Maier, vice president of PeopleForBikes. “This campaign is about acknowledging the fact that we can all do better, whether we are bicyclists, drivers, or both. Let’s treat each other like we all know each other.” “As bicycling rates soar and more and more people take to the road on two wheels, the need for compassionate behavior is of utmost importance,” said Maier. “Sometimes we cyclists can be our own worst enemies. We’re asking all the riders out there to do their best to give a good face to the movement.” In January 2012, Volkswagen of America signed a two-year partnership with PeopleForBikes as part of its Think Blue . initiative. Think Blue. is Volkswagen’s holistic approach to environmental sustainability, encouraging eco-conscious behaviors and fostering healthy lifestyles. The “Roll Together” campaign is another way which Volkswagen is supporting PeopleForBikes on the mission to make America a safer place for bicyclists. “Volkswagen’s Think Blue. initiative extends beyond our fuel-efficient vehicles and manufacturing practices,” said Jonathan Browning, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “We are proud to partner with PeopleForBikes in this campaign to encourage biking and ensure that people of all ages can safely share the road and roll together.” The Roll Together campaign was supported in part by the Paul David Clark Bicycling Safety Fund , a memorial fund started in honor of Paul David Clark, a San Francisco rider who was killed in a bike-truck collision in 2005. To watch the video and see the campaign, visit peopleforbikes.org/better . Follow PeopleForBikes on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram and through the end of May, engage in the “Roll Together” campaign using the hashtag #RollTogether. To learn more about what PeopleForBikes is doing to make America a better place for bikes, visit www.peopleforbikes.org . About PeopleForBikes: PeopleForBikes is a movement to unite millions of people to transform America through bicycling. They are currently leading the Green Lane Project , which is an effort that focuses on building physically protected and inviting bike facilities in communities across the U.S. Join the movement to improve the future of bicycling at www.peopleforbikes.org . About Volkswagen of America, Inc. Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc., an operating unit of Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VWoA) is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. VWoA’s operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Volkswagen Group is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. VWoA sells the Beetle, Eos, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, CC, Tiguan, Touareg, and Routan vehicles through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more. Media Contact: Lauren Fallert Verde PR lfallert@verdepr.com 970.259.3555

Five Climbing Teams Share $25,000 Through the GORE-TEX Brand Shipton-Tilman Grant Program

2013-05-01

Eric Shipton (b. 1907) and Bill Tilman (b. 1897) were arguably the greatest team of mountain explorers of our time. They were strong advocates of traveling in small, compact teams and remaining respectful of the terrain, unburdened by numbers of porters and excessive tonnage and leaving little trace of their passage. It is in this spirit that five teams were chosen to receive the grants through the 2013 GORE-TEX® brand Shipton-Tilman Grant program, funded by W. L. Gore & Associates, inventors of the GORE-TEX® brand product technology for comfort and protection. Gore established this annual grant program in 1990 as a tribute to Shipton and Tilman. “The volume and quality of this year’s applications are proof that today’s climbers continue to seek objectives that have yet to be explored.” said Yvonne Erickson, Gore marketing leader. “We were so inspired by this year’s Shipton-Tilman grant recipients’ appreciation for exploration, alpine climbing and the desire to leave the mountain environments as untouched as possible.” The following five teams will receive grants in 2013: In the footsteps of Genghis Kahn, awarded $7,400 Climbers Dave Anderson, Szu-ting Yi and Lauren Edwards will embark on a two-month climbing expedition, beginning in the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaator and travelling by horse and camel to reach remote locations. The team aims to retrace the route Gengis Khan took west across Mongolia in 1219, attempting first ascents of granite mountains along the way, including Zorgol Hayrham Uul, and Three Child Mountains and the 2,000-foot north face of Eej Khairkhan Uul. The routes that the team have chosen will follow the natural landscape so that they can leave as little trace as possible as they venture on the sacred peaks. CanAm K6 Expedition, awarded $5,000 The Canadian/American climbing team, consisting of Jesse Huey, Raphael Slawinski, and Ian Welsted will attempt to climb the 2,500-meter vertical, northwest face of K6 West, the highest peak in the Charakusa Valley in the Pakistani Karakorum. The peak is one of the largest remaining unattained goals in alpine climbing and the team will attempt to ascend in a light, environmentally conscious alpine style, including both ice and mixed climbing without the support of fixed gear. British Muzkol Pamir Expedition, awarded $1,600 The British team of John Proctor and Jonathan Davey will set out to explore the remote Bozbaital Valley in the Muzkol range of the Pamir Mountains, Tajikistan. Their climb will include first ascents of two previously unexplored peaks at the head of the valley – each just over 6,000 meters. The team looks forward to the stable weather and welcoming locals and hopes that their endeavor will attract other climbers to central Asia. Green Light and Fast, awarded $6,000 Focusing on the Cape Farewell region of South Greenland, this year’s only all female climbing team of Lizzy Scully, Prairie Kearney and Quinn Brett (one of America’s fastest female climbers, who broke The Nose Record up El Capitan in June 2012) will explore the area’s less travelled terrain. They will be traveling to the Torsukatak Fjord of South Greenland to put up First Ascents on the huge unclimbed granite walls in the region. They will start in the fjord near the Baron/Baronness, but will both hike to and explore by boat some less well-traveled areas with big granite walls. The team is climbing without portaledges and haul bags and will not be aid climbing – rather ascending each wall as quickly and lightly as possible. The team will be joined by photographer John Dickey. Changla Himal & Gave Ding Expedition, awarded $5,000 Seeking to discover new objectives in the largely unexplored area of far west Nepal, the climbing team of Neil Warren, Chris Johnson, Dave Chapman and Guy Wilson will attempt first ascents including Gave Ding (6571m), Lachama Chuli (5700m), Chhamsarka Daha (6248m) and other peaks to the west and around the glaciated bowl to the south. The team will climb in alpine style whenever possible, seeking to reflect the spirit of adventure shared by mountaineers across the globe. About the GORE-TEX® brand Shipton-Tilman Grant Program: Applications are accepted from small, unencumbered teams of friends with daring and imaginative goals. The expedition team must plan to accomplish their feat in a self-propelled, environmentally sound, and cost-effective way. The application deadline for the grant is March 1 of each year. An independent judge reviews all applications and looks for projects that exemplify the Shipton-Tilman philosophy. Teams receive a grant ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. About W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc: Gore is a technology-driven company focused on discovery and product innovation. Well known for waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX® fabric, the company’s portfolio includes everything from high-performance fabrics and implantable medical devices to industrial manufacturing components and aerospace electronics. Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Newark, Del., Gore posts annual sales of more than $3.2 billion and employs approximately 10,000 associates with manufacturing facilities in the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan and China, and sales offices around the world. Gore is one of a select few companies to appear on all of the U.S. “100 Best Companies to Work For” lists since the rankings debuted in 1984. The company also appears regularly on similar lists around the world. Learn more at gore.com. GORE, GORE-TEX, and designs are trademarks of W. L. Gore & Associates, ©2013 W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., 295 Blue Ball Rd., Elkton, Maryland, 800-431-GORE, gore-tex.com ###

