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.
Dragon Eyewear RVX Mag OTG
Ski season may still be a month or two away, but the ’22/’23 season gear drops have already begun. Dragon Eyewear’s RVX Mag OTG ($270) is the latest iteration of one of the brand’s most popular models. The primary update is the lens changing system, which utilizes “magnetic contact points coupled with a one-sided release lever.” Additional features include over-the-glasses compatibility and Lumalens Optimized color technology.
Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew Plus
Smartwool’s long-standing Classic Thermal Merino Base Layers ($110) now come in plus sizes. They’re made from the same 100% merino wool material that the brand has been sourcing for ages, but now it comes in 1X, 2X, and 3X. Bottoms are also available to go with the pictured top.
BioLite BaseCharge Portable Power Station
Working remotely from a campsite has become commonplace. For laptop-wielding van dwellers, solar-powered portable wall outlets are invaluable. BioLite’s new BaseCharge 600 ($700) is a compact power station with a built-in AC inverter. It also supports USB-A, USB-C, and USB-C PD charging. The top surface unit doubles as a wireless charging deck. A 1,500+ watt-hour version ($1,500) is also available, and the 100-watt folding solar panel ($400) is sold separately.
Tifosi Breast Cancer Awareness Collection
This week, Tifosi launches its Breast Cancer Awareness Collection. Many of the brand’s most popular styles are included in the collection, and each has been updated with a striking pink color scheme. A portion of sales from these shades will go to the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation, a breast cancer research and education charity. We’ve tested several Tifosi styles in recent seasons, and we’ve been thoroughly impressed by their value and durability.
Klymit Switchback Reclining Camp Chair
While we recognize that the ultimate campfire furniture is an old wood stump, we also understand that a comfortable chair seriously elevates the camping experience. Klymit’s new Switchback Chair ($120) has three adjustable reclining positions, a high back for optimal neck support, and padded armrests. It’s a nap pod, stargazer, and s’more station all in one.
Injinji Performance Run Lightweight Toesocks
Toes are the unsung heroes of balance, agility, and speed. These ultra-thin merino wool running socks ($18) allow each toe to move independently. They sit just beneath the ankle bone and won’t show in most running shoes. According to the brand, “each toe is wrapped in sweat-wicking material” so your feet will remain dry and comfortable while on the move.
Leatherman Raptor Rescue Multi Tool
Leatherman’s Raptor Rescue multi-tool ($90) is designed specifically for uniformed response professionals. Now, the tool is available in two special-edition colors: Orchid and Aqua. The main feature of the tool is a pair of stainless steel folding shears. A ruler, strap-cutter oxygen tank breaker, and carbine glass breaker are cleverly incorporated into the compact — and potentially lifesaving — package.
Duck Camp Campfire Shacket
Duck Camp announces the cozy-looking Campfire ($149) just in time for fall — aka shacket season. The snap closure and dual chest pockets provide casual shirt style, and the soft grid-fleece lining delivers the warmth of a jacket. Low-profile hand-warmer pockets add extra defense against rapidly dropping temps. The Campfire is available in Charcoal (pictured), Pine Green, and Buck Gold color schemes.
The Powchell Portable Charger Case
The Powchell portable charger case is a hard-sided case that can power and charge the gadgets it protects. Instead of filling your gear bags and boxes with batteries, the Powchell is both the battery and the box. The 20,000mAH battery powers internal and external ports including USB-A and USB-C. For $168, the Powchell can be preordered on Kickstarter for estimated delivery in January 2023.
Under Armour HOVR Phantom 3
The UA HOVR Phantom 3 ($140) is the latest evolution of the Phantom model, which last got updated in July 2020. UA wanted to make improvements to the Phantom 2, including in specific areas like upper breathability and midsole. The UA HOVR Phantom 3 has a full-length HOVR midsole, knit upper, new heel counter, and lower contoured ankle. It has an 8mm offset. UA hopes it will offer more stability, propulsion, and traction, thanks to a full rubber outsole.
Razor EcoSmart Cargo Scooter
Razor Scooters have grown up since the days of urethane wheels and sidewalk tail whips. The brand’s new two-passenger EcoSmart Cargo ($1,099) comes with a 1,000W electric motor and a top speed of 20 mph. According to Razor, the EcoSmart Cargo is built for everyday use: trips to the farmers market, giving your roommate a ride to class, etc. Without a rear passenger on board, a convertible cargo system offers space for a basket or backpack. The scooter will be available through the brand’s website later this week.
