Outdoor Retailer - Explore It report #2

The lights have gone out on the second day of the Outdoor Retailer winter show in Salt Lake City. Mimosas and muffins started the day and pale ales and pizza finished it. In between: Meetings with more than a dozen outdoor manufacturers to find out what’s going to hit shelves later this year. Here are some quick hits on a number of items I found that stood out the most.

OluKai Kiai Trainer

Designed for Hawaiian lifeguards, the Kiai Trainer is a lightweight, very breathable shoe made for running on hard-packed trails. Though it won’t rival the greatest running shoes on the market, OluKai’s runner is its foray away from sandals and “lifestyles” footwear.

The trainer will be available in February for about $100.

FiveTen Rogue

Designed as an entry-level rock shoe, the FiveTen Rogue is a better-cushioned, more-breathable version of its Coyote. The Velcro-type closure makes for easy on and easy off comfort whether at the gym or on a slab, and it’s at a price point ($95) in line with most beginner shoes.

Petzl Core rechargeable battery

Said to last as long as 900 alkaline batteries before you have to replace it, Petzl’s Core rechargeable battery system is pretty slick. Made for its Tikka and Zipka headlamps, the Core replaces the three normally required batteries – and is said to weigh five grams less.

The lithium ion battery can be “programmed” for optimum output – such as to last longer but not shine as bright or shine steadily for a few hours and then become less luminous. The rechargeable battery, which rejuices via USB plug, should be available in August for $40.

D-fa Dogs Puff Doggie

You have your sleeping bag, a dog has its … well, next-to-nothing until now. The D-fa Dogs Puff Doggie is a 200-gram Thinsulate filled dog jacket that acts as a sleeping bag when out in the backcountry. The jacket, which stuffs into an integrated pocket, should be out by fall for about $110.

—Ryan Dionne