Vargo Launches Buffalo Valley Outfitters

2013-05-01

Vargo, manufacturer of innovative titanium outdoor gear, recently launched a separate retail division, Buffalo Valley Outfitters (BVO), and website, bvogear.com . Since 2002, Vargo has managed its retail and manufacturing operations under the Vargo company name. However, due to significant growth across the board, the company divided its retail and manufacturing operations into two separate divisions. While Vargo continues to manufacture and sell its line of ultralight titanium outdoor products under the Vargo brand name, it will now operate its retail division under the newly created Buffalo Valley Outfitters (BVO). BVO and bvogear.com are based out of the recently renovated brick and mortar store west of downtown Lewisburg, PA at 2370 Old Turnpike Road. The retail store serves the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail and local Central Pennsylvania residents while its website, bvogear.com , offers over 25,000 outdoor gear accessories and apparel to customers worldwide. Vargo maintains its corporate headquarters and titanium manufacturing operations at its warehouse in downtown Lewisburg, PA and at vargooutdoors.com . Brian Vargo, owner of Vargo and Buffalo Valley Outfitters, recently stated that, “We are excited to see sales have grown to this point where we need to expand in order to keep providing the best products and experiences to our customers. It will allow both divisions to clearly achieve their separate missions.” Beginning in 2002, Vargo has been an award-winning manufacturer of innovative titanium outdoor gear and, until recently, a retailer of quality outdoor gear and apparel. Its retail sales are now operating under its Buffalo Valley Outfitters Division. For more information, please contact Chad North at the information above or visit vargooutdoors.com and bvogear.com .

ISIS� grows sales team, expands customer support and service to four new territories

2013-05-01

ISIS® grows sales team, expands customer support and service to four new territories Latest sales team additions compliment recently reinvigorated apparel line, cover entire United States market BOULDER, COLO. (For Immediate Release) – ISIS®, designer and manufacturer of active and lifestyle apparel created specifically for women, has expanded their reach to four new US territories, now offering enhanced retailer sales support and service to the South East, Mid-Atlantic, South Central, and Eastern Midwest regions. Complimenting a redesigned and reinvigorated apparel line launched for spring 2013, the latest additions to the ISIS sales team will help grow the brand in underserved markets, driving sales and increasing awareness around a brand that continues to create unique, performance-oriented styles that function and flatter in almost any situation. “We are excited to have these reps on board who bring years of experience in the outdoor industry as well as solid relationships with outdoor lifestyle retailers,” said Don Maneth, National Sales Manager with ISIS. “We hand-picked our new reps based on several criteria including marketplace knowledge, previous sales success, and outstanding customer service. I’m confident we’ll see big things from ISIS® in these new territories.” Heading sales efforts in the South East, Felicia Doobrow with the Doobrow Group will cover territories in AL, GA, SC, NC, FL, and TN. She can be reached at twodoobe2@aol.com . Managing accounts in the Mid-Atlantic, Fallon Cunningham will cover NJ, PA, MD, DE, DC, VA, and WV. For any sales-related questions, please contact Fallon at fallon_cunningham@yahoo.com . For South Central sales and service in the states of TX, AR, OK, LA, and MS, retailers can contact Sharon Powell at powellsa22@aol.com . Sarah Vergon with Active Outdoors Group will cover the Eastern Midwest states of MI, OH, IN, and KY. She can be reached at vergons@sbcglobal.net . Adding to an existing New England territory of ME, NH, VT, MA, RI, and CT, DeMarco Sales will now cover Upstate New York. DeMarco Sales can be reached at demarco.sales@comcast.net . All four sales reps will report to National Sales Manager Don Maneth. Maneth can be reached at don.maneth@isisforwomen.com . About ISIS ISIS creates clothes that make it easy for women to get outdoors and get more from the outdoors. From highly technical jackets and pants, to sophisticated silhouettes, versatile fabrics and playful details, ISIS makes performance apparel that helps women stay comfortable and beautiful. For the woman who uses the outdoors for challenge, recreation and restoration, ISIS fits who you are. ISIS can be found at outdoor specialty retailers nationwide and at www.isisforwomen.com . ###

Leading Tactical Gear Manufacturer Appoints Reputable Sales Representative for the Southern Region

2013-04-30

McNett® Tactical (www.mcnett.com/tactical), the leading developer of Ready, Reliable and Required™ tactical gear, is pleased to announce the newest addition to its sales team, Brian Weiland. Weiland will serve as Sales Representative for the Southern region (Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee) and will spend his time supporting dealers in the region with product training, merchandising, order placement and in-store events. He will also be instrumental in expanding brand awareness and implementing key initiatives with mass merchant, dealer and distributor accounts. “Brian’s addition to the Tactical team, his experience, and southeast location positions our brands for growth and exceptional service with our dealers in the Southeast,” said Tanya Brooks, Vice President of Sales at McNett. "Brian is a friend of the industry, an advocate and leader. We are thrilled Brian has joined our team." Prior to joining McNett Tactical, Weiland served as sales representative for a number of reputable tactical and law enforcement brands where he helped develop and maintain relationships with key accounts, conducted educational seminars and helped drive sales and marketing initiatives. Weiland begins his role at McNett Tactical effective immediately. About Brian Weiland Brian Weiland brings 12 years of outside sales experience with a focus in the military, public safety and tactical industry. Responsible for managing and directing retailer and distributor accounts in the Southern region of the United States, Weiland currently lives in Auburn, Alabama with his wife of 11 years and daughter. Weiland enjoys competitive shooting and fishing. About McNett Tactical McNett® Tactical works in collaboration with tactical, military and law enforcement professionals to develop innovative products proven effective for peak performance in any situation. Our field-tested and mission-ready products give tactical professionals the superior advantage they need to succeed. Part of the McNett family of brands; see the complete line of products at www.McNett.com/Tactical. About McNett For over three decades McNett and its family of brands, Outgo™, Gear Aid™, M Essentials™, Aquamira® and McNett Tactical, have provided quality, innovative products for the dive, outdoor, sporting goods and military markets. Through long-term relationships and a great distribution model, McNett enhances the lives of people working and playing outside. For more information, please visit: www.McNett.com.

