Denver-based Redfeather Snowshoes has been purchased by ORC Industries for $2 million.
Founded in 1988, Redfeather markets more than 20 snowshoe models that range in price from $89 to $229. It produces more than 50,000 pairs of the lightweight aluminum shoes annually.
La Crosse, Wis.-based ORC specializes in providing job opportunities to disabled workers. The company produces several products for the U.S. military, including waterproof ponchos and nylon tents.
“We’re looking for companies that are labor-intensive and fit within our mission to provide employment for people with disabilities,” said Todd Bahnub, ORC’s new general manager of Redfeather.
Privately held ORC is moving the company’s snowshoe production from Denver to La Crosse. Two of Redfeather’s 15 Denver-based employees are staying with the company; former president Allan Kettlehut has retired.
Redfeather recently signed deals with Vail Resorts and Intrawest Corp. to provide rental snowshoes at their mountain resorts.
“(Snowshoeing) is one of the fastest-growing snow sports in the industry,” Bahnub said. “We’re excited to continue those relationships.”
ORC, which employs more than 800 people at six locations in Wisconsin and Texas, said it plans within the next year to expand into winter outerwear under the Redfeather name.
Staff writer Julie Dunn can be reached at 303-820-1592 or jdunn@denverpost.com.
