The judges chose the eight winners of the OutDoor Industry Awards in Hannover on July 1, and they will be announced at the show this month. Overall, the contest garnered 412 entries from 28 countries, a 70 percent increase over the 242 entries from 18 countries that were submitted for 2009. This year’s competitors were narrowed down to 47 finalists. The top eight will take home the Gold Award. There were nine categories: apparel/helmets/shoes; backpacks/luggage; mountain-climbing equipment; camping equipment; sleeping bags; accessories; products of high ecological and sustainable value; material innovations; and, just for students, concept. In judging the products entered, the jury considered the following criteria: degree of innovation; design quality; workmanship; choice of materials; environmental compatibility; sustainability; functionality; utility; safety; trendsetting character; and brand value/branding. All the award-winning products will be on display at the show, with the awards ceremony scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on July 15, in Hall A2. The OutDoor Celebrity of the Year will also be announced.