REI Members Elect New Members to Board of Directors

2013-04-30

REI Members Elect New Members to Board of Directors SEATTLE – National outdoor gear and apparel retailer REI today announced that Steven Hooper and Anthony Truesdale have been elected by REI members to three-year terms on the co-op’s board of directors. In addition, incumbent directors John Hamlin and Dagoberto (Bert) Quintana were re-elected to new three-year terms. The REI board also appointed Matt Compton to a one-year term. Earlier in the year, the board also appointed Chloe Harford to fill a one-year term. Hamlin was elected to his third three-year term on the REI board. Hamlin is president and managing partner of Bozeman Limited Partnership, a private equity firm based in Austin, Texas. Previously, he was an executive at Dell, Inc. where his assignments included leading its $16 billion global online business and its $8 billion U.S. consumer business. He has served on the REI board since 2007 and has served two terms as board chair. Quintana was appointed to a one-year board term in 2011 and subsequently appointed to serve out the term of an elected board member who resigned. He is the president and chief executive officer of Sitel Worldwide Corporation, a global customer care provider headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. with over 57,000 employees in 25 countries. Prior to joining Sitel, Quintana held several executive roles at Dell, Inc., including vice president of U.S. consumer sales and service. Hooper is founder and partner in a venture capital firm based in Bellevue, Wash. He previously served as the CEO of AT&T Wireless/McCaw Cellular and was chairman and CEO of Nextlink and co-CEO of Teledesic with Craig McCaw. Hooper has been involved with Seattle University for nearly 20 years, where he has served as a trustee and board chair. Truesdale resides in New Jersey, where he is the CEO of Vitamin Shoppe, Inc., a national multichannel specialty retailer of nutritional products. He has 30 years of experience in retail including store operations, merchandising, supply chain and strategy development. Harford resides in Seattle. She has a background in digital commerce including her current position as vice president of product management and strategy at Zillow, a leading online real estate information marketplace. She also serves on the board of directors of The Mountaineers. Compton is CEO of ShopIgniter, Inc., a Portland, Ore.-based company that provides businesses an enterprise social marketing platform. He is also an active participant and advisor in the Portland technology startup community. In addition to his business background, Compton serves on the board of the Access Fund, an advocacy organization that keeps U.S. climbing areas open and conserves the climbing environment. The board also re-elected John Hamlin for another year as chair and re-elected Cheryl Scott, senior advisor at the Gates Foundation, as vice chair. About REI REI is a $2 billion national multichannel retail co-op headquartered outside of Seattle. With more than 5 million active members, REI serves the needs of outdoor adventurers through innovative, quality products; inspiring classes and trips; and integrated customer service that allows shoppers to buy great gear and clothing in any way they want. REI has 129 stores in 32 states, as well as REI.com and REI.com/outlet . This year REI will invest $3 million in local communities to help care for outdoor spaces. ###

Outdoor Retailer Winter Market Post Show Report, Available for Download

2013-04-30

Following the close of the nation’s largest winter outdoor industry trade event, Outdoor Retailer (OR) show organizers compiled and analyzed a variety of information related to the week’s events, buyer statistics, demographic breakdowns, attendance figures and survey results. The contents of this effort are now available for download in the newly published Outdoor Retailer 2013 Winter Market Post Show Report . Outdoor Retailer tightened the qualification process for local/regional prospect attendees and took action to thoroughly re-qualify drive-in attendees. OR also reclassified any attendee under age 16 from the retail buyer category. The result was a significant reduction in local attendance formerly identified as retailer/distributor/working media, yielding an improvement in the quality of attendee audience. The report further documented an increase in attendance from key geographies, such as the Northeast and International. The report includes: A letter from Nielsen VP and OR Show Director Kenji Haroutunian Comprehensive overview of attendance by category and region All Mountain Demo summary and highlights Post show attendee survey results Media attendance highlights Mobile app engagement summary Retailer, brand and media testimonials To download the full 15-page OR Winter Market Post Show Report, go here . About Outdoor Retailer Outdoor Retailer (OR) brings together retailers, manufacturers, industry advocates and media to conduct the business of outdoor recreation through tradeshows, product demo events and web-based business solutions. Produced by Nielsen Expositions and based in San Juan Capistrano, California, Outdoor Retailer also provides and promotes retailer education, advocacy, responsibility and critical face-to-face business initiatives within the outdoor industry. Named among Trade Show News Network's 25 fastest-growing tradeshows by attendance, Outdoor Retailer (www.outdoorretailer.com) connects approximately 48,000 attendees on a semi-annual basis for its Summer and Winter Market shows, and thousands more through its year-round online resources and platforms. # # #

