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March 2018
State of Paddling 2018
Every year, more and more paddlers are discovering the ease and fun of hitting the water. Increased interest has led to innovation in technology, materials, and mindset within the kayaking world. Join industry leader Steve Jordan from Liquidlogic Kayaks, Native Watercraft, and Hurricane Kayaks to hear trends and predictions for 2018 in whitewater, recreational, and fishing kayaks. There will be ample time for Q and A, as well as a chance to check out 2018's new fleet of kayaks and chat with our paddling…
Find out more »Birding, Binoculars, + Beyond
Spring arrives on March 20. Cool, sunny mornings lay the perfect groundwork for the excitement of birding. International birding guides Emilie Travis and Kevin Burke will rundown what birds you can expect to see in our area during this season including tanagers, warblers, vireos, and goatsuckers. Your enjoyment of birds depends hugely on how they look through your binoculars. This class will take a look at popular options for beginners and seasoned bird enthusiasts, as well as other items to…
Find out more »American Red Cross Blood Drive
We've joined with the American Red Cross to host a St. Patrick's Day blood drive. This is a great opportunity for your hiking or trail run club, workplace, or friends. Everyone who donates will receive 20% off any item at Diamond Brand Outdoors. You can schedule an appointment online. Just click here and use the code DIAMOND to find our local blood drive. You don’t need a special reason to give blood. You just need your own reason. Some give blood because they…
Find out more »10% For Asheville City Schools Foundation
Each month, we donate 10% of a day’s sales to support a local nonprofit’s work. Shop on Tuesday, March 20, to support Asheville City Schools Foundation. Ensuring equal opportunities and access to education for all students is central to the mission of the Asheville City Schools Foundation (ACSF). Raising financial support for scholarships, funding of after-school enrichment, emergency assistance for families, and teacher grants programs from a broad spectrum of supporters is essential to its success. ACSF believes that public education is a vital part…
Find out more »Campapalooza 2018
The Gist Spring camping season gets an early start with a preview of 2018's best reviewed gear from international innovators as well as local favorites. Free hourly workshops are joined by giveaways and the presentation of grants to local environmental nonprofits. RSVP on Facebook Hikes, Workshops, Trail Runs, and More 9:30 — Picking Your Pack: Size + Fit 10:30 — Fit for Adventure: Your Chacos 11:30 — Why You Should Use Trekking Poles 12:30 — Sun Protection Clothing for Adventure 1:00 — KEEN:…
Find out more »Deuter Pack Takeover
Looking for a backpack before hitting the trail? Planning your summer travel? Need a child carrier for outdoor concerts? Feel the comfort of a properly fitted pack as Deuter brings a pop-up shop to our flagship location. We'll have an expanded selection of Deuter's backpacking and trekking line through the end of April. Score a free Dirtbag with the purchase of any pack under 40L or a free Stream 3.0L hydration reservoir with any pack over 40L. BONUS: Need more motivation? Just…
Find out more »Picking Your Pack: Size + Fit
If you've ever gone on an extended hike with an ill-fitting pack, you know the importance of making sure you get it right when it comes to size and fit of your backpack. From daypacks and women-specific fits to travel packs and thru hike backpacks, Gregory Mountain Products pack expert Stacey McDermid will run through what works best. This free clinic is part of Campapalooza, a day of outdoor skills learning, special deals, and fun. RSVP on Facebook Kids and well-behaved pets…
Find out more »Fit for Adventure: Your Chacos
People who love their Chacos really love their Chacos. Folks in WNC wear them while doing just about anything—from rock hopping to kayaking to hiking to running errands to attending concerts to... Chaco sandals offer the perfect fit through strap adjustment. Chaco expert Tony Turner will show how to pick the perfect pair of sandals, achieve the best fit, and keep your Chacos fresh and clean. This free clinic is part of Campapalooza, a day of outdoor skills learning, special deals, and…
Find out more »Why You Should Use Trekking Poles
LEKI Know-How Expert Alex Cavner travels the southeast with one goal: matchmaking hikers with the perfect outdoor experiences. Trekking poles and hiking staffs are standard equipment for many walkers, hikers, trekkers, and backpackers. The reasons why are simple: They enhance your stability and provide support on all types of terrain. To get the most out of trekking poles or a hiking staff, join us. This free clinic is part of Campapalooza, a day of outdoor skills learning, special deals, and fun.…
Find out more »Sun Protection Clothing for Adventure
The invigorating warmth of the sun on your skin is hard to beat. But when you’re on a hanging belay, SUPing down a river, or hiking a low-shade trail, those rays can go from friend to foe as you bake in the sun with no relief. The amount of sun protection you require depends on a number of variables: skin type, altitude, time of year, and traveling in highly reflective areas to name a few. Columbia Sportswear apparel expert Chappie Powell will…
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