Thursday, April 29, 2010

SNEWS� : Outdoor Manufacturer : Deuter USA Hires New Reps in Four Territories

SNEWS� : Outdoor Manufacturer : Deuter USA Hires New Reps in Four Territories

Longmont, CO (March 16, 2010) – Deuter USA has hired four new agencies for sales representation across the US. In a renewed focus on the specialty retailer, Deuter hired agencies in the South Central, New England, Mid Atlantic and Mid West territories.

“Our commitment to specialty retailers and viewing our relationships as partnerships is how Deuter has operated for over 111 years,” says Christian Mason, Director of Sales and Marketing for Deuter USA. “The team we have in place reflects that philosophy. Reps are the cornerstone of our sales, retailer relationships and staff knowledge.”
Deuter will be represented by the following agencies in the respective territories:
Kevin Cox (alpexp@earthlink.net) of Alpine Exposure, Inc. - South Central territory (TX, LA, AR, OK, KS, MO, NE)
Chuck Joy (cj@cjrep.com) of CJ Rep, LLC – New England territory (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT)
Britt Wetzel (bwetzel@nativeyewear.com) of B.W. Sales, LLC – Mid Atlantic territory (NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, DC and Northern VA)
Paul Versaw (paul@meridiansportsinc.com) and Kevin Streeter (Kevin@kevinstreeter.com) of Meridian Sports, Inc. – Mid West territory (ND, SD, IA, WI, IL, MN)

Deuter (pronounced Doy-ter) is one of the oldest pack makers in the world, founded in 1898. Known for creating the first mountaineering specific pack, first women’s specific pack and first ventilated back system, Deuter is also one of the world’s leading technical pack companies focused on design, technologies and product innovation. Users from hikers to alpinists, bike commuters and racers to child carriers, adventure travelers and more, Deuter’s focus on functionality sinks stereotypes by creating products that fit, perform and provide comfort and ventilation for any endeavor.


About Deuter
Deuter Sport GmbH of Gersthofen, Germany, celebrated its 110th year in 2008 and is one of the leading international technical pack brands. Deuter’s major focus is on the development and sales of innovative, high quality and multi-use packs. Deuter’s current strength in pack innovation is the ventilated back system they have developed and refined over the last 24 years as well as their complete line of child carriers. Since establishing a subsidiary in Longmont, Colorado, in 2001, Deuter has made a significant impact in the U.S. market. Deuter USA has over 400 specialty accounts and has been recognized by its retailers as one of the top backpack brands in the industry. For more information, please visit www.deuterusa.com.

The full line of Deuter packs can be found on Powderfin.com

SNEWS� : Print / Broadcast / Electronic Media : Backpacker Announces Nationwide 2010 Get Out More Tour Launch

SNEWS� : Print / Broadcast / Electronic Media : Backpacker Announces Nationwide 2010 Get Out More Tour Launch

n the spirit of backcountry adventure, Backpacker magazine announces the 10th annual Get Out More Tour presented by WOOLRICH®—an interactive mobile media and education tour—designed to inspire readers and encourage participation in active outdoor pursuits.

Backpacker’s Get Out More Road Team, starring Sheri and Randy Propster, will visit specialty outdoor retailers and festivals in 48 states and 75 cities to promote the active outdoor lifestyle and teach practical outdoor skills.

At each retail stop, the Get Out More Team will host 60-minute seminars on trip planning, choosing the right outdoor gear and apparel, safety in the outdoors and much more.

“Sheri and Randy’s interactive retail seminars bring the pages of Backpacker to life. Their passion and extensive outdoor expertise educate our customers about the skills, stewardship and equipment they need to get out more,” said Linda Johnson, lead sales associate at The Trail Store in Louisville, Ky.

Get Out More audiences will have access to expert information and opportunities to win great outdoor gear. At select locations, the Get Out More Team will guide experiential outdoor adventures to expose audiences to the outdoors just outside their doorstep.

“Together with our local tips and Backpacker’s vast information library, we have great resources to help prepare people for nearly any adventure,” added Johnson.

“When Backpacker established the Get Out More tour a decade ago, we had the simple goal of inspiring and empowering outdoor enthusiasts to experience the great outdoors with greater confidence, comfort, and safety,“ says Backpacker Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Dorn. “Since then, our team has established a unique educational platform rich in heritage and purpose, one that now reaches tens of thousands of readers and retail customers in their own backyards.”

Backpacker is pleased to announce WOOLRICH®, the Original Outdoor Clothing Company®, as this year’s title sponsor. “The Get Out More Tour is the perfect opportunity for us to reach outdoor enthusiasts and encourage more people to experience the outdoors with the proper gear,” said Keith Myers, Woolrich National Sales Manager. “The Backpacker team does a great job communicating our product and brand story and we’re proud to be apart of the tour again this season.”

