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Geartrade Launches New Consignment Model for UnNew Outdoor Gear

August 10th, 2021

Salt Lake City, UT (August 4, 2021) – After two decades serving as the go-to marketplace for outdoor enthusiasts to buy and sell used gear, Geartrade has even more in store: a new consignment selling option to make it even easier to sell used outdoor clothing and gear. Now, customers can simply send in their gear and Geartrade takes it from there. Designed to reduce seller friction and improve the purchase experience, Consignment makes it easier than ever for Outdoor Adventurists to reclaim their gear closet.

This continued investment in the experience of Geartrade.com is the result of Geartrade’s dedication to advancing a waste-free circular economy. Since 1999, our mission has been to keep people in the outdoors and gear out of landfills. And that mission is thriving—a vast community of users list, sell, and purchase their gear on our platform every day, keeping quality gear and apparel in use while giving their wallet a nice boost. Now, in response to customer input, we have added a consignment selling option alongside our traditional marketplace model to make the selling process as easy as possible.

Geartrade “Reclaim Your Gear Closet:” Consignment Selling

It’s streamlined and easy. Using this selling option, sellers simply send Geartrade their gear. They can use their own box and print out a label at home, or request a compostable bag or box—even a ski/snowboard-sized one.

Geartrade covers shipping. Shipping labels are free. Sellers pay nothing upfront.

It’s full service. Geartrade creates the description and photos, and handles customer service, marketing, and fulfillment. The only action sellers need to take is to drop the package off at any FedEx box, Walgreens, or Dollar General.

Robust pricing analytics included. Geartrade’s pricing analytics match twenty years of sales data with current market conditions and seasonality to find the right price.

Sellers get paid in cash, not gift cards. Sellers get paid in cash via PayPal, Venmo, or ACH.

Sell your gear, your way. Sellers can choose to sell their gear via the marketplace model or the new consignment model. They can adjust the pricing of their item. They can choose to donate or have their gear sent back to them if the item doesn’t sell.

In addition to the new consignment selling option Geartrade is excited to announce that we have committed to become Climate Neutral Certified. By partnering with Climate Neutral we will be able to leverage their vast expertise as we start the process of working toward carbon neutrality by first measuring and offsetting our 2020 carbon footprint and then working to reduce future emissions.

For added sustainable goodness, Geartrade has partnered with the noissue Eco-Packaging Alliance Program. Through our partnership with noissue we are able to provide our customers with fully compostable mailer bags and packing tape as we strive to eliminate plastic use. As a partner of the noissue Eco-Packaging Alliance, we have committed to plant trees through One Tree Planted for every order we place with noissue. To date, thanks to the Eco-Packaging Alliance, more than 13,000 trees have been planted worldwide.

Geartrade has always been the secret stash for people to find great deals on gear. Today, with more people considering the impact of their purchase decisions and with the re-commerce revolution picking up steam, Geartrade continues to lead the way on its path to being the go-to hub for the outdoor industry’s full circular economy.

Posted in Industry, Outdooralamode, Press Release | Comments Off on Geartrade Launches New Consignment Model for UnNew Outdoor Gear

An Inside Look at F-35 Pilot Helmet Fittings

August 10th, 2021

HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah (AFNS) —

Reservists in the 419th Operations Support Squadron play a crucial role to ensure the safety of pilots assigned to the 419th Fighter Wing, the Air Force Reserve’s only combat-capable F-35 Lightning II unit.

“We are responsible for maintaining and repairing pilot gear to ensure everything is in proper working condition,” said Staff Sgt. AJ Arteaga, 419th OSS aircrew flight equipment Reservist. “That also includes their helmet.”

Every helmet is custom-fitted to its pilot during a two-day process at a fit facility. To begin assembly of the helmet, pilots have their heads measured and scanned to secure the perfect fit.

Once assembled, pilots need to have the optics aligned using a pupilometer, which measures the distance between their pupils within two millimeters of its center, so pilots see a single image on the helmet-mounted display.

On the display, pilots are able to view mission-critical information and obtain enhanced situational awareness of the battlefield simply by moving their head. The helmet gives pilots a 360-degree view of the F-35’s external environment without needing to tip the jet.

“The pilot can look down through a portion of their wing and see what’s below,” said Tech. Sgt. William Vass, 419th OSS. “When they look toward the cameras embedded on the F-35 that image projects onto their helmet display.”

The helmet’s innovative technology and precise fit require routine maintenance so pilots can complete their mission. In addition to pre- and post-flight fittings, the helmet is inspected every 105 days and has a 120-day fit check to ensure its functionality and safety.

“Pilots come in and put on all their gear so we can double-check to make sure everything fits properly and without issue,” Arteaga said. “Small things such as a new haircut or a couple of pounds gained could cause the helmet to not fit correctly.”

