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.
Coalition Snow Rafiki Skis
Women-owned and operated, Coalition Snow worked with graphic designer and athlete Brooklyn Bell on its latest Rafiki Powder Skis ($799). The skis have a blended hardwood core with poplar, maple, and ash, a camber underfoot, traditional sandwich construction, a 4001 sintered base, 2mm full-wrapped steel edges, and bold, artistic graphics. These skis are made in the USA.
Matador SEG30
Matador has expanded its SEG duffel line with the new SEG30 travel backpack ($150). The brand made the SEG30 to be an ideal weekender travel bag or gym bag, with all the features of the SEG42 with less weight and a smaller profile. The SEG30 is the size of a carry-on and has built-in organization, a full-access clamshell main compartment, external zipper access, and a water bottle pocket.
Primus Klunken Water Bottle
Primus partnered with Fjällräven to make a bottle tailored to the popular Kånken backpack. The Primus Klunken bottle ($30) weighs under 10 ounces and comes in a vacuum or single-walled version, eight coordinating colors, and a screw-top lid with cork finish. Plus, it fits perfectly in the slim Swedish Kånken bag.
HOKA TenNine Hike GTX Boot
HOKA just took its bold and crazy-heeled shoe to a whole new level. The TenNine Hike GTX ($250) is engineered for a smooth, cushioned ride with its Hubble heel geometry for efficient heel-to-toe transition. The boot also has GORE-TEX waterproofing and recycled polyester material for the collar and laces. Read the full specs here.
Western Rise Versa Hat
Western Rise’s latest product is a hat. But it’s a hat that’s already gained $28,000 in funding. The Versa Hat (now $39) is made with a stretch fabric with bonded, taped seams and a DWR coating, EVA foam brim, and a wrinkle-resistant, multilayer material. The Versa Hat is waterproof, moisture-wicking, and versatile.
Gerber Fastball Cleaver Blade
This Fastball Cleaver ($145) has upgraded 20CV steel, a machined anodized aluminum backspacer, and an aircraft-grade aluminum handle. Like many of Gerber Gear’s blades, it’s got a pocket clip and is able to be customized. Thanks to the spiffy cleaver blade, this folding knife is a bit pricier. But it’s also proudly made in the U.S.
Merrell Cozy Hut Moc
Merrell’s seasonal update to its classic hut booties is here. The Merrell cozy Hut Mocs ($90) have an EVA outsole, vegan leather and canvas upper, microfiber collapsible heel, and superlight construction. Also, they come in hot cocoa colors to match the ambiance of a warming hut. They’re available in men’s and women’s sizes.
Fire and Courage The Maker T-Shirt
New brand Fire and Courage is coming to market with a 20-feature T-shirt. The Maker Shirt (now $39) is made with a four-way-stretch fabric that’s water-resistant, itch-proof, sweatproof, odor-resistant, UV-resistant, breathable, quick-drying, and more. Physical features include reinforced seams, a longer back hem, and natural dyes and materials (including a literal silver lining to help reduce odor).
Astral Hemp Chukker Boot
Astral’s new take on its classic chukka boot is this hemp-made Hemp Chukker boot ($120) built for city and trail use. The new boots have a simple yet versatile hemp canvas upper, rubber soles, and a breathable, antimicrobial lining. Find them in men’s and women’s sizing.
SHRED Ski Race Protective Mitts
These SHRED Ski Race Mitts ($230) offer premium protection without sacrificing comfort and durability. The mitts have SHRED’s Slytech foam for impact energy absorption around the knuckles and thumb as well as PrimaLoft insulation. And, of course, SHRED kicks into high gear with protective armor plates overlaid on the back of the hands.
Front Runner Land Rover Defender Slimline Rack
South African-based Front Runner Outfitters has designed a new roof rack option specifically for the new Land Rover Defender 110. The Defender Slimline II Roof Rack Kit ($1,465) has heavy overlanding capabilities — with its gear tray, wind deflector, and foot rails — plus the ability to adjust and mount to original mounting points. It’s made from epoxy powder-coated T6 aluminum and hardened stainless steel, and it measures less than 10 inches tall.
BFGoodrich x Cabela's Hunting Boot
BFGoodrich partnered with Cabela’s for its latest total-performance hunting boot. The Cabela’s Treadfast Zoned Insulation Boot ($170) provides a breathable inside and a sturdy, grippy outsole. The boots’ tread is designed directly off BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A KO2 tire tread. This is one of several outdoor shoes BFGoodrich has helped bring to market.
