Consumers Threaten to Boycott Backcountry.com as Retailer Sues Businesses for Using the Term ‘Backcountry’

Nov 6, 2019
by Sarah Moore  
Mnt goats on Quandry Peak
Photo: @roxtar


Some consumers are expressing frustration with online outdoor retailer Backcountry.com on social media using #boycottbackcountry on Twitter and Instagram because the e-commerce retailer has reportedly been taking legal action against small business owners who use the word “backcountry" as part of their name. The Colorado Sun first reported the story late last week, listing several of the businesses that have been impacted.

The publication said that while women-focused avalanche education clinics Backcountry Babes reached an agreement with Backcountry.com and will be able to continue using the term in their name, Utah bikemaker Backcountry eBikes settled in May and will henceforth be known as Backou eBikes. Jordan Phillips rebranded his jeans company from Backcountry Denim to BDCo after his trademark for Backcountry Denim was canceled.


photo
photo
Backcountry's Arcylon long-sleeve jersey and Mid Mountain hip pack are two of the mountain bike focused products they've introduced under their own brand.


Backcountry.com originally got the trademark for use of the word "backcountry" for “retail store services, mail order services and computerized online retail store services" in 2007. Last year they filed for trademarks for hundreds of pieces of gear and in March of this year, they announced in a press release that they would be expanding their brand product offerings to include climb, mountain bike, and winter collections as well as outdoor lifestyle apparel and travel gear.

bigquotesMy feeling is that nobody should have the right to the term 'backcountry.' It’s like trying to trademark 'road' or 'beach' or 'mountain.'Jordan Phillips of BDCo to the Colorado Sun

This is not the first time that consumers have flocked to social media to condemn a brand that's attempting to protect a trademark. You can still find the Specialized #roubaixgate tweets here. And, going back into the archives to 1996, Cannondale threatened legal action against Rocky Mountain for their use of the trademarked word "freeride"—which is how the "Froriders" came to be.

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Member since Mar 30, 2011
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438 Comments
  • 934 10
 Come on Backcounty.com, get the fuck outta here with this shit.
  • 115 8
 They piss me off and it extends beyond this bullshit. I can't say I've ever purchased anything from them because it feels like amazon and walmarts love child that was born in a field, got lost, and decided to open up shop.
  • 80 4
 They probably should have picked a better name than Backcountry.com
  • 39 0
 The National Trust for Scotland tried to legally attack a small outdoor clothing company for naming one of their jackets the Glencoe, despite the jacket existing before the Trust owned Glencoe. Needless to say they did not succeed.

www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-40842674
  • 27 0
 www.backcountrycorp.com

Where you'll find the decision makers. *Disclaimer* This post is in no-way affiliated with Backcountry, Back, Country, or any form, shape of Goats, Mammals, Slander, or any other legally binding term.
  • 6 164
flag drocko (Nov 6, 2019 at 11:20) (Below Threshold)
 It's business dog.. get with it
  • 114 0
 Just so everyone knows, I've decided to trademark the term "butthole". I'm certain nobody had used the term before and I've got one. Plus I've been referred to as such as well.
  • 73 1
 CEO of Backcountry's email... try to be civil (I'd be amazed if it's not turned off yet) jnielsen@backcountry.com
  • 49 1
 I've bought a bunch of stuff from Backcountry in the past, due to their low prices, fast shipping, and customer service, but I don't think I will be anymore. This is some BS. I had already been hearing about it in many news articles before Pinkbike reported it, so I'm hoping it gains a lot of traction. However, I think the real problem is with the Trademark process in the US that allows multiple organizations to trademark their brand, yet still get sued for using it. That's ridiculous. These small businesses have trademarks as well.
  • 16 2
 @NorCalNomad: emailed him, thanks. What a douche move by Backcountry.com - you literally start using a word, any word, then trademark it and try to ban others from using it? GTFO.
  • 28 1
 I actually have bought a lot from them, but no more...
  • 5 0
 Can anyone recommend a good alternative? Also, they are Steep and Cheap. So I guess no more of those deals Frown
  • 9 0
 Here is the list of Backcountry branded clothing items that are currently in violation of trademark infringement. I would pay close attention to Ruslter as that is owned by the Ping Corp (Karsten). I know some people there. I can always make a call. Knowing that company, it is not one I would want to deal with in this sort of matter.

(Cottonwoods, Hayden, Silver Fork, Antigua, Pinyon, All Around, Adventure, Rustler, Canyonlands, Dolomite, Empire, and Cedar)


Here are the current open non trademarked names if anyone wants to apply for them.

(Double Dyon, Wasatch Crest, Steort, and X Black Diamond)
  • 1 3
 Delete.
  • 3 0
 @InsaNeil024: the last hunt is pretty good for apparel and gear, great discounts, never had an issue with them. Then again I’m in Canada...
  • 8 1
 @InsaNeil024: I ordered some gear from Steep & Cheap last week. They shipped it with OnTrac (why?), the shipment got lost, and Steep & Cheap (Backcountry) hasn't responded to the customer service claim I filed three days ago (OnTrac only accepts claims from the shipper not the receiver). I wouldn't recommend them even if they hadn't just made complete asses of themselves. Maybe the millions of dollars they spent building and litigating their trademark portfolio would have been better spent on customer service and fulfillment.
  • 8 0
 Agreed. If this isn't reversed I'm done ordering from BC. I've spent thousands there, but not a penny more.
  • 11 2
 I’d hate to work in their PR department right now... www.instagram.com/p/B4ic4CXgQoH/?igshid=1498gt2ugvr2i
  • 6 0
 Mike Levy vs Downcountry.
  • 2 0
 I used to buy a lot from there. I stopped when I went into their warehouse and felt like my money wasn’t good enough. I have switched to campsaver since and they’re just a smaller version of backcountry. Unfortunately, they don’t carry bikes and bike related stuff....yet. But they’re working on it.
  • 4 0
 @chriskneeland: backdoor.com ? Everyone is trying to give it to em
  • 3 2
 @InsaNeil024: Try Moosejaw.com. They have been pleasant to deal with. I doubt anybody is trying to use their name... :-)
  • 13 11
 @timgross: Moosejaw is owned by Walmart if you're fine helping fund massive income inequality.
  • 1 0
 @Hayek: similar experience. It's been a while since I ordered from them, but previous experiences were good. What I got was not what was described, I sent them an email, and got no reply. It's been a week, so enough ime to return an email.
  • 2 0
 @NorCalNomad: emailed ????
  • 18 0
 I just went to the Backcountry site and started up a google chat to lodge a complain. I think Backcountry's lawsuit has folded like a cheap lawnchair ha-ha.... see link: Score another one for public discourse!

www.backcountry.com/sc/a-letter-to-our-community
  • 4 1
 @Hayek: @Hayek: just for a balanced record, I’ve ordered many, many things from backcountry that were shipped via on trac. Never had a problem with on trac and never had anything but excellent customer service from BC.

But this is a bummer move.
  • 5 0
 @NorCalNomad: the income inequality is definitely not cool, but as far as I understand, the Walton family has been instrumental in funding the incredible MTB scene in NW Arkansas. At least they’ve got that going for them. Backcountry could take a leaf out of their book and do something to contribute to building the scene in UT to help restore some goodwill.
  • 1 0
 @BiNARYBiKE: that’s fair. I’ve also had good experiences with them in the past. This one (specifically Backcountry’s CS going completely dark) has just been extremely disappointing so watching them burn feels like a little bit of justice after losing a few hundred dollars to them.
  • 3 1
 @InsaNeil024: Moosejaw is pretty reasonable if your not opposed to the Walton family.
  • 7 6
 @NorCalNomad: one way to reduce income inequality is for you to simply give some of your money to someone else with less money, so that person is in a less inequitable position as compared to you.
  • 1 0
 @Hayek: steep and cheap IS backcountry
  • 2 0
 @timgross: but who knows if they are trying to sue mooseknuckle.com?
  • 8 0
 @Duderz7:damn. i just wanted to start selling scented candles for dogs and butthole is our prime product.
  • 1 0
 @5afety3rd: I know. Did I say it wasn’t somewhere?
  • 6 1
 @NorCalNomad: walmart makes about $6000 profit per yer, per employee. The company who likely made the phone in your pocket, Apple? $400,000. Facebook is close to that number too.
  • 6 0
 @Socket: I'm going to patent every letter in the alphabet and SUE ALL OF YOU!!
  • 3 0
 @NorCalNomad: When the CEO's email gets shut down, you can tell them what corporate douchebags they are at customerexperience@backcountry.com
  • 2 0
 @NorCalNomad:
Dear Sir/Madam,

