The Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports Commentary

437 épisodes

Profitability vs. People: REI Cuts Pay & Benefits - Outdoor Unfiltered
16/03/2026 | 36 min
Today on Outdoor Unfiltered, Eoin Comerford breaks down the news that REI is cutting pay and benefits for employees as the co-op struggles to return to profitability.
After four straight years of losses REI is facing some tough financial realities — and payroll is squarely in the spotlight.
Eoin digs into what’s driving the decision, why payroll costs at REI are significantly higher than other retailers, and why a healthy REI still matters to the broader outdoor industry.
Also in this episode:
Vail Resorts’ historically bad winter season
Why ski resorts are still making money despite poor snow
Eoin is then joined by Rock Founder and Outdoor Industry veteran, Colin True, to discuss the outdoor recreation economy’s “$1.3 trillion” headline number (and why it’s misleading) as well as the new brand campaigns from The North Face and Merrell.

Outdoor Unfiltered looks past the PR spin to explore what’s really happening in the outdoor industry and why it matters.
Connect with Eoin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/
Email the show: [email protected]
Welcome to Outdoor Unfiltered! - Outdoor Unfiltered
25/02/2026 | 1 min
Tired of the PR spin and LinkedIn platitudes? Outdoor Unfiltered is a new podcast hosted by industry veteran Eoin Comerford that digs into what’s actually driving the outdoor business.
In this trailer, Eoin lays out the mission: honest conversations with insiders and experts about the forces shaping the industry — from innovation and branding to affordability, sustainability, and the real stories behind the headlines.
If you want to understand where the outdoor industry is headed — and why — Outdoor Unfiltered delivers the straight talk.
Follow now and get ready for the first episode dropping March 2.
Outdoor Unfiltered is part of the Rock Fight podcast network.
The Rock Fight Signs Off With a Final Look at the Outdoor Industry
26/01/2026 | 48 min
This is it; the final episode of The Rock Fight.
In one last, wide-ranging conversation, Colin True, Eoin Comerford, and Producer Dave take a final look at the outdoor industry they’ve spent three years questioning, criticizing, and celebrating.
From the state of outdoor media and the resilience of specialty retail to brand sameness, authenticity, and the growing influence of algorithms and AI, this episode serves as a candid closing argument for why curiosity and critical thinking still matter.
No headlines. No hot takes. Just one last honest conversation before the final stone is thrown.
All Rock Fights Must Come To An End
23/01/2026 | 14 min
In the penultimate episode of the podcast, Colin True explains why it’s time to bring The Rock Fight to a close and why ending things at their peak feels like the right call.
Drawing parallels to sports dynasties, iconic artists, and cultural moments that knew when to walk away, Colin reflects on the three year run of the show, what it became for the outdoor industry, and the realities of podcasting, media, money, and burnout in the outdoor space.
Come back on Monday January 23 for our final episode.
Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to [email protected].
What Does Stoke Footwear Mean For The Outdoor Industry?
19/01/2026 | 52 min
Today on The Rock Fight Colin, Eoin Comerford and Producer Dave talk about some recent headlines to come out of the outdoor industry including recent comments made by some of the industry's more notable CEO's.
For the Lightning Round they do quick hits on J Crew, JD Sports, and OR's new athlete team.
Then they unpack the launch of Stoke Footwear, a running-inspired shoe brand built for “real American men” that’s already landed in hundreds of retail doors. Is this smart retail validation, or another case of active heritage being repackaged for a different audience?
Lastly for The Parting Shot, Colin takes aim at the promotion of Alex Honnold's next big thing.
Thanks for listening! The Rock Fight is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
Please follow and subscribe to The Rock Fight and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.
Want to pick a fight with The Rock Fight? Send your feedback, questions, and comments to [email protected].

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À propos de The Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports Commentary

Tired of the same old outdoor industry narratives? If your post-adventure chats are filled with laughter over mishaps, commiseration about broken gear, and celebrating real triumphs (and epic fails), then The Rock Fight is your new tribe. Imagine this: you're no longer stuck in echo chambers. After listening in, you'll be part of honest, unfiltered discussions that mirror the conversations you have with your closest outdoor buddies. You'll gain fresh perspectives and feel more connected to a community that speaks your language. On The Rock Fight we get into the topics others shy away from – the real, sometimes messy, and always engaging aspects of the outdoor industry and culture. Ever debated the best layering system for an imaginary ice planet adventure? We're there. Concerned about the true environmental impact of outdoor brands beyond the marketing spin? We're digging in. We're not afraid to challenge the conventional and offer the candid insights you crave. We're those voices around the campfire, on the chairlift, and at the pub who aren't holding back. Our diverse discussions are fueled by a genuine love for the outdoors and a healthy dose of skepticism towards the status quo. Our goal is to create meaningful conversations and a stronger sense of community for outdoor lovers who are ready for something real. So grab your rock, hit play, and get ready to step up and participate in The Rock Fight.

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