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.
Grade 7 Equipment Haul Pack
Part alpine climbing pack and part haul bag, the Grade 7 Equipment Haul Pack injects much-needed fresh ideas into the semi-stale world of climbing gear. We’ve been testing the 22L and 55L Haul Packs all summer, and their sheer innovation and durability are mighty impressive. All three sizes of Haul Packs are very light relative to their capacity, and every component down to the bungee cords has been engineered to hold up in the long term. The packs can be preordered now on Indiegogo. The expected delivery is in spring 2023.
KUIU Switchback Pant
As autumn approaches, streams slow to a trickle, leaves fall from the trees, and shorts are replaced by pants. Just in time for the seasonal cooling, KUIU drops the Switchback ($119) — a versatile outdoor pant designed for rugged use. According to KUIU, these pants are made from wear- and stain-resistant fabric. Notable features include a zippered thigh pocket, articulated knees, and a reinforced clip-on point for a knife.
adidas RPT-02 SOL Solar-Powered Headphones
In 2022, Bluetooth headphones are like shoes: everyone has them (and it’s weird if you don’t wear any on an airplane). Adidas’ new RPT-02 SOL headphones ($229) turn any light source into your own personal outlet. As long as the sun (or a lightbulb) is shining, the RPT-02s will be charging. On a full charge, the brand claims 80 hours of stored playtime. Plus, they’re built from “87% recycled plastics.”
Merrell Bravada 2
The Merrell Bravada 2 ($110) is a hybrid hiker/sneaker with a breathable kit upper and a robust rubber outsole. Though the Bravada 2 looks like it belongs on a casual jog in the park, it’s designed to handle “the most extreme trail environments.” An embedded rock plate helps protect the underside of the foot, and a molded nylon arch shank adds extra support. The laces, webbing, and EVA insole are made from recycled materials.
Sasquatch Campers Smuggler Cargo Trailer
Overlanders and car campers love towing a camper, but not every vehicle can handle a massive load. Sasquatch Campers recently dropped the Smuggler Cargo Trailer ($32,450) a compact pull-behind with a full kitchen and exterior shower. The Smuggler is designed to maximize interior and exterior storage, plus it’s compatible with rooftop tents. Off the lot, the Smuggler weighs 1,340 pounds dry.
HUNT Mini Flashlight
This micro multitool is hardly any bigger than a tube of chapstick. The HUNT Mini Flashlight is part flashlight, part prybar, and part screwdriver — and it’s only 2.2 inches long. Crafted from titanium, the HUNT Mini is designed for rugged outdoor use. It’s waterproof, fully rechargeable, and weighs less than an ounce. Three color options are available: white, UV, and red. Preorders are available via Kickstarter for $45.
Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter Bag
Photography is a gear-heavy pursuit, which poses a problem for creatives on the move. Gura Gear’s new Kiboko City Commuter Bag is built specifically for “influencers, image makers, and creative professionals.” It’s a roll-top camera backpack with numerous padded compartments. Users of mirrorless camera systems will appreciate the lens stash pocket, side camera access, and infinitely configurable storage system. Kickstarter preorders are available for $229.
RMU North Shore 114 Skis
Huck drops and plowing through pillows and crud alike — RMU unveils its “ultimate freeride weapon” today, the North Shore 114 ($849). RMU athlete Alex Armstrong calls it her “go-to ski for anything from bottomless pow to pillow stacks to big-mountain lines.” The North Shore’s 114mm waist and wood core are designed to make it both snappy and stable. The North Shore 114 is available today in 176cm and 184cm lengths.
Deckers X-Scape Coupe Slip Ons
These slip-on Deckers have a unique squaretail heel shape and a mega-plush oversized midsole. The brand claims that the X-Scape Coupe ($160) stays securely locked onto the foot at all times, even though it’s “easy to pop on.” The “natural gum rubber” outsole is made from “30% recycled content,” and the removable EVS footbed is “soft and ergonomic.”