Mask adjustments are also included within the helmet fitting. Pilots are sent to an oxygen tester where aircrew flight equipment technicians can identify any leaks around the mask that could prevent adequate oxygen flow.

“The next part is to ensure there is a proper distance between the mask and the visor,” Arteaga said. “We have to make sure when the pilot moves or talks, the mask doesn’t hit the visor. If it’s too close, it will bend the visor and distort the display image.”

Reservists in the AFE shop are an integral part of the helmet-fitting process and maintenance intervals. They verify it remains as precise as possible to guarantee the safety of the 27 pilots in the 419th FW. The work is involved and in-depth, but essential to providing a seamless interaction between the helmets’ advanced capabilities and the exacting skills of the pilot wearing it.

By Senior Airman Erica Webster, 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, Helmets | 4 Comments »

SKYDEX to Showcase Leading Blast Mitigation Products at Ground Vehicle Systems Engineering & Technical Symposium (GVSETS) 2021

August 9th, 2021

Ground system defense leaders to experience the latest blast mitigating technology and innovative energy absorbing materials for interior vehicle protection

CENTENNIAL, COLO. (August 5, 2021) – SKYDEX, a global leader in advanced impact mitigation and energy absorption solutions, today announced that the company will attend the 13th Annual Ground Vehicle Systems Engineering and Technology Symposium (GVSETS) in Novi, Michigan on August 10-12, 2021.

GVSETS is a three-day event dedicated to the engineering and technology of Military Ground Vehicles, and is intended to accelerate innovation to provide warfighters with the ground vehicle capabilities they need to meet mission success and return home safely. Government, academia and industry representatives bring together their knowledge and exchange ideas with the overarching goal to refine solutions to meet the military and commercial challenges of today and tomorrow.

SKYDEX will send Scott Osborn, Director of Business Development, Defense, and Rich Kase, Senior Product Engineer, on behalf of the team to showcase the company’s newest blast mitigating decking, blast seat cushion inserts and other innovative energy absorbing materials for interior vehicle protection. Osborn and Kase will also be available to discuss SKYDEX’s leading shock-mitigating, proprietary technology.

“As the global leader in advanced impact mitigation and cushioning solutions, we are excited to attend GVSETS and have the opportunity to connect with ground system defense executives, leaders and other key decision makers on our latest blast mitigation innovations,” said Osborn. “SKYDEX prides itself on leading the charge with advanced materials used to better protect people and the things that matter and we are looking forward to providing a closer look at our solutions that are protecting our men and women in uniform at this impactful industry event.”

For more information about SKYDEX, please visit www.skydex.com or contact the team via email at info@skydex.com to set up a meeting.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, Tradeshow | Comments Off on SKYDEX to Showcase Leading Blast Mitigation Products at Ground Vehicle Systems Engineering & Technical Symposium (GVSETS) 2021

T.Rex Arms Releases the Next Generation Sidecar

August 9th, 2021

Centerville, TN – T.REX ARMS is pleased to announce the release of the next generation of the industry-standard Sidecar holster: a total redesign making it the slimmest, lightest, and most modular of all flexible AIWB holster systems on the market.

Six years ago, we launched the original Sidecar, a rigid, one-piece holster holding duty gun and spare magazine, made specifically for appendix carry. The industry followed, and a number of companies have built on that design, extending it, and improving on it.

Today, we are further updating this holster with the Spine System, an integral hinge that allows the holster and attachment to flex with the movement of the wearer, providing maximum comfort, but only pivoting on a single axis so the flexibility does not compromise concealability.

The Spine allows for a sleek and simple design, but also the ability to quickly and easily swap out attachments to carry different equipment at customizable ride heights. Current attachments include a pistol mag carrier, rifle mag carrier, tourniquet carrier, and universal handcuff carrier. More attachments are currently in development for unprecedented adaptability of the holster system by the user.

Every holster also includes our new Raptor Wing, an outrigger clip adapter that allows stable carry of the holster without an attachment, in all IWB positions. The wing also has mounting holes that can be used to attach knife sheaths or other tool holders for unlimited extensibility.

In addition to this new flexibility and modularity, the Sidecar redesign adds expanded support for optics and suppressor-height sights and coincides with a complete overhaul of our manufacturing pipeline to improve overall product quality and consistency of fit and finish.

The new Sidecar launches with full ambidextrous support for standard 9mm/.40/.357 Glocks, The S&W M&P and Shield line, Sig P320 and P365 variants, the Walther PPQ and PDP, and FN 509. Light compatibility includes the Surefire X300 and XSC, and the Streamlight TLR-1, TLR-6, and TLR-7 families of lights. Additional weapons and lights are coming soon with CZ and HK support slated for later this year.