KEEN Kicks Off Intensive Sock Testing Program on the Pacific Crest Trail

2013-04-30

KEEN Inc. , the creator of innovative hybrid products for outdoor enthusiasts, is launching an intensive consumer testing program this summer on the Pacific Crest Trail. One of the world’s longest-lasting socks, the KEEN Olympus hiking socks are constructed to withstand 2663 miles of the PCT and beyond. Last week, KEEN gave more than 130 pairs of Olympus socks to thru-hikers at the PCT kickoff event in Campo, CA. KEEN also anointed 14 hikers as KEEN PCT Olympus Ambassadors, supplying them with Olympus socks for their entire journey. The PCT stretches from southern California to Canada and ranges in elevation from sea level to more than 13,000 feet. The route passes through 25 national forests and seven nation parks. Averaging 20 miles of hiking each day for up to six months, KEEN’s PCT Olympus Ambassadors will put their socks through the toughest conditions. “We’re thrilled to have the Olympus put to the test this summer on the Pacific Crest Trail. Our ambassadors are going to give us so much great information about how the socks perform on their journeys,” said Tim McGuire, Business Unit Director for Bags and Socks at KEEN. “We believe the Olympus socks will stand up to any adventure. The PCT is a perfect testing ground.” Throughout their journeys, the Olympus Ambassadors will send technical information on the performance of the socks back to the KEEN product team, as well as update their own blogs about their adventures from the trail. Fans can follow the Olympus PCT Ambassadors on social media with the hashtag #OlympusPCT. What makes the Olympus so indestructible? The body of the sock is made of moisture-wicking, non-itch merino wool while the toe and heel are reinforced with Dura-Zone, which contains a patented fiber proven to be 15 times stronger than steel. The socks are both durable and comfortable thanks to a range of new technologies. Heel Hold, the new heel pocket construction, provides a snug fit and continuous comfort. Plus, the Olympus socks feature a 90-degree angle between the ankle and foot and KEEN’s signature left and right fit. Both attributes allow the Olympus socks to perfectly envelope the shape of each foot. Like all of the socks in the KEEN collection, Olympus socks are knitted with a hidden Wundersteam under the toe to eliminate bunching and irritation, and engineered with comfort zones right where they are needed. Each KEEN Olympus sock comes with a Guaranteed for Life Warranty. KEEN is so confident in its construction, if any pair of KEEN Olympus socks wear out, KEEN will replace them, no questions asked. About KEEN KEEN Inc., manufacturer of original hybrid footwear, bags and socks was founded in 2003. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, KEEN offers innovative hybrid products that enable outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy an active lifestyle. Known for its innovation and creativity, KEEN started with the invention of the first sandal that protects the toe - the Newport. Since its inception, the company has applied that same problem-solving design approach to expand its footwear collection and offer bags and socks. KEEN offers products that allow people to go anywhere, from trekking the wilds of the world, exploring a cool city, heading to work, or skipping to a playground down the street. KEEN's products are sold in specialty footwear, travel and outdoor retailers, premium-sporting goods retailers and major outdoor specialty retail chains worldwide. In 2010, 2011, and 2012 KEEN was named one of "America's Best Places to Work" by Outside magazine. KEEN strives to demonstrate integrity and leadership while promoting a vibrant, inclusive community. Discover more about KEEN and keep up with us online at www.keenfootwear.com, www.facebook.com/keen and www.twitter.com/keen ###

Stanley, A Brand Of PMI, Celebrates 100th Anniversary By Paying It Forward, Bringing Wilderness Mentoring Experiences To Under-Resourced Teens

2013-04-30

In honor of its 100th Anniversary, STANLEY , a brand of PMI, proudly announces the launch of a six-week campaign centered around Father’s Day aimed at changing the lives of teens who struggle without adult role models. Working with Big City Mountaineers, the campaign celebrates the memories people have created with their dads using Stanley products while paying it forward to under-resourced teens who haven’t yet been able to create those memories. “Over the last several decades - long before Facebook and the Internet - we have received thousands of letters letting us know how much our product means to our fans,” said JoAnne Anderson, Stanley Global Senior Marketing Manager. “For many, our product represents a cherished memory of a loved one who has passed or a best friend that never let them down. We are honored to be a part of our fans lives and wanted to celebrate this bond with our consumers while creating good for those in need.”   For every story shared with the STANLEY brand until June 20th, $5 will be donated to Big City Mountaineers to fund their wilderness mentoring expeditions where urban teens learn critical-life skills and lessons on the trail. Print ads promoting the campaign will be running in Outside magazine as well as Men’s Journal. To further promote story submissions, there will also be online advertising on OutsideOnline.com and Facebook . The goal is to raise $10,000, which will help fund two wilderness mentoring expeditions for both teens and their mentors. “We’re excited to work with Stanley to make an impact on youth who need it most. Our kids are writing their own futures today, and Stanley’s support is crucial to ensure that those futures are positive, healthy and strong,” explains Lisa Mattis, Executive Director, Big City Mountaineers. The partnership with Big City Mountaineers is another way the STANLEY brand is celebrating its centennial and the generations of people who have made the iconic brand a part of their lives. The anniversary is also captured in two commemorative bottles released late last year that pay tribute to the original vintage vacuum bottle. The Stanley Limited Edition 100th Anniversary 1.1 QT/1L and 1.4 QT/1.3L bottles feature: Vacuum insulation. Keeps hot/cold 24 hours Durable double wall stainless steel construction Insulated vintage lid which doubles as a cup Recessed 100th Anniversary stamped metal badge Vintage 1944 hammertone finish Available for a limited time only, now until December 2013, the commemorative items can be purchased at participating retailers nationwide including REI (www.rei.com) and online at www.stanley-pmi.com (MSRP: $40/$44) To learn more about the STANLEY campaign that runs from April 25th to June 20th – and perhaps submit your own story – visit www.stanley-pmi.com . About STANLEY: Invented by William Stanley on September 2, 1913 (official patent date), the all steel vacuum bottle revolutionized the way people enjoyed food and beverage. Since then, the STANLEY brand has been delivering superior food and beverage gear for rugged, active lifestyles and remains dedicated to this simple promise: buy STANLEY products, get quality gear. Built for Life®. Learn more, visit www.stanley-pmi.com . About PMI: Founded in 1983, by Rob Harris, PMI manufactures, markets, and designs innovative food and beverage solutions for busy lifestyles across the globe. PMI’s two most recognizable brands, Stanley® and Aladdin® , are both over 100 years old. Guided by principles of sustainability, community and integrity, PMI has extended these beloved brands into the future while remaining rooted in their past. Headquartered in Seattle, WA, PMI has offices in Shanghai, Amsterdam and Manila and ownership in PMI Joinease manufacturing in China. It currently distributes its products in over 50 countries worldwide.

