Following a conversation at a trade show, a connection was formed between Troll and GO Outdoors.
The guys at GO showed real interest in our UK based manufacture and heritage climbing products, so much so that they wanted to see the factory.
We welcomed Chris and Rebecca from GO Outdoors earlier this year. They were keen to see the facilities we have and get an insight into the full journey our products go on, all under one roof.
The main product of focus was the brand new Astro Bouldering Pad, the first bouldering pad we have made, in development for almost 2 years. There are many challenges with trying to a make a product like this in the UK, especially whilst being cost effective.
Our head designer Ray talked through the material choices, construction, fabric sourcing, foam density and testing. The GO team met with our sewing machinists Donna and Sue, and were able to witness some of the bouldering pads being made. They were also shown how the foam is inserted into the pads to complete the product. You can see a video of their visit here.
Another product of interest whilst visiting was the classic and very popular Omni Original Trousers. GO Outdoors have recently stocked the trousers in black in all of their stores. They were super interested to see where the product is made, see the patterns in which the designs are cut from and learn about each step of the manufacturing process.
It was fantastic to meet people from a huge company that showed genuine interest in a small, heritage climbing brand. We thoroughly enjoyed showing them around the factory and we look forward to seeing how this collaboration can evolve.
Both the Omni Trousers and Astro Bouldering Pad are available to buy online at gooutdoors.co.uk and in selected GO stores.
Published August 2022
Written by Alethea Lund-Wright, Marketing Co-ordinator Troll Outdoors