The unlikely pairing includes a limited-edition product line and a month-long ‘States of Adventure’ road trip campaign.
If you had to squint to see the threads that connect Marmot and Ford, you’re not alone. But the influential brands have indeed teamed up, with state parks benefits in mind.
This week, Ford Bronco will partner with Marmot to kick off a multiyear collaboration. The program includes co-branded gear and an ambassador road trip, called “States of Adventure,” that promotes 15 parks in 15 states. Through the initiative, both companies will provide several select parks with funding to “improve accessibility and encourage outdoor adventure for all.”
“The outdoors is where people challenge themselves, get creative, relax, have fun, be with one another and escape from the routine of everyday life,” said Jeff Brandon, Marmot brand and product marketing manager.
“Together with Bronco, we want to ensure that all people have access to enjoy nature and take part in the fun activities that the outdoors have to offer.”
‘States of Adventure’ Details
The campaign’s centerpiece is the road trip component. Rock climber Maiza Lima and adventure photographer Willie Woodward depart today in a specially outfitted 2021 Bronco Sport. The brands report that Lima and Woodward were “key” in developing the route for the trip, and they also worked closely on the Bronco loadout.
During the month-long cross-country trek, the team will rock climb, kayak, bike, hike, and camp at 15 state parks. Full details aren’t yet available, but notable planned locations include Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park; Smith Rock State Park in Oregon; and Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin.
Special Ford Rig, and Co-Branded Gear
Ford resurrected the legendary Bronco in 2021, introducing it as part of its Built Wild and all-4×4 vehicle lines. Details on the special kit Lima and Woodward helped design were not available as of this writing.
Bronco and Marmot worked together to create an “entire outdoor-focused collection” that will drop in spring 2022. The line features collab products covering sportswear, outerwear, and equipment.
A limited release of the gear is live now, featuring a trucker hat, shirts, and a hoodie. Check it out at Ford Bronco’s merchandise page (search “Marmot”) or at Marmot’s website (search “Bronco”).
Power to the Parks: Funding for Public Lands
Through the marketing collaboration, Marmot and Ford will contribute funding to help keep select state parks viable.
Fords’ Bronco Wild Fund is an endowment that supports responsible access and preservation in American outdoor spaces and public lands. It will award $120,000 in grants this fall to six state parks that “demonstrate a commitment to providing the public with access to the outdoors through specific projects.”
Details on Marmot’s financial commitment are less clear, but a contribution in some amount to the America’s State Park Foundation is confirmed.
“With thousands of state parks across the country, you don’t have to go far to experience nature and explore,” said Jovina Young, Bronco Sport brand manager. “We’re thrilled to team with a brand such as Marmot who shares that passion.”