In your use of backcountry.com, you seem to have used the letters c*ntry, which I have In fact copyrighted. Please refrain from use of these letters or expect to hear further.
  • 2 0
 I really wanted to upvote ya but yer @ 666 so let's just keep it that way.
  • 2 0
 Well I do like free 2 day shipping but I guess I'll go with Jenson or my LBS. Hate when people sue over stupid stuff.
  • 4 1
 they should change the name to Backcuntry.com.
  • 2 16
flag jorgeposada (Nov 7, 2019 at 6:40) (Below Threshold)
 I threaten to boycott crybaby idiots with enough time to care about nothing. If backcountry.com has a good deal we doing business, love it or love it crumbumbs.
  • 1 0
 @InsaNeil024: And I have been ordering from MotoSport and my last order from them came in a BackCountry box.
  • 4 1
 @jorgeposada: Coming from a guy who ripped off his name and profile pic from a pro baseball player. The irony.
  • 2 1
 @timgross: moosejaw is owned by walmart ....we just cant win!
  • 1 0
 @jaydubmah: That didnt take long
  • 5 0
 @NorCalNomad:

Keep in mind Backcountry is owned by TSG Consumer (www.tsgconsumer.com/portfolio), and the president of TSG, Jamie O'Hara, has a JD from Georgetown. I'm unsure if you can actually see who initiated the lawsuits, but it might make sense that either O'Hara (JOHARA@TSGCONSUMER.COM) or Backcountry's General Counsel, Thomas Jeon (tjeon@backcountry.com), were the initiators behind these...
  • 1 5
flag jorgeposada (Nov 7, 2019 at 8:35) (Below Threshold)
 @chriskneeland: You must be one of those crybaby's I was talking about, sorry lady. The irony hahahahaha!
  • 3 1
 @codypup: motorsport, steepncheap, competitivecyclist, backcountry all the same company
  • 4 1
 @CentralVTMTB: If you want to really make a statement about this type of business, don't spend your hard earned cash on the following brands.

www.tsgconsumer.com/portfolio
  • 2 1
 @RBWebb: yeah i was just thinking doesnt I9 have a wheel named backcountry, dont see them going after them
  • 1 1
 @InsaNeil024: Not sure if Valhalla Pure (www.vpo.ca) ships to the US or not but they're always my first choice.
  • 1 1
 @NorCalNomad: Thanks. Message sent.
  • 3 1
 @Lanebobane: even if it is reversed is this the type of company you want to support? They will only be doing the right thing because of public pressure. there are plenty of other companies that aren't dicks selling the same stuff.
  • 1 1
 @Hayek: True enough but doesn’t anyone recognize the irony of the fact that Walmart doesn’t sell a single bike that would be safe to ride on any trail??
  • 1 1
 @jaydubmah: Follow this up with a 50% off one full price item to all existing customers and I'm back(country)
  • 1 1
 @InsaNeil024: and Competitive Cyclist, they are the same group
  • 2 1
 @nitishnag: Hey, it looks like Canyon is partially owned by TSG too...
  • 1 0
 @giopk70: Oh crap! There are "Canyons" found in the "Backcountry". Hopefully some lawyer doesn't get excited and decide the company he works for needs to own a word that had existed long before his company and claim to own it. That would be so weird.
  • 1 0
 I heard directly from someone at backcountry that they are withdrawing all of their suits. The people have spoken and they listened. Kudos to them for doing the right thing.
  • 2 1
 @erod: They can still eat a D.
  • 2 3
 @jorukfundan: Once everyone has exactly the same skill sets and exactly the same capabilities and exactly the same education will we have income equality. Until then, cashiers will always make less than successful CIO's as the Good Lord intended.
  • 3 0
 @cavecreekgoat: You should try listening to actual economists speak about income inequality. It's not that income inequality is bad, it's that it has ballooned to the point of it ruining our economy.

Think of all the money in the economy as a pizza with 10 slices. All the people in the country are represented by 10 people. The current situation has the first guy taking 9 slices, leaving 9 people to fight over 1 piece of pizza.

This is a scaled down, but accurate, representation of the level of income inequality currently present in America.

Educate yourself, listen to actual economists like Robert Reich and Dr Richard Wolff speak about it.
  • 1 0
 @cavecreekgoat: Also, historically speaking, the last time income inequality was this bad was in the 'Roaring 20s', right before the Great Depression.
  • 2 1
 @cavecreekgoat: Understanding the scale of a billion dollars might help you grasp this:

One million seconds is 11 days.
One billion seconds is 31 years.

For the average person making $50k per year, it would take 21,000 years to make one billion dollars. Jeff Bezos is worth $112 billion dollars.

It would take that same worker 2.35 million years to be worth what Jeff Bezos is worth TODAY.
  • 3 1
 @cavecreekgoat: If you think Jeff Bezos works 2.35 million times harder than the average American, I am in the cannabis industry and I would seriously like to know what you are smoking.
  • 2 1
 @Farmerjosh: There is good and bad economic inequality and it's a nuanced discussion. Using political pull to transfer wealth is very bad. Entrepreneurial innovation (the likes of what Bill Gates or even Jeff Bezos created) that improves the lives of consumers is good. My belief is that we need to everything we can to absolutely stop the former but leave those that actually make our lives better alone to do what they do best - invent and flourish. So it's too simplistic to say Jeff Bezos shouldn't have a zillion dollars. It IS correct to demand he makes this money without relying on ridiculous tax shelters, slave labor, etc. At the end of the day, I'd agree with what many are saying, but I do disagree that people should not be allowed to make, KEEP and bank as much as they legally and morally can.
  • 2 0
 @redrook: Ta for the link. The jackets look well tough and top drawer. I hope their sales go up after this
  • 1 0
 @InsaNeil024: A little late I know, but REI is always a decent option for outdoor gear needs especially their monthly "garage sales" for insane deals. For bike gear I check out my local shop first and then turn to Jensonusa for anything else
  • 1 1
 @cavecreekgoat: you got that right.
  • 1 1
 @Farmerjosh: I'm not convinced with the pizza analogy. I don't see everybody fighting over the last slice. Everybody's standard of living has increased. Who do you know in America who doesn't have a smartphone, a TV, internet service, running water, electricity, climate controlled house, eat at Chipotles or someplace out from time to time? Yes, some things are out of control, like housing, and new car prices, and lots of things. It doesn't really matter how many slices of pizza the next guy has. He's not giving it away in any case. And if you try to take it, he'll make sure that pizza is cold.
  • 1 1
 @Farmerjosh: Why is anybody even comparing themselves to the richest man in the world? Is he still the richest? I think after his divorce he dropped down the list. That's keeping up with the Jones kind of talk, and it's not good. Thou shalt not covet.
  • 3 0
 Just a reminder to say f*ck you to backcountry.com, and block their ads on your fb/insta feeds.
  • 1 0
 @5afety3rd: Good to see that the backlash was felt. Behaviour like that is not in the spirit of everyone who wants to get outdoors.
  • 293 2
 Breaking news, Greg Minnaar sues Backcountry for the use of his trademark in their logo.
  • 10 1
 Even more breaking news: Ricky Carmichael will be joining Greg Minnaar on his lawsuit against Backcountry.com
  • 1 1
 @scott-townes: Lol haven't heard that name in ages
  • 291 2
 If only Specialized had a “Backcountry” bike. They could sue each-other to death.
  • 9 3
 hahahahaha
  • 10 3
 ^ This x 1000. Comment Perfection. Hahaha
  • 25 1
 Specialized sued Stumptown coffee, which is now owned by Backcountry's corporate overlord TSG Consumer Partners (who is actually responsible for all this nonsense). Full circle.
  • 6 0
 @shredasaurous: I don’t think that’s correct. Specialized sued Mountain Cycles, a Portland bike manufacturer who is no longer in business over their cyclocross model which was called the Stumptown. Maybe I’m wrong, but I think they kept their lawsuits in the realm of the bicycle world.

