The lightest solar panel ever made has earned the ‘Readers’ Choice Award’ from readers of GearJunkie.com.
The EnerPlex Kickr 7 FL solar panel received 7,889 votes from GearJunkie readers. It was followed by the Pacsafe Vibe 20L backpack with 5,917 votes, and Mystery Ranch Stein backpack with 2,051 votes.
The products stood out in front of a field of 16 Best In Show recipients chosen by GearJunkie editors at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2016 trade show.
Kicker 7 FL: Ultra Light Panel
The Kickr 7 FL solar panel is half the weight of the brand’s previous lightest panel. At $100, it is a 6.5-watt model with a 90-percent efficient regulator that weighs just 5.1 ounces due to new materials and a streamlined design. It’s simple, folds up small, and powers USB-compatible devices with a single output.
It comes to market in early 2017, the brand said.
“We wanted to target a new set of consumers, especially the outdoor ultra-light market, and differentiate ourselves from other solar chargers,” said Brad Brochocki, head of marketing at EnerPlex.
It’s also available in a 9 watt model, the Kickr 10 ($130), that weighs 6.7 ounces.
More than 23,000 people cast votes during this first bi-annual Readers’ Choice Award.
Voting For Top Gear
GearJunkie editors watched the votes roll in, and were a little surprised as EnerPlex persevered against much larger brands.
“We were delighted to see the enthusiasm of GearJunkie readers and enlightened by their voting,” said Stephen Regenold, GearJunkie’s editor in chief.
Brochocki said consumers are excited by lighter chargers for omnipresent electronic gear.
“There’s also a connotation that solar is bulky and heavy,” he said. “This product proves those doubts wrong. It’s extremely light weight, lighter than a set of car keys.”
Congratulations to EnerPlex, and all Best In Show winners.
