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.
Bollé ECO-React Helmet
The ECO-React bike helmet ($200) represents Bollé’s efforts to “challenge the traditional way to make helmets.” Instead of pure petroleum EPS foam, this helmet utilizes bits of cork. The plastic shell is partially made from recycled plastics, and the liner incorporates bamboo fibers. A MIPS safety system intends to reduce rotational force to the head upon certain angled impacts.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 40-Degree Down Quilt
In mild conditions, this plush camping quilt is a highly packable alternative to a traditional sleeping bag. Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s new 40-degree quilt ($549) weighs less than a pound, and its large vertical baffles are stuffed with 1,000-fill RDS-certified down. Integrated loops and clips can hold a sleeping pad in place, which is especially helpful for folks who toss and turn in the night. The quilt is available in short, regular, and long sizes.
Sierra Designs Lost Coast 2-Person Tent
This novice backpacker-friendly tent is named for a rugged and undeveloped stretch of California coastline. Sierra Designs’ Lost Coast ($120) is a budget-friendly option for hikers preparing to set off on their first on-trail overnight. Built on a traditional X-pole frame, the Lost Coast looks quick and easy to set up. It’s a bit heavier than many two-person tents on the market, but it costs a whole lot less.
Ruffwear Desert Sunrise Leash
Vernan Kee is a graphic artist and passionate dog rescuer. Ruffwear’s latest limited edition pet accessories are an homage to Kee’s Navajo Nation upbringing and ongoing efforts to rescue “rez” dogs. The Flat Out Leash ($30) is one of the brand’s staple products, and Kee’s Desert Sunrise design gives it a fresh aesthetic. Ruffwear will donate 5% of every Desert Sunrise purchase to Turquoise Paw, an animal rescue within the Navajo Nation.
Benchmade Weekender Knife
A classic camping trip involves two key activities: whittling and drinking beer. Built for weekend trips and everyday carry, the Benchmade Weekender ($250) is a modern take on the classic pocketknife. With two blades plus a bottle opener, the Weekender can handle a variety of fundamental camp tasks and chores. Both the 2- and 3-inch blades are made from COPM-S30V steel.
Thousand Traveler Bike Light
Thousand is known for its stylish bike commuter helmets. Now, the growing brand launches a snazzy set of front and rear bike lights. Made for an urban setting, the Traveler Magnetic Bike Lights ($70 per set) have three brightness modes and are USB-rechargeable. But, coolest of all, they operate on a dial motion to change settings. Magnetic mounts allow for easy removal and installation and help deter theft. The front light emits up to 100 lumens over a maximum run time of 8 hours.
HitchFire Ledge Hitch Platform
This hitch-mounted platform is an uncomplicated accessory with plenty of potential applications. First and foremost, the HitchFire Ledge ($325) is designed as a utility gear hauler with integrated tie-down points for firewood, gas canisters, and all sorts of other cargo. While car camping, the ledge can serve as a basic food prep station or stove holder. For remote workers on an epic road trip, the Ledge might even serve as an outdoor desktop. The steel side rails are removable and the carrying capacity is 100 pounds.
Boom Supersonic x Ministry of Supply Travel Capsule
The miracle of human flight is incredible. The experience of sitting in an economy seat for 5 hours is not. Luckily, the experience of air travel can be vastly improved with a few key accessories. Now, Boom Supersonic and Ministry of Supply release the Travel Capsule Collection ($595) — a simple set of handy products “designed for people on the move.” The capsule includes a blazer, odor-absorbing socks, a knit eye mask, a travel blanket, and more.