Not defending Spesh here by any means. Just correcting the historical record.
  • 4 0
 @BrambleLee: just for history’s sake the City of Portland’s nickname is Stump Town due the population growth in the mid 1800’s resulting in tree stumps all over the city...I wonder is Specialized is daft enough to sue the City of Portland.

Park Tools has a trade mark in the color blue as it refers to bike tools.

UPS has a trade mark on the color brown with respect to package delivery trucks.
  • 1 0
 @rivercitycycles: and Vibram yellow is in fact Vibram yellow in many of the countries where they operate.
  • 1 0
 This reminds me of when Cannondale decided the owned the term "Freeride" leading the birth of the "Froriders". Cannondale seemed to decline after that...strange? Maybe some of these company's need to mock the bully rather than cower. "Frontcountry, Buckcountry, Backcountry, I'm sure you guys could come up with better ideas.
  • 109 3
 #boycottbackcountry
  • 2 0
 fully
  • 100 3
 Lol wtf. F*** backcountry.com that's some garbage. That's some specialized stuff right there.

Don't forget that competitive cyclist is a sister company of back country
  • 38 1
 Up next from this corporation.... suing small businesses for using 'competitive' or 'cyclist' in their name. I am done with them.
  • 17 1
 Competitive Cyclist used to be awesome. Then they got bought out by Backcountry.
  • 18 1
 Steep and Cheap too right?
  • 4 0
 @TucsonDon: that's right
  • 5 0
 They also run steepandcheap.com. Look out all you small car dealers that sell cheap cars.
  • 11 1
 @erikkellison: They used to be awesome when they were huck n roll
  • 9 2
 Their parent company owns Canyon too.
  • 3 0
 @chrischandra: and chainlove
I better take that bumper sticker off. I used to like Backcountry and all of their affiliates, but these lawsuits are quickly changing that.

@kiddlivid I did not know that. It will make me rethink what is sitting in my cart.

Not sure but Geartrade.com I think is also under the umbrella.
  • 10 4
 @swassskier: lazy writing on PB's part not pointing this out (TSG owns Canyon) and the Competitive Cyclist in the article.
  • 12 0
 I dont think they are even a "sister company," just a Backcountry storefront that filters out the hiking stuff. As far as I can tell they dont actually exist, theyre address is just the Backcountry store. When you buy from Competitive Cyclist you are buying from Backcountry.
  • 5 1
 TSG doesn't outright own Canyon, they are minority shareholders.
  • 2 0
 @gamblor: that makes me feel a little better about owning one. Not sure I'll buy another though.
  • 1 0
 @chrischandra: yep I stop when department of goods shut down never bough a thing after that.
  • 3 1
 I hope PB updates the article or makes another now that the Backcountry.com CEO is speaking out and has dropped the suit(s) according to another article from another news source that came out last night 11/7/19.
  • 1 0
 @swassskier: Nope, TSG is a minority stakeholder
  • 3 1
 @MattyBoyR6: Did you see their press release though. Total BS. They should still be boycotted for being such dicks.
  • 1 0
 @shami: I don't know if I saw the full press release but did see the apology. On the one hand I get it they are protecting a brand, but there are definitely situations where they over reached and simply used bully tactics which I can't agree with. I did read this article www.snewsnet.com/gear/backcountry-ceo-breaks-silence-over-trademark-blowup Some of these start up companies have to think though that naming a business with a similar name is a bad idea. The canned coffee lady would surely have an issue as soon as she started selling Backcountry T-shirts and sweaters if she did add that to her product line.

But then there is this from there web site for press release www.backcountry.com/sc/press-release
PARK CITY, UT — Today, Jonathan Nielsen, CEO of Backcountry signed the Camber Outdoors CEO Pledge, committing to accelerate efforts to attract, retain, and advance top-tier, diverse talent. The CEO Pledge, developed by Camber Outdoors, elevates women’s leadership as a strategic, visible business priority within the active-outdoor industries.

Eh I haven't purchased anything from their companies in a while though I have filled my cart multiple times, just haven't clicked Checkout.
  • 1 0
 @MattyBoyR6: Yeah that wasn't an apology at all. That was a "oop you caught us, we'll stop doing this little tiny bit of the larger thing that you're all pissed about."
  • 88 1
 How could they think this would be good for brand image? All publicity is good publicity, right? Unless you're an a*shole. When I venture into the backcountry, the last thing I am thinking of is Backcountry.com... Screw these guys!
  • 16 12
 I never heard of them...now I have, sadly I guess it’s working “no such thing as bad publicity” your president does it daily.
  • 6 1
 @oldfaith: bergfreunde.de ist deren hiesiger ableger
  • 3 0
 @Sethimus: What's you call me!?!?



Lol
  • 22 0
 You are no longer allowed to venture into the backcountry - its trademarked - you can only venture into the area behind the front country.
  • 4 2
 Real talk, if they've trademarked the name they're obligated to either enforce the trademark or lose it. That's why they're doing this.
  • 4 0
 @SangamonTaylor: I think part of the issue being taken for granted is that a trademark for the word "backcountry" would even be issued in the first place. I think losing it is what most feel is appropriate.
  • 54 2
 Fuck BackCuntry
  • 44 1
 F*ck downcountry I mean backcountry..
  • 170 1
 Dang bro, what did I ever do to you?
  • 15 0
 @downcountry: Dammit, I was going to go register downcountry.com and start suing everyone. Day late and a dollar short.
  • 4 0
 @pinhead907: same here Big Grin darn it!
  • 4 0
 @pinhead907: is Upduro.com still available??
  • 6 0
 Imma trademark FrontCountry and get crazy with it
  • 5 0
 @sngltrkmnd: It worked with Frontwoods cigars... indistinguishable from original Backwoods once ya stuff em with weed.
  • 10 0
 @pinhead907: What if Specialized registers "Downcountry" and then sues Mike Levy? ????????????
  • 9 0
 @jollyXroger:
Mike Levy would have to get a Specialized tattoo across his chest and pay a royalty every time he took off his shirt.
  • 1 0
 @vjunior21: Is there still some real estate left for that over there?
  • 1 0
 @pinhead907: you can still buy the domain for a cool $29,888
  • 40 4
 Typical corporate BS! I won't buy anything from them again.
Monster energy has done the same thing..

I always hated how they have these "gear guides" that email you like they're your friend. "Hey man got any plans this weekend? " "Let me know if you need any gear? " Yeah ok buddy I'll let you know lol!
  • 20 3
 The emails are a little silly but I will say that having a specific customer service rep like that is pretty damn convenient. I have used my person there numerous times for returns, warranty claims etc and its made things 10x easier than just calling random CS agents.
  • 4 1
 @sino428: yeah, I agree. I have used mine for lots of random things from questions about knee pads to things regarding bottom Bracket compatibility. It’s the reason I’ve been a repeat customer to competitive cyclist
  • 18 4
 @sino428: well then, call your specific CS reps and ask them to tell their bosses to stop being shitty. It might help.
  • 4 3
 @Olimac: This. In fact, just did this. They are not the problem, but perhaps if BC hears it enough, they'll stop this BS and come clean.
  • 5 0
 @sino428: This used to be the case until earlier this year when they changed all internal structure - my "one person" stopped returning calls(even purchase call questions) and warranty items. Warranty issues were pushed through a different department and replies to questions ran from a week to two and sometimes none. I've used them less and less. Over $15K in total. With this Wall Street move I'll never open the site again.
  • 3 0
 @tlilly: Ditto. Got an actual nice message back along the lines of "I can't say I disagree with you, I passed your comments up the corporate ladder, and I'll make sure they understand that we're losing customers over this."

