Momentum Indoor Climbing and REI Announce the Launch of REI Co-op Climb in Momentum’s Houston Gyms

Momentum ™ Indoor Climbing and national outdoor co-op REI announce the launch of REI Co-op Climb, a destination for the best climbing gear, programming and events at each of Momentum’s new gyms. REI Co-op Climb will debut inside Momentum Katy when the 36,000 square foot gym opens its doors on Saturday, July 15, 2017. Momentum Silver Street will also feature an REI Co-op Climb; the 40,000 square foot bouldering gym near downtown Houston is slated to open later this year.

“REI is a visionary company dedicated to improving people’s lives through outdoor experiences and education,” said Jeff Pedersen, Momentum CEO and co-founder. “Momentum is committed to building better climbers at our world-class climbing facilities, and we look forward to aligning our Climbing School offering with that of REI Outdoor School. The co-op is an ideal partner to further our vision, by providing Momentum climbers with a gateway to memorable outdoor experiences.”

REI Co-op Climb will serve as a destination for the best climbing gear, programming and events at each of Momentum’s new gyms. Expert instructors from REI’s Outdoor School will help Momentum members and guests gain skills and confidence through gym to crag classes. Classes range from beginner to advanced levels and include Learn to Climb, Learn to Rappel, Sport Climbing Anchors and Climbing Rescue Techniques. REI members who participate in the Learn to Climb program will receive two weeks free climbing at Momentum so that they can fully experience the new gyms.

“REI has a rich climbing heritage thanks to our founders’ vision to be among the first to bring world class climbing equipment to the American market. We are excited to partner with Momentum to introduce REI Co-op Climb. These gyms are an important resource for avid climbers, and they’re an onramp for getting more people into the sport,” said John Sheppard, REI’s divisional vice president, experiential programs and new ventures. “As a respected climber’s gym, Momentum also shares our ethos around education, and we look forward to introducing more individuals and youth to the growing climbing community.”

REI has had a retail presence in the Houston area since 1996 and today operates three stores in the region, including downtown Houston, Baybrook and Willowbrook. The company also has three locations in the Austin area. REI Outdoor School offers a range of classes and events, including introductory rock climbing at Reimers Ranch Park, a popular destination near Austin for outdoor climbing.

Education is at the core of REI’s purpose. Last year REI Outdoor School helped 350,000 people learn a new activity, brush up on their skills, or experience the outdoors in a unique way. As a different kind of company, the co-op shares the majority of its annual profits with the outdoor community, including local nonprofits working to increase access to and steward inspiring outdoor places.

According to Climbing Business Journal, 188 of the 414 indoor climbing gyms in the U.S. opened between 2010 and 2016, a rate of growth that is projected to continue.

Momentum Katy will be the one of the largest climbing gyms in the United States. The 36,000 square foot facility will offer over 29,000 square feet of rope climbing, bouldering, training walls and kids climbing. Industry leader Walltopia is building the gym’s climbing walls, which were designed by Momentum's Salt Lake City design team. Momentum Katy will accommodate hundreds of climbers at once, and includes a 5,500 square foot cross training area, dedicated yoga studio, locker rooms and laptop work spaces. The second floor mezzanine will offer "auto-belay" climbing and party space, doubling as a viewing area for local and national level climbing competitions.

Momentum Silver Street is located at less than two miles from downtown Houston in a reconditioned warehouse surrounded by art studios, dining options and residential lofts. The facility will include bouldering, training space, a cardio room, and a yoga studio. The gym will also feature a youth specific climbing area, locker rooms and workspaces. As one of the largest bouldering gyms in the county, Momentum Silver Street will host major competitions.

About Momentum Indoor Climbing

For the last decade, Momentum™ Indoor Climbing has been developing innovative indoor climbing gyms to serve local communities. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, the Momentum brand is fueled by a passion to evolve and share the sport of rock climbing through inspired wall design, modern training facilities, effective coaching and education programs and amenities that enhance the indoor experience. Momentum is committed to building better climbers and cultivating lasting communities. For more information about Momentum, visit www.momentumclimbing.com or connect with Momentum on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Vimeo.

About the REI Co-op