Kelty sponsors Daren Wendell and his walk around the world

Boulder, Colo., March 7th, 2008 — Kelty, cornerstone brand for the outdoor world, will be an official gear sponsor for Daren Wendell and his Earth Expedition walk around the world to raise awareness, generate funds, and call people to action regarding the international water crisis.

Starting on March 8, 2008 when Daren takes his first step from North Georgia College and University in Dahlonega, GA, the Earth Expedition will span the course of the next seven years and take Daren over 18,000 miles through 14 countries. Kelty will supply Daren with a Soar 5200 backpack, Corrie 2 tent, and Light Year Down 20º sleeping bag to start, with regular equipment upgrades to follow as seasons change and newer gear is released.

“Without a doubt, this is one of the most ambitious undertakings I’ve ever heard of and we’re excited to be a part of it,” said Christian Mason, marketing manager for Kelty. “I’m looking forward to receiving updates from Daren during his trip and his feedback on how our Kelty gear is performing.”

When it came to selecting gear sponsors, Daren knew exactly the sort of equipment he was after.

“I’m a minimalist,” said Daren of Earth Expedition. “I’m looking for high quality, lightweight gear to meet my under 40 lb pack limit. The Kelty Soar, Corrie, and Light Year will certainly help me attain that goal.”

With 5200 cubic inches of storage space, the Soar is the largest pack Kelty’s Backcountry Light series of packs, tents, and sleeping bags. Weighing in at 4 lbs., 2 oz., the Soar represents the best blend of lightweight and large volume across all of Kelty’s backpack lines.

New for Spring 2008, the Corrie 2 is the lightest two-person tent currently offered in the Kelty line. Tipping the scales at a scant 3 lbs., 10 oz., the three-season Corrie is easy to carry, easy to pitch, and provides ample protection from the elements.

Also new for Spring 2008, Kelty’s Light Year Down 20º sleeping bag will accompany Daren until colder temps demand a warmer bag. Light, comfortable and compact, the mummy-style Light Year Down is a great choice for lightweight, three-season backpacking.

Starting with a hike of the entire Appalachian Trail, Daren will ultimately cover over 18,000 miles during his seven-year trip with time spent walking through a variety of different countries, including Spain, France, Italy, Hungary, Austria, Russia, and Canada.

Regular updates on Daren’s progress and the Kelty gear he is using can be found at www.Kelty.comin the “How Do You Use Kelty” section as well as in Daren’s blog, located atwww.theearthexpedition.com .

KELTY is based in Boulder, Colorado, and uses the natural backdrop of the Rocky Mountains to test, create and continually innovate within their diverse outdoor product families of Light & Fast, Trail, Basecamp and Travel gear. Kelty combines the best in new technology with a healthy dose of common sense to create exceptionally made, affordably priced outdoor products. For more information on Kelty, please go to www.kelty.com, or call 800.423.2320.