If you're a (former) Backcountry.com customer, email your gear guide. Hearing from now-ex-customers will do way more than a hashtag on twitter.
  • 3 1
 @atourgates: I'm friends with a lot of the Backcountry low levels here in Utah. They all think the same thing.
  • 6 1
 @Olimac: Taking anger out on a lower level employee who 1) has nothing to do with those decisions and 2) has been very helpful to me in the past is not something I'm likely to do. Maybe I'll pass along a message but I think sometimes people misdirect their anger.
  • 2 0
 @sino428: It's not taking anger out, it's getting a message in. Happens in my world too. If I hear a complaint, I am obligated to document it. By law in my case. I get that it can be a pain to receive all those complaints, but it's part of the job.
  • 2 1
 @Olimac: But I guess thats where I disagree. I don't consider it a customer service reps job to field complaints about dumb things the c-suite does.
  • 33 1
 Future looks bright with trademarks everywhere... Looking forward to text my friends as "This weekend we are going for some Backcountry® skiing in british Columbia® or in the Rocky Mountain® with Scott® (a Young Talent® from Santa Cruz®), you’re in? Ascension by The North Face® up to the Summit®. Don't forget to take something to eat like an Apple® and a helmet for your Head® if we unfortunately fall into a Canyon®. Scott® and I aren't Specialized® into that kind Alpine® stuff, so it's not gonna be a Peak Performance® ski tour, but still Intense®. Hope that time we will see the Giant® Yeti®!"
  • 2 0
 and the comment of the year awards goes to.............. merci petit jesus
  • 7 0
 Dear @arno762,

Due to the new legal standards, and as a lawyer hired by Hope®, we kindly ask you to withdraw your previous comment. Indeed, the latter contravenes the case law on citations. If you do not execute within the next 2 days, Hope® will be obliged to take you to court.
We thank you for your understanding.
  • 30 0
 #NoBackcountryForOldMen
  • 23 0
 #brokebackcountry
  • 29 3
 More like backcunty.com
  • 1 0
 Cheeky bastard
  • 2 0
 Am I right or what people?
/90s comedian
  • 1 0
 listen to the Wintry Mix podcast.. eppp.....73 (wintrymix.podbean.com) where this is discussed
  • 2 0
 Apparently the CEO released a statement that they were dropping the Marquette suit, assuming the others are still going ahead.

Email them your thoughts at customerexperience@backcountry.com
  • 19 2
 It would really suck if their App Store ratings went down....

apps.apple.com/us/app/backcountry-outdoor-gear/id450920999
  • 19 0
 #wildernessgotrobbed
  • 16 1
 talk about media suicide! precisely how out of touch can you be trying to claim something like this?
  • 18 2
 Backcountry.com also owns competitivecyclist.com . So boycott both!
  • 8 0
 They also own Steep and Cheap.
  • 12 1
 BC is owned by TSG Consumer Partners whom also own the following brands www.tsgconsumer.com/portfolio....including; Canyon Bikes, Nuun, Stumptown Coffee, Vitamin Water, PBR
  • 1 0
 Plus Bergfreunde (European outdoor gear retailer), MotoSport.com, and a motorcycle dealership in Virginia called MotoSport Roanoke.
  • 3 0
 @flipfantasia: NOOOOOOOOO!!!! NOT MY BELOVED PBR!!!!! :'(
  • 3 0
 @flipfantasia: Been boycotting Nuun since they got rid of the Kona Kola flavour. It was so good.
  • 1 0
 @flipfantasia: Nope, TSG are minority shareholders in Canyon. Very different from "owning" them.
  • 14 1
 We should help the "Backcountry Babes" find a name that blows Backcountry out of the water, put our PinkBike brains to good use
  • 97 6
 Backdoor Babes
  • 7 0
 @sriracha: so the babes leave the back door of their houses to go on a trip to the back country. I think the name works
  • 4 15
flag jzPV (Nov 6, 2019 at 11:15) (Below Threshold)
 @Mojo348: r/whoooosh
  • 6 0
 Frontcountry
  • 1 0
 @Mojo348: sometimes the front door isn’t working so you gotta go around back.
  • 5 0
 Downcountry babes?
  • 3 0
 @sriracha: I've seen that movie before.
  • 1 0
 Legit question, why can't they just put a space in Backcountry to make it "Back Country Babes"?
  • 1 0
 @manuni88: Just change the spelling "Baak Cyntree Baabes"
  • 2 0
 Neckbackcrackcountry Babes
  • 2 0
 Sidecountry...?
  • 15 2
 Going after small companies. Some that are using it in the name of their product and getting sued. Super weak.
  • 5 4
 Add in super slow expensive shipping and i don't see why anyone would shop there again. I'm done.
  • 6 1
 They now call their standard shipping “eco friendly” as if they think we’re dumb enough to believe they send it by horseback or bicycle. But maybe, my last “eco friendly” order took 10 days to arrive. Maybe they just want to frustrate customers so they pay for the $17.95 shipping option so it can arrive in 3-5 business days.
  • 4 0
 @natepage1: I think "eco friendly" in this case would be ground mail, not air... which one could argue is true? Although getting my new helmet delivered by horse would be DOPE!
  • 10 1
 Hahaha...How hypocritical are these chumps...They are trademarking the term "backcountry" but their Arcylon long sleeve jersey and Mid Mountain hip pack are direct ripoffs of trail system names in Park City Utah
  • 9 1
 yeah.. cuz mid mountain is a term used only in Park City...
  • 8 0
 2020 predictions: Downcountry bikes out, Mid Mountain bikes in.
  • 9 1
 The term "backcountry" specifically invokes feelings of freedom from frivolous trademark disputes and corporate pettiness.

Aside from brand loyalty, I'm not sure that www.backcountry.com has anything on other retailers. They have some good prices, but not prices that can't be best elsewhere online.

Amongst all the occurrences in the world that I have no control over, I can easily and happily not shop with them because of this petty bitch move.
  • 11 0
 It could be worse. They could be Ohio State University.
  • 20 0
 yOu mEAN ***"THE"*** ohIO stATe uNIVErsItY?!?!
  • 7 0
 Remember, Backc*ntry changed their return policy in 2014. Any order before that falls within their "unlimited lifetime warranty". Check your order history, anything you bought before then can be returned for full refund. It's considered fraud if they refuse to honor the policy at the time of your purchase.
  • 7 0
 Bergfreunde should speak up.

backcountry.com shows this message for EU residents

"SORRY.

You're probably wondering why you've landed here of all places. Well, as of 25.05.2018, Backcountry is no longer available outside the U.S. due to GDPR regulations. But, there's a huge upside: Allow us to introduce Backcountry's European sister site - Bergfreunde.eu! Here, you'll find all the goodies you would've otherwise found at Backcountry, including the best outdoor gear, expert advice and the most impeccable service - all within the E.U.

Have fun shopping at Bergfreunde.eu!"
  • 8 0
 I checked that #roubaixgate link out and read one of the articles about it that someone posted on Twitter. Immediately got a f*cking advertisement for backcountry.com on that site. tinfoil hat time
  • 3 0
 Yeah not quite. It's when you talk about stuff and ads pop up about it that make me question..
  • 1 0
 @ibishreddin: to calm you a little. in those moments you just remember talking about it but there has been some action in your behaviour to classify you as a potential customer for certain products. unless you have an active alexa/siri stuff at home or typed something into an digital keyboard on your phone, that stuff is really creepy.
  • 9 0
 Great shout out for The Colorado Sun, support independent journalism! coloradosun.com/ethics
  • 10 0
 Looks like I was already participating in the boycott.
  • 7 0
 hello...i'm a lawyer from Dewey, Screwem & Howe
Worry not PB community..we are currently filing a class action against Backcountry for a small but determined group of Albino Goats. We will prevail!
Bleat, Bleat.
  • 6 0
 I've purchased items on their site to save a few bucks. Now I see my bucks went to legal to sue small business owners. I'm such a dlck.
  • 8 0
 What next? Sue the National Parks Service for selling backcountry permits?
  • 4 0
 "He who has the Gold Makes The Rule" its ridiculous but that is how our society works, take the little guy out, I have dealt with there sister company MotoSport,and had a good experience with them, but i wont no longer, here is a list of all of there companies to boycott Backcountry.com, Competitive Cyclist, SteepandCheap.com, Alpinetrek, Motosport.
  • 5 0
 We had a local T-shirt maker whose catch phrase was "Eat More Kale" get sued for infingement by Chick-fil-A because they said it was too close to their slogan "Eat More Chick'n" and confused consumers. So much BS.
  • 4 0
 There should be a new investigative series clearing the waters for people to see who's actually behind these businesses, you could call it "the wizard behind the curtain". If you're gonna boycott Backcountry, you might as well boycott PBR, Famous Amos Cookies, Planet Fitness, BrewDog, and Canyon Bicycles en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backcountry.com en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TSG_Consumer_Partners www.tsgconsumer.com/portfolio/canyon-bicycles-co
  • 5 0
 @singleandluvinit:

I can't boycott PBR, no one else makes beer flavored lacroix
  • 2 0
 Why Sarah Moore did not include this in her piece is a mystery.
  • 6 0
 "Quit putting a goddamn dollar sign on every f*cking thing on this planet." (Bill Hicks 1961-1994)


www.youtube.com/watch?v=NA23-cMrNA8
  • 4 0
 I love Adderall Advocacy, where you campaign for/against someething for about 10 minutes, then drop it and move on. I bet 99.9999% of the people who are lambasting Backcountry.com have an iPhone. Yet, I don't see anyone waging a campaign for those poor indentured slaves in China who make those iPhones (or maybe you did, for about 8 minutes and then fired up Kandy Krush after pressing the "I am against Apple's abuse of Chinese workers" button on Change.org).

