The Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports Commentary
By: Rock Fight, LLC
Language: en
Categories: Sports, Wilderness, Leisure, Hobbies, Business, Marketing
Tired of the same old outdoor industry narratives? If your post-adventure chats are filled with laughter over mishaps, commiseration about broken gear, and celebrating real triumphs (and epic fails), then The Rock Fight is your new tribe. Imagine this: you're no longer stuck in echo chambers. After listening in, you'll be part of honest, unfiltered discussions that mirror the conversations you have with your closest outdoor buddies. You'll gain fresh perspectives and feel more connected to a community that speaks your language. On The Rock Fight we get into the topics others shy away from – the real, sometimes messy, and al...
Episodes
Tradeshow News Recap + America's Next Top Trail Running Brand!
Oct 27, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave put three buzzworthy trail running brands to the test in the first-ever America’s Next Top Trail Running Brand showdown.
Focusing on Brand Position, Retail Appeal, and wear test performance, the trio have a look at Speedland, Norda, and Mount to Coast to crown one who will move on to the next round (provided there will be a next round).
But before the big shoe showdown, they have a look at a couple of stories that have come out of the outdoor trade show sc...
Duration: 01:02:55How Mammut Made Humor Work in the Outdoor Industry
Oct 24, 2025The Brief is back! Today on The Rock Fight Colin and Producer Dave break down Mammut’s Mountain Wear Rescue campaign.
They’re joined by Mammut’s Chief Marketing Officer Nic Brandenberger, who shares the inside story of how the campaign came together, from the insight that “8 out of 10 jackets never see a mountain” to the decision to embrace humor.
Episode Topics:
How Mammut’s team turned an internal truth into creative goldThe challenges and wins behind Mountain Wear RescueWhy humor in outdoor marketing is so hard to pull offWorking with Katie Burrell and casting for... Duration: 00:46:15Outdoor Industry Buy or Sell: Patagonia, VF, Trail Running and More!
Oct 20, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin, and Producer Dave return with Outdoor Industry Buy or Sell as they name what’s hot (and what’s not).
Here's the rundown!
Rough Q4 on the way? Multiple reports this past week paint a less than rosy picture for the end of the year. (06:44)A new survey names what is trending with teens. Spoiler: it's not Puffin Drinkwear. (12:17)The Rock Fight Lightning Round! Rutabaga changes course, Runnin' and Gunnin' in our National Parks, and On sued for their squeaky shoes. (18:50)Support those who support The Rock Fight! Ripstop By T... Duration: 00:52:35Pitchfest 2025: Women Building the Future of the Outdoor Industry
Oct 17, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin is joined by Shawnté Salabert to break down her trip to Title Nine’s Pitchfest 2025, where women founders are reshaping the outdoor industry from the ground up.
Since 1989, Title Nine and its founder Missy Park have been putting money behind women-led brands; more than $1.7 million in Pitchfest investments and $72 million in total purchasing power.
Shawnté attended this year's edition and shares what makes this event different: collaboration over competition, community over ego, and a focus on solving real problems.
The conversation covers:
How Pitchfest is rewriting the... Duration: 00:35:42The Rock Fight Deep Dive: Fabric Innovation Isn’t Dead (But It’s Different)
Oct 15, 2025Introducing The Rock Fight Deep Dive! A new series where we team up with a partner for a deeper look at an outdoor industry topic.
Today Colin takes an unfiltered look at the state of fabric innovation in the outdoor industry by heading to the Functional Fabric Fair in Portland, Oregon.
Prompted by a listener letter asking whether the industry’s obsession with lifestyle over performance has killed innovation, Colin hits the trade show floor to find out for himself.
He’s joined by:
Charles Ross, performance material expert, who defines true inno... Duration: 00:30:55REI Retreats, Orvis Shrinks & Lulu Loses Its Mojo
Oct 13, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin, and Producer Dave tackle a chaotic week for outdoor retail, from store closures to corporate pivots and questionable marketing moves!
On the docket!
REI shutters its SoHo and Boston stores: Both shops are unionized, sparking speculation about whether this is cost-cutting, anti-union, or just part of the Peak 28 overhaul. (03:55)Orvis blames tariffs for closing 36 stores: Are we sure it isn't just the brand’s long drift away from its fishing roots? (13:15)Backcountry partners with AllGear Digital: Smart retail-media synergy or just another way to cram ads into your shopping ex... Duration: 00:53:52So What Is An Emerging Brand Anyway?
Oct 10, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin digs into the question: what the hell is an “emerging brand” anyway?
Joined by Emily Holland (Founded Outdoors) and Lloyd Vogel (Garage Grown Gear), the conversation talks about what life is really like for small outdoor businesses.
Defining “Emerging”: Why the term is so fuzzy and whether it even matters.Founded Outdoors: How the organization is creating a free, vibrant community (and consulting arm) to support founders, minimize gatekeeping, and provide resources for early stage outdoor companies.Success & Failure: Why most small brands don’t flame out dramatically, but quietly fade away... Duration: 00:43:04REI’s 'Peak 28' Unwrapped + Hobie Hooks Up with Bass Pro
Oct 06, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave tackle a packed week of outdoor industry news!
First up, the crew reacts to the latest ripple effects of Outdoor Retailer’s Minnesota move and whether the industry is being too quick to jump on the “OR is back” bandwagon. With questions around the “Leadership Village,” the role of run and lifestyle categories, and whether the show truly knows who it’s for, Colin and Eoin argue that defining the audience is the only way forward. (05:56)
Next, the conversation turns to Bass Pro’s acquisition of...
Duration: 00:42:52Outdoor Retailer’s Big Shake-Up: Instant Reaction!
Oct 03, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin and Eoin Comerford break down the breaking news about Outdoor Retailer’s big shake-up. After years of controversy, shrinking attendance, and competition from upstart shows like Switchback, OR has announced a dramatic reset.
Colin and Eoin debate whether these changes are enough to reestablish OR as the national gathering for the outdoor industry, or whether the momentum has permanently shifted away from the iconic show.
Guests Sunny Stroeer and Lindsay Hubley (Emerald Expositions) join to explain the vision behind these moves, why Minneapolis won out, and how they plan to...
Duration: 00:42:33Good News or Bad News: The Latest Wins & Facepalms From The Outdoor Industry!
Sep 29, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin and Producer Dave break down the latest headlines in the outdoor industry with a game of Good News or Bad News. From new products to hilarious marketing campaigns (and one massive brand blunder in the Himalayas), they separate the wins from the fails in a wild week for outdoor brands. On the docket:
Retail updates: Sherman Outdoor Sports closes after 103 years, while Sherpers celebrates 90 years and Eau Claire Outdoors gets it going. (04:07)Brand updates: Is Marmot showing signs of life? (07:38)Good News or Bad news?
New Shells: Rab launches... Duration: 00:48:58Why Outdoor Brands Should Show Up At Outdoor Economy Conferences
Sep 26, 2025Could Outdoor Economy Conferences be the future of industry gatherings?
Today on The Rock Fight, Colin sits down with returning guest Darren Josey (First Seed Sown, Founded Outdoors, Great Malden Outdoors) to unpack what went down at the National Outdoor Economy Conference in North Carolina.
Unlike trade shows, these conferences bring together governors, policymakers, state OREC directors, economic developers, tourism leaders, trail builders, and healthcare advocates. All of them focused on one thing: using outdoor recreation to strengthen communities and economies.