Other Tour sponsors include CORDURA® Brand Fabric, KayLand®, LEKI®, POLARTEC®, Primaloft®, Sea to Summit®, SPOT™, Subaru®, Deuter, GerberGear® and TIMEX® Expedition®.

Backpacker’s mission is to inspire and enable people to enjoy the outdoors by providing the most trusted and engaging information about backcountry adventure in North America. For a complete list of the Get Out More Tour schedule of events, please visit http://www.backpacker.com/getoutmore.

About Backpacker:
Backpacker brings the outdoors to reader's doorsteps, inspiring and empowering them to get out and enjoy nature more often. The authority on active adventure, Backpacker is the world's first GPS-enabled magazine, and the only magazine whose editors personally test the hiking trails, camping gear, and survival tips they publish. Backpacker's Editors' Choice awards, an industry honor recognizing design, feature, and product innovation, has become the gold standard against which all other outdoor-industry awards are measured.

Backpacker is published by Active Interest Media(www.aimmedia.com), has a circulation of 340,000, and is published nine times per year. In 2006, the magazine won a coveted National Magazine Award for editorial excellence. Backpacker's award-winning website, www.backpacker.com, is updated daily and features more than 3,000 hikes, a searchable and comprehensive database of outdoor gear (www.gearfinder.com), special sections for beginners and female hikers, the most active community forums in the outdoor space, and a wealth of trail tips, videos, and GPS know-how.

Posted: 04/01/2010 In Category: Print / Broadcast / Electronic Media
Written By: Alison Kennedy

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Travel Chair Larry Chair Promo Video

The Travel Chair Larry Chair available NOW at Powderfin.com!

Travel Chair's "Larry Chair" Portable Chair

Introducing Travel Chair's latest innovation - The Larry Chair.






The Travel Chair Larry Chair is a lightweight, compact, and sturdy portable chair for any occasion. This updated version of the Original Chair pays tribute to the man who began the tradition over 25 years ago. This updated chair is lighter and requires no taking apart, simply fold and go. Made of TravelChair signature 420D Ballistic Nylon Mesh, this chair is quick drying, lightweight, and strong. Travels from beach to concert to campfire. Complete with own carry bag. Patent pending.

A great option for summer concerts, the beach, or river trips!





Tired of bugs at the backyard barbecue? Try Travel Chair's Insect Shield Chair!

Good Housekeeping's 2010 VIP Winner! Travel Chair has teamed up with folks at Insect-Shield to create a chair that infuses their permethrin based bug repellent into the fabrics of one of our chairs. The technology behind this process is cutting edge all while keeping the environment and your health in mind: . Features: Ballistic Nylon Mesh treated with odorless insect protection by Insect Shield Repellent Gear. Ballistic Nylon Mesh is mildew and sun resistant. Repellent treated material reduces need for topical repellants. Proven to repel mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and fleas. Product is safe to be used by infants, children, and women who are pregnant or nursing. Product dimensions open: 20.5 x 21 x x31. Product dimensions closed: 6 x 6 x 31. The Insect Shield TravelChair is a great product for the outdoors. It's perfect around the campfire or fishing, and Saturdays at the ball field.


Tuesday, April 06, 2010

Zeal Polarized Sunglasses


Zeal Polarized Sunglasses

All sizes, styles, and frame colors are of Zeal Polarized Sunglasses are now available on Powderfin.com. Featuring...


  • ZB-13 Polarized Lens Technology - Polarized + exclusive color contrast. Reduces glare, relaxes eyes, and enhances vision.
  • ZB Tint - Zeal Optic's exclusive color and light enhancing tint is the most versatile for all day, all conditions use

  • I've been trying out a pair of Zeal Tenacity Polarized Sunglasses for a week or so, and I'm definitely impressed with the lenses. They have a great tint, not too dark, not too light, and they really do crisp things up. I haven't fished with them yet, but I imagine they'll preform well.

    I wear polarized sunglasses every day of every year, mostly because I'm either dealing with snow here in Montana, or getting out on the river when it gets nice. A reliable pair of shades is a must for spending any amount of time chasing flies down a river in search of trout. I would definitely recommend Zeal polarized sunglasses based on comfort, price, and the great lenses.

