REI and Momentum Indoor Climbing launched REI Co-op Climb, a destination for climbing gear, programming and events at each of Momentum’s new gyms. REI Co-op Climb will debut inside Momentum Katy when the 36,000-square-foot gym opens its doors on Saturday, July 15, 2017. Momentum Silver Street will also feature an REI Co-op Climb; the 40,000-square-foot bouldering gym near downtown Houston is slated to open later this year.
“REI is a visionary company dedicated to improving people’s lives through outdoor experiences and education,” said Jeff Pedersen, Momentum CEO and co-founder. “Momentum is committed to building better climbers at our world-class climbing facilities, and we look forward to aligning our Climbing School offering with that of REI Outdoor School. The co-op is an ideal partner to further our vision, by providing Momentum climbers with a gateway to memorable outdoor experiences.”
Instructors from REI’s Outdoor School will help Momentum members and guests gain skills and confidence through gym to crag classes. Classes range from beginner to advanced levels and include Learn to Climb, Learn to Rappel, Sport Climbing Anchors and Climbing Rescue Techniques. REI members who participate in the Learn to Climb program will receive two weeks free climbing at Momentum.
“REI has a rich climbing heritage thanks to our founders’ vision to be among the first to bring world class climbing equipment to the American market. We are excited to partner with Momentum to introduce REI Co-op Climb. These gyms are an important resource for avid climbers, and they’re an onramp for getting more people into the sport,” said John Sheppard, REI’s divisional vice president, experiential programs and new ventures. “As a respected climber’s gym, Momentum also shares our ethos around education, and we look forward to introducing more individuals and youth to the growing climbing community.”
REI has had a retail presence in the Houston area since 1996 and today operates three stores in the region, including downtown Houston, Baybrook and Willowbrook. The company also has three locations in the Austin area. REI Outdoor School offers a range of classes and events, including introductory rock climbing at Reimers Ranch Park, a popular destination near Austin for outdoor climbing.
Last year, REI Outdoor School helped 350,000 people learn a new activity, brush up on their skills or experience the outdoors in a unique way. As a different kind of company, the co-op shares the majority of its annual profits with the outdoor community, including local nonprofits working to increase access to and steward inspiring outdoor places.
According to Climbing Business Journal, 188 of the 414 indoor climbing gyms in the U.S. opened between 2010 and 2016, a rate of growth that is projected to continue.
