Raide Launches the Raide Firsts Grant Program to Support Meaningful Firsts in the Mountains

January 29, 2026

Applications open January 29; submission deadline is February 20.

Carbondale, Colorado (January 29, 2026) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ — Raide, the apparel and equipment maker focused on efficient human-powered movement, is proud to announce the launch of the Raide Firsts Grant Program, a new expedition-support program designed to empower running and skiing “firsts.”

The Raide Firsts Grant Program will award four $2000 grants to empower mountain athletes to achieve their dreams. Proposed projects can range from classic milestones, such as setting a new FKT, to other meaningful firsts, including personal achievements that mark important breakthroughs shaped by identity, background, or lived experience (e.g. becoming the first person in your community to run 100 miles).

In addition to funds, each grant recipient will also receive essential Raide equipment as well as pre-trip consultation with a professional member of Raide’s sponsored guide team to advise on beta, preparation, and expedition planning. Select projects may also receive content support when desired and appropriate.

“”Our goal is to help lift the financial barrier from those looking to progress running and skiing,” said Raide founder Kyle Siegel. “Raide’s mission is to elevate the freedom and flow of human-powered movement through products that combine performance, function, and style. We’re only successful because we’re inspired to participate in these activities at a high level, and we’re only inspired to do that by the actions of those before us.”

Notably, Raide’s gear has already supported a number of historic first descents and FKTs. Polish ski mountaineer Andrzej Bargiel wore Raide’s LF 40L backpack during his first ski descent of Mt. Everest without supplemental oxygen; U.S.-based trail runners Jane Maus and Michelino Sunseri both set FKTs on the Grand Teton while wearing the LF 2L running belt; and ski mountaineers Jim Ryan and Ross Hewit have each logged more than a few first descents using Raide’s gear as well.

The selection criteria for the grant program will prioritize projects that contribute something meaningful to the running or skiing community, show thoughtful planning and realistic risk assessment, highlight human-powered movement, align with Raide’s ethos of style, performance, and humility, and tell a compelling story. Applications will be confidential and proposed objectives will not be shared or snaked.

Applications open today, January 29, and close February 20, 2026. Visit https://raideresearch.com/pages/raide-firsts-grant to access full program details and learn how to apply.