Giving Back Isn’t Optional: Why MTB Brands Must Fund the Future

Sustainability and cycling often go hand in hand, and numerous brands are doing their part to reduce waste, give back to trail systems, and explore new ways to make the world a better place. It’s not uncommon for prominent brands in the industry to support events and trail organizations through donations and sponsorships. This trend is now part of the culture, and if you’ve been in the industry for any amount of time, you’ll know that this support is essential. The work done by trail builders and trail organizations is crucial to maintaining the trails we love in good condition. However, this work is often a labor of love, and receiving any amount of funding for the work is a significant challenge. Thankfully, many brands have recognized this and are working to support the trail gnomes, angels, and fairies that keep our trails in tip-top shape.

Over the years, we’ve seen initiatives like the Specialized Bicycles' ‘Soil Searching’ program, the ‘PayDirt’ effort from Santa Cruz Bicycles, Fox Factory’s ‘Trail Trust’, and Transition Bikes mission to build rad trails in Bellingham, Washington with the ‘Blue Steel’ and ‘Blue Ribbon’ trails on Galbraith Mountain. The list also grows each year, with more brands offering support to trail builders and organizations behind the scenes, and you can find a list of donors on the International Mountain Bicycle Association (IMBA) website.

A recent report from Velocio landed in my inbox, detailing the brand's efforts over the last few years, which have resulted in over a quarter of a million dollars being donated to trail advocacy and builders worldwide, a fact I was previously unaware of. As someone who was already a fan of the clothing, seeing that this relatively unknown clothing brand had quietly donated a substantial sum to build and maintain established trails just added to the list of reasons I appreciate the brand.

Related: Velocio Nailed This Spring/Summer Apparel Collection

The press release kicks off with some strong statements. “At the core of our advocacy is our commitment to donating 1% of gross sales to environmental causes. We joined 1% for the Planet in 2018, becoming the first in the cycling apparel industry to do so, and it has led to over a quarter of a million dollars directly supporting advocacy across the United States and around the world.” 

Although Velocio has been nestled comfortably under the SRAM umbrella since 2022, the brand has been doing things by the beat of its drum since 2013, and it had already decided to join the efforts of 1% for the Planet well before the component manufacturer acquired it.

Related: SRAM Just Added Another Major Brand to Its Growing Empire

It wasn’t until the acquisition by SRAM that the brand took off in a big way, resulting in a greater cut of the 1%. Since 2022, every donation has helped organizations and individuals working directly to improve the trail riding experience. Recipients include the Conservation Alliance, Forward Whaktipu, and the Vermont Mountain Bike Association, among many others. The following are some of the highlighted results from Velocios' donations.

The Driving Range - Richmond, Vermont

Velocio has been instrumental in the creation of the first all-adaptive trail network in Vermont — known as The Driving Range. The Driving Range features everything from double-black descents to approachable B lines.

By building an adaptive-friendly network from design through construction, Richmond Mountain Trails provides miles of safe, thrilling, and accessible trails for all riders. These trails foster a sense of belonging for adaptive riders, offer access to numerous trails in one location, and are fun for mountain bikers of all skill levels. The Driving Range is a truly inclusive riding spot, contributing to statewide efforts for better inclusivity and access in mountain biking.

Crested Butte (CMBMA) - Crested Butte, Colorado

Funds from Velocio go directly to support the efforts of the CMBMA trail crew, whose hard work helps maintain an area of over 433 square miles and encompasses more than 483 miles of trails. Recently, the CMBMA has constructed the new Sideshow Trail and is breaking ground on an upcoming two-mile trail in the Lake Irwin area.

The Lake Irwin Trail will enhance connectivity and access within the existing trail network, offering a safer and more enjoyable experience for both hikers and cyclists. The route carefully avoids riparian and wetland areas of concern, stays close to the road, and aims to provide a nicer journey compared to the road itself—both ascending and descending—for all non-motorized trail users. The trail was designed for ease of use, making it suitable for beginners. Besides improving network connectivity, it also serves as a recreational feature for campers and visitors to Lake Irwin. It’s a win-win.

Stumpocalypse - Portland, Oregon

Located in Oregon's Rocky Point Trail System, Stumpocalypse was opened in June of 2023 and is the closest big air jump line to Portland, Oregon, thanks to the hard work and countless hours of the Northwest Trail Alliance (NWTA). The Rocky Point Trail System is one of the newest trail systems in the PDX Metro area, but despite frequent logging operations, it serves as a critical community hub for mountain bikers in the city.

Stumpocalypse is on the Southside of the Rocky Point Trail System, at the end of the newly added Gappuccino jump trail. The trail corridor was initially cut in before new trees were planted, following previous logging operations. NWTA preemptively excavated the rough corridor to safeguard the future construction. Now completed, Stumpocalypse provides stunning views of the Willamette River, Sauvie Island, and the Portland skyline, and is packed with big sends.

Related: Mountain Bike Trail Etiquette 101: Singletrack, Multi-Use, and More

Forward Whaktipu - Tāhuna, Queenstown, New Zealand

Forward Whaktipu aims to protect and restore the Tāhuna Queenstown area through community education, collaboration, and action. Thanks to volunteers and locals, Velocio funds have been invested in this iconic riding destination, supporting its growth for many years.

Forward promotes climate action and environmental care by fostering community, education, and teamwork. As mountain bikers who appreciate the local environment, Forward feels a responsibility to protect and restore Te Taiao, the natural world that sustains us and future generations. The efforts of Forward Whaktipu are rooted in reciprocity, local engagement, regeneration, and the interconnectedness of people and nature.

A recent proposal to develop on Te-taumata-o-Hakitekura (Ben Lomond) and Bowen Peak threatens the area's ecological integrity and biodiversity. The plans include 270 chalets, a 1,500-person conference centre, a dual-rail funicular, ski resort infrastructure, and development at One-Mile Recreation Reserve. These projects would harm the native forest, endanger species habitats, compromise cultural significance, and impact recreational use.

Sign the petition now to help protect Te-taumata-o-Hakitekura and Bowen Peak