Vasque, a manufacturer of backpacking, hiking, insulated and trail running shoes, is now accepting applications for the Thru-Hike Syndicate (THS) 2017 season.
The brand partner-powered ambassador program will next year add another partner, LifeProof, and will open to people thru-hiking any long trail in the continental U.S.
The THS has supported a select group of thru-hikers every year since 2014, providing outdoor gear from Vasque and partner brands Osprey Packs, Nemo Equipment, Leki Trekking Poles and Darn Tough Vermont. The addition of LifeProof in 2017 will help THS hikers protect their critical communication devices through unpredictable weather and challenging terrain.
2017 will see THS members taking on a wider variety of trails throughout the U.S. It was previously open only to thru-hikers attempting to complete the Appalachian Trail (AT), Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) or the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). This expansion will open the door for hikers in every region, and offer the public an intimate look at some of the country’s lesser-known long distance trails.
“With the increase in thru-hikers we are seeing on trails such as the AT and PCT, we wanted to encourage people to consider thru-hiking the lesser known long trails in the continental United States,” says Vasque Marketing Manager Joe Peters. “The Syndicate offers such a unique opportunity to share stories and images from people who are doing incredible things in incredible places. This select group of hikers won’t just be representing Thru-Hike Syndicate partner brands, they’ll be sharing their personal experiences and encouraging other people to push their limits as well.”
15 people will be selected to represent the THS in 2017. The application process is open now through November 7, 2016. Final candidates will be notified by December 20, 2016. Those interested in being a 2017 Thru-Hike Syndicate member should apply here.