    Why does Powderfin Outdoors love Zeal Optics? Find out more about Zeal Optics Environmentally Sound Business Practices


    Wednesday, March 31, 2010

    Missouri River "Spring" Fly Fishing


    A couple of buddies of mine and I went over to Craig, MT last weekend to quell some cabin fever and hopefully catch some eager Missouri River trout. The forecast was for 65 and some sun... but as can often happen in Montana in the spring, the forecast should have been for WIND.

    We got blown around quite a bit, and didn't do so well fishing out of the boat. We were actually skunked both days from the boat, but were able to catch some nice rainbows from shore on Sunday. Nymphing was pretty much the only option due to the wind, and the bows were pretty eager to eat small San Juan worms in soft water and in deep buckets. We had one around 20" and the others were typical healthy Missouri River Rainbows from 16-18".

    Izaak's still isn't open, so if you go, bring some food. Although microwaveable pork rinds are available at Joe's Bar. I'd never seen these before, and being a pork rinds fan, I had to try 'em. The barkeep popped them the little bag of dried up skins in the micro, and in a minute, we had some hot puffy chicarrones! Dump a little hot sauce on those suckers and they're pretty darn good.

    If you're looking to head to the Mo, visit our favorite Missouri River flyfishing guides at Dry Fly Outfitters to book a trip. They specialize in dry fly fishing the Missouri, and they'll put you on 'em!


    Tuesday, March 30, 2010

    Zeal Polarized Women's Sunglasses on Powderfin.com



    We've just added some awesome new women's polarized sunglasses from our friends down in Boulder, Zeal Optics. We've had their polarized and photochromic ski goggles on Powderfin for a year now, and we decided to go ahead and add their sunglasses for Spring/Summer 2010.

    They have some great styles, which not only look pretty hot, but will WORK. Zeal Optics sunglasses are worn by professional kiteboarders, surfers, cyclists, mountain bikers, snowboarders, skiers, kayakers, and windsurfers, among many others.

    Zeal Optics Women's Polarized Sunglasses Features:

  • ZB-13 Polarized Lens Technology - Polarized + exclusive color contrast. Reduces glare, relaxes eyes, and enhances vision.
  • ZB Tint - Zeal Optic's exclusive color and light enhancing tint is the most versatile for all day, all conditions use
  • Shatter-proof lens - superior optical clarity and virtually indestructible
  • Recycled Material Frames - many frames made with up to 30% recycled materials
  • Reversible Nose Pads - for a custom fit
  • Spring Loaded Hinges - highest quality, secure and comfortable fit on all types of heads
  • Non-slip Co-Injection Molded Temple Pads - sunglasses stay secure even when wet or sandy
  • Lifetime Warranty and Replacement Program - see details
  • Wednesday, March 10, 2010

    Big Horn Breather


    Meat with a side of meat

    Jason wrangled a few on dries

    typical Big Horn Bow






    I hadn't been over to the Big Horn since February of 2007, otherwise known as our Big Horn Bro Down. It was pretty much the same idea... a bunch of dudes, dogs, and drinking beer. Oh yeah, and doing some fly fishing. We had a different place to stay this time around, known as the Brown Palace, which is located in a small group of "cabins" known as Cottonwood Camp. The place was perfect for what we needed. It had beds, a fridge for beers, a freezer for ice, a stove for elk steaks, and even a satellite TV for Sportscenter.





    Fishing was good on pink and orange scuds, #20's mostly. We caught some decent fish, nothing monstrous. Jason caught a handful on dries... and I don't think anyone did any streamer fishing. I did have one nice follow and swipe from a good sized brown on a mouse pattern. That was a first for me, which was pretty exciting. Exciting enough for me to completely airball on it... but fun nonetheless. I even missed Kansas whoopin' up on Mizzery to fish on Saturday. It was worth it, fishing was good. But... if you go, bring warm clothes. More importantly, bring them WITH YOU on the float. I made that mistake on Saturday, and I paid the price. It did make for a wonderful hot shower and whiskey drink when we got back. The showers at the Brown Palace are top notch, by the way.

    Great trip, long hangover.




    Powderfin.com: Eco-Friendly Outdoor Gear, Sherpa Adventure Gear Clothing, BPA Free Baby and Water Bottles, - Home

    Powderfin.com: Eco-Friendly Outdoor Gear, Sherpa Adventure Gear Clothing, BPA Free Baby and Water Bottles, - Home

    Our goal is to work with manufacturers who employ environmentally conscious business practices, and to sell outdoor products that can help make a difference. We're 100% dedicated to the brands we sell and our customers who buy our gear. If you see something on our website, it's because we would use it, and we stand behind it!