Though this seems to more of a thing with cyclists and their bike makers than with any other group that I can see. Raise your hand if you got rid of your Toyota when they were found to have covered up the defects during their "sudden acceleration" campaign?

(crickets)
  • 3 0
 Interesting to see that they haven't bothered or said a word to "Backcountry Access" who is a Big company and would fit their target with these law suits...... Only picking on the little companies that they can due to their size & deep pockets. I've bought lots of stuff from them in the past. No Longer. Emailing CEO to let him know my thoughts.
  • 7 0
 Better hurry & TM “Downcountry”
  • 4 1
 indielaw.com/5steps-to-follow-when-youre-accused-of-trademark-infringement

I have zero knowledge of this company however they are required to follow some rules as a copyright owner. Read over this if you're interested.
  • 1 0
 @singleandluvinit:

I'd have sued them for this too. They were trying to capatalize off Patagonia and make it seem like they were connected.
  • 7 0
 Aaaaaaaannd skip straight to comments.
  • 3 0
 I guess I just expect a slightly higher level of kindness, coolness from an outdoor gear company. This is big city corporate bullshit. Aren't outdoorsy people supposed to be grounded and nice and maybe supportive of grass roots stuff? I don't know. Would Patagonia sue if I tried to start a business called patagonia?
  • 1 0
 There you go. It was not a rhetorical question. I was curious. But I guess suing Anhueser Busch is a little different than bullying a small business.@maxyedor:
  • 4 0
 Don't forgot to avoid CompetitiveCyclist as well. They are part of backcountry. I'm a fan of there site, but if this is the sort of stuff they are doing then I will no longer be shopping there.
  • 5 1
 Guess what’s right around the corner, yep, Black Friday!!!!! I’m betting everyone saying “I’ll never shop there again” will be salivating over that $39 tent or the $49 neon puffy coat. Lol.
  • 3 0
 They’ve gotten greedy in recent years, they portray this grassroots outdoorsy type vibe but really it’s owned by some money hungry investment firm. I’ve swapped to REI, they treat their customers much better since they focus on getting the customer the right gear instead of just selling products.
  • 3 0
 Stop posting on this site. They have a facebook page. Post your displeasure there. I'm sure their social media employees spend much more time on Facebook than here. It's all about the venue.
  • 2 0
 Under Armour and North Face (probably many others but I know for certain these two) both do the same thing taking out small businesses with name and logo lawsuits. In Bend, OR a small clothing company called Cascade Armory is being sued by Under Armour because of thier name and I know a very very small business in Portland, OR that was forced to change thier name and logo because of North Face even though this Portland business had the logo first... They just didn't have $ to defend themselves.
  • 2 0
 I have not purchased anything from back country or competitive cyclist for years. My first purchases were from realcyclist.com and chain love as well as CC back when they offered items at a competitive price with good technical support. Since then they have grown to big for there own good and don't offer discounts or bargains on any of there sites.
They need to reduce their prices and legal team and get BACK to business of satisfying customers.
I will not support corporate greed and have boycotted many of the brands listed in some of the comments; like Specialized, North Face, Trek, Nike.
I see Backcountry going in the same direction as Performance Bike; Started as a discount retailer, then grew to big and sold out to the corporate greed conglomerates who only care about the bottom line, and could care less about the customer.
  • 7 1
 trademark for words that are in everyday language... dear Allah
  • 3 0
 Lol. This year I also met situation when one guy tried to register rights on SCP logo (sc-fi literature wiki project already registered as Creative Commons) and "Guitar Battle" term.
  • 1 0
 *with Guitar Battle that was different guy
  • 6 1
 LOL To have any foot in the bike industry and not learn from the Big S- no other way to put it other than stupidity.
  • 6 1
 Sucks for the people that work there. I'm not buying anything from there anymore. REI must be stoked!
  • 6 5
 F*ck REI as well.
  • 8 0
 Dudes, I just emailed backcountry and complained. They sent me a 75% off coupon, stoked!!!!!!!!!! Haha, just kidding screw those guys.
  • 2 0
 @matixsnow: I would have emailed too. I'll support them losing money lol
  • 3 0
 Just got an email from Backcountry trying to get me to sign up for some special account. Said they'd send me a "limited edition" goat sticker if I did. No one wants your stoopid goat stickers, get fuct
  • 2 0
 Was it from Hailey? She's been relentless, along with the other "gearheads". I actually signed up the other night to get her to stop emailing, but replied to her today with my concerns about their bully tactics asking her to rely my concern to her managers. The "gearheads" are the front lines of customer service, if they hear from enough customers (cordially) then maybe management might actually change their bully tactics.
  • 2 0
 Kona has been using "back country" to describe mountain bikes since before Backcountry.com even filed their trademarks in 2007, they just weren't dumb enough to trademark it. It's literally like someone trademarking the "mountain" in mountain bikes.

www.classickona.com/oldgold/2006/index.htm
  • 2 0
 I wonder if they see any irony in this. Being out in the back country is about freedom from boundaries. It is about being in control of your own opportunities while interacting with the environment outside of the "gates". It is about taking responsibility for your movements and dealing with issues on your own. It is about individual expression and awareness. Backcountry dot com is trying to put everyone back in the gates based on their rules. Get bent greedy corporatists. You should change your name.
  • 2 0
 i play in the backcountry on my backcountry bike with my backcountry dogs and my backcountry shoes and backcounty skis and sometimes i camp in the backcountry and cook backcuntry bacon on my backcountry cook wear... hmmm i love the backcountry gear. and nne of it was purchased from backcountry.com support local phuck them..
  • 2 0
 Yes, it’s bullshit, but you can get your trademark revoked if you don’t defend it. With backcountry trying to establish themselves as a manufacturer and not just a dealer, it makes sense that they would want to beef up their claim on the trademark. Is it cool? Hell no. Is it business being business, unfortunately yes.
  • 3 0
 Interesting 2016 stats of companies that have been doing the same. Note the money figures.

www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=99b6883c-e1ea-4b02-9b64-55f1082d937f
  • 3 1
 If you took all this angst against BC and put it toward something more practical, say recycling, becoming vegetarians, or helping the homeless, well, I could see this outrage serving a valid purpose, but this first world nonsense is a waste of breath.

I’d be embarrassed to be part of this shameless bullshite.

You all should be out campaigning for income equality, feeding the hungry, demanding our politicians tell the truth, but instead this garbage.
  • 2 0
 Who gives two poops and a screw, I shop for the best deals, loyal to none sworn to fun!!! Don't care about their business practices as long as I get mine. Go ride your bikes and shut your pie holes, Backcountry, Jensen, Competitive Cycles there all the same pedaling cheap Asian made products to the masses.
  • 5 2
 After reading this I placed an online order on backcountry.com, Called 10 min later to cancel stating this situation as the reason
  • 1 1
 Look at you go!
  • 1 0
 Yep, and it was the last in a line of these types of suits for them. Sinyard reigned in the lawyers and the egregious legal actions directly after his meeting with Richter. It hasn't happened since 2013.
  • 2 1
 The problem, and mistake here is that they were given a TM for this word. After the fact, the laws of trademarking should be followed, and its clear that BC did it for this purpose. However, it is very tasteless and uncharming and I completely agree with the boycot.
  • 1 0
 This kind of reminds of Lagunitas vs. Sierra Nevada. Hey Backcountry, they worked it out - cooler heads prevailed, You Can Too!


insidescoopsf.sfgate.com/blog/2015/01/13/lagunitas-brewing-sues-sierra-nevada-over-ipa-label


www.chicagotribune.com/dining/ct-lagunitas-sierra-nevada-backlash-20150114-story.html
  • 1 0
 Conspiracy theory:

These lawsuits are a defensive move by Backcountry.com to prevent Amazon.com from acquiring one of the other 'backcountry'-named brands and then competing directly with Backcountry.com. It's easier and cheaper for Backcountry.com to take on these smaller businesses than it would be to fight with Amazon.com.
  • 7 2
 This is peak America and peak stupid.
  • 10 1
 Aren't those two words synonyms? Kidding of course..

