REI has ‘exclusives’ on top outdoor gear for next year. Essentially, the store gets to stock and sell these emerging products before anyone else.
And now you can get your hands on them for the holidays. Here’s a preview of eight 2019 REI exclusives you can purchase right now.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent: $450
One of MSR’s best-selling series of lightweight tents just got better. In the Hubba Hubba NX 2, it’s all about the poles. They’re nearly indestructible and are configured to allow for maximum head and elbow room. Plus, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 by MSR comes with an ultradurable waterproof coating touted to last up to three times longer than standard coatings.
Shop NowHOKA ONE ONE Challenger ATR 5 Trail Running Shoe: $130
Available for the first time in a wide size for both men and women, the Challenger ATR by HOKA ONE ONE is a favorite for its versatility. In its fifth iteration, the ATR is already considered a fast-and-light running shoe with enough lug grip in the forefoot for tackling the trail — and the right midsole geometry for a smooth run on the road. It costs $130.
Osprey Kestrel 48 (M) & Kyte 46 (W) Backpacks: $180 each
According to Osprey, the redesigned Kestrel 48 pack is made to withstand all kinds of adventure environments, from desert sand to alpine forest. Standout features include an adjustable panel that allows air to escape from the sweatiest spot — the back — and “spacer mesh” for extra comfort at hip and harness pressure points.
The women’s-specific Osprey Kyte 46 backpack is also an REI exclusive this season. It comes with the same helpful accents as the Kestrel, only in an ergonomic design modeled around the female body. Both packs cost $180.
Black Diamond FTMX headlamps: $20-50
The latest Astro 175 ($20), Cosmo 225 ($30), Spot 325 ($40), and Storm 375 ($50) are all available exclusively at REI. In the 2019 versions, Black Diamond boosted the headlamps’ brightness, slimmed down the profile, softened the headband, and simplified switches to just two.
NEMO Tensor Insulated Air Pad: $160-180
This ultralight sleeping pad makes for a sound slumber on backcountry adventures. The Tensor sleeping pad by NEMO offers a lot of comfort at a low weight. And now it’s even lighter, starting at a single pound depending on the size. New zero-profile valves and a pump sack are also part of the package. And it all rolls up to the size of a Nalgene bottle. It’ll cost you $160-180.
Shop NowMarmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 Sleeping Bag: $149-159
The newest Trestles three-season bag has a lighter footprint. Everything’s recycled except the zippers. The minimalist (just 2 pounds 7 ounces) backcountry sleeper also has a nice zippered fold-down section for better access and ventilation, plus a roomy foot box designed to keep extremities toasty. The synthetic-insulated bag is available in men’s and women’s and costs $149 (regular) or $159 (long).
Oboz Sawtooth II Mid BDRY Hiking Shoes & Boots: $110-150
The Sawtooth II can ramble, especially off camber. This rugged, all-terrain, waterproof hiker comes with a redesigned upper. Oboz claims the waterproof boot lets the foot breathe better and move more comfortably at the boot’s collar. Yet durability remains intact with a mud-repelling outsole and aggressive lugs in the sidewall. The boots are available in women’s and men’s for $150. Waterproof and non-waterproof shoes are also available for $140 and $110, respectively.
This article is sponsored by REI. Check out these REI exclusives on 2019 outdoor gear and other favorites at REI.com or an REI store near you.