Black Diamond Equipment� Promotes Brian Mecham to VP of NA Wholesale

2013-04-30

Black Diamond Equipment®, a global innovator in climbing, skiing and mountain sports equipment, announces the promotion of Brian Mecham to Vice President of North American Wholesale. Mecham’s experience spans a career that began as a manager of the Black Diamond retail store in 1994, to International Sales Director for climbing brands Pusher/Cordless/S7 from 2001 – 2002. From 2003-2011 Mecham worked at Patagonia, where he began as a sales representative and ascended to the role of Western Regional Sales Manager. For the past 18 months, Mecham has managed Black Diamond’s top line revenue and its sales force in North America as North American Director of Wholesale. “When we committed to launching an apparel program three years ago, we knew we were seeking to do something that had never been done in the outdoor space: to build, nurture, and grow a global apparel business within an existing $130 million technical equipment brand,” comments Ryan Gellert, Brand President of Black Diamond Equipment. “The realignment and strengthening of our sales structure is an example of our commitment to continue to fortify Black Diamond as the premier provider of innovative equipment for mountain activities plus become one of the top technical apparel players in the global outdoor space.” Bill Sinoff, Black Diamond’s Apparel Line Sales Manager, will move into Mecham’s former role as North American Director of Wholesale. In the newly created position of Global Go-To-Market Director, Chris Grover will work closely with both Mecham and Sinoff, driving global go-to-market strategies with BD product, sales and marketing teams. As a lifelong climber and 20-year Black Diamond sales and marketing veteran, Grover is ideally suited to align product, sales and marketing strategies internationally. Black Diamond also announces its partnership with the Bodhi Agency and Egan & Associates, LLC. “We are excited to welcome both the Bodhi Agency and Egan and Associates into the BD family,” states Mecham. “With their combined experience in the specialty outdoor market, they bring a wealth of business acumen and strong dealer relationships to Black Diamond. We now have the resources to scale up the level of service we provide the dealers in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest.” The Bodhi Agency, based in Batavia, Illinois, will service the Great Lakes and Midwest Territories, while Egan & Associates of Fall City, Washington, will handle the new Black Diamond apparel line in the Pacific Northwest. Black Diamond Equipment’s climb, ski and mountain product lines will continue to be represented in the Pacific Northwest by Alan Adams and Eddie Whittemore.

OutsidePR Retained by Omegawave

2013-04-30

OutsidePR , a Bay Area outdoor-industry public relations firm, today announced that it has reached an agreement to represent Omegawave for a wide-ranging public relations campaign. The Omegawave technology and service, used for years by leading professional athletes and teams such as FC Barcelona, Manchester United and several Olympic Committees, is a revolutionary physiological feedback tool that quickly, non-stressfully, and non-invasively assesses an athlete’s functional state and readiness for training and competition. This helps optimize training, avoid injuries and overtraining and deliver peak performance when it matters most. Juha Pinomaa, CEO of the Finland-based Omegawave, said, “We are looking to OutsidePR to introduce Omegawave to American consumers, especially in the endurance sports and active lifestyle markets. Our company is becoming rapidly well-known in Europe, and look forward to our consumer introduction in the U.S.” OutsidePR president Gordon Wright noted that, “For anyone who has ever suffered an overtraining injury, for anyone looking to maximize their training windows, Omegawave is a game-changer. For years, athletes seeking to determine their body’s readiness to exercise were told simply to listen to their bodies. The problem is, we’re often deaf. Omegawave is the first product that can give empiric feedback on your physiologic readiness, your fatigue levels, your cardiac stress and your recovery state. Omegawave recently secured two significant sponsorships in the triathlon world – as the title sponsor of the ITU World Series stop in San Diego, and as a sponsor of the Russian Triathlon Team. They are in the process of developing an Ambassadorship program in the triathlon and endurance communities throughout the United States. About Omegawave Based on research in sports science and space medicine, Omegawave provides leading methods for monitoring an athlete’s functional condition. Omegawave provides instantly-relevant advice on the optimum amount of intensity and volume of training. By identifying an athlete’s physiologically limiting factors and providing guidelines to eliminate them, Omegawave helps to improve performance, prevent overtraining, decrease injuries and improve fitness and overall health. Omegawave technology has been used by multiple Olympic Federations, premier soccer teams such as FC Barcelona, teams from the NFL, MLS, and NHL, and various other leading sports organizations. The company’s global headquarters are in Espoo, Finland. For more information, please visit: www.Omegawave.com About OutsidePR OutsidePR is a Northern California-based boutique agency focused on outdoor and fitness-related enterprises. Among its clients are GU Energy, Injinji Footwear, Pearl Izumi, Hydrapak, Road ID, DownTek, Torch and Moji. For more information, please visit www.OutsidePR.com

GoPro Mountain Games Looking for Amateur 'Athletes to Watch'

2013-04-30

The Mountain Games in Vail, the country’s largest adventure sports and music festival, has always offered amateur athletes the opportunity to compete against some of the world’s best cyclists, climbers, runners, paddlers and anglers. This year, the newly crowned GoPro Mountain Games wants to spotlight some of its most compelling non-professional athletes through a new “Athletes to Watch” program. The GoPro Mountain Games is soliciting stories from amateur athletes to share with the public via GoPro Mountain Games' multiple media channels. “At the GoPro Mountain Games amateurs have the opportunity to compete and compare their times against an Olympic bronze medalist like Georgia Gould or a world champion kayaker like Eric Jackson,” says Mike Imhof, Sr. VP of Sales & Opperations of the Vail Valley Foundation, which organizes the annual event. “There are some amazing amateur athlete stories amongst our participants and this year we want some of them to share the spotlight with the pros.” Several amateur athletes have already submitted their stories and have been featured on the GoPro Mountain Games website including kayaker Henry Hyde , who at age 12 has already competed at the event for the past five years. This summer he hopes to land on the podium in the Steep Creek Challenge, the Downriver Sprint and the Pro Freestyle competition. SUP competitor Skip Brown from Maryland has reported that he has been running rapids, paddling upstream against the current and surfing standing waves, in preparation for June. Even a few four-legged competitors are currently being featured on www.gopromountaingames.com as they prepare for the dock-dog competition. Athletes are encouraged to share their stories using the “ Submit Your Story " button on the GoPro Mountain Games website. About the Vail Valley Foundation  The Vail Valley Foundation is charged with enriching the Vail Valley and sustaining its unique spirit through the delivery of unparalleled arts, world class athletics and inspiring education programs throughout the community. For additional information on the Foundation, visit www.vvf.org . About GoPro GoPro makes the world's most versatile cameras, enabling people to capture immersive and engaging footage of themselves during their favorite activities. GoPro's HERO line of wearable and gear mountable cameras are used collectively by more consumers, professional athletes, and video production professionals than any other camera in the world. Based in San Mateo, California, GoPro's products are available in more than 30,000 stores in over 100 countries worldwide and direct via GoPro.com. GOPRO®, HERO®, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Woodman Labs, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other company, product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their rightful owners.