The funny thing is those who are up in arms about this are such a vast minority. Most people who shop there probably don't have a clue and wouldn't care either way. Price point is king.
  • 6 1
 Done with Backcountry until this stops. Hit em in the wallet.
  • 4 0
 Backcountree might be available, oh wait I just registered it, but you can have it for a low low price
  • 1 0
 Thanks to the intellectual property laws in the US, this is possible. In the UK, Aust, NZ (and most of Europe I think) this wouldn't wash as you can't own a term that was already in use for the stated meaning. But in the US if someone trademarks something, then common usage idea is not taken into account....though earlier may be, if you have the $$ to fight it.
  • 5 0
 "Frocountry" is better than backcountry.
  • 1 0
 (tmsearch.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=doc&state=4805:dlwuuy.2.56)
Backountry is registered for
IC 035. US 100 101 102. G & S: Retail store services, mail order services, and computerized on-line retail store services featuring men's and women's clothing, headwear, footwear, outerwear, eyewear, heart rate monitors, altimeters and accessories, tote bags, ski and snowboard equipment, snowshoes, avalanche safety, and other winter accessories, kayaks, canoes, paddles and related accessories, camping, hiking and mountain climbing equipment, food and hiking accessories, luggage, luggage and equipment car racks and related accessories; dissemination of advertising for others via an on-line electronic communication network; and promoting the goods and services of others by preparing and placing advertisements on a web site access through a global computer network. FIRST USE: 20040600. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 20040600
It doen't mean they are protected for all these categories if they are not actively selling equipment with this branding.
It sounds pretty abusive to sue backcountry babes (tmsearch.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=doc&state=4805:dlwuuy.2.11) they are registered for IC 016. US 002 005 022 023 029 037 038 050. G & S: Stickers. FIRST USE: 20120209. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 20120209
IC 041. US 100 101 107. G & S: Physical education services; Conducting guided outdoor expeditions. FIRST USE: 20111209. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 20111209

IC 045. US 100 101. G & S: Providing information concerning safety risks in the back country and/or avalanche terrain. FIRST USE: 20111209. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 20111209

It sounds like often these larger companies act as bullies. First, it doesn't look like a solid case but they are probably takind advantage of smaller companied not knowing their rightd well enough. Also i don't really see the prejudice a touring or jeans company would be for a stupid online retailer!!

Shame on Backcountry!!!!!
  • 1 0
 Dagnabbit! I'm going to keep not buying things from them for the rest of my life...or until they stop being dicks. Even if they stop being dicks, I may not buy anything from them because I didn't know they existed and had no need of their stuff apparently.
  • 1 0
 see their complete portfolio here: www.tsgconsumer.com/portfolio
Wish there was a simple database where I could see who owns the companies I purchase from. In the consumer world you can visit this site: wikibuy.com/blog/11-companies-that-own-everything-904b28425120

Other conglomerates I know that operate in the cycling world:
Pon holdings - Santa Cruz and Cervelo
Dorel - GT, Cannondale, etc...
Accell - Raleigh, Haibike
Regent LP - Diamondback, redline, Mavic
L Catterton - Pinarello (not mtn bikes, but still a big conglomerate all the same)
Vista Outdoor - Giro, Bell Camelbak
UWHK Ltd - Niner, Huffy,
Sram - ALl of their brands (including rockshox)
Hayes performance - Hayes, manitou, sunringle, reynolds, answer, protaper
Im sure there's more. Private equity owns everything behind the scenes.
  • 2 1
 How does Private Equity own everything when multiple companies you listed are publicly traded?

I understand the frustration but you have to get the facts right...
  • 2 0
 @dhx42: Ever heard of publicly traded private equity? They are more aggressive in their tactics.

Heed your own advice dude.
  • 1 0
 @Farmerjosh: Sure. You can have a public firm with private investment fund (i.e. PE). However, that's quite different than say Vista Outdoor or VF.

You also cannot generalize all PE firms. They all have different strategies and objectives. There are plenty of good firms out there and plenty of bad ones. However, if you are going to generalize, the more a PE firm staff and partners need to get involved in the management of a portfolio company, the more you can assume that portfolio company suffers from bad management, which while under pressure from ownership, makes poor decisions.
  • 1 0
 @dhx42:The private equity comment was meant to be separate. I know the difference between publicly traded and PE firms, and even publicly traded PE firms. I know there are good and bad PE firms depending on their objectives, but my opinion is that there are some brands that market themselves as independent and out to make the world a better place when behind the scenes they are just another corporate entity in someones portfolio who is out to make the most money possible regardless of the social consequences. also, sometimes brand loyalty is a farce (see giro and bell).
  • 1 0
 @dhx42: The bottom 80% of the population owns 8% of all stocks. The top 10% owns 81% of all stock wealth.

Stop f*cking acting like it's everyday people who are stockholders for these giant Corporate conglomerates. It's the richest of the rich in this country that can never have enough.
  • 6 5
 Their sister company Competitive Cyclist have been the most solid online bike stuff people I’ve ever dealt with.
They hung onto a bike for me for a week with no down payment. Last one in stock.. They didn’t have to!
And I got better tech support from the salesmen than I’ve ever known.
I don’t give a f*ck about this. That’s a business, they’re trying to stay afloat in this crazy time with competition from all sides. Those dudes were solid. I feel like I still owe them...
  • 2 0
 Backcountry.com has always been good to us. I wish they would just focus on their "goat" icon and make sure people recognize that branding.

Who has "wilderness" trademarked?
  • 3 0
 That CEO is so full of fucking shit it's not even funny. Yeah, they dropped the Marquette suit. The rest are still going forward. Money hungry corporate douchebags, PERIOD.
  • 1 0
 I know everybody always judges the bigger business when this happens. And for sure sometimes they are just being jerks. But you do have to consider that the bigger company "usually" is the one who has put in all the time, money, effort, money, and money and also lots of money to make whatever name, brand, symbol, slogan, etc. something that other businesses WANT to use in the first place. In the current social environment in the U.S., any business with the word "Babe" in it that's not talking about babies is probably not something most business would want any of their customers thinking their might be a connection with...?

Everybody hates on Big S, but they did take part in some of the original development of the horst for use in bicycles, then they paid for exclusive rights to the patent. Now you can hate on the patent office for giving it out? But they did pay for it and were within their rights to protect it and I don't see anyone hating on DT for having other companies PAY for licensing his patents?

Also, most early suspension bikes did suck. So I totally think Specialized was right to try and hold onto something that works pretty well for as long as they could while most everybody else was fumbling around... Smile
  • 2 2
 I can understand both sides of it.

On one hand I understand the need to preserve one's namesake. These days I can see Backcountry coming under fire as sexist/demeaning for being affiliated with something like "Backcountry Babes" or the need to protect their own clothing line branded as Backcountry when another clothing company is starting as Backcountry Denim.

