InSport will manufacture a new running suit for the Marine Corps under
a $14 million contract recently awarded to the company. Insport will be
outfitting every Marine with this new addition to the sea bag in early
2008. InSport secured the Marine Corps contract through a full and open
competitive bid for the running suit.
The
contract was awarded after extensive proposal review, laboratory
testing and user evaluations illustrated that it was capable of
standing up to the uniquely rigorous fitness demands placed on the
modern day Marine. The fabric design uses top-of-the-line,
moisture-wicking, anti-microbial, and water-repellent technologies to
ensure comfort and usability throughout extensive weather conditions,
and lengthy wear.
“We are simply thrilled,” said Peter
Soorenko, General Manager of InSport. “The fitness demands placed on
Marines are second to none. To be selected to ensure that they can meet
these rigorous demands through this specially designed training uniform
speaks volumes to the quality of our work here at InSport. We are very
proud.”
The Marine Corps decision to adopt the
InSport-designed running suit will allow them to take advantage of
innovative fabric technologies not present in the Marine's current
physical training uniform, which was designed over 30 years ago. While
they plan to continue issuing the standard green t-shirt and green
running shorts, this new running suit will provide Marines with a
uniform that exemplifies the high standards of the Marine Corps.
“We
would like to start getting the running suit to Marines in early 2008.
Ultimately, our goal is to outfit our Marines with the best clothing
and gear available and we appreciate the partnership with Insport in
reaching this goal,” said Infantry Combat Equipment Program Manager
LtCol A.J. Pasagian
In full compliance with Berry Amendment
regulations, this running suit will be designed and manufactured
entirely in the United States, using materials made by fellow American
businesses. Marine Corps officials estimate that 125,000 running suits
will be produced in 2008, and another 125,000 will be distributed
through 2009.
InSports military garments have received
widespread support on the federal level in both the Senate and House of
Representatives. Notably, Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR), Congresswoman
Darlene Hooley (D-OR) and Congressman David Wu (D-OR) have worked
tirelessly to secure additional resources for InSports many
DoD-supported military products.
Senator Gordon Smith said, “We
owe it to our men and women in uniform to supply them the best gear and
apparel on the market. It is so important that our military continues
to lead in innovation and technology. By putting 30 years of experience
to work, InSport is helping continue that tradition all while providing
American jobs. Both the state of Oregon and the Marine Corp. will
greatly benefit from this contract.”
Congresswoman Darlene
Hooley said, “Kudos to InSport for designing a top-notch product that
meets the rigorous demands of our warriors in the United States Marine
Corps. And because its made right here in Oregon, our local economy
and job market get a boost. Thats a double win.”
Congressman
David Wu said, “InSport caught the attention of the Department of
Defense because its products allow our soldiers to stay focused on
what's most important. Thousands of soldiers stand to benefit from
InSport's leading research and development in the 'smart apparel'
industry.”
Established in 1978, InSport International, Inc.
has a long history as a leading producer of athletic performance
apparel for athletes of every caliber in distinct categories: Running,
Cycling, Triathlon, Training, Team and Military. InSport is a
recognized leader in innovation and advancement in the sports apparel
industry, and is proud to manufacture the majority of its product line,
including 100 percent of its military product, in the United States.