Colin & Darren discuss:
Why states like Tennessee and Arkansas are leading th... Duration: 00:42:40Rutabaga’s Last Paddle: Another Outdoor Retailer Closes Shop
Sep 22, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, Colin, Eoin, and Producer Dave are joined by Darren Bush, longtime owner of Rutabaga Paddle Sports in Madison, WI, to talk about his decision to close one of the most beloved specialty outdoor retailers in the U.S.
Here is the full rundown for today's episode:
VF sells Dickies for $600m 8 years after acquiring the 103 year old workwear brand for $820m. How does this benefit VF and what does it mean for the outdoor industry? (03:10)Is an increase in participation driving fresh M&A actitivity? Capstone Partners says that is. The R... Duration: 00:48:34From Trendy to Timeless? Cotopaxi’s Plan for the Future
Sep 19, 2025Today Colin sits down with Lindsay Shumlas, CEO of Cotopaxi, for a conversation about the brand’s evolution, impact, and future.
What we cover:
How Cotopaxi sees itself today: outdoor brand, lifestyle brand, or both?The role of iconic products in a market that’s shifting toward versatility and lifestyle.The future of Del Día and Más Vida, Cotopaxi’s sustainability-driven product lines.Why resale and circularity matter for the outdoor industry.How Cotopaxi is planning for growth across wholesale, D2C, and international markets.Shumlas’ 5-year vision: Cotopaxi as a household name, known as much fo... Duration: 00:39:13Can Run Outpace Outdoor? Plus: Are U.S. Outdoor Brands at Risk Abroad?
Sep 15, 2025It's Monday on The Rock Fight! Which means that Colin is joined by outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford and brand & creative expert Producer Dave to run through the following topics that have emerged over the past week (or so):
Comeback brand feedback & Eoin's surf brand game: We discuss the listener feedback to last weeks episode where we nominated the candidates for 2026 comeback brand of the year and Eoin quizzes Colin & Producer Dave about their knowledge of current up and coming surf brands. (04:05)Topo has themselves a quarter and continues the trend of running brands showing big growth which... Duration: 00:51:33The Launch of RE:PUBLIC - Public Lands Get Their Newsroom
Sep 12, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by longtime journalist and former Outside magazine editor-in-chief Chris Keyes to discuss his new venture: RE:PUBLIC, nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom dedicated to covering the policies, people, and forces shaping America’s public lands.
What we cover:
How the decline of journalism (75% fewer reporters than 20 years ago) impacts public lands coverage.Why RE:PUBLIC chose the nonprofit model and how it differs from traditional outdoor media.The role of brands and retailers in speaking up for conservation.Why public lands deserve dedicated, investigative storytelling beyond listicles and quick-hit news.How RE... Duration: 00:33:44Who Will Be The 2026 Outdoor Industry Comeback Brand Of The Year?
Sep 08, 2025Today Colin and the Monday Boys (outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford and brand & creative expert Producer Dave) talk through some stories making waves in the outdoor industry before predicting who will be the "Mountain Hardwear of 2026". Here's the rundown!
Listener Mailbag! We hear from a new outdoor retailer and long time industry vet about last Monday's episode. (03:55)Backcountry acquires Portland cycling retailer a month after acquiring a different retailer in SLC. What's the strategy? (10:48)The Rock Fight Lightning Round! This weeks topics: On's new weight training shoe, Nike ACG is back... again, happy birthday Kula Cloth! (16:07)Friends of... Duration: 00:53:04Outdoor Retail Shakeup: Closures, Comebacks & Community
Sep 05, 2025On this episode of The Rock Fight, Colin sits down with Todd Frank, owner of The Trailhead in Missoula, MT, and board member of the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, to dig into the state of specialty outdoor retail.
With recent closures like Summit Hut and Next Adventure , the question looms: what’s the future of independent gear shops? Todd shares what makes specialty retail resilient, the challenges of D2C and online competition, and why resale programs could be a lifeline for shops like his.
They also dive into:
Why community connection still sets local sh... Duration: 00:34:13Summit Hut Closes: Is The Era Of The Outdoor Gear Shop Over?
Sep 01, 2025Today Colin is joined by The Monday Boys (outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford and brand & creative expert Producer Dave) to talk about the following topics and news to come out of the outdoor industry over the past week!
The Footlocker/Dicks merger is one step closer to being finalized. What's next? (05:55)The Lightning Round: Nike loses to While On Earth, Polartec's Warm Weather Fleece, and Athleta's disappointing second quarter. (11:05)The big news of the week? Retailer Summit Hut announces that it will be closing its doors. Is this a sign of the outdoor industry's demise or just another... Duration: 00:48:05Columbia Goes Big: Inside “Engineered for Whatever”
Aug 29, 2025Today on The Rock Fight, The Brief is back!
The Brief is a look at the brand and creative efforts of the outdoor industry as broken down by our brand and creative expert, Producer Dave. Today we're taking a look at Columbia's recent (and maybe controversial?) campaign: Engineered For Whatever.
And we have a special guest as Colin and Producer Dave are joined by Columbia's SVP of Marketing, Matt Sutton.
Matt talks about the origins of Engineered For Whatever, how he and his team were empowered to go big, and what the campaign...
Duration: 00:48:10Previewing Gear Abby & Saying Goodbye To Wednesdays
Aug 27, 2025Today on the show Colin & Shawnté bid farewell to the Wednesday episodes of The Rock Fight and welcome in the forthcoming Gear Abby.
The Rock Fight is moving to two episodes a week with episodes dropping on Monday and Friday. Fans of the adventure sports and outdoor community topics we typically covered on Wednesday should run right over and follow Shawnte's new podcast Gear Abby. The trailer is now live and the show debuts on September 4th! Colin will be cohosting so you'll get your outdoorsy banter fix on Gear Abby going forward.
Today Colin t...
Duration: 00:29:19Preseason vs ASAP Orders: Who Holds The Risk? Plus: Redefining The Zombie Brand!
Aug 25, 2025Today on the show Colin convenes with The Monday Boys (outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford and brand/creative expert Producer Dave) to run through the following headlines to come out of the outdoor industry:
Mailbag! A listener looks back on one of the OG low top hikers. (05:23)Consumer sentiment is on the decline. What does this actually mean for the outdoor industry? (09:57)Gravel Running Mania! Salomon has added gravel as a category on their website. Is that the first domino to fall that leads to gravel becoming a full time shoe wall category? (17:52)Big week for Vans. First... Duration: 00:53:17Is The Triple Crown Of Hiking "Dumb"?
Aug 20, 2025Today on The Rock Fight Colin & Shawnté discuss the following topics that have come out of the outdoor adventure community over the past week:
Fake summit selfies! Scandal breaks in the mountaineering world as a climber is accused of faking summits. (08:44)Nepal pimps other peaks! Nepal is issuing free permits to 97 other mountains to try and relieve some of the traffic on Everest. Will it work? (17:32)The Rock Fight Lightning Round! Today's topics: a bear kills Japanese hiker, a rattlesnake kills a Tennessee hiker, and SUPs are killing more people than ever before. (24:30)Is completing the Triple Crown o... Duration: 00:48:09Is Running Tariff Proof? + Under Armour Could Use A Little More 'Grrrr'
Aug 18, 2025Today Colin along with Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford and Brand & Creative Expert Producer Dave dig into the following topics and headlines that have been percolating in the outdoor industry:
With brands like On Running and Brooks joining Altra, Saucony, and Hoka in the 'recent excellent financial performance club', is the category of running set up to weather the tariff storm better than everyone else? (05:50)The Rock Fight Lightning Round! This weeks lightning round topics include: Gildan Activewear acquires Hanesbrand for $2.2b, Merrell's claim that they are modernizing hiking, and a stop by Pickleball Corner. (21:41)Vuori turns 10 and... Duration: 00:49:12From Surfer To The Redwoods
Aug 15, 2025Today Colin sits with OG Rock Fighter Justin Housman to discuss his career pivot from a journalist in the human powered outdoor media world to his new role in conservation at Save the Redwoods League.
Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
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Duration: 00:29:14Reviewing Trail Etiquette, Killian's New Project & The Personal Cost Of Being Rescued
Aug 13, 2025Today on the show Colin and Shawnté get into the following topics that have come out of the outdoor adventure community!
A British hiker ignores the signs and is now on the hook for his $16,000 rescue. Should people have to pay to get help? (06:44)A NY man was arrested for leaving his 9 year old in the VIP tent of the Lake Placid Ironman while he went out and competed in the race. Did Ironman also submit an invoice for their babysitting fees? (14:57)Killian Jornet has a new project... because of course he does. (21:35)The Rock Fight's Lightning Round: T... Duration: 00:58:47Engineered For Whatever: Breaking Down Columbia's New Campaign
Aug 11, 2025Today on the show Colin, outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford, and brand/creative expert Producer Dave hit the following topics!
Tariff Watch 2025! After week of surveys, brand reports, and new tariff percentages it is time to check in on the latest tariff situation. (05:32)ThredUp's recently earnings report shows that secondhand continues to be an opportunity that everyone should be leaning into. (16:53)The Rock Fight Lightning Round! The fastest 3 minutes in outdoor industry news. This weeks topics: Altra's impressive growth, Saucony's even more impressive growth, Reebok sale rumors, and Emerald Expositions overall flat earnings. (22:29)Columbia launches it's new brand... Duration: 00:47:27Ortovox Returns Fire!
Aug 08, 2025A few weeks back on the show Colin, Producer Dave, and consigliere to The Rock Fight Eoin Comerford had some choice words about a new product line that had just been announced from outdoor brand Ortovox.
Ok to be fair, they mostly poked fun at the press release, but still they were not optimistic about Sequence, Ortovox's forthcoming lineup of outdoor apparel and gear.
Tom Mason, the US Brand Manager for Ortovox, heard their comments and today he is on the show ready to throw some rocks of his own!
Thanks for listening...
Duration: 00:26:33The Ultimate Outdoor Playlist: 1990's Edition
Aug 06, 2025We've talked about all sorts of outdoor pop culture on The Rock Fight-movies, TV, books-but music has been somewhat neglected. Today, we fix that!
Host of Open Container, Doug Schnitzspahn, joins Colin & Shawnté as they each take a look back at the 1990's and assemble a playlist inspired by adventure. Each of them built a list of 10 songs from the 1990's (one from each year starting in 1990 and ending in 1999) to be the soundtrack of a their chosen activity.
3 activities, 10 years, 30 songs. Get ready of the ultimate outdoor playlist, 1990's edition!
Listen to t...
Duration: 01:11:41The Outdoor Brand 'Schoolyard' Draft
Aug 04, 2025Today on The Rock Fight we're drafting the best of the best!
Throughout 2025 The Rock Fight crew has named the 20 best brands in the outdoor industry when they created top 5 lists of the best outdoor brands going in footwear, apparel, gear, and accessories.
And on today's episode, Colin is joined by outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford, brand and creative expert Producer Dave, and outdoor journalist and author Shawnté Salabert to draft from those 20 brands and see who can assemble the greatest team of outdoor brands!
Can't remember who those brands were? Here's a rem...
Duration: 01:02:19Speedland’s Billboard Play: Bold Move or Big Mistake?
Aug 01, 2025Today on The Rock Fight we debut The Brief!
The Brief is a look at the brand and creative efforts of the outdoor industry as broken down by our brand and creative expert, Producer Dave.
A few weeks back Producer Dave noticed some billboards popping up in his hometown of Portland, OR for running shoe upstart Speedland. Today we take a deep dive into the creative of the Speedland campaign and determine if billboards were a good idea at all to support that campaign.
We end with Produce Dave debuting The Brief Final...
Duration: 00:44:02US Forest Service Abandons Regional Offices Plus: Do We Still Need Approach Shoes?
Jul 30, 2025Today on the show Colin & Shawnté run through the following topics and headlines to come out of the outdoor adventure community:
Gen Z Paddlers to the rescue! A new crop of young paddlers and kayakers are redefining what makes for a fresh and cool outdoor expeditions! (07:52)Do we still need approach shoes? I mean if you're looking for an uncomfortable shoe that is half as functional as a climbing shoe and can be replaced by the myriad of other options the outdoor industry produces I guess we can keep making them? (15:14)The Rock Fight LIGHTNING ROUND! The fastest 3 m... Duration: 00:45:02The Real Impact of MAP Policies
Jul 28, 2025Today on The Rock Fight Colin is joined by outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford and brand and creative expert Producer Dave (aka The Monday Boys) to hit on the following headlines and topics that are percolating around the outdoor industry:
Outdoor Industry History! In what year did these outdoor headlines occur? (04:41)Industry ups and downs: Clarus & Fenix struggle in their recent earnings while Hoka and UG continue to thrive. But is the Deckers rocket ship starting to slow down? (08:10)Hope for ski resorts? Two recent stories buck the trend of bad news for snowsports. Was this a good... Duration: 00:46:58A Look Back At The Original Rock Fight
Jul 25, 2025Today on the show Colin introduces you to an old friend. The original Rock Fight, LAYERS.
He kicks things off by level setting what Rock Fight is going to be up to in the coming months and then reflects back on LAYERS; the show he and Producer Dave first did under the moniker of Rock Fight.
And because it's the dog days of summer, your favorite podcasters are also trying to get some time off. So enjoy the first episode of LAYERS and we'll see you back here on Monday morning!
Thanks for...
Duration: 00:35:57When The Trail Turns Tragic, Inspiration At Badwater & The 'Backpacking With A Gun' Mailbag!
Jul 23, 2025Today Colin is joined by outdoor journalist Shawnté Salabert who is off of the trail and back on The Rock Fight to run through the following topics:
It's been a deadly month on the trail as tragedy has hit the Sierra and the Whites. Separate from both of these incidents, Colin & Shawnté reflect on how it is sometimes hard to leave an objective behind. (14:05)Inspiration in the heat! 80 year old Bob Becker finishes Badwater. What an absolute bad ass. (29:32)Instagram commenters have weighed in on the topic of carrying a gun in the backcountry. They're pretty much what yo... Duration: 00:54:49Salomon Goes Full Sneaker Brand & The Best Of The OMA Media Event
Jul 21, 2025Today Colin and outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford recap their time at last week's Outdoor Market Alliance Media Event. Here is the rundown!
Ortovox has returned fire! After criticizing the brands new mountain biking line on last week's episode, it looks like a brand representative from Ortovox may be appearing on the show soon. Stay tuned! (06:48)Salomon's CEO wants to see the brand expand their products to provide more lifestyle options. A tricky proposition that others have also tried. (09:16)The OMA Media Event has quickly become one of the most important industry events on the calendar for PR Ag... Duration: 00:56:46A Deeper Look At The "New" Media Scene
Jul 18, 2025Today's show was recorded in Colin's Denver hotel room during this week's Outdoor Market Alliance Media Event (don't worry, it's not as sexy as it sounds).
Colin is joined by the Editor-In-Chief of Gearjunkie, Adam Ruggiero, to offer their initial thoughts on the OMA Media Event and use it as a springboard into a conversation about the "new" phase of outdoor media and how legacy media entities are responding to the rise of Substack, podcasts, and YouTube.
