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.
PYKRS Smart Ski Jacket
Safety and comfort, the app-controlled way! PYKRS presents a ski jacket ($192 on Kickstarter at the time of writing) that can detect falls, send out an SOS, and has active heating and lighting so you can stay warm and seen. It also boasts a sustainability story, using 100% recycled polyester and polyethylene — and “countless pockets and details.” This jacket has waterproof and windproof construction. It pairs with an app that allows the wearer to activate three heating panels as well as integrated lights on the front and back shoulders. The app also has fall detection, which automatically sends your location to predetermined contacts.
Teva Zymic Sandal
Teva announces it’s spring 2022 Strap In To collection, and the new Zymic sandal ($80) is the star of the show. The Zymic fits the mold of Teva’s longstanding double-strap style ― with extra attention paid to style and comfort. Every pair of Zymics is treated with Life Naturals, a peppermint-based antimicrobial that aims to keep odor to a minimum.
Mongoose Miniscoot II
In the late ’80s, the Mongoose Miniscoot ruled suburban sidewalks. Now, this throwback cruiser returns as the Miniscoot II ($200). Large air-filled gumwall tires and alloy caliper handbrakes aim to ensure a soft and controlled ride. Mongoose recommends the Miniscoot II for riders 8 and older, with a maximum weight limit of 175 pounds.
Altra Running Rivera 2
Built to reduce the wide-foot look of past Altras, the Altra Rivera 2 ($130) is a new daily performance trainer. This shoe features a slim and streamlined version of Altra’s FootShape toebox. With a 26mm stack height, the Rivera 2 offers midrange cushioning and treads the line between snappy and supportive.
d.RT Hyper Hybrid Shorts
Spring break is here and so are color changing shorts. The Hyper Hybrid Shorts ($60) from d.RT are swim trunks with a technological secret. Dive into the pool in a pair of Hyper Hybrids to reveal a hidden water-activated print.
Honbike Shaft-Drive E-Bike
Meet the “world’s first e-bike with shaft drive.” That’s right, an e-bike that operates off a drive shaft, not a chain or belt. What’s more, it’s a folding e-bike with shaft drive (say that five times). Honbike has already crushed its crowdfunding goal thanks to its promise of a maintenance-free drivetrain up to 25,000 miles. It also boasts a smart sensor system that automatically detects hills and provides boost assist. Learn all about it and grab one at early-bird discount pricing on Indiegogo ($1,499 at the time of writing).
Able Carry Cooler
Able’s compact Carry Cooler ($56) has just enough space for the essentials: a six-pack and an icepack. Able claims that the food-grade foil lining and foam insulation will keep drinks hot or cold for hours. Weighing in at just over half a pound, the Carry Cooler is made for grab-and-go.
Reebok Nano X2
Are you tired of lugging around a pair of shoes just for the gym? The Reebok Nano X2 ($135) wants to help. This versatile shoe is designed to balance go-anywhere style and athletic performance. Compared to previous models of the Nano, the X2 comes with an updated heel shape and a re-engineered FlexWeave Knit upper.
Leon Cycle NCM C7 E-Bike
E-bike manufacturer NCM is expanding its North American presence with the new eight-speed C7 ($1,599). This class I pedal-assisted model has a torque sensor that distributes power according to the amount of power applied by the rider. The harder you push, the greater the assist. A frame-integrated battery and hydraulic disc brakes sweeten the deal.
Garmont Dragontail SE
Italian footwear brand Garmont developed the Dragontail SE ($140) specifically for North American climbers and hikers. This low-cut approach shoe features a lace-to-toe closure for custom fitting and a suede leather upper. True to its approach shoe identity, the Dragontail SE has a smooth and sticky “climbing zone” for technical third- and fourth-class approaches.
