Jamaica bobsleigh strengthens competitive edge with high-tech gear pact

The Jamaica Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (JBSF) has taken a significant step in strengthening its competitive platform, announcing a new apparel partnership with Backcountry and Xpore that will outfit Jamaican athletes with high-performance gear for both competition and training.

Revealed last week, the agreement brings together Backcountry, one of the world’s leading premium outdoor gear retailers. and Xpore, a cutting-edge, eco-responsible textile technology developed by BenQ Materials. The collaboration underscores Jamaica’s growing presence on the international winter sports stage while aligning performance excellence with environmental responsibility.

Outfitted for the world’s coldest arenas

Under the partnership, Jamaican bobsleigh and skeleton athletes will receive a complete suite of official outerwear designed specifically for the extreme demands of winter competition. The full range of kits will cover both training and race-day requirements, ensuring athletes are properly equipped to perform in harsh, cold-weather environments.

Backcountry will supply the apparel through its in-house Backcountry Gear & Apparel line, while Xpore will serve as the federation’s official textile technology partner, providing advanced uniform materials tailored for winter sports.

A strategic leap toward global competitiveness

JBSF President Dr. Chris Stokes described the partnership as a milestone in Jamaica’s long-term vision of becoming a consistent force in international bobsleigh.

He emphasized that access to world-class equipment is essential for athletes aiming to compete at the highest level.

“Having partners like Backcountry and Xpore that make the environment a priority are partners we want,” Dr. Stokes said.

“This partnership with Backcountry and Xpore will equip our athletes with high-quality, technical gear for competitions, helping to provide them with a competitive edge while being friendly to the environment.”

Backcountry embraces the power of Brand Jamaica

Backcountry President Kevin Lenau welcomed the collaboration, praising the Jamaican program for its resilience, ambition, and growing global influence.

“We are inspired by the Jamaican bobsleigh team and all they have accomplished this season and are proud to stand by them as they push the limits of human performance,” Lenau said.

“Backcountry is committed to delivering high-performance gear that excels in durability, functionality, and warmth while minimising environmental impact through the use of recycled materials and innovative, sustainable design.”

Xpore sees global stage for sustainable technology

ZC Chen, Chairman of BenQ Materials, also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, viewing it as a powerful demonstration of Xpore’s mission to merge sustainability with elite athletic performance.

“This partnership represents what Xpore stands for: bringing advanced, sustainable material innovation into real-world, high-visibility applications,” Chen said.

“Supporting the Jamaican team is not only an honor but a powerful demonstration that sustainability and peak performance can coexist on the world’s most prestigious sporting stage.”