They wrap up their conversation with the favorite thing they each saw at this weeks event.
...
Duration: 00:52:28The Switchback Post Mortem!
Jul 16, 2025Today we're dipping our toes back into the trade show world as Switchback and The Running Event show director Christina Henderson joins Colin to take analyze last month's inaugural Switchback Spring.
They talk about what worked, what didn't, how the standalone show will impact Switchback at TRE, and what the outdoor industry can expect next year in New Orleans.
Click here to help those in need after the flooding of Texas' hill country.
Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
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Duration: 00:29:57Will Tariffs Kill The Innovation Engine Of The Outdoor Industry?
Jul 14, 2025Today on the show, the Monday crew (the Monday Boys?) of outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford and brand/creative expert Producer Dave join Colin to talk through the following topics:
Big 5 Sold! Did the new owners make a good deal? (06:09)To celebrate Ortovox entering the mountain bike market we count the amount of cliches in the press release and ponder the motivation behind the move itself. (15:23)Helen Of Troy had a rough Q1 thanks mostly to Hydro Flask's poor performance. Was it the Costco of it all? (21:50)Tariff Watch 2025 is back! After a flurry of updates to our... Duration: 01:01:09Taking The Temperature Of Outdoor Culture
Jul 11, 2025Today Colin is joined by the host of Open Container, outdoor journalist Doug Schnitzspahn, to check in on where outdoor culture sits halfway through 2025.
Since the launch of Open Container in January Doug has had 26 conversations with artists, musicians, authors, brand founders and many others who operate in or around the outdoor community. Today he and Colin find out what he's learned so far and how it reflects on the broader outdoor world.
For The Parting Shot, Colin previews his trip to next week's Outdoor Market Alliance Media Event and makes a prediction about Superman.<...
Duration: 00:49:25The Tour de France Begins (Do We Care?) Plus: A Six Year Old On Elbrus?
Jul 09, 2025Today on the show former Rock Fight guest Emily Holland ascends to the co-host chair to fill in for Shawnté who is out hiking the JMT!
Colin & Emily hit on the following topics:
Get to know your co-host! Colin asks Emily some random questions so the audience can get to know her better (be sure to write down some of her food recommendations). (05:50)The Tour de France kicked off last weekend! Do we still care? It not, what would make us care? (17:05)From the files of No Sh!t Sherlock, recent running based study lets us k... Duration: 00:48:14Rab Is Winning While Others Wander
Jul 07, 2025Today it's the last interview that we recorded at GOA Connect in Reno last month. This time Colin and Eoin are chatting with Jon Frederick of Rab.
Jon talks about why Rab has found more traction in the US when other EU based brands have struggled to enter the market. They also discuss Rab's current product initiatives and what Jon would like to see out of the national trade show scene.
Then Shawnté Salabert calls in with an update from her three week hike on the JMT to help Colin process his discovery that he n...
Duration: 00:54:51Banning Fireworks: Back With A Bang!
Jul 04, 2025Today on the show it's a special Fourth of July episode of The Rock Fight as Colin is finally joined by outdoor journalist and sustainability legend Kristin Hostetter, to talk about her big 2024 hot take that it is time to ban fireworks.
Last year Kristin wrote this piece offering all the reasons why we should rethink fireworks despite them being a significant fixture in modern society. We covered her article here on The Rock Fight and now, to celebrate this year's Fourth of July, Colin finally gets to chat with Kristin.
In addition to fireworks...
Duration: 00:39:10Eagle Creek: A 50 Year Old Emerging Brand?
Jul 02, 2025Today we're featuring the second interview we captured while attending GOA Connect last month. This time Colin and outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford sit down with Eagle Creek president and CEO, Travis Campbell.
They talk about Travis's unique path to owning Eagle Creek and if that puts him in the same category as other founder led outdoor brands. They also touch how Eagle Creek tries to differentiate in an increasingly competitive travel market. Lastly they touch on outdoor events and what needs to happen on the national level.
Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is...
Duration: 00:28:28Can More Outdoor Sports Go Mainstream? Plus: Topo Surges & Back To School Predictions!
Jun 30, 2025Today on the show the Monday boys, Producer Dave and outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford, join Colin to talk about the following topics:
Back to school predictions! Reports are coming in that tariffs are impacting early back to school shopping. What does this mean for the second biggest shopping season of the year? (07:20)In a recent interview, Topo Athletic founder Tony Post reveals the secrets behind the trail running footwear brands big 2024 growth. Is Topo poised to take the trail running shoe championship belt? (12:40)Wolverine has launched a made in the USA work boot. Is this the beginning... Duration: 00:56:23America's Public Lands (Still) Up For Sale
Jun 27, 2025Today on the show Colin welcomes Tania Lown-Hecht from the Outdoor Alliance and Friends of Grand Rapids Parks Executive Director Stacy Bare to chat about the latest efforts to sell off our public lands.
Tania provides an update of where things stand with Senator Mike Lee's proposed sell off while Stacy provides some context on the importance of protecting and preserving our public lands.
Our public lands need your help! Click here to contact your local representatives to send word that you do not support the sale of America's public lands.
Thanks for...
Duration: 00:35:58Bison + Tourist: Another Yellowstone Meet Cute?
Jun 25, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by outdoor author and journalist Shawnté Salabert to run through the following stories to come out of the outdoor adventure community:
Bison Attack 2: Electric Bisaloo? A Yellowstone visitor has been gored by a bison...again. (08:19)A grizzly bear has pushed a hiker off a cliff. New fear unlocked for Shawnté on the eve of her departure to the JMT? (14:21)A man was pinned by a boulder while hiking in Alaska. How can you be prepared for that?! (18:50)Would carrying a gun make you feel more secure when out on the trail? (24:25)Does The Outdoor Industry Have A Casual Problem?
Jun 23, 2025Today on The Rock Fight our normal Monday crew of Producer Dave and outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford join Colin to run through the following topics!
We already have the dates and location for next year's Switchback Spring. With the show staying June, will there be a public pushback by brands? (07:28)
It's The Rock Fight Lightning Round where we hit a couple of industry news stories:
Moody's has downgraded VF due to the poor performance of Vans and Dickies. How does this news impact the broader outdoor industry? (15:40)Solo Brands makes some moves that... Duration: 00:52:53Instant Reaction To Switchback Spring
Jun 20, 2025Today on the show we finish off our coverage of Showpocalypse 2025 with The Rock Fight's instant reaction to Switchback.
Recorded in a Nashville hotel ballroom on the second day of the trade show, Colin is joined by Producer Dave, Shawnté Salabert, and outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford to talk about what they liked, what they didn't like, and what needs to be improved for next time when it comes to the newest trade show in the outdoor scene.
They also revisit their pre-show predictions to see what they got right and what did not come t...
Duration: 00:48:20The Rock Fight Live At Switchback Spring 2025!
Jun 19, 2025Today on the show we present a live recording of The Rock Fight, straight from the floor of Switchback Spring!
This past week Colin was joined by Producer Dave, Shawnté Salabert, and outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford in Nashville, TN to record an episode of The Rock Fight in front of the crowd at Switchback Spring.
The crew handed out their brand booth awards and were also joined by Switchback show director, Christina Henderson, president of the OIA Kent Ebersole, president of Mountain Hardwear, Troy Sicotte, and GM of Cumberland Transit, Jason Thienel.
W...
Duration: 00:42:47Switchback Spring: Will It Be The Show The Outdoor Industry Needs? Plus: Is REI Going Casual?
