Take a peek at emerging products from the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. Explore the grid or click through for a slideshow.
LEM Cipressa Road Bike Helmet
Much like a frustrated co-worker, the LEM Cipressa helmet ($100) loves to vent. On hot road rides and grueling gravel slogs, all 19 vents will be much appreciated. The Cipressa includes LEM’s new GelMotion technology: energy-absorbing gel pads that aim to reduce rotational and oblique impacts.
Osprey UNLTD Pack Series
Osprey’s latest UNLTD pack series features some state-of-the-art tech. The headlining innovation is a 3D-printed lumbar pad that aims to radically improve ventilation and surface grip. All packs in the series utilize the strongest outer material the brand has ever used. Osprey UNLTD is available in two styles: AirScape 68 ($700) and AntiGravity 64 ($700).
Fischer One and Two Kids Ski Boots
For many youngsters (and their parents), dealing with ski boots is the hardest part of a day on the mountain. Fischer’s new One and Two boots are designed for easy on and off. A wide-open entry design allows pint-size users to step into the boots with minimal fuss. Plus, both styles have a newly reshaped liner constructed to maximize warmth and comfort. The One and Two will be available in stores beginning in fall 2022.
Speedland SL:HSV Trail Shoe
Speedland’s new SL:HSV trail shoe ($375) was built to the preferred specs of elite ultrarunner Liz Canty. Still, many aspects of these shoes are highly customizable. Cuttable Michelin rubber lugs on the outsole allow users to personalize the underfoot feel. A two-dial BOA fit adjustment system can tighten and loosen on the fly. The SL:HSV is available for preorder until sold out.
Wilde Bikes Rack Buddy Bag
Bike commuters agree: Reliable cargo solutions are hard to come by. To address this problem, Wilde Bikes introduces the simple, compact, and adorably named Rack Buddy ($90). With a roll-top closure and four included Velcro straps, this multiuse bag attaches directly to handlebar baskets and rear bike racks. The Rack Buddy is made from waxed canvas sailcloth and sewn in Minneapolis.
Salsa Stormchaser GRX 810 1X SUS
As its name suggests, the Salsa Stormchaser GRX 810 1X SUS ($3,499) is specifically designed for adverse conditions. This bike is built for mud-riding, puddle-splashing, gravel-loving masochists. Compared to Salsa’s standard Stormchaser model, this new and improved edition comes with 40 mm of front suspension, gears, and a dropper post. It’s a flatbar and rear suspension away from turning into a downhill mountain monster.
Morakniv Scout 39
Morakniv has been producing variations on the Scout Knife for over a century. Now, the Scout Knife 39 ($50) carries on the longstanding tradition. With a barrel-shaped handle and double finger protection, this model is designed for safely learning knife skills. The Scout 39 has a 2mm-thick blade made from recycled Swedish stainless steel. It comes with a tanned leather sheath and is available with or without a pointed tip.
Sperry Water Strider
Sperry just got sporty. Though the brand is known for leather boat shoes, its new Sport Collection represents a major effort to branch out. The new Water Strider shoes ($55) feature a slip-on design and a high-traction outsole. Aesthetically, these shoes are nothing like the fraternity attire that most people associate with the brand. The Water Strider is built for a kayak, not a college campus.
HipStar Personal Hiking Trailer
The backpack industry better hold on to its hip straps; there’s a new rival in town. The HipStar ($339 preorder) — a new all-terrain travel cart — aims to reduce carrying weight by 90% while hiking. HipStar is a two-wheeled personal trailer that can convert into a wearable backpack and bike trailer. Though the product is still in development, its crowdfunding campaign has raised over $45,000 as of today. According to the brand, using a HipStar in trailer mode can make a 40-pound load feel like less than 4 pounds.
GOREWEAR Lupra Jacket
Constant layering and de-layering pitstops are a staple of the XC mountain biking experience. With this in mind, GOREWEAR designed the Lupra Jacket ($180) — a versatile outer layer for both the uphills and the downs. To prevent sweating on burly climbs, GOREWEAR outfitted the Lupra with breathable GORE-TEX INFINIUM fabric. The hood is large enough to fit over a helmet, and taped seams in the hood and shoulder areas prevent rain and trail gunk from seeping in.
Primo Maternity Chamois Short
Stay active and comfortable during pregnancy with Kaden Apparel’s Primo Maternity Chamois Short. This $108 cycling short incorporates Italian fabrics and pads — suitable for all manner of riding — with the brand’s “high belly band” design to offer non-constrictive support and comfort while riding. Plus, the band can be rolled down for a more traditional fit postpartum. The chamois shorts also sport a side pocket with flap to keep small essentials secure.