Kokatat Outfits 2013 USA Freestyle Kayak Team

2013-04-30

This past weekend the 2013 USA Freestyle Kayak Team was named in Bryson City, NC, during the NOC's Freestyle Shootout & 2013 USA Canoe/Kayak Freestyle Team Trials. Kokatat is proud to equip each athlete on the team with its GORE-TEX® Full Zip Jacket and Paddling Trunks as part of the team’s official uniform. “These athletes represent our nation’s best and we’re excited that they’ll be wearing our gear while representing our great country at the World Championships and other competitions throughout the year,” said Jeff Turner, Kokatat Sales and Design Manager. 22 paddlers were named to the team including Kokatat athletes Dane Jackson, Eric “EJ” Jackson, Clay Wright, Jason Craig, Adriene Levknecht, Hunter Katich, and Bennett Smith. Eric Jackson’s qualification marks the 25th consecutive national team that EJ has been named to. Equally impressive was Dane Jackson’s performance as he qualified in four categories, K-1 Men, C-1, Squirt Men, and OC-1 winning the K-1 Men’s event. “Kokatat has been a backbone for paddlesports in the US, and we’re thrilled that they will be outfitting our athletes,” Risa Shimoda, chair of USA Freestyle Kayaking, who qualified for the USA Freestyle Kayak Team for the eighth time. Following team trials, National Team members will compete in various competitions around the country and world before returning to Bryson City and the Nantahala Outdoor Center in September when the retailer and kayak instruction center hosts the International Canoe Federation's (ICF) Canoe Freestyle World Championships. For more information on the US Freestyle Canoe/Kayak team visit www.usafreestylekayak.com . For more details on the 2013 Freestyle World Championships visit www.freestylekayaking2013.com . About Kokatat Inc. Kokatat has been manufacturing paddling gear in Arcata, California for more than 40 years. At a time when many technical apparel brands were moving manufacturing offshore, Kokatat continued to invest in infrastructure in the United States. Kokatat founder Steve O’Meara was committed to the development of the finest and driest paddling apparel in the world and recognized the need to control and continually evolve the development of our dry wear. In the early days, Kokatat worked closely with W.L. Gore & Associates, makers of GORE-TEX®, to refine the sewing and sealing techniques required for full immersion suits and tops. Today, our hands-on approach to manufacturing continues to set the standard in paddling apparel. Into the water with Kokatat! Please visit www.kokatat.com and follow Kokatat on Facebook and Twitter “ @kokatat ”.

LOWA Partners With AMC to Open Two Demo Centers

2013-04-29

In 2012, LOWA Boots partnered with the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) to open a Demo Center at the Joe Dodge Lodge in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire. Fast forward to 2013 after hundreds of hikers subsequently enjoyed a day in LOWA boots at no charge. The program was so successful that it is being duplicated at the Mohican Outdoor Center located in the 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area close to the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey. Both areas offer a network of nearby trails that lets city dwellers and suburban enthusiasts take advantage of accessible, affordable and beautiful places to hike and enjoy other outdoor activities. The Mohican Outdoor Center program officially just opened and the Joe Dodge Lodge will open on Memorial Day week-end. Both Demo Centers will operate through the Columbus Day holiday. “The Demo Centers allow potential LOWA consumers to try before they buy,” commented Peter Sachs, general manager of LOWA in the U.S. “Our goal is to help everyone realize the benefit and enjoyment of top quality footwear designed for specific terrain as opposed to everyday-casual or basketball-type shoes frequently seen on the trails. Based on the Demo Center’s success last year in New Hampshire, we know it works.” Demo Center employees are receiving training from LOWA so that they are prepared to help hikers choose between threemen’s, three ladies and one junior model. LOWA encourages the employees to try different models themselves so that they can give advice based on real life knowledge. The Appalachian Mountain Club promotes the protection, enjoyment and understanding of the mountains, forests, waters and trails of the Appalachian region. Pinkham Notch, with access to Mount Washington, Tuckerman Ravine and the Wildcat Range, has been a hub for hiking, climbing, snowshoeing and skiing on the Presidential Range of the White Mountains since the 1920s. The Mohican Outdoor Center is located just a 90-minute drive from New York City and less than three hours from Philadelphia in Blairstown, New Jersey. It is surrounded by 6,000 acres of Mohican State Forest and borders Pleasant Hill Lake. LOWA Boots LLC, with headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, is a partnership with LOWA Sportschuhe Gmbh founded in 1923 and based in Jetzendorf, Germany. The U.S. company, launched in 1996, sells, markets, and distributes a complete line of four season outdoor footwear for walking, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering as well as everyday use. In addition, LOWA offers collections of specialized footwear for field sports and professional task force use. -END-

Amer Sports supercharges its business in the Americas with advancements in its sales, marketing and commercial leadership