Jun 16, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by Monday regulars Producer Dave and Eoin Comerford (who is suffering from a case of outdoor industry insider overexposure) to preview and make predictions for Switchback Spring!
It was about a year ago that The Rock Fight broke the news of a new national outdoor trade show from the organizers of The Running Event and now the event is here!
After hitting a quick Lightning Round of industry topics, the guys get into what they think will go down in Nashville. Here's the rundown, with time codes, for...
Duration: 00:53:14Is NEMO’s Swing At Sustainability Necessary? Plus: Another Attempt To Sell Our Public Lands
Jun 13, 2025Today on the show we're bringing you the first interview recorded at 2025's GOA Connect and then checking in on the latest attempt to sell off our public lands.
First up Colin and Eoin Comerford sat down with NEMO's Cam Brensinger to talk about 20 years of building a bullet proof reputation and ponder if outdoor gear needs to go as far with sustainability initiatives as apparel.
Then Colin is joined by Tania Lown-Hecht from the Outdoor Alliance to discuss the news of the Senate's attempt to require the sale of 3 million acres of public lands...
Duration: 00:41:58The Best "Emerging" Brands At GOA Connect's Discovery Marketplace
Jun 11, 2025We are back from GOA Connect (even if the show isn't over yet) and today Colin is joined by Eoin Comerford to offer their thoughts on what they saw and more importantly highlight their favorite brands from the show's Discovery Marketplace.
At Connect, before the big show begins, they hold a 5 hour mini-show called the Discovery Marketplace to highlight brands that don't have the required retailer appointments necessary to earn a spot at the main event. This part of the show features lots of brands you've heard of and even more that you haven't.
On...
Duration: 00:50:17Trade Showpocalypse 2025: What Does The Outdoor Industry Need? Plus: Predictions For GOA Connect!
Jun 09, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by the regular Monday crew of Eoin Comerford and Producer Dave to kick off their coverage of the summer 2025 Trade Show Season. Here's the run down!
What have learned from the past 10 years tumultuous trade show scene and shows do we actually need? (05:50)On the eve of GOA Connect and with Portland's Next Adventure closing up, what do we make of the broader specialty landscape as we head to a show focused on independent dealers? (20:55)GOA Connect Preview and Predictions! This episode comes out on the first day of exhibition at... Duration: 00:51:09Marmot Lives! Unpacking The Plan To Revive A Zombie Brand
Jun 06, 2025Today Colin is joined by Marmot's Vice President & GM of Technical Apparel, Jon Graden.
Marmot has been the poster child of what we've been calling the 'zombie brand' here on The Rock Fight. Not quite what it once was but not entirely irrelevant either, a zombie brand is a former 'it' brand that has fallen out of favor with retailers and doesn't have the juice it once did.
Marmot is one of the OG outdoor brands that the outdoor industry was built upon but after a series of acquisitions and big swings that didn't pay...
Duration: 00:40:54Fake My Run & Strava Mules Plus: eBike Injuries On The Rise
Jun 04, 2025Today on the show Shawnté Salabert joins Colin to run through the following topics to come out of the outdoor adventure community:
People are using Fake My Run and hiring 'mules' to falsify their Strava feeds. And we want to hear from those who are doing it! If you have faked your run, hired a running mule or have been hired as a running mule email us at myrockfight@gmail.com. (06:39)The mother of a six month old won a 100k ultramarathon after starting 30 minutes late and stopped along the way to breastfeed her baby. Legend. (12:27)Two New Y... Duration: 00:39:12Which Outdoor Brand Would You Resurrect? Plus: Outdoor Industry News Lightning Round!
Jun 02, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by the regular Rock Fight Monday crew of Producer Dave and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford (aka The Consigliere). And this week that crew hits the following topics!
Which brand would you resurrect? On the heels of last weeks Top 5 Outdoor Apparel Brands episode, the good folks at the Utah State Outdoor Archive reached out and asked us to memorialize the outdoor brands we've lost over the years. So we take a look at several of those names and talk about which brands we are missing the most. (04:38)Industry News Lightning... Duration: 00:46:26Can Reju Solve The Outdoor Industry's Sustainability Problem?
May 30, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by the CEO of Reju, Patrik Frisk.
Started in 2023, Reju is a "textile regeneration company" that is trying to create a circular system for polyester by taking existing polyester garments and turning them back into reusable polyester components that apparel brands can then make into new garments.
On today's episode Patrik talks about the mission of the brand, the challenges they face, and the need for these kinds of innovative solutions to solve our textile waste problem.
Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting...
Duration: 00:44:29Judging The Health Of Outdoor Media Plus: Everest FKT's & Pickleball Corner!
May 28, 2025Today Colin is joined by outdoor journalist and host of Open Container Doug Schnitzspahn to talk about a couple of stories to come out of the outdoor community before taking a look at the current health of outdoor media. Here's today's docket!
Everest season comes to a close with multiple FKT attempts. (05:39)Pickleball Corner returns because campgrounds are now building pickleball courts. Colin will offer his opinion after the blood stops gushing from his eyes. (12:15)Is our outdoor media scene healthy? Colin and Doug take stock of the health of outdoor print, digital, and podcasts. (19:06)Lastly...
Duration: 00:47:36The Rock Fight's Top 5 Outdoor Apparel Brands!
May 26, 2025We've made you wait long enough! We've finally made it to the conclusion to 2025's 'Top 5 Brand' episodes and we saved the biggest category for last. After ranking the top 5 footwear, gear, and accessories, today we're listing the Top 5 Outdoor Apparel brands!
While completely subjective, the mission is simple: determine the top 5 outdoor apparel brands of the moment. Colin is joined by Shawnté Salabert, Producer Dave, and Eoin Comerford to pick a brand from the following categories:
Emerging/Small BrandsSnow/SurfLifestyle/AthleisureEuro/InternationalNorth America Core OutdoorWill you agree with the final list? Maybe? M...
Duration: 01:12:10MEC Got Acquired... Now What? Plus: A Win For Public Lands!
May 23, 2025After months of rumors and speculation, on May 16th MEC finally announced that they have indeed been acquired. One of the group that has purchased MEC from Kingswood Capital Management is also their Chief Merchandising Officer, Chris Speyer.
Today on the show Chris sits down with Colin and Eoin Comerford to talk about MEC's new ownership group, where the brand is and where it's going. (04:00)
Then Colin is joined by Tania Lown-Hecht from the Outdoor Alliance who has an update on the plan to sell off hundreds of thousands of acres of public lands in...
Duration: 00:48:53The Discovery Of 100,000 New Mountains? Plus: Outdoor Pop Culture Watch!
May 21, 2025Today on The Rock Fight Colin and Shawnté dig into some stories to come out of the outdoor adventure community. On the docket:
100,000 new mountains were discovered below the ocean's surface. No one tell Killian Jornet. We don't want him to drown trying to run all of them in a single day. (07:14)
One person died and 3 others went to the hospital due to excessive heat during a recent trail half marathon and we're really hoping no one gets blamed for this. (11:20)
Outdoor Pop Culture Watch! Colin & Shawnté react to the following recently released tr...
Duration: 00:36:39Dick's Acquires Footlocker: What Does It Mean For The Outdoor Industry?
May 19, 2025Today on The Rock Fight we dig into last week's news that Dick's Sporting Goods has acquired Foot Locker. Colin is joined by Producer Dave and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford to discuss and answer the following questions:
How does this acquisition play into Dick's long term strategy? (06:45)How has the market reacted to the acquisition? (19:25)What will be the fallout to footwear brands? (23:28)How will this acquisiton impact the broader outdoor industry? (28:07)Lastly Colin wraps up the show with The Parting Shot with a tip for any of our older listeners!
