Brands of all kinds are looking for opportunities to enter the metaverse, a new virtual world where our digital avatars can socialize and collect digital assets on the blockchain.
But why would Outside Interactive, a digital media and outside lifestyle company, leave the fresh mountain air and plug into a virtual world without hiking, cycling or physical activity of any kind? According to a statement from Outside CEO Robin Thurston, he wants to use Web3 technology and the metaverse to inspire the next generation of users to go outdoors.
The Boulder-based company announced Monday that it plans to launch the Outerverse, an “adventure-minded, wellness-driven alternative to the metaverse.”
“Big Tech wants you to live a virtual life; we’re creating experiences and content that will help you live a real life,” Thurston said. “The Outerverse is a place where technology exists to fuel adventure, inclusivity and sustainability.”
Outside is best known for its flagship Outside magazine, along with other outdoor-focused publications like Backpacker, Ski and Climbing. The company also owns outdoor-oriented technology companies, like Gaia GPS — a mobile mapping app for hikers.
The company’s foray into the Web3 world will consist of three parts: an NFT marketplace (Outside.io), a community-oriented creator platform and an Outside-branded loyalty token. All of the elements will be built by blockchain studio SuperLayer.io.
In early June, the company will launch a limited-edition NFT called the Outerverse Passport, an artistic digital asset that gives users early access to future NFTs and a three-year subscription to Outside+. In the future, the company plans to reward Passport holders for outdoor activities.
After the passport has been minted, Outside plans to collaborate with artists to produce collectibles that celebrate the active outdoor lifestyle. Outside has also partnered with nonprofits, influencers and outdoor brands that plan to mint NFT projects on the Outside.io platform.
Twenty percent of the net revenue from every NFT sale will be donated to nonprofit organizations dedicated to sustainability and diversity, equity and inclusion.
The content platform will feature storytellers, artists and influencers. More than 10 well-known creators and athletes have already signed on to the platform, including photographer Chris Burkard, snowboarder Jeremy Jones and mountain biker Rebecca Rusch. Thurston said the platform will allow creators to benefit from the engagement and revenue they generate.
The Outerverse will be built on the Solana blockchain, which uses a proof-of-stake approach that has a lower carbon footprint than other blockchain platforms. The company said one Solana transaction uses as much energy as two Google searches.
Outside will also calculate, report and neutralize 100 percent of the Outerverse’s carbon footprint.