Furthermore, the design of this new hinge system has been open-sourced, and CAD drawings and 3D models of parts and tooling can be downloaded here. T.REX ARMS invites the rest of the industry to extend and build upon this latest design as we all work together to serve those who desire to be better equipped to protect themselves and those around them.

Posted in Holsters, Press Release | 3 Comments »

Schiebel Camcopter S-100 Successfully Completes US Navy Flight Trials

August 9th, 2021

Fairfax, Virginia, USA, 9 August 2021 – Schiebel Aircraft and Areté Associates, successfully showcased the CAMCOPTER® S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS) combined with Areté’s Pushbroom Imaging Lidar for Littoral Surveillance (PILLS) sensor to the US Navy’s Office of Naval Research (ONR).

In a combined demonstration sponsored by the US Office of Naval Research (ONR) on a commercial vessel off the coast of Pensacola, Florida, Schiebel and Areté demonstrated the CAMCOPTER® S-100 and its capabilities, as well as Areté’s Push- broom Imaging Lidar for Littoral Surveillance (PILLS) system.

PILLS enables hydrographic mapping of ocean littoral spaces with a low size, weight, and power (SWaP) sensor that easily integrates into the S-100. PILLS has multiple military and commercial applications.

Hans Georg Schiebel, Chairman of the Schiebel Group, said: “We are proud that we could successfully showcase the outstanding capabilities and data-gathering features of our CAMCOPTER® S-100 to the US Navy. Globally, we operate extensively on land and at sea and we are confident that our unmanned solution is also the right fit for the US Navy.”

www.schiebel.net

Posted in Aviation, Navy, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Schiebel Camcopter S-100 Successfully Completes US Navy Flight Trials

NexTex Innovations Presents New TurboDry Technology Collections at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market

August 9th, 2021

NexTex Innovations, an Atlanta-based textile technology developer that builds strategic partnerships with brands, entrepreneurs and manufacturers to bring textile innovations to market will introduce its expanded collection of TurboDry technology performance materials at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, August 10-12 in Denver Colorado.

TurboDry technology is a patent-pending fabric construction that harnesses the same capillary forces as the root systems in trees and move moisture away from skin keeping users dry, comfortable, and more equipped to efficiently maintain their core body temperature. The core mission of TurboDry technology – and all NexTex products – is to provide consumers with the most comfortable, sustainable performance textiles.

At the Outdoor Retail Show, NexTex will introduce six new TurboDry technology collections including 100% polyester constructions, single jerseys, natural and synthetic blends, woven-like knits, and narrow elastics.

“Since we launched TurboDry in January of 2020, we’ve received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from our brand partners and consumers with regards to the technology’s performance,” said Chad Lawrence, NexTex CEO. “We are pleased to extend the collection to provide consumers with the most comfortable sustainable performance textiles.”

NexTex won a 2021 Outdoor Retailer Innovation Award in the Function category for its TurboDry technology, selected among 39 finalists in the function category.

The 100+ fabric and elastic offerings in the TurboDry technology portfolio serve as a foundation for apparel and accessories development for all walks of life. To learn more about how TurboDry can elevate your products schedule a meeting for the show at turbodry.com/contact, or stop by our Booth 50035-UL.

Posted in Materials, Outdoor Retailer, Press Release | Comments Off on NexTex Innovations Presents New TurboDry Technology Collections at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market

Big Agnes Introduces First-Ever Backpack Collection in Spring 2022

August 9th, 2021

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. – Big Agnes, the Steamboat Springs-based outdoor equipment brand, is pleased to introduce a line of technical backpacks for Spring 2022, a first for the 20-year-old brand. The collection of six backpacks ranges from 20-liters to 63-liters in capacity, made wtih GRS certified recycled nylon fabric nylon fabric. Core to the collection is the inclusion of a “Trash Can” accessory on most models and a campaign, in conjunction with Leave No Trace, aimed at reducing litter on public lands.

“Our new pack line leverages over two decades of product design and development experience,” said Bill Gamber, co-founder and president of Big Agnes. “The market is full of some impressive products but we’re bringing fresh new ideas and a commitment to recycled fabrics to the category. As a brand we’re excited to finally have backpacks to complement and carry all our award-winning gear.”

The Big Agnes pack collection will feature 45-liter to 63-liter backpacks designed to provide comfort for multiday excursions, along with two technical daypacks for hiking and travel. The 45-liter to 63-liter backpacks will also be offered in women’s specific fit models which have been optimized by Big Agnes’ female designers. The main packs fabric is GRS certified, recycled Mipan® regen robic high-tenacity nylon containing a solution-dyed ripstop grid.