Check out...
Duration: 00:37:12The 2025 Outdoor Town Draft!
May 16, 2025Why make a list of the best outdoor towns when you can draft them instead?!
Today on the show Colin is joined by outdoor author and journalist, Shawnté Salabert, and the host of Open Container, Doug Schnitzspahn to draft the best outdoor towns in the US!
Round by round they'll draft outdoorsy locales from all across the United States. In the end they'll each have a list for you the listener to vote on and determine who has the best team of outdoor towns for 2025! (Voting will begin on Monday May 19th on www.rockfight.c...
Duration: 01:17:10Why Do People Keep Petting Bison? Plus: Billboards Trolls & ThredUp On The Rise
May 14, 2025Today on The Rock Fight Colin & outdoor author and journalist Shawnté Salabert the following topics:
MLFNOW on MyOutdoorTV! Yes, we also thought it said what you thought it said, but don't worry the link is completely SFW. (06:07)Resale platform ThredUp raised its sales and earnings targets for the year after a strong first quarter. Secondhand FTW! (10:30)300 billboards in 40 different cities around the country have been put up highlighting national parks in the area and the tagline “Now With Reduced Staff, Made Possible by D.O.G.E.” We appreciate a good troll around here. (16:09)It's time for a new s... Duration: 00:45:02The Tariff Rollbacks Explained & A Public Lands Call To Action
May 13, 2025Today on the show we have updates on two topics that have dominated the outdoor industry discourse over the past few months.
First Tania Lown-Hecht from the Outdoor Alliance sits down with Colin to talk about the congressional midnight vote that happened last week that is threatening thousands of acres of public land in Nevada & Utah. (01:19)
(We need the Rock Fight Army to show up and make their voices heard!
Click here to send the message that selling this land would be the wrong move. Every voice is needed right now no matter...
Duration: 00:26:18The Self-Inflicted Wound Hall Of Fame! Plus: Takeaways From REI's Annual Member Meeting
May 12, 2025Welcome to Monday's on The Rock Fight your home for the best outdoor industry discourse! There are two big topics on the docket today.
First! After checking in on the recently released Outdoor Retailer floor plan (04:59), Colin, Producer Dave, and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford go through the key takeaways from the annual REI members meeting that went down last week.
Here are the topics they hit along with time codes if you want to skip around:
Takeaways from the earnings report including a look at revenue, merchandise/inventory, and payroll. (10:28)The impact and... Duration: 00:58:02Public Lands Move To The Front Of The Pack
May 09, 2025Today Colin is joined Adam Cramer the CEO of the Outdoor Alliance to talk about what is happening with our public lands. And there is a lot happening.
Over the last few weeks, we’ve seen or heard the following:
A leaked document from the Department of the Interior.Last week the administration released their budget guidelines for 2026 which included upheavals for the Park Service including things like transferring National Parks sites over to state control as well as a number of cuts to things like NPS Historic Preservation Fund.The Forest Service and the BLM ha... Duration: 00:39:04Overlanding The Poles, New Rules On Everest & The Plans For Our Public Lands
May 07, 2025Today Colin and outdoor journalist and author Shawnté Salabert run through the following recent stories that have come out of the outdoor adventure community:
Aspiring Mt. Everest climbers will now have to climb another 7,000m peak in Nepal before attempting the world's highest mountain. Progress? (05:20)A team has successfully completed an expedition to drive to both the North and South Pole. The only question that no one can answer is, "why?" (07:30)Researchers at Ohio State University have created solar powered insoles that can help protect your health. Colin & Shawnté are dubious. (11:47)Yosemite has finally launched their 2025 reservation system. Bo... Duration: 00:51:49Tariffs: Defining The Impossible Choices Facing Outdoor Brands
May 05, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford to check in on Eoin's 2025 predictions for the outdoor industry given how things have gone off of the trails over the past month (05:56).
Then Eoin walks us through the model he put together to demonstrate the impacts the current tariffs that are in place are having on a small outdoor brand(16:15). That leads to Colin & Eoin talking about the amount of brands that are publicly addressing the tariff situation, searching for signs of hope, and what kind of timeline we are on (26:42).
...
Duration: 00:45:08Dawn Patrol Is Still Too Early & A Tribute To An OG Rock Fighter
May 02, 2025Colin is rolling solo today and he starts the show reflecting on an early episode of The Rock Fight where he defended his anti-Dawn Patrol stance before reflecting on a recent Dawn Patrol experience that didn't really change his mind but was still worth it.
Then for The Parting Shot he pays tribute to one of the original Rock Fighters our own, Justin Housman.
Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!
Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
<... Duration: 00:20:46The US From 'Tip 2 Tip', Injinji Makes Apparel & Strava's 'Performance Predictions'
Apr 30, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by outdoor journalist and author Shawnté Salabert to talk about some recent headlines to come out of the outdoor community! On today's docket:
Paddler Kyle Parker is looking to paddle across the United States from "Tip 2 Tip"! (06:55)Injinji released a line of tech tees. Is this a sign they're going to take on apparel? (23:33)Strava announced a new subscriber feature designed to help runners maximize their potential! Do we give that a 'thumbs up'? (32:30)New segment... SHAWNTÉ RECOMMENDS! This is a segment where Shawnté recommends things. (38:00)The Parting Shot! Mt. Everest is... Duration: 00:53:21MEC Buyer Revealed? Plus: A Retailer's Response To The REI Exclusivity Rumors
Apr 28, 2025Colin is joined by Producer Dave and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford for an update on who might be buying Canada's MEC. (04:47)
Then they're joined by independent retailer Wes Allen to get his reaction and thoughts to last weeks rumors that REI is putting the squeeze on their brand partners to get new product exclusivity. (21:33)
Lastly for The Parting Shot, Eoin focuses on a leaked presentation from the Department of the Interior that details all the terrible ways that the Trump administration will be treating our public lands and Colin has a bone to pick...
Duration: 00:52:35Binge-watching & Backpacks: Reviewing Outdoor Pop Culture
Apr 25, 2025"Are you not entertained?!"
Today on the show Colin is joined by outdoor pop culture aficionado, Shawnté Salabert, to talk through some of the more quintessential outdoor movies of the last 25 years: A Walk In The Woods, Wild, Touching The Void, and 127 Hours. The two talk about what works about these movies from and outdoorsy perspective and some outdoor movies simply fall flat.
Then in a new segment called Shawnté Explains!, Shawnté talks about why pop culture actually matters more to the outdoor community then some may think and offers suggestions on how outdoor enthusiasts can...
Duration: 00:45:13A Wave Pool In Utah's Desert & The Two Divers Who Were Left Behind
Apr 23, 2025Today Colin and Justin Housman hit the following outdoorsy topics and headlines!
Colin caught a great inside wave and Justin has rave reviews for Priority Bike's belt drive and gear box! (05:48)Two divers off the coast of Australia were left in the water by the boat that brought them there. This is objectively funny and terrifying. (16:25)A new wave pool is being planned to be built near St. George, UT. Colin and Justin are not cool with this idea. (26:05)For The Parting Shot, Colin praises a recent ESPN article and Justin wants you to roll your car windows... Duration: 00:43:24Is REI Demanding New Product Exclusivity? Plus: Passenger Presses Pause
Apr 21, 2025Today on the show Colin and Producer Dave address rumors that have been sent in by listeners of The Rock Fight that REI is looking for more new product exclusivity from at least some of their vendors. (04:40)
They also talk about the recent report that Passenger is pausing their launch into the US market due to the issues being caused by the Trump administrations tariff policy. (16:42) This leads to a new segment on the show A Little Frank Advice!