    Deuter Spectro Series Backpacks



    New for 2010, the Spectro series offers Deuter's world-renowned active ventilation in a lightweight package. The new Aircomfort Flexlite back system gives the user 25% less perspiration and spring-steel construction, but the heaviest pack in the series is only 2 lbs 9oz! Another landmark in Deuter's history of innovation. Now available online at Powderfin.com.

    Check out the new Spectro Packs at Powderfin.com - here they are!



    Deuter Spectro AC 28 SL Women's Backpack


    Deuter Spectro AC 32 Hiking Backpack


    Deuter Spectro AC 36 SL Women's Backpack


    Deuter Spectro AC 38 Hiking Backpack


    The Deuter Spectro AC 38 is the largest pack in the new Spectro line. Weighing only 2 lbs., 9 oz., the AC 36 is a perfect daypack for rigorous hikes. The new Aircomfort FlexLite back system makes this hiking pack a leader in 2010. Deuter's Spectro AC Backpacks are a brand new edition to Deuter's 100+ year history of building amazing packs. For hikers who like to travel light without giving up comfort, Deuter Spectro's are an excellent choice. Each pack features the brand new Aircomfort FlexLite Back System with its ultra-flexible twin-frame construction and active 3-sided ventilation. The Spectro AC 38 SL features a super-clean design using lightweight materials, hip belts with ventilation slits, and the new ultra-breezy back system. These innovative additions add up to a perfect backpack for light hiking.

    Tuesday, March 02, 2010

    Sherpa Adventure Gear








    We're gearing up to add more Sherpa Adventure Gear items to our spring line-up. Stay tuned for some great new base layers!

    Monday, March 01, 2010

    Outdoor lovers create market for green clothing



    From MSNBC.com's "Outdoor lovers create market for green clothing"


    The backpacker motto of ‘leave no trace’ has moved beyond the mountain slope and into your clothes.

    Outdoor companies, taking to heart their customers’ love for the environment, are increasingly churning out more green gear designed to use organic and recycled materials, less packaging and more energy-efficient manufacturing. Credit consumer — and corporate — concerns over global warming and the impact of production on the Earth and worker health.

    “Consumers are demanding it,” said Megan Davis, spokeswoman for the Outdoor IndustryAssociation in Boulder, Colo. “Green is certainly hip but consumers are starting to look a little bit more carefully at what they’re buying.”

    Sunday, February 28, 2010

    Bucket Fishin'

    Waylon found himself a deer to chew on

    Willie, Waylon, and Zeusy Fruit

    Sometimes it's nice just to get out to the river or pond and sit there. We call that "bucket fishin". All you need is a bucket, some worms, and some beers. A few funny puppies don't hurt either.


    Put it in the bucket, son.




    Thursday, February 18, 2010

    Dry Fly Outfitters - Missouri River Fly Fishing Guides


    Zandy and client with a nice tailwater Rainbow

    My old buddy Zandy got his outfitter's license after guiding on the Mo for about 10 years, and started up a Dry Fly Outfitters. He just launched a new website recently...check it out when you get a chance! Here's a few links to the new site...





    If you're coming to Montana and want to poke some big sippin' browns on the Missouri River, he's the guy to help you do it!

    I'm getting a little antsy to fish, I think some guys are heading over to the the Big Horn in two weeks, hopefully I'll have some trout pics to show you soon.


    One of Zandy's clients with monster Missouri brown!

    Wednesday, February 17, 2010

    Powderfin.com Receives 2009 ECO STAR Award!







    Last Thursday was an exciting day for Powderfin.com, as I travelled over to the Capitol building in Helena to accept an Eco Star award. This was an award given out by the Montana State Extension Pollution Prevention Program to small businesses in Montana who are "taking environmentally responsible steps to reduce waste and maximize efficiency, and/or your organization has sustainability at the very core of its mission". I'm proud to say that both of those descriptions apply to Powderfin, and it was an honor to be recognized!




    I set up a Powderfin.com table in the Capitol Rotunda, showcasing some of the green products Powderfin sells, then met and talked with other Eco Star award recipients from all around Montana. Governor Schweitzer (sporting his signature bolo tie and accompanied by his dog Jag) was the key speaker, and gave a short but pertinent speech about protecting our lands before taking a few photos with the group.




    It was nice for Powderfin to be recognized for our dedication to waste reduction and use of re-used and recycled materials. We will continue to improve in this area as we face the challenges of growth!



    Wednesday, February 10, 2010

    Bourbon Street Bowl Bash














    It's been tradition around here for the last several years to get some wild caught Gulf Shrimp from my cousin's in South Texas for my Super Bowl Party. Since the Saints were in it this time around, some friends and I definitely thought it would be fitting to have a New Orleans themed party.... much like most of the rest of the world did, I'm sure. So we got 5 beautiful pounds of 10/15 brown Gulf Shimp shipped in from Riviera Red's Seafood (http://www.shrimpfishcrab.com/).