2013-04-29

As a strategy to ensure robust sales acceleration and to support long term targets, Amer Sports Americas (ASA) is announcing a number of key promotions within its organization, specifically within top-level sales and commercial director positions. “Over the last several years Amer Sports Americas has continued to drive sales and market share gains,” says Amer Sports Americas President and General Manager Mike Dowse. “We now have an opportunity to evolve our organization to allow for even greater success moving forward.” Nora Stowell has been promoted to a newly-established role as vice president of sales for Amer Sports in the United States in all categories of Salomon, Suunto and Atomic. Nora has served successfully as Suunto North America’s vice president and commercial director for the last three years, and as Salomon USA’s director of apparel and gear for three years prior to her role at Suunto. “Nora has an established track record with the company having initially driven Salomon apparel to profitability and then most recently growing Suunto sales by double digits during her tenure,” says Dowse. “Nora is a proven and well-respected leader within Amer Sports and the industry.” In Stowell’s new role as vice president of sales for Amer Sports in the United States, she will be championing go-to-market priorities by leading national sales managers, including: · Denny Hochwender, National Sales Manager, Salomon Footwear · Donna Williams, National Sales Manager, Salomon Apparel · David Grayson, National Sales Manager, Suunto · Erik Anderson, National Sales Director, Salomon and Atomic Winter Sports Equipment Stowell will also be influential in working with the new, yet-to-be-appointed commercial manager for Arc’teryx USA and will continue in her capacity as vice president and business director of Suunto USA until a replacement is hired. Another key promotion within the company is that of Atomic USA’s former national sales and marketing director, Jordan Judd. After five years of successful sales and marketing leadership with Atomic USA, Judd has advanced within Amer Sports Americas to become the new vice president and regional commercial director for Salomon apparel and gear in North America. “Jordan has been the driving force in transforming Atomic to arguably one of the hottest brands in the winter sports industry and has a keen ability to tap consumer insights and position brands with a unique competitive edge which will help solidify Salomon’s success in the apparel and gear marketplace,” says Dowse. Erik Anderson has been promoted to the newly-created position of winter sports equipment national sales director for Amer Sports in the United States. He is responsible for leading the Atomic and Salomon alpine and Nordic hardgoods sales forces. A regional sales manager will also be hired to assist Anderson in ensuring that sales reps for both brands have the resources they need to be successful. “With Erik’s robust experience with dealers, buying groups, media, and associations, he will be able to lead our sales representatives in leveraging and maximizing our portfolio of winter sports equipment brands,” says Dowse. In conjunction with this change, current commercial directors for the United States will now take on new North American regional roles to include Canada. Included in the roster of commercial directors for North America in their respective categories are: · Mike Adams: Vice President and Regional Commercial Director of Salomon and Atomic Winter Sports Equipment North America · Jeff Larsen: Vice President and Regional Commercial Director, Salomon Footwear North America · TBD: Vice President and Regional Commercial Director, Suunto North America · Jordan Judd: Vice President and Regional Commercial Director, Salomon Apparel and Gear North America Current roles within Amer Sports in the United States including product managers, merchandise managers and commercial managers will continue to report into the category leaders above. These similar roles in Canada will also work with these category leaders as well as with Amer Sports Canada General Manager Dave Deasley. AMER SPORTS Amer Sports (www.amersports.com) is a sporting goods company with internationally recognized brands including Salomon, Wilson, Atomic, Arc'teryx, Precor, Suunto and Mavic. The company's technically-advanced sports equipment, footwear and apparel improve performance and increase the enjoyment of sports and outdoor activities. The Group's business is balanced by its broad portfolio of sports and products and a presence in all major markets. Amer Sports shares are listed on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki stock exchange.

Suunto innovates a new generation of GPS watches with launch of Ambit2 and Ambit2 S

2013-04-29

Suunto App Zone and Movescount.com also get a facelift Suunto , a global leader in sports precision instruments announces the launch of the next generation of Ambit outdoor GPS watches: the new Ambit2 S line and the Ambit2. With this unveiling, Suunto is excited to now offer consumers a GPS watch for every occasion, from multisport training to serious backcountry adventures. “Rapidly advancing technology made it meaningful to update the Ambit family,” says Suunto president, Mikko Moilanen. “The Ambit received tremendously positive responses from consumers last year,” continues Moilanen. “To meet the needs of performance sports-oriented users even better, we felt that a lighter, slimmer GPS with more sports-specific features was needed to complement the Ambit family.” Ambit2 S – The GPS watch for athletes The new Ambit2 S is a lightweight, sleek GPS watch built specifically for optimal cycling, running, swimming and multisport training. The GPS feature provides accurate pace, route navigation and tracking, while the heart rate monitor helps you train within your ideal zone. Plus, multisport features allow users to switch hassle-free between all three sports. o Cycling : The new Suunto Ambit2 S supports power meters (ANT+), offers various power measurement values and provides numerous in-depth analysis options. o Swimming : The Ambit2 S offers comprehensive swimming functionality, including precise pace and distance, automatic interval recordings, stroke rate and swimming time related to different pool lengths. Additionally, the Ambit2 S recognizes your swimming style, making performance analysis easier. o Running : Runners benefit from accurate pace and distance thanks to FusedSpeed™, the Ambit's accelerometer integrated GPS. An interval timer and autolap function make training even easier. Ambit2 – The GPS for explorers and athletes Building on the success of the award-winning Suunto Ambit, the Ambit2 includes not only all the original Ambit’s hallmark outdoor functions such as route navigation, barometric information, altimeter with FusedAltiTM, 3D compass and other outdoor specific features, but also boasts all the Ambit2 S’ training features. “In the mountains you need a watch you can rely on,” says Suunto climbing ambassador Ueli Steck. “I've been using Suunto products for many years and the Ambit2 is the ideal product out there for anyone serious about their mountain sports.” Packed in a glass fiber reinforced casing with a maximum 50-hour battery life in GPS mode, the Ambit2 is the ultimate watch for serious adventurers, explorers and multisport athletes. A brushed steel bezel and sexy sapphire crystal glass add style to the Ambit2's extreme functionality in the Sapphire edition, (pictured center). Both the Ambit2 and Ambit2 S will be available worldwide this May. For more product details and full specs, visit www.suunto.com. App Zone and Movescount.com get a facelift Suunto has also upgraded the App Zone , a Suunto community forum that allows users to find and create free Apps for Ambit GPS watches. Since it launched in November 2012, users have created over 5,000 Apps. The upgrade provides Ambit owners with the ability to create and share more advanced Apps. Suunto’s online sports community Movescount.com, which hosts the App Zone, will now provide new tools for more in-depth workout analysis, enhanced navigation and improved sharing opportunities. About Suunto Suunto was founded in 1936 by Tuomas Vohlonen, a Finnish orienteer and inventor of the liquid-filled field compass. Since then Suunto has been at the forefront of design and innovation for sports watches, dive computers and instruments used by adventure seekers all over the globe. From the top of the mountain to the bottom of the sea, Suunto physically and mentally equips outdoor adventurers to conquer new territory. Suunto’s headquarters and manufacturing plant is in Vantaa, Finland. Employing more than 400 people worldwide, Suunto products are sold in over 100 countries. The company is a subsidiary of Amer Sports Corporation along with its sister brands Salomon, Arc’teryx, Atomic, Wilson, Precor, and Mavic. http://www.suunto.com/us www.movescount.com https://twitter.com/SUUNTOUSA www.suuntousaathletes.blogspot.com Facebook