Lastly for The Parting Shot, Colin takes aim at Switchback's recently announced keynote address. (29:55)
...
Duration: 00:35:39Where Do National Shows Fit Into A Small Show World? The Functional Fabric Fair Reaction Pod! Plus: RIP Bob Woodward
Apr 18, 2025Today Colin reflects on this past week when he and Producer Dave attended Functional Fabric Fair in Portland (Oregon) and takes a deeper look at what National Trade Shows should do in a world where the smaller shows are so effective.
Then Colin is joined by Producer Dave and outdoor journalist and host of Open Container Doug Schnitzspahn to reflect back on the role Bob Woodward played setting the tone for the Outdoor Industry. RIP Woody.
Remembering Rob Coppolillo.
Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown...
Duration: 00:24:45The Jack Wolfskin Acquisition, REI's Apology & The Tariff Saga Continues
Apr 16, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by Producer Dave and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford for a Wednesday edition of our normal Monday show!
On the docket today:
The crew reacts to last week's rollback to all but 10% (unless you're China) of Trump's tariffs (05:00)Will the tariff situation help boost secondhand business (17:24)?The other big story of last week was the acquisition of Jack Wolfskin by ANTA who is the majority owner of Amer Sports. Eoin breaks it down (18:15)!REI says sorry and backs off of their endorsement of Doug Burgum (33:12).The Parting Shot! Producer... Duration: 00:51:12Breaking News: BioLite Acquires Goal Zero
Apr 15, 2025Today Colin and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford are joined by Jonathan Cedar, BioLite's founder and CEO to discuss the breaking news that BioLite is acquiring Goal Zero.
Jonathan talks about the background of BioLite and why this deal makes sense particularly due to the alignment in mission and product offerings between the two companies.
Lastly during their conversation news breaks about the roll back of the more retaliatory tariffs that had been announced. So we get breaking news inside of breaking news!
Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and...
Duration: 00:53:46Five US Made Outdoor Brands You've Never Heard Of & The Return Of The Dire Wolf!
Apr 11, 2025Today on the show Colin and Justin Housman open things up by talking about the news that scientists have brought back the extinct dire wolf and read a pretty epic listener defense of Colorado.
Then they're joined by the owner of Garage Grown Gear, Lloyd Vogel, who lists off five US made outdoor brands that many of our listeners have likely not heard of. Check them out!
Igneous GearChicken Tramper Ultralight GearallmansrightBrautigam Expedition WorksTimmermadeLastly, for The Parting Shot, Colin offers a retraction for last week's Parting Shot at footwear brand Lems.
...
Duration: 01:03:26Brands For Public Lands: The Outdoor Industry Speaks Up! Plus: Is Nature Really Non-Partisan?
Apr 09, 2025Today on the show we start by helping to break the news about Brands For Public Lands, a coalition of outdoor industry businesses who are speaking up on behalf of our sacred public spaces.
Colin is joined by the Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance, Paul Hendricks, who gives the background on this new coalition, how it came together, and what will happen next.
Then Mountain Gazette's Kyle Frost returns to The Rock Fight. Last weeks edition of Kyle's newsletter, Here & There, discussed partisanship in nature. He and Colin dig into the examples Kyle offered...
Duration: 00:57:24Trade Wars & Trailheads: What The New Tariffs Mean For The Outdoor Industry
Apr 07, 2025What else could The Rock Fight's normal Monday crew of Colin, Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave be talking about today but the recent announcement of tariffs and their impact on the business of going outside.
They start off by getting into the broader impact of the announcement and the idea that higher tariffs could drive manufacturing back to the US. Then they talk about the how the tariffs will specifically impact the outdoor industry and offer suggestions on what brands and retailers should expect ahead of the delivery of Fall 25 products.
They...
Duration: 00:50:45It's Time For The Outdoor Industry To 'Prop Up The Girls Club!'
Apr 04, 2025Today on the show Colin takes a look back at an age old outdoor industry problem.
The 'outdoor boys club' and a continued lack of gender representation is something that has persisted in the outdoor industry since there has been an outdoor industry. Today on the show Colin is joined by Cassie Abel, the founder and CEO of Wild Rye, who provides a unique perspective on the challenges and progress regarding women's inclusion in outdoor spaces.
Throughout their conversation, Cassie & Colin take a look at the historical patterns of inequality, significant steps taken been taken...
Duration: 00:42:41The Closure Of Fiery Furnace, Cybertrucks Get A Pop Up & When Sitting Outside Is Simply Enough
Apr 02, 2025Today Colin is joined by our regular Wednesday co-host Justin Housman to talk through some recent stories to come out of the outdoor community!
They open the show with the news that the fallout from the Trump layoffs have caused the Fiery Furnace Trail in Arches National Park to close indefinitely. Buckle up because we're probably gonna be getting news like this for a while. (07:57)Lady Gaga is being sued by surf brand ...Lost. Apparently her new album, Mayhem is also the trademarked nickname of ...Lost's founder/boardmaker. So....what's the connection here? (13:04)Cybertruck owners can now get... Duration: 00:45:31Will The EU Boycott US Outdoor Brands? Plus: The Outdoor Innovation Mailbag!
Mar 31, 2025Today on show Colin is joined by the regular Monday crew (Producer Dave, Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford) to talk about the recent movement that is encouraging outdoor enthusiasts in Europe to look locally for their outdoor products in protest of recent "political" developments in the US. (06:46)
They also talk about Academy forging ahead with plans to open 25 new doors in 2025 and Lululemon's recent earnings report showing double digit growth. (21:10)
Then they crack open listener feedback that came in after last week's episode regarding the evolution of innovation in the outdoor industry. (30:38)
They...
Duration: 00:50:33The Brand Critics: Reviewing Outdoor Videos From On, Puma & Outdoor Research
Mar 28, 2025Today Rock Fight's resident brand, culture, and media experts, Shawnté Salabert and Producer Dave, join Colin to review some recently released outdoor brand videos by On, Puma, & Outdoor Research.
First the hosts rely on their experience working in the outdoor industry and media to breakdown what makes a great brand video including the best way to deploy these types of brand assets and what we should expect from the finished product. (02:26)
Then they take a detailed look at the following videos:
On: Dream Together, with Zendaya (22:43)Outdoor Research: Rooted (35:51)Puma: Go Wild (44:15)A...
Duration: 00:55:36Breaking News: Stio Up For Sale?
Mar 27, 2025The Rock Fight is once again breaking news to the outdoor industry!
On Wednesday an alert listener of The Rock Fight sent us this article on PE Hub which reports outdoor brand Stio is being shopped for acquisition.
Players in the mix to take over the venerable Jackson brand being Columbia, YETI, or potentially several PE firms.
On this emergency reaction podcast, Colin and outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford take a few minutes to offer some context and run through what they know.
On this emergency reaction podcast, Colin and outdoor i...
Duration: 00:21:23The Slow Erosion Of Enthusiasm: Mental Health & The Outdoors
Mar 26, 2025On this episode of The Rock Fight Justin Housman opens up about his own mental health struggles and how that has impacted his relationship with outdoor activities.
A few weeks back in Rock Fight's weekly newsletter, News From The Front, Justin wrote about how he mistook the slow erosion of his participation in his favorite outdoor sports as part of getting older when in actuality there were some bigger issues that he needed to address. If you missed it you can read that column by clicking here.
Colin & Justin talk about the impact of the...
Duration: 00:45:21Can The Outdoor Industry Redefine Innovation?