    Here was the menu:



    Shrimp Boil - shrimp, smoked sausage, potatos, onions, carrots, corn
    Jambalaya in the crockpot
    Bread Pudding in another crockpot - try this... even if just to make your house smell unreal!
    Fried Oysters
    Fried Catfish
    Raw Oysters
    Pulled Pork sammies - Colin used his Memphian skills the day before and smoked up about 6 lbs. of butt
    Homeade slaw



    We had this house of mine smellin' like an Oyster Bar, but it was worth it. Super good time, and nice to see the Saints perfom well and bring it home to their deserving fans.


    That should mark the end of the gluttony season for this guy. It generally starts at Thanksgiving and ends at the Super Bowl. Probably sounds familiar to most Americans. I'm looking forward to getting some flies tied this week, and heading to the Big Horn at the end of the month. Hopefully we'll get lucky with some decent weather and hungry trout.

    Bridger Bowl's Birthday - 1-15-10





    I took Friday off on Jan. 15th to spend my b-day on the hill, and quickly learned that it was also Bridger Bowl's Birthday. Lift tickets were only $15 if you carpooled with 3 or more people. What a great idea to encourage carpooling, not to mention keep some vehicles off of the road to Bridger....with is often full over over-zealous skiers and riders who will risk their and other's lives when they pass you on the road, only to pull into the space right in front of you. Makes no sense. Anyway..... It was a beautiful day on the hill, pretty busy for a Friday, but I'm glad it was. It should have been busy for $15 a pop! There was some birthday cake at the mid-mountain lodge, and one of the nice fellas at the cafeteria bought me a beer since it was my b-day too. Not bad at all.

    We're seeing some good accumulation of snow up there, which is what we want for a healthy run-off and hopefully 3rd straight solid fishing season. Cheers to Bridger's 55th, and of course to MLK Jr.!

    Tuesday, January 12, 2010

    Travel Chair InsectShield Camping Chair




    "The Good Housekeeping Research Institute tests thousands of products each year to find the ones that will improve your life in big ways and small ones. Carolyn Forte, who heads the institute's home appliances division, shared some of the most useful innovative 2010 products with "Good Morning America." They earned the institute's VIP designation as Very Important Products.


    Price: $59.99 (chair) and $30 (bunk sack); www.powderfin.com
    Whether you're camping in the wilderness or sitting on the sidelines of your child's soccer game, Forte says you'll want this portable chair.
    There's an insect repellent from Insect Shield (CLICK HERE for more info) embedded into the fabric keeps biting bugs from ruining your good time.
    It's also EPA-registered and safe for children and pregnant women to use.
    The bunk sack has been similarly treated, and can be used by itself or as a sleeping bag cover for a no-itch night under the stars."
    If you live in a buggy place, you know the value of a pest-free evening in the backyard! This chair will help reduce the need to cover yourself in chemicals while your enjoying a warm evening of family and friends.


    Tuesday, November 17, 2009

    New Sherpa Wool Winter Hats





    We just added some new Sherpa Wool Winter Hats to our selection of Sherpa Adventure Gear hand-knit hats on Powderfin.com.



    All hats are fleece lined for itch free warmth, and are super comfy! I wear the Namche pretty much every day here in the Montana winter, and it's the warmest hat I've ever own. At around $20... Sherpa hats are a good investment to keep your dome warm.


    Here's a few of the new ones...




    This classic-style Sherpa winter hat has polar fleece lining for keeping you warm on the ski hill, or walking the dog in town. The Sherpa Pema Wool fleece-lined wool beanie�s cable knit style is equally at home on your precious head in the Montana backcountry or on your way to the brew pub.










    Sherpa Adventure Gear Nima Wool Winter Hat

    This classic-style Sherpa winter hat has polar fleece lining for keeping you warm on the ski hill, or walking the dog in town. Enjoy warmth in style wearing this fleece-lined traditional wool hat in bold colors. The Sherpa Nima lambswool winter hat is hand-knit in Nepal, providing superior warmth and comfort.



    Sherpa Adventure Gear Kungha Wool Winter Hat

    The Sherpa Khunga combines the warmth of wool with stripes and contemporary style. The Khunga hat, like all Sherpa hats, has polar fleece liner for itch-free warmth. All sherpa hats are hand-crafted in Nepal, made of the finest lambs wool. Each Khunga Hat has been individually carded and knit in the valley of Kathmandu, Nepal.