The Oberalp Group acquires Evolv

The Oberalp Group added a fifth name to its repertoire of mountain sport brands today with the acquisition of the popular climbing company, Evolv.

“The addition of EVOLV allows us to offer a complete solution for rock climbers when paired with our WILD COUNTRY brand, an international leader in technical climbing hardware,” said Ruth Oberrauch, a member of the owner family of The Oberalp Group.

While the group’s brands collectively make mountaineering shoes, ski boots, trail runners, and approach footwear, they were not making rock climbing shoes. Evolv fills that void.

The Oberalp Group plans to expand Evolv’s global distribution throughout Europe and Asia as climbing continues to gain traction worldwide, though the brand will remain in Los Angeles.

Evolv founder Brian Chung will continue to be actively involved in the management of Evolv and its athletes, but looks forward to working with The Oberalp Group going forward.

“I have always had the highest respect for the Oberalp Group of brands for making industry-leading product and for the company’s commitment to sustainability which are values that EVOLV shares,” Chung said in a news release. “In addition to our focus on creating the best climbing footwear, EVOLV will also continue in our mission to make a positive impact in the climbing community through our various initiatives and organizations that we support.”

Drew Saunders, general manager of Oberalp North America, has high hopes for the pairing. “With the strength and momentum of the brand paired with the value that we can add through our existing infrastructure and team, there is great potential for EVOLV as the newest member of the Oberalp house of brands.”

Compass Advisors served as the transaction advisor. They are an M&A firm with a focus in the outdoor industry.