Welcome back to edition #4 of “A Month @ MOB!” We’ve rounded up the latest happenings in Maine’s outdoor industry below:
Penobscot Nation and the Trust for Public Land have embarked on a landmark project in Maine, returning 30,000 acres of land to the Penobscot Nation, marking the largest land return between a non-profit and a Tribal Nation, while also aiming to facilitate vital road access to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, prioritizing Indigenous self-determination, land stewardship, and the restoration of ancestral homelands. This collaborative effort, representing a profound step in acknowledging Indigenous sovereignty and land care, seeks to bolster cultural connections, preserve ecological diversity, and create economic opportunities for local communities within the Katahdin region of Maine.
The Maine Outdoor Economy Summit is a three-day event uniting industry leaders to collaborate, share ideas, and discuss key topics aimed at advancing Maine’s outdoor recreation economy and its integral connection to the state’s overall health, well-being, and community development. Between keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and panel discussions, there will be happy-hours, a pop-up shopping event featuring Maine-made gear makers and experience providers, brews by Allagash Brewing and Maine Beer Co., good food, music, fireside festivities, and opportunities to get outdoors on guided adventures. Only a few tickets are left. Grab your seat and join us in Rockport, Nov 29 – Dec 1 at the Samoset!
Subaru Drive published an article spotlighting Maine businesses that are fostering a community dedicated to preserving Maine’s breathtaking landscapes for generations to come. Founded by passionate entrepreneurs, these shops — including MOB’s own Kit Supply + Co and Peace House Studio) — beckon families with high-quality, sustainable gear and playful yet enduring clothing, aiming to instill a love for nature in children and promote a deeper sense of environmental stewardship throughout the state.
Selene’s Fly shop migrates upstream to a new location
Selene’s Fly Shop in Gardiner is migrating upstream to a new location at 279 Water Street. Their grand reopening will be the first week of November. Be sure to mark your calendar for the big CUSTOMER APPRECIATION PARTY at the new shop November 11 starting at 1PM! BIG giveaways including rods and reels!
Mainers launches new gloves and original mitts in new colorways in time for winter
Mainers debuts Rangeley gloves and Caribou, plus their original mitts in fresh colorways, each combining premium materials, durability, and comfort to elevate your winter experience.
Johnson Outdoors shifts focus to Jetboil
Johnson Outdoors announces that they have made the strategic decision to discontinue its Eureka product lines, shifting focus towards its Jetboil franchise and cooking segment.
Maine’s Brant & Cochran + Solo Stove Partner up on exclusive fireside collection
Brant & Cochran’s revival of Maine’s axe-making tradition joins forces with Solo Stove to produce a limited-edition fireside collection. This successful collaboration, initially sparked at Outdoor Retailer, embodyies craftsmanship, storytelling, and tradition.
Kit Supply + Co announces new store location
Kit Supply + Co, a Kittery shop full of thoughtful goods for outdoor kids, announces their move to a new location.
XTERRA Trail Run World Series reaches pinnacle at Sugarloaf Mountain
Last month, Maine Sports Commission brought the world-class & worldwide XTERRA Trail Run World Series to Sugarloaf in Carrabassett Valley. The event showcased over 60 miles of captivating trails and intense competition among top-tier runners vying for $10,000 in prize money and XTERRA championship titles. Amid all the stoke, no one lost sight of the greater good & Maine-based Teens to Trails was honored as the local charity beneficiary of the whole shebang. It was fitting that the event opened & closed with Mainers in the spotlight with adaptive adventurer Enock Glidden delivering the welcome dinner keynote address & local Olympian Caitlyn Patterson atop the podium of the premier women’s event. Look ahead to next year — the event returns in 2024.
Scarborough-based Salt Pump Climbing announces new location
Salt Pump Climbing Co., based in Scarborough, Maine, is expanding with a second location in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The new gym, covering 14,500 square feet, will house climbing, fitness facilities, and yoga studios, much like their established Maine branch.