Mar 24, 2025Today on the show Colin, Producer Dave, and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford have some innovative suggestions for the outdoor industry.
Innovation in the outdoors is a misunderstood word. It's often only applied to the performance of the apparel, gear, and footwear that the industry produces. And while there will surely be advances that will improve the stuff we make the opportunity for the industry to innovate lies more within our approach to making and marketing that stuff.
On this episode we take a look at what can be learned from (gasp!) fast fashion as...
Duration: 00:59:52Secondhand's Record Growth & The Barkley! Plus: Don't Be So Outdoorsy
Mar 21, 2025Today on the show Colin is rolling solo as he talks about the recent ThredUp report about the growth of secondhand as well as reflecting fondly on the recently concluded Barkley Marathons.
Then Colin offers a take on why you may not want going outside to be your sole existence for being.
Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown Gear!
Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter...
Duration: 00:13:17The Norda Hype Is Real, TNF's Latest Collab Sells Out & The Camp Stove Power Ranking
Mar 19, 2025Today on the show Justin Housman has the week off so Colin welcomes Shawnté Salabert as to the co-host chair! Together they run through some of the topics that have come out of the outdoor community over the past week.
First up, The North Face has yet another collaboration with a fashion brand that has (almost) sold out! There has probably been too much TNF chatter around here the past few weeks, but this collection is super cool. (05:05)Jetboil has a new version of it's iconic stove out so Colin asks accomplished backpacker Shawnté to power rank the to... Duration: 00:45:48The State Of The Outdoor Economy Plus: Stio Launches Footwear
Mar 17, 2025Today on the show Colin is joined by Producer Dave and Outdoor Industry Insider Eoin Comerford to take a look a bigger look at the outdoor industry.
Optimism was high at the end of 2024 that the outdoor industry was due for a come back year. Inventory issues had improved and open to buy was increasing. But with the end of the first quarter just a couple of weeks away things have fallen off of a cliff. We take a look at what happened and what to expect. (07:25)
Then the crew turns their attention to a...
Duration: 00:53:42The Letter That Rocked Outside & Going Inside The North Face's New Strategy
Mar 14, 2025Today Colin opens the show by giving his thoughts on the big outdoor story of the week: The letter that was sent to Outside, Inc CEO Robin Thurston from more than 30 notable journalists making the request to have their names removed from Outside's masthead.
Then outdoor industry insider and consigliere to The Rock Fight, Eoin Comerford joins Colin to run through what he learned from The North Face's presentation at VF's recent Investor Day.
Lastly for The Parting Shot, Eoin highlights two brands from his Founder's Friday series on LinkedIn.
Check out hundreds...
Duration: 00:52:31NEMO's PFAS Free Tent & The Listeners Weigh In On The Value Of Sponsored Athletes
Mar 12, 2025Today Colin & Justin hit the following topics to come out of the outdoor adventure community!
Several brands put out new product press releases over the past week including Mountain Hardwear, Tifosi, and NEMO. Colin & Justin give their thoughts on each of these but save most of their commentary for the NEMO Dagger OSMO that is bluesign certified and PFAS free.They read responses they received to last weeks question they posed to The Rock Fight listeners about the value athletes offer to outdoor brands in 2025. This week's question? What is your favorite outdoor sock brand and why?For... Duration: 00:44:59The Rock Fight's Top 5 Outdoor Accessory Brands!
Mar 10, 2025Today the hosts, writers and consigliere's of the Rock Fight universe gather to once again rank the top outdoor brands... only this time it's all about accessories.
They've ranked footwear and they've ranked gear and today the Outdoor Media Avengers are assembling to do the same for accessories. Only for this round we don't have our own version of Thor as Producer Dave couldn't join the show.
In his place is the latest addition to the team, acclaimed author and outdoor journalist, Shawnté Salabert!
Shawnté joins Colin, Justin Housman, and Eoin Comerford to do...
Duration: 01:00:25Patagonia Punches Back At The Rock Fight!
Mar 07, 2025It's a return fire episode as Patagonia joins The Rock Fight to defend their efforts on PFAS!
Recently on The Rock Fight Colin was critical of a new video from Patagonia that detailed their journey to remove forever chemicals from their product line. In Colin's point of view he thought Patagonia was late to the party and this was a case where the brand was behind their peers rather than leading.
Patagonia heard that episode, and they're here today to throw some rocks of their own.
Today on the show Patagonia's VP of...
Duration: 00:46:44National Parks Protest, Kentucky Climbers Buy A Cliff & A Rower Gets Rescued Plus: Q&A Corner!
Mar 06, 2025Today Colin & Justin belatedly talk about stories and headlines to come out of the outdoor adventure community. Belatedly because the flu recently landed right on Justin's handsome face!
On the docket:
Last weekend there were protests held at National Parks across the country. Are we feeling encouraged about the state of things? (06:03)A non profit in Kentucky purchased 700 acres and 14 miles of cliffline to establish new climbing areas. Is this a road map for when our public lands are sold off? (10:10)We debut a new segment presented by Obōz: Q&A Corner! Where we ask t... Duration: 00:44:29Will Sierra Take Out REI? Plus: Helly Hansen's US Push & Leave The North Face Alone!
Mar 03, 2025What better way to start your week then by entering The Rock Fight for the best outdoor industry commentary you'll find anywhere?!
Today Colin is joined by Monday regulars Eoin Comerford and Producer Dave and they break down the following topics:
After being acquired by Kontoor Brands last month, Helly Hansen has announced their intention to make a meaningful push into the United States' outdoor market. After announcing Helly's intentions, Kontoor CEO Scott Baxter said "Get ready, this is going to be fun." Points to Kontoor for the smack talk. (04:55)TJX announced last week that Sierra... Duration: 00:42:34Arc'teryx's Virtual Footwear Launch & Soldiering On For Our Public Lands
Feb 28, 2025Today Colin is rolling solo! First he offers his comments and observations after attending the virtual launch of Arc'teryx's spring footwear collection earlier this week. While the launch itself was a leap forward in how outdoor brands should be engaging with outdoor media, it was also a good example of how brands could improve how they promote their products. (02:16)
Next Colin talks about how the outdoor industry needs to unite in order to fight for our public lands over the next four years. He looks at a story that was recently published on the DCReport by war...
Duration: 00:18:51Yosemite Protests & Patagonia Speaks Out! Plus: Illegal Super Shoes?
Feb 26, 2025Today Colin and Justin take a look at recent headlines to come out of the outdoor adventure community.
On the docket:
In response to the Trump Administration's Valentine's Day staffing and budget cuts, employees at Yosemite National Park hung an upside down flag on the top of El Cap. Hope ensued. (04:55)The Trump Administration backtracked on those cuts with the Department of the Interior announcing they would allow agencies to hire 7,700 seasonal employees. (08:21)On Tuesday 2/25 Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert posted an Op-Ed on Time.com stating Patagonia's intention to fight back against the moves made by... Duration: 00:42:49NikeSKIMS, VF Gets Upstaged By Kontoor & Merrell Heads Back To The Mall Plus: Patagonia: PFAS Leader?
Feb 24, 2025Today Colin is joined by outdoor industry insider Eoin Comerford (Producer Dave is out sick) to talk about all the big stories that came out of the outdoor industry last week.
On the docket today:
In a rare industry spite move (ok it's not just that) VF spinoff Kontoor Brands acquired Helly Hansen from Canadien Tire Corporation. Eoin gives us the background and we take a look at what may be next. (05:20)SKIMS is back in the news as it was announced that they will be creating a new brand with Nike. Of course, backlash ensued... Duration: 00:49:35