Essential to the pack design is the proprietary Load Wrangler and Load Wrangler+ suspension systems that provide an easy to set, precise fit for a well-balanced load that remains comfortable throughout a full day on the trail. All of this is delivered through innovative design that has come to life through functional features like the HOIST COMPRESSION SYSTEM and OPEN RANGE hip belt systems. Hydration bladder sleeves, accessible pockets, daisy chain webbing and other core features are also included.

The Big Agnes packs collection includes:

• Prospector 50 liter and Women’s Sun Dog 45 liter – ultralight backpacking packs designed for shorter-duration overnight pursuits

• Parkview 63 liter and Women’s Garnet 60 liter – lightweight backpacking packs designed for extended backpacking excursions, featuring custom-injection molded frame sheets anatomically engineered to fit the body and maximize torsional stability

• Impassable 20 liter – A top-loading daypack with an internal laptop/hydration sleeve and compartmentalized storage, perfect for day hikes and everyday travel

• Ditch Rider 32 liter – A minimalist, roll-top daypack with an internal laptop/hydration sleeve, designed for versatility on and off the trail, streamlined for all-day comfort

A unique product launching alongside the packs is the 7-liter Big Agnes Trash Can, an easily attachable and packable accessory for collecting litter on the trail and in camp. The Trash Can is made from the same fabric as the packs and will be included with all 45-liter to 63-liter packs, but also sold separately as an accessory.

“Our Trash Can has one purpose – to clean up our public lands and give back to a global organization that’s working to help make it happen,” said Gamber. “We wanted to provide an easy way to collect the large and small garbage that’s littered along trails, rivers and in campgrounds. Through some post work product testing, our employees determined that the Trash Can holds at least 36 crushed aluminum cans.”

The Trash Can is the latest environmentally conscious offering from Big Agnes, joining the brand’s TwisterCane™ BioFoam Pad and Solution Dyed Fabric Tents that both launched earlier this year and provide a multitude of sustainable benefits. For the backpack launch, Big Agnes is partnering with Leave No Trace by donating a portion of sales from every pack and Trash Can to assist in its global efforts to sustain healthy public lands. All Trash Cans will include an informational card to help drive awareness of Leave No Trace’s mission and to help educate consumers on backcountry best practices.

“Big Agnes has been a longtime partner of Leave No Trace and we’re excited to collaborate with them on their upcoming pack launch,” said Dana Watts, Leave No Trace Executive Director. “We love the energy and commitment they have put into reducing trail and campground litter and we’re excited to be a partner in their education campaign.”

Posted in Outdoor Retailer, Packs, Press Release | Comments Off on Big Agnes Introduces First-Ever Backpack Collection in Spring 2022

Government of Canada Announces Contract for Combat Boots for Canadian Armed Forces

August 9th, 2021

Sherbrooke, Quebec – Public Services and Procurement Canada

Through Strong, Secure, Engaged, the Government of Canada is modernizing its military equipment to support the Canadian Armed Forces and keep Canadians safe.

On behalf of the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, today announced the awarding of a contract worth nearly $7 million to manufacturer Royer of Lac-Drolet, Quebec, to produce pairs of general-purpose combat boots and nylon laces for the Canadian Armed Forces.

“As a result of a competitive procurement process, we are proud to award this contract to Canadian supplier Royer and provide our troops with the best possible made-in-Canada equipment to carry out their work.”

The Honourable Anita Anand
Minister of Public Services and Procurement

The contract, awarded through an open, fair and transparent competitive process by Public Services and Procurement Canada, will see the delivery of an additional 40,000 pairs of boots and 100,000 pairs of laces to Canadian Armed Forces supply depots in Edmonton, Alberta, and Montréal, Quebec, by February 2023. The general?purpose boots are designed to provide enhanced foot protection and comfort for Canadian troops during operations conducted in ambient temperatures ranging from 0°C to 25°C.

“It is essential that the members of our Canadian Armed Forces have the equipment they need to fulfill their commitment to serving Canadians at home and abroad. By providing quality combat boots through this contract, we are ensuring that our members are well equipped to do the important work we ask of them.”

The Honourable Harjit Sajjan
Minister of National Defence

The contract for the general-purpose combat boots is expected to maintain 25 Canadian jobs and create 5 new jobs.

“Through this contract, we will not only provide superior quality boots to the members of our Armed Forces, but also create jobs and economic benefits directly in our community.”

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau
Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

The boots will be made entirely in Canada at the factories of manufacturer Royer in Lac-Drolet and Sherbrooke, Quebec.

The contract includes an option to order, if needed, an additional 67,500 pairs of boots over the next 5 years, for a potential total of 107,500 pairs.

Posted in Boots, Contracts, Guest Post, International | 7 Comments »