Is necessity really the mother of invention? Or does invention sometimes create the necessity? Here at GearJunkie, we don’t have time for those kinds of existential questions — we’re too busy getting stoked about new stuff to use outside!
That’s why the Emerging Gear column is one of our favorite stories all week. When we get to explore high-tech swim goggles, retro-style bike bags, and a clock inspired by Star Wars, all seems right with the world. Get amped with us! Check out our latest finds from across the outdoor industry.
FORM Smart Swim 2
It seems like everything is getting smarter these days — even swim goggles!
FORM, a fitness technology company, just launched its second-generation augmented reality swim goggles: the Smart Swim 2. This high-tech eyewear uses patented Waveguide optics and onboard sensors for real-time metrics and guided swim workouts.
Key features include integrated heart rate monitoring with a temple-based sensor and SwimStraight, a digital compass aiding open-water swim navigation. It’s also been reduced in size by 15%.
Major triathlon organizations, including World Triathlon and USA Triathlon, have already approved the goggles for use. The goggles start at $250, including a free 2-month trial of FORM Premium. Post-trial, access to Premium Features costs $15 monthly or $100 annually.
URWERK SpaceTime Blade
While the SpaceTime Blade might sound like a magical object from an upcoming Star Wars TV show, it’s actually something much simpler: a clock.
But since it costs $63,000 — yes, really — we can surmise that it must be a very special clock. Indeed, it’s made by a Swiss company (of course) called URWERK, which describes its novelty product as a “watchmaking experience” that transcends “traditional notions of time and space.”
To be honest, I’m not sure if I have any concrete notions about the nature of spacetime. Perhaps that’s why I don’t really understand how this timekeeping device actually works. I get that the 5.5-foot clock sword turns orange when activated, and can show hundredths of a second ticking away at a rate of 500 changes per second. It also offers eight display modes, including time measurement and distance calculation.
Beyond that, it’s mostly Greek to me. According to URWERK, the design is meant to evoke the “imaginary world of laser sabers.” So yeah, it was actually about Star Wars after all.
Snow Peak Toned Trout Fishing Capsule
Snow Peak’s Toned Trout fishing capsule collection is back, offering apparel inspired by Japan’s Tone River. Launched in 2018, Toned Trout just debuted its 2024 collection, including a new fly fishing starter set with equipment from Japanese fishing pioneer TIEMCO.
The capsule includes the Toned Trout Camp Vest. Priced at $240, it’s made from water-repellent material to ensure the safety of tools and gear. It’s also puncture-resistant, according to Snow Peak.
For $480, the Toned Trout 2.5L River Jacket delivers durability and waterproofing. Its ventilated, 2.5-layer nylon fabric also offers resistance against sharp objects.
The Toned Trout Stretch River Pants also look pretty cool, with quick-drying technical material. Made from stretch polyester, these $200 pants have dual zipper side pockets and an integrated belt, as well as ventilation on the back.
Chrome Industries District Bag Collection
There’s one sure thing about Chrome Industries: Its stuff is hip.
The company just dropped its District Collection, comprising eight styles crafted from water-resistant, recycled nylon. Departing from the brand’s signature seatbelt buckle, these designs prioritize lightweight functionality. It has street-style options like crossbody slings as well as classic backpacks.
A highlight from the collection is the Highline 20L Backpack, sold for $115. Designed for organization and comfort, it has plush knit shoulder straps for all-day wear. Meanwhile, the Sabin 6L Sling, priced at $60, will keep your valuables safe day to night in a lightweight, recycled nylon package.
Reebok Nano UNKNWN
Reebok has dropped an upgrade of its Nano UNKNWN training shoes, first launched in 2020.
The leveled-up shoe has a high-top silhouette that offers increased ankle support and a deconstructed, lightweight upper. It also has the Lift and Run Chassis System, which aims to improve stability during lifting and more cushion for running and jumping.
A Floatride Energy Midsole also adds cushion while reducing impacts during high-intensity activities. The shoes cost $160 and come in black or white.
Stanley All Day Slim Bottle
After TikTokers helped make Stanley cups a surprise hit in Christmas 2023, the classic brand already has a new design.
