Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is every gear nerd’s dream event. It was overwhelming and I never did see every product at the show, though I did find a number of items that made me say, “I wanna to play with THAT!” Below are 10 items that caught my attention. Not all are new to the industry; instead, they may have just been redesigned and improved. Some I’ve tried, others are on my “want” list, but all are worth checking out:
Boreas Bootlegger Modular Pack System – This is the most intriguing product I found this year. Using one suspension, users choose the pack that fits their adventure and add the suspension into that pack. Currently there are three packs in the system: The Torpedo Hydration Pack, the Hopper Daypack, and the Scrimshaw Dry-bag. Each may be used alone or can fit into the others. Coming Soon MSRP $199.99
KEEN Custom Newport H2 – The classic KEEN Newport H2 designed by you. So fun! I first heard about these at Outdoor Retailer, but didn’t get to try a pair until after. Every detail is customizable allowing you to wear a one-of-a-kind pair of ultra-comfortable shoes. I ordered mine BRIGHT, and wear them constantly. MSRP $130
Osprey Kode Snow Packs – Osprey’s backcountry snow packs have been updated based on feedback from athletes and professionals. Each size is designed to meet a specific need, from lift access to mountaineering. Basic features include multiple ways to carry ski and boards, helmet and non-scratch goggle stow, ice tool carry, and glove friendly buckles and pulls. Additional features are customized to each pack’s function. Available for $129-$169
Western Mountaineering TerraLite 25° Sleeping Bag – This is my dream bag and I’m lusting to try it. The TerraLite features 850 goose-down fill, two zippers allowing it to mate with a second bag, 12-denier ripstop nylon outer shell, and a total weight of 29 ounces. Coming soon. MSRP $470
MHM Fifty-Two 80 Backpack – On organizer’s dream pack. I sent the redesigned Fifty-Two 80 out with a tester for five days in the Tetons and a summit of Kings Peak. His report was that the pack was well built, shed water, had a ton of bells and whistles, yet was relatively light at 6-pounds. If he had a complaint, it was too many pockets (12) for his style. A detachable top lid converts into a daypack. The suspension and hip belt are designed for heavy loads and are adjustable to fit most hikers. MSRP $399
Easton Slickrock 2P Tent – The lightweight 3-season Slickrock tent features Easton’s new Syclone pole technology, which is 80% more resistant to bending and failure than aluminum construction providing superior stability and wind resistance. I crawled around inside and found it had ample living space thanks to the asymmetrical pole design. Coming soon. MSRP $299
Columbia Sportswear Freeze Degree Shirts –The long-sleeve Freeze Degree shirt with Omni-Freeze ZERO fabric is the bomb! The fabric cools when damp (like when you’re all sweaty.) The fabric also wicks moisture and has built-in UPF 50. The feminine styling is fitted but stretchy. I like it over a breezy tank. Guys haven’t been left out, Columbia also offers a men’s version of the Freeze Degree shirt. MSRP $70
ECCO BIOM Ultra Quest Shoes – I took these trail runners out of the box and straight to the trail, no break-in. It was refreshing to be able to wear and go without a problem. They offer great traction, lightweight feel, breathability and comfortable support. Clearly ECCO has put significant time and research into the fit of this shoe. MSRP $160
Suunto Ambit2 – Not often I pick a tech item, but this is cool! More than a watch-styled GPS, the Ambit2 provides weather, altitude, speed, heart rate, and features for biking, running and swimming. Thousands of apps are available to add functionality to the watch as well. MSRP $500-650, depending on the model.
Edelrid Solaris Harness – The fit of this new harness is designed with a women’s anatomy in mind. The Edelrid’s 3D-Vent technology and dual 10mm Straps allow the hip belt to mold comfortable around the body. I sat in this harness and couldn’t believe how good it felt. Coming Soon.
