A few weeks back I had the opportunity to tour Klim USA's headquarters just outside Idaho Falls, Idaho. It was only 3 days before the Jackson Hole hillclimbs so the place was buzzing with race teams stopping in, and what seemed like a revolving door of sleds and riders passing through the parking lot.
However, what really impressed me was how connected these guys were with their consumers. I literally hung out in the lobby for 15 minutes before our meeting and watched as at least half a dozen consumers, not racers or sponsored people, came through the door and got personal customer service. The questions I heard ranged from; What layering should I use with this suit? to, Where is the best riding this weekend? The guys and gals at Klim took care of everyone, and at a time when customer focus seems to be dead at many companies, this was a shining example.
Furthermore, we got a personal guided tour from none other than Klim's marketing master, John Summers. Seeing the photo studio, shipping department and the fantastic set-up the guys at Klim get to work at each day made us almost a little jealous.
Anyway, on to the new gear! Since Klim has not officially announced their new product line this is just a small percentage of their new 2011 line. The three pieces we will focus on are the new Keweenaw Parka, the new Impulse Jacket and the new women's Allure Parka. Check out the photos and captions! And keep checking www.AmSnow.com and www.Klimusa.com for the official release coming in August.
Keweenaw: A high end piece directed at off-trail and on-trail riders alike. This parka gets a new look but will still be at the top of the snowmobile garment industry food chain. It comes with comfort mapping technology, Gore-Tex, Pro Shell fabrics and Three Layer Technology implanted in the coat. The jacket will be slightly warmer than some of the basic shells that pure mountain riders are used to, but perfect for the guy who likes to do it all from the fast flatland riding to aggressive mountain ascents. It breathes, it doesn't rip, it moves with the rider, it will never stay wet, and it totally stops any wind... it basically rocks!
Impulse: This is a lighter-weight, more alternatively styled jacket that still carries Gore-Tex technology and will keep you dry warm and well protected on most days. This one probably wouldn't be recommended for those -30 degree days, but if you do any spring riding in the mountains this jacket is a must!
Allure: Finally the new women's Allure Parka carries with it basically all of the technology that riders have come to be familiar with in the highly popular Valdez parka. But, the Allure is specifically designed to fit the aggressive and active woman rider. It has some added warmth built into it but still manages to keep its sleek and stylish lines. With this one the ladies in your group will feel both sporty and stylish.