Stanley just launched the All Day Slim Bottle, a skinny, portable bottle that still uses the brand’s iconic double-wall insulation. An opening at the “shoulder” of the bottle sets it apart aesthetically and functionally. That larger opening allows users to add ice, while still enjoying a narrow mouth opening to drink from. Made from recycled stainless steel, it’s BPA-free and, according to the brand, leakproof.
The bottles come in 20-ounce and 34-ounce options priced at $30 and $40, respectively.
Campagnolo Super Record Power Meter
Meet Campagnolo’s latest product to meet the demands of modern cycling: the HPPM (High Precision Power Measurement) power meter. Designed to provide accurate power metrics for road cyclists, it aims directly at enhanced training and racing experiences, the company said.
The Campagnolo HPPM power meter uses a “spider-based” design, incorporating 16 strategically placed sensors within the crankset’s arms to detect torque values throughout the pedal stroke. Complemented by real-time angular velocity data from the built-in gyroscope, the meter has 16 strain gauges and a tailored algorithm. This results in an accuracy level within ±1%, according to Campagnolo.
Priced at $2,500, the HPPM system enables real-time data interpretation and detailed post-activity analysis. Read the full review over at BikeRumor.
State Bicycle Co. X Free & Easy Collection
State Bicycle Co. and Free & Easy are back! The two brands just announced a new edition of their collaboration on the State Bicycle Co. x Free & Easy Klunker. This updated version includes an exclusive frame bag and custom “Don’t Trip” embossed grips, available in three distinct colors.
Drawing inspiration from the vibrant surf, skate, and bicycle culture of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Klunker pays homage to the custom cruiser days of yesteryear. It’s ideal for leisurely neighborhood strolls, quick errands, and even (according to State Bicycle) adventurous trail rides.
But wait, there’s more! This go-round sees the debut of a kids’ version of the bike, designed for children aged 0-3. This mini Klunker also comes with a sticker pack, allowing young riders to personalize their journey from the start.
The State Bicycle Co. x Free & Easy – OG Klunker + Bag Combo (27.5″) is priced at $500, while the State Bicycle Co. x Free & Easy – Kids Balance Bike sells for $100. Finally, the “Don’t Trip” Klunker Frame Bag sold solo comes out to $70.
Oru Kayak Inlet Sport
Oru’s foldable kayak fleet just got a new sibling: the Inlet Sport Kayak.
Redesigned from the Inlet Kayak, the new model offers more versatile recreational features, Oru said, including comfort in the backrest, footrest, and gel seat. The kayak also comes with an integrated rail system for attaching accessories like fishing rods or camera mounts.
Sold only in black, the Inlet Sport weighs 23 pounds and assembles in 1-3 minutes (claimed). Despite the low weight, the kayak can still handle up to 275 pounds, potentially allowing space for extra gear or a furry companion. Priced at $1,200, it’s also compatible with Oru’s new skeg for added stability and tracking.
Vasque Re:connect Now
When Vasque dropped the Re:connect Here back in September, GearJunkie’s Drew Zieff said it quickly became his go-to summer shoe.
Now we’ve got the Vasque Re:connect Now, a $130 shoe that’s also aimed at more relaxed outdoor activities than past hikers from the company. Like the Here, the Now is a lightweight shoe made with sustainable materials.
The Re:connect Now offers a wider heel and forefoot design, with an internal fit sleeve for midfoot support. There’s a midfoot lockdown lacing system, Xlite outsole lugs, a breathable ripstop outer mesh, and plush foams for the sole. Modern elements include the internal, half bootie construction and extended heel fit collar system.
prAna Originals Climbing Drop
What’s cooler than rock climbing? How about climbing in new prAna gear inspired by the brand’s ’90s designs? The company just dropped 10 new styles in a limited-edition capsule.
The big highlights here include the Connector Convertible Jacket ($120) and Connector Convertible Pant ($100). These matching threads are both flexible and unisex. With some quick zipper pulling, pants turn into shorts and the jacket turns into a short sleeve.
But there are also funky printed fleece jackets, graphic tees, and climber-tested shorts.
