National Geographic, the nonprofit scientific and educational organization, has selected Boulder, CO-based American Rec and its wholly owned subsidiary Canadian Recreation Products as its primary outdoor gear licensee under its National Geographic and National Geographic Explorer brands for North America.

Under this multiyear agreement, National Geographic and American Rec will launch a comprehensive line of camping, hiking and other outdoor gear available in retail stores across North America in fall 2012.

“National Geographic explorers and photographers have been in the field gathering compelling stories and stunning images for more than a century,” said Krista Newberry, National Geographic's senior vice president of licensing, North America. “American Rec is a proven leader and innovator in the outdoor equipment and camping gear category, so its experience is key in developing quality, functional gear that captures National Geographic’s adventurous spirit.”
 
“American Rec is thrilled to partner with the National Geographic Society,” said Sue Timbo, marketing director of American Rec. “Drawing upon our expertise in recreational and performance gear for the outdoors, we are excited to develop exceptional outdoor gear that reflects the Society’s rich heritage of exploration as well as its standard for superior functionality and design.”

National Geographic's net proceeds from the sale of these products will support vital exploration, conservation, research and education programs.

American Rec's brands include Kelty, Kelty KIDS, Sierra Designs, Royal Robbins, Slumberjack, Wenzel, Ultimate Direction, ISIS, Mountain Standards, Rokk and Instabed.