From Guts to Glory: MERGE4 Joins Downieville Classic for Epic Weekend of Racing and Celebration

MERGE4, a brand for creating high-quality performance socks that not only function but look good too, had the awesome opportunity to be part of the renowned Downieville Classic, which has been recognized as one of the top 10 best bike festivals by Outside Magazine. This 25th Annual Race took place in the jaw-dropping Lost Sierra, where riders gathered for a weekend of high octane racing and non-stop celebrations. Riders from all corners of the country flocked to this mecca of extreme racing, ready to prove their guts and glory. The Downieville Classic Cross Country race was off the charts, tracing a historic "Gold Rush" era route. Starting high up in Sierra City, they clawed their way to the Sierra Nevada crest before sending it down 5,200 vertical feet into downtown Downieville. It's more than just a race; it's a tribute to the wild mountains, rugged terrain, and the fierce pioneers who once chased dreams of gold!

But wait, there's more! After conquering the Cross Country madness, it was time for the Downieville Downhill—the most mind-blowing 15-mile descent from Packer Saddle to Downieville you've ever seen! Brace yourself, 'cause it's the longest and gnarliest downhill mountain bike race in the nation!

The Downieville Classic is more than bikes! Ron’s House of Big Air River Jump, the stuff of legends, had to sit out this year due to some insane record snowfall turning the rivers icy and raging. But don't fret! You still got the log pull competition, live music for dance off’s, fire dancers lighting up the sky and Expo attendees that included Santa Cruz Bicycles, Shimano, Go Pro and of course MERGE4! And you gotta love Patagonia, a fellow B Corp, who was also there staying true to their sustainable journey by replacing zippers.

One of the remarkable aspects of the Downieville Classic is about backing the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, a kickass non-profit. All the money from this event goes straight into trail projects across Plumas and Sierra Counties, and even the Plumas, Lassen, and Tahoe National Forests! We're talking trail maintenance, restoration, and even birthing brand new trails!

MERGE4 came in hot, just like the crazy weather, and made Downieville Classic custom socks for the event! Thanks so much Marty! Not only did these performance MERGE4 socks perform for the athletes, but seeing everyone with their MERGE4 socks on was like a symbol of unity and camaraderie among all that attended from volunteers to racers!

We’ll see you next year! Ride on and thanks Downieville Classic for all that you do! And the town of Downieville for welcoming this awesome event!