Brooks-Range Mountaineering Welcomes Two New Ambassadors, Kevin Tatsugawa and Charlie Barrett

2013-04-29

Tested, trusted and represented by the world’s top mountaineering, avalanche and outdoor experts, Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment Co. proudly expands its breadth of experienced ambassadors and welcomes mountaineering extraordinaire, Kevin Tatsugawa, and accomplished climber, Charlie Barrett, to its athlete team. Specializing in top-quality, innovative gear and tools for both professional guides and recreational users alike, the concept of Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment was born in the field by founder Matt Brooks, an AMGA certified mountain guide and accomplished alpinist. Since its inception, Brooks-Range understands the importance and value of working with ambassadors who are the best in the field. “Brooks-Range was founded upon a strong platform with detail to safety, comfort and utility,” says Brooks-Range’s General Manager, Jeff Blakely. “Therefore, we deliberately work closely with the most experienced experts in the field, not only as ambassadors for the brand, but also prescribing their feedback as an integral element of our product development.” Furthering Brooks-Range’s commitment to maximizing enjoyment and safety in the mountains, new ambassadors Tatsugawa and Barrett both bring lifetimes of expertise and enthusiasm to the ambassador team. About Kevin Tatsugawa: Following a fully committed international guiding career, Kevin translated his experience into earning a PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism from the University of Utah to help the guiding service industry become more recognized and respected, domestically and internationally through education, training and research. His dedication to guiding has taken him to numerous foreign and exotic places for anything from first ascents to conducting research to teaching wilderness medicine. About Charlie Barrett: Passionate for every aspect offered by climbing from bouldering, cracks and sport to having fun with friends, Charlie is an avid climber based out of Mammoth Lakes, California. With over 13 years of climbing experience under his belt, he looks to share his climbing expertise with others in a recent guidebook published about climbing near Mammoth Lakes. “I’m extremely honored to be an ambassador for a company that makes such outstanding, innovative and high-quality technical gear,” says Tatsugawa. The new guns join the ranks of fellow Brooks-Range Ambassadors such as Silas Rossi, Matt Schonwald, Carlos Buhler, Mike Bromberg and Christopher Wright. Be sure to follow all their adventures and updates by staying tune to www.brooks-range.com . About Brooks-Range Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment Co. offers an innovative, top-quality selection of backcountry and outdoor equipment, gear and tools for professional guides, recreational travelers and users alike for a safe and enjoyable mountain experience. Brooks-Range equipment is tested and trusted by their team of ambassadors comprised of the world’s top mountaineering, avalanche and outdoor experts. Designed with utility, comfort and safety in mind, Brooks-Range also promotes education and safety in the wilderness by supporting a variety of organizations. Mainly produced in the USA, Brooks-Range can be found at outdoor retail shops nationwide and online at www.brooks-range.com .

More Than Just Sunglasses, Costa Grows Apparel Collection with New Graphic Shirts, Hats

2013-04-29

Costa’s known for its patented color-enhancing 580 lenses and “forget-they’re-on” fit sunglasses. But its growing line of branded apparel is quickly catching on with fans. This year, Costa introduces nine new tee shirts, two new performance shirts and four new hat collections to add to its expanding gear roster. The unique collection of shirts feature original artwork from renowned fishing artists like Carey Chen and Jose Canales, as well as vintage-inspired graphics, highlighting Costa’s 30-year born on the water heritage. The new tee shirts are 100 percent pre-shrunk cotton, and are available in both short and long sleeves, in a variety of vibrant colors, including yellow, lime, hot pink, royal blue and orange. Other colors include white, black, gray and navy blue. Costa also extended its partnership with RealTree® Camo to include a new Max-4™ Camo tee shirt design. Costa produced two new long-sleeve moisture-wicking, stain-resistant performance shirts, with a UV protection factor of 50+ built into the fabric. The shirts are available with either a redfish or a sailfish tail camouflaged into the Costa logo. In addition, Costa debuted three other new hat designs, including a knit beanie. A collection of trucker hats, visors and twill caps in a variety of styles and colors round out the collection. Ladies have their fair share of new apparel options to choose from, as well. Several of Costa’s new shirts feature a female cut, with designs including the new RealTree AP™ Pink Camo. “We’re seeing tremendous growth of our apparel collections through our retail partners,” said Chas MacDonald, president of Costa Sunglasses. “We’re working to grow the line even more, bringing in new graphic tees, performance shirts and hats to meet the demands of our customers.” Costa’s hat start at $14.95, and graphic t-shirts start at $19.95. Costa also offers a variety of retainer cords and sunglass cleaning cloths. To see more images of Costa’s apparel collection, visit www.costadelmar.com/shop . About Costa™ As the leading manufacturer of the world’s clearest polarized performance sunglasses, Costa offers superior lens technology and unparalleled fit and durability. Still handcrafted today in Florida, Costa has created the highest quality, best performing sunglasses for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983. It’s currently the fourth-largest brand in the performance sunglasses market. For Costa, conservation is all about sustainable fishing. Many fisheries that should be vibrant and healthy are all but devoid of native fish because they have fallen victim to poor fishing practices, unregulated development, lack of watershed protection or all of the above. Costa works with partners around the world to help increase awareness and influence policy so that both the fish and fishermen of tomorrow will have healthy waters to enjoy. Costa encourages others to help in any way they can. For more information, contact 1-800-447-3700 or visit the company’s web site at www.costadelmar.com . Join the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/costasunglasses or on Twitter @CostaSunglasses . # # #

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