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"I found out what I already knew- that no matter what happens I can and will survive. I have the strength inside me” an indelible mark on over 45,000 New Zealanders who have experienced personal and social development through Outward Bound’s courses. With many participants making comments like “life changing” and “inspiring”, Outward Bound must be doing something incredibly right.
That something stems from their mission to inspire personal and social development through value based experiential learning in an outdoor environment. From this flows the values we all want to find in ourselves: Compassion, Greatness, Responsibility and Integrity.
With Outward Bound’s obvious link with the outdoors it’s easy to see why Kathmandu wanted to become involved. We see Outward Bound and their experiences as a bridge for people to discover, or enhance, their connection with the outdoors - not just from an activity perspective but on a deeper personal level.
“When I started this course I wanted to come away a totally different person, instead, I discovered that I love the person that I already am”.
The Outward Bound experience is for all New Zealanders regardless of age, race, gender or disability. With our sponsorship of Outward Bound we want to help the New Zealanders who just need a little extra help or motivation to really achieve greatness. We want to make it possible for more everyday New Zealanders go through the Outward Bound experience, step outside their comfort zone and challenge themselves.
Busy with Outward Bound
Kathmandu’s partnership with Outward Bound started in July 2005 and ever since then we have been busy sorting clothing and equipment for their courses, product testing and providing all Outward Bound instructors with Kathmandu clothing, and running our “Live the Dream” scholarships.
Student Gear
Outward Bound courses are renowned for extreme locations and challenging activities. Having gear that can withstand year-round pummelling is crucial. Kathmandu worked with Outward Bound operations manager Nikki Wallace to work out which products would best suit their demanding needs. One of the most critical pieces of equipment are the tents students take into the bush and tops.
“The Mountain Plus tent is regularly used out in the field as accommodation for our students. It’s flexible which is great for team dynamics and cleverly designed to make it easy to erect,” explains Nikki. “Whether there are strong winds, driving rain or hot sun, we know that our students will be well protected from the elements when they’re in a Mountain Plus tent.”
Kathmandu has also provided Camper sleeping bags, Virga rain jackets, Hounslow boots, polypro and Extrados rucksacks. This year instructors are wearing the: Armstrong Jacket, Levin Jacket, Taradean Merino Jacket, Brisa and Sharki Vests, Libretto and Whitby Hoodys
Product Testing
Given the tough environment that Outward Bound runs its courses in and the technical expertise of it’s instructors, Kathmandu and some key Outward Bound staff have been working together to test and refine new technical products including sleeping bag fabrics, Gore-Tex jacket construction and ongoing testing of existing products like the our Soft-Shell jacket.
“When it comes to really listening and taking on board our feedback, Kathmandu has to be one of the most progressive companies around,” Nikki explains.
View Outward Bound Endorsements Tents | Packs | Boots | Polypro
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