A peek at emerging products from the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. Explore the grid below or click through for a slideshow.
ZiiLock Bike Lock
The concept behind ZiiLock is cool — it’s a bike lock that folds to save space in your pack. It’s also a smart lock equipped with fingerprint recognition and smartphone keyless entry. The lock is made from hardened steel, can be monitored from an app, and has an AES 256 military-level security rating. We have yet to test its durability but like the innovative design. Get it right now for $100.
Elevenate Bec Signature Edition Jacket
Elevenate’s latest ski shell — the Bec de Rosses Jacket — is a three-layer GORE-TEX shell jacket. But its design and fit are modeled after wetsuits. The Bec is earphone-compatible and has plenty of zippered pockets, ventilation, and an adjustable hood. It also rings in pretty pricey for a ski shell — at $1,100.
Ritte Satyr Steel Gravel Bike
Ritte describes its new gravel bike and frame as “half man, half goat, all party.” The Satyr clears a 700x43c tire to tackle tough terrain and has custom tubing, internal cable routing, and flat-mount disc brakes. According to Ritte, it’s the embodiment of fun and rowdiness. But only you can be the judge. The Ritte Satyr starts at $2,250.
Solgaard Minimalist Hex Watch
This new watch is for the minimalist out there. Solgaard’s Minimalist Hex Watch ($95) has a patented hexagon shape, a 42mm dial, stainless steel case, and 20mm straps. The watch uses a Japanese Miyota movement that offers both accuracy and style. The Solgaard Hex Watch also comes in other color styles and a women’s collection.
Slopes Ski and Snowboarding Tracking App
A new app on the market aims to make your days on the slopes seamless and fun with tracking features. The Slopes app automatically detects lifts and runs to figure out where you’ve traveled. The app records things like vertical feet, speed, and distance traveled. It can record runs and data even if you don’t have cell reception. Slopes has data for lifts, runs, and terrain on over 350 resorts worldwide. Free and premium versions are available; currently compatible with Apple and Apple Watch, and will be soon with Android.
Zero Zero Robotics V-Coptr Falcon Drone
Zero Zero Robotics offers a huge selection of flying robotics, but this one is especially futuristic-looking. Inspired by a military aircraft, the V-Coptr Falcon ($699) can fly for up to 50 minutes at a time, has dual rotor propulsion, and auto-follow and return-to-home features. Maybe the best part? The drone has a built-in camera with photo and high-definition video settings and weighs only a pound. The drone launched today and will ship in February 2020.
100% Glendale Performance Sunglasses
100%’s Glendale Sunglasses are a new model of sport performance sunglasses, and they look pretty different from most we’ve seen. The glasses have a five-base cylindrical shield lens for increased peripheral view and protection whether on hiking, biking, or ski trails. The Glendales offer 100 percent UV protection and have lens venting and a scratch-resistant lens coating. The lightweight shades will run you $185.
Rocky Mountain Underground Valhalla 107 Limited-Edition Skis
RMU designed its latest 2020 women’s ski with Olympian Keri Herman for big mountains. The Keri Herman Valhalla 107 has a longer radius than past models and a more effective edge for skiing fast and deep in pow. The skis have a poplar wood core and a OKULEN 7150-C graphite-sintered base and come with RMU’s lifetime guarantee. They’ll set you back $799; limited quantities are available.
Draft Top Beer Can Opener
The Draft Top is the latest new gear item for beer-lovers. The Draft Top ($19 now) is a can opener designed for beverage cans that cuts the aluminum and then folds it in, eliminating sharp edges so you can sip happy. The tool would be a great addition to any car camping kit. Draft Top’s Kickstarter is already fully funded, and it will retail for $25.
MANGO Wireless Charger
Lifestyle brand MANGO just added wireless earbuds and a wireless charger to its accessory collection. The wireless charger ($60) has a fast-charge function, with 9V input and 10W power output. If you’re looking for a wireless charger for travel and want a light and sleek option, this is it.