On the other hand, it's never a good look for a large company to sue somebody smaller than them, simply because of how it is perceived from the outside looking in. I don't imagine that Backcountry's goal is to put these companies out of business or create hardship for anybody (hence them reaching agreements), but it is rather detrimental for their image to bring a legal matter to an independent retailer of any kind.
  • 3 0
 i would agree with you on the name side of things, but, their name is an extremely common word used in all aspects of the outdoor community. Its like a ski brand trying to claim the word "snow"
  • 2 0
 @arrowheadrush: Totally agree with you on that front. A word like Backcountry is entirely too common to be strictly enforced on small businesses like that. An all-around bad situation, unfortunately.
  • 2 0
 If anyone wants to email them, it's customerexperience@backcountry.com

They deserve to hear what corporate douchebags they are.
  • 2 2
 Strong arming small businesses is a pathetic move for sure, but in the end, we all have personal needs to save money. BC.com has some really good customer service though. Damn you Backcountry.com... i'll likely still shop at your store but I'll probably piss and moan, and feel like a sell out for doing it.
  • 1 0
 What about the Front and Back country trails at the Grand Canyon and Government Canyon? Those have been around much longer. Hmmmm.... seems like it's a publicly owned term to me? #boycottbackcountry
  • 1 0
 Kind of reminds me of lagunitas vs. sierra nevada. Hey Backcountry - they worked it out - you should too!


www.pressdemocrat.com/business/3374076-181/petalumas-lagunitas-brewery-suing-sierra
  • 1 0
 I made a few purchases from Backcounty.com and have had trouble with my orders more often not. These lawsuits are the final straw - it's going to be easy for me to boycott them.
  • 3 2
 why isn't anyone pissed about the hundreds of brands that still use the backcountry platform? you would think the SJW's over a Patagonia would be first in line. Want to make a stink, get them to pull out.
  • 3 0
 I can't boycott a business I've never used. This doesn't make me want to check them out though.
  • 2 0
 I remember a certain bike company trying to do this with the word “epic”. Don’t wanna say who it is. Don’t wanna get sued!
  • 3 1
 I like how everyone shows up here to bitch about this, but Pinkbike posting "Great Online Deals!" once a month gets no reaction...
  • 3 1
 That's because it's been a known joke for a long time now.
  • 4 0
 That's a bold strategy cotton, lets see if it pays off
  • 2 1
 Backcountry, definitely BACKWARD with this petty approach, whatabout their sister companies, are they going to sue me for going on a ,www.alpinetrek.com, fuck you and the horse you rode in on !
  • 2 1
 f*ck off with that noise Backcountry! Anyone remember when they used to be called "Backcountry Outlet"? Now they are suing people over naming? They will not be getting any of my business.
  • 3 0
 Kinda funny how avant links is generating automatic links to bc.com throughout the comments.
  • 3 0
 If not Backcountry.com or MooseJaw - where are you all buying gear (full price aside)
  • 9 0
 Evo.com, JensonUSA.com, WorldwideCyclery.com...
  • 2 0
 REI, WorldwideCyclery is good too (although I'm waiting for those skeletons to come out of the closet). Consumer direct brands. Local bike shop. Pinkbike classifieds
  • 2 0
 BikeBling.com Based in San Diego, CA
  • 4 0
 Jensonusa.com, CambriaBicycleOutfitters, Evo.com Used to order through Go-Ride.com all the time but they don't do online sales now which is crazy, only in store.
  • 2 0
 Chainreactioncycles.com Bikebling.com Jensonusa.com PB Classifieds
  • 4 0
 reminds me of cannonade suing rocky mountain for using the term freeride
  • 2 0
 Exactly! If someone finds the ad with the letter from Grayson Bain to Joe Montgomery, he should post it, because it's pure gold! Mockery as an art form. Big Grin
  • 4 0
 What about Amazon last I checked it was a rainforest...
  • 2 0
 f*ck Backcountry. f*ck Evo. f*ck Skiessentials. f*ck Amazon. And f*ck all y’alls lazy asses. Support your local brick and mortar. They need you and you will need them.
  • 1 1
 Don't always agree with "any publicity is good publicity" but in this case everyone getting worked up about backcountry and the main issue being the term itself, and the term being their website name, this is a winner for backcountry I think........a couple dozen lost orders this month is not the end of the world....
  • 1 1
 There had to have been companies with Backcountry in in their names prior to backcountry.com.. This is hilarious, hypocritical and down right shitty.. Regardless of their PR apologies, this clearly shows the companies true values. Don't forget, Competitive Cyclist is also owned by backcountry.
  • 1 0
 Reminds me of the Cafe Roubaix fiasco from a few years back. I've never bought a specialized branded product since. I'll be doing the same with backcountry and CC. My money will be spent elsewhere. cya!!!
  • 2 0
 there are 325 people following #boycottbackcountry. Hardly news worthy pinkbike.
  • 1 0
 The Co's CEO should, instead of pissing money away on lawyers/law-suits, give the Co's employees bonuses! Without them, the Co - and many others - is nothing!
  • 1 0
 Do not shop at Motosport.com either. They are the same Company, just a different market. BTOsports or RockMountainATVMC are better options.
  • 3 2
 I hear those Backcountry guys are a real riot at parties:
Shoes off
No alcohol
Music off by 10
No heavy petting
But most of all enjoy yourselves
  • 3 0
 It's all good - I prefer brokebackcountry.com anyway.
  • 1 0
 I was always a big fan of Competitive Cyclist before they were acquired by Backcountry, but this is a ridiculously lame move.
  • 2 0
 Haha backcountry is getting absolutely roasted on their social media accounts
  • 2 0
 Threaten to boycott? Nope. I’m just straight up not supporting them ever again.
  • 4 2
 I love backcountry, can’t beat there 2 day shipping, people need to lighten up.
  • 1 1
 I guess you see nothing wrong with punching down in society. That use to be considered cowardly in this country.
  • 1 0
 Backcountry will always be translated to mean a type of place, not a product no matter how hard/long they try to plant the group think seed.
  • 1 2
 Aaand now the ceo has made a statement on the site looks like things are dropped and he has apologized....same thing north face did 10 years ago to local street vendors and teenagers with brands like “the south butt” and “the north west”...everyone got annoyed Now 10 years later north face is still everywhere.
  • 3 1
 They dropped one suit out of the many they have filed. They arent sorry, but by golly we will make them sorry! #f*ckbackcountry #corporatedouchemoves
  • 1 0
 Here's a list (not sure how complete) of their pending legal actions: ttabvue.uspto.gov/ttabvue/v?qs=backcountry&qt=adv&procstatus=All&page=1
  • 1 0
 Alright, I'll chime in with the fun.

Way™ to® go™, Backcountry®©™.com™. It™ worked® out™ well© for™ Specialized®©™, right?™
  • 3 1
 Sad because I love backcountry.com but this is some greedy nonsense
  • 4 6
 I really don't know why you're all getting upset over this. There are boundaries in business. A company can't just open up a business and call it Specialized, for example. This company, Backcountry, has owned the trademark since 2007.

How do you actually expect things to function practically in the real world?

I'm not a republican or even a business owner, but come on, you guys are all rampant consumers, buying expensive bikes and parts from wealthy companies. And here you are, being a bunch of f*cking hypocrites.
  • 6 2
 Because Trademarks are very narrow. Barbie pink, UPS brown etc are trademarked, but that doesn't mean that no one else can use those shades in all manner of products. Just dolls and package transport. Using your weight as a large retailer to bully and threaten other smaller companies who use the common word (138 filings in the US) in their names when they don't compete with your trademark is a dick move and they rightly deserve all the flack they get. Backcountry Babes for instance, how does that trademark, filed for education services infringe on Backcountry.com where the majority of their trademarks related to use in retail?
  • 3 1
 You are not educated on this issue. The justice system is broken. Nobody complains about IP laws but we complain how larger companies exploit the system to bully smaller companies not having the resources to defend themselves. We are in a system where justice does not protect but is an expensive tool to bully others. BTW, you could totally open a company providing shipping services call Specialized.
  • 1 0
 I can’t believe they own PBR too, a backcountry essential. No more tallboys for me or Santa Cruz.
  • 1 0
 They're totally off suing Backcountry Ebikes. The word that needs to be dropped is "bike".
  • 1 0
 Backcountry E? sounds like a good time
  • 1 0
 Funny thing is they copied the name of a local Utah trail for their Arcylon jerseys.
  • 2 0
 They gonna sue me if I name my next kid Backcountry? ????
  • 1 0
 lol, "hello son, and what is your name", "Backcountry" "Backcountry Riggs"
  • 3 0
 Goat wanker$
  • 4 4
 Another great reason not to shop in the US. It is like trying to copyright the word forest/jungle/road/street and so on. What a shame. #boycottbackcountry
  • 2 0
 What about Backcountry Access (beacons and such)?
  • 1 0
 I think its because they dont make those. it seems to be a problem now because they expanded to make their own stuff
  • 1 0
 They've left Backcountry Access alone because they are one of their biggest suppliers. Nice of them to do that eh?
  • 9 0
 BCA is owned by K2 Sports, K2 sports is owned by Kohlberg & Co Private Equity...so probably a big enough "enemy" that TSG doesn't want to go after them, it would likely result in "real" legal fees versus going after all these smaller companies where it's easy money.

Pretty sad state of affairs.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K2_Sports
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohlberg_%26_Company
  • 2 0
 Also, Backcountry Access has been around since 1994 under that name. In theory if they want after them, BCA could argue the backcountry.com trademarks should be invalidated. What really makes it interesting if I believe may be the only business that uses that name is is directly completing with them since backcountry is now selling avalanche probes.
  • 1 0
 A great bike/ ski/snowboard in Truckee CA. is called The Back Country, wonder if they got sued?
  • 2 0
 I'll ask them this afternoon. Dropping my bike of for work. Great service dept.
  • 3 0
 They probably will. These types of things are just money grabs. They want to see how many people they can bully out of using it and or get to pay to fight them on it. The lawyers are just trying to justify their retainers and grab cash.
  • 1 0
 I used them when I visited Truckee. Great folks.
  • 1 0
 The Backcountry in Truckee has been around longer than Backcountry.com so suing them over their use of the name in CA might not go very well.
  • 3 0
 greed.
  • 1 0
 I won’t be wearing any Backcountry gear in the back country. #populardomain
  • 1 0
 Who's surprised?

Let the public put a dent in their profits, making their efforts counterproductive.
  • 2 0
 I prefer the term "rearcountry" anyway. No big deal
  • 1 0
 i guess they have to sue the forest service for having "backcountry wilderness"
  • 2 0
 blow me backcunty
  • 1 0
 Done with backcountry I support small companies trying to come up.
  • 2 1
 Sounds like something Specialized would do!
  • 1 0
 Let's call the Froriders, i think they know how to handle this!?
  • 1 0
 Everyone is boycotting until that 20% off code comes out
  • 1 0
 Backcountry just lost my business.
  • 1 0
 #BackcountryEnduroAppleKleenex.com
  • 3 1
 Assholes
  • 2 1
 Cmon Backcountry let it go ...this is lame.
  • 2 0
 Cool story
  • 3 2
 Lets #boicotdowncountry too, it is ridiculos and it was coined here
  • 4 2
 Fuck off backcountry.com
  • 1 0
 Just a big bag of bad publicity. Stupid.
  • 1 0
 bullshit! boycott backcountry for sure
  • 2 1
 backthefuckoffcountry.com
  • 1 0
 Sounds like some Downcountry going on in the Backcountry!
  • 1 0
 Corporate psychopaths stop at nothing
  • 1 0
 Yep, never using them again..
  • 1 0
 I hate bullies! Never ordering from these ass-clowns again.
  • 1 0
 Obama's predecessor is gunna have a field day with the Aussie bush.......
  • 1 2
 hey 'backcountry dot com', why don't you go patent the fire and sue literally every-f*cking-one??
#boicottbackcountry

and f*ck you.
  • 1 0
 Soulless corporations suck
  • 3 2
 Keep the drama to the tabloids, this is a stretch even for PB
  • 1 0
 I will no longer shop with them.
  • 1 0
 Their latest IG post has 1152 comments, ha!
  • 1 0
 I hears BACKPAGE.COM is avail !!
  • 2 0
 Backcuntry
  • 1 0
 You sensor c*ntry? Come on PB lets boycott PB comments!
  • 1 0
 Haha, classic virus adw, how many ppl know this before?
  • 1 0
 This is beyond crazy!!!!!!
  • 1 0
 Big no no Backcountry.com. Big purchaser. No more. You Fuckers!
  • 1 0
 Backcountry is the Apple of the gear world.
  • 17 18
 At least they have some decent customer support... Looking at you JensonUSA
  • 7 7
 For real! Backcountry.com does have some rad customer service...
  • 23 2
 I have had nothing but top notch customer service from Jenson and I have purchased form them well over 50 or times throughout the years. Returns, last minute additions to orders, etc. Zero problems and great, quick help. What was your specific issue?
  • 3 2
 Seriously! What is up with Jenson's customer support. I could go on and on and on and on about this one. I am currently super heated up on this topic.
  • 10 0
 @bman33: Same here, returns, price adjustments, etc have always been a breeze with Jenson. Same with Backcountry too for the record. They have awesome customer service.
  • 6 2
 I've always had great service from Jenson. Fast & helpful, really quick shipping. Just yesterday the warranty dept mediated help from OneUp about a malfunctioning dropper post. I couldn't find any info or contact on OneUps site, but the Jenson rep got me the info I needed fast.
  • 7 1
 @kcj801: Always had great customer service with Jenson. One time they were out at Sea Otter and didn't respond for a few days, but when they returned I had my replacement within two days.
  • 3 2
 I haven't had a bad experience with Jenson or Backcountry. BC does do faster shipping tho. Does Jenson still do free returns on clothing? That was pretty damn awesome.
  • 4 0
 Nothing can be as bad as Chain Reaction Cycles' customer service
  • 6 0
 @Mntneer: I wasn't aware they even had customer service.
  • 1 1
 I was a regular customer at JensonUSA but my last order they shipped the wrong part. Each time I called to sort things out the average wait time was 45 minutes. Then I was supposedly issued a refund which never came through so I had to dispute the transaction with my bank. The JensonUSA of today is not the same as they previously were.
  • 2 0
 @Svinyard: My last couple orders from Jenson came in one day. That's from So Cal to Nor Cal, but still, I'm impressed.
  • 2 0
 @MtbSince84: That's because you are close. They usually just ship UPS ground so you get it based on however long that takes to get where you are. In state it'll be a day, if you are on the east coast its probably more like a week.
  • 2 1
 I can call Jenson tech support 24/7 with all my dumb part inquiries. My LBS, though awesome, can't even give me that level of customer service.
  • 1 1
 Seems like more of a Specialized move. Maybe they share legal departments.
  • 1 1
 FFS this is horse s$%t...
  • 1 0
 Not cool!
  • 1 0
 back-cunt-ry.com
  • 1 1
 Back country I can picture specialized reading this Article.
  • 1 0
 This is so backcountry.
  • 2 3
 #BuckFackcountry

Up vote to #retweet
  • 2 2
 Hey at least you tried...
  • 1 3
 Land of the ri¢h, home of the $lave$.
  • 1 0
 So woke and edgy. I remember when I was 16.
  • 2 3
 Sounds about white...
  • 1 1
 .......spoken like a true mental invalid.
  • 1 0
 @zaalrottunda: "true mental invalid" huh. I'm being humorous about a generic stereotype of uptight "Cockasiansintheirmouths", and it made you leave a comment, glad I offended a snowflake. Sounds about WHITE... Get that stick out of your bleached a*shole, boy. Then again do as you please, keep on living the vida loca Ricky Martin jr.
  • 1 1
 @DepressinglyAscending: God you sure do seem to have cocks, a*sholes, and Ricky Martin on the mind. We get it, you're an angry gay racist. Way to pull the old "Oh i was JOKING DUH". You can't be humorous if there is no humor, buddeh.
  • 1 0
 @zaalrottunda: who's we? Racist gay and angry huh? And apparently pulling the "old trick" of joking huh?, assuming like a female. And it's apparent you're a sociopath, I wrote a the comment "sounds about white" your opinion about it was that it's mindless, then I called you a sensitive bit ch (homosexual) for even commenting on it, and then u analyzed it using ur obscured elementary psychology antic, trying some reverse wit. How much of a bit ch are you? Must be in your DNA, you just can't help it huh? After all everything is just an opinion but feel free to analyze this too. I never comment on anyone's comments, because I feel like everyone has the freedom to at least express themselves in a negative or positive view, but u keep on assuming and give out your opinion like it's facts or sided with truth, come on Freud, keep reading between the lines u paranoid nut.
  • 1 0
 @DepressinglyAscending: damn that really got to you huh lol, tldr later
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