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.
Skinny Solar Cycling Computer
Set your route and ride all day long. The trimm One cycling computer aims to strike a balance between aesthetics, function, and innovation with this svelte, handlebar-mounted computer. A waterproof aluminum body (available in eight colors) houses the 3.2-inch display and smart computer, all under 2 ounces. The trimm One pairs with the rider’s smartphone to import maps, set routes, and handle text/call notifications on the fly. And it’s compatible with optional solar panels to charge while riding. The trimm One is available on Kickstarter beginning around $215.
'Infinity' Gel Shoes
It’s all about the gel in Asics’ latest shoe, the GEL-Quantum Infinity. Designed for “visual impact and high-level cushioning,” these shoes mark the first to sport Asics’ proprietary GEL midsole across the entire length of the shoe. Launched this month, the GEL-Quantum Infinity targets the comfort-minded and style-conscious alike. Available now for $180.
Tiny Action Camera
A smartphone camera you can wear, the OPKIXONE enables users to capture 1080p resolution at a video speed of 30 fps without maneuvering a bulky device. Weighing in at 11 grams and boasting waterproof construction, the OPKIXONE can strap to eyewear, a selfie stick, or even wrap around a finger to record up to 15 minutes of footage (and store over an hour). Plus, the OPKIXONE comes as a set of two cameras, nested in a “smart computer” egg that automatically charges the cameras and uploads content to the brand’s editing app.
Dyneema Handlebar Roll
Gear, not your pack, should add weight. So Revelate Designs launched the Pronghorn, a handlebar carriage system with the ultralight bikepacker in mind. The Pronghorn comprises a Dyneema dry bag and an internal fiberglass stay for mounting. Depending on size — 7.5L, 11L, or 23L — the Pronghorn weighs between 7 and 9 ounces.
Anything Shelter
Defend against the elements — all of the elements — with Kammok’s Kuhli Pro weather shelter. Measuring 144 x 108 inches with more than 108 square feet of coverage, the Kuhli Pro offers 10 guy-out points to adapt to a wide range of environments. And Kammok constructed the Kuhli Pro with its Amphibiskin X, a lightweight, waterproof, 15-denier silicone/PU fabric to deflect wind, rain, and snow. Plus, the inside is reflective to radiate heat back under the cover. Available now for $199.
Lighter, Lower Training Shoes
Just because your workouts are big doesn’t mean your shoes have to be. Under Armour‘s TriBase Reign has minimalist cross-trainers in mind with a 2mm drop and a lightweight, breathable mesh upper. Plus, Under Armour said it built the TriBase Reign to be lower to the ground for more efficient power transfer. Find it on Dec. 26 for $120.
Strap-On Snow Skates
No skis? No problem — just strap on these Snowfeet! While skate-style shoes have already hit the scene, Snowfeet went a step further to make it more user-friendly. Strap Snowfeet onto your favorite boots or shoes and instantly transform your footwear. Snowfeet sport two metal edges for control, a heel brake, and adjustable bindings. Available now on Indiegogo starting at $125.
-320-Degree Jacket
There’s cold, and then there’s really cold. And “hundreds” of degrees below that, you’ll find the Kistler Series 7 Aerogel jacket. Kistler used the space-age insulator to create a mesh composite it says helps make it 50 percent lighter than the leading Aerogel competition. Plus, the Series 7 sports a built-in thermometer to tell users how warm it is inside the jacket. And the brand claims the Series 7 will keep wearers warm down to -320 degrees Fahrenheit. OK, maybe there’s a little hyperbole there. But you can find it on Kickstarter beginning at a healthy $649.
Waterproof-Breathable Fly Box
Keep — and let — water out of your fly box with Tacky’s Flydrophobic SD. Using a patent-pending waterproof-breathable system, Tacky made a fly box that actually allows moisture to escape from inside the box (while still fending off outside water). The $35 box holds between 66 and 100 flies — wet or dry.
Camp Playpen
Give the kids a safe, comfortable place to hang out, even in the backcountry. Veer, maker of the “off-road” Cruiser stroller, introduces the Basecamp: a portable, pop-up shelter for little kids. The 7-pound shelter offers 360-degree views, a shade roof, and a removable SPF 50 sun/rain cover. Best of all, the Basecamp “pops” open with a one-handed motion. Look for it on Jan. 1, 2019, for $179.
Algae 'Bloom' Cycling Shoe
Ditching the car is just a start. Reduce your environmental impact even further with a shoe that actually helps oceans. London brand Quoc unveils the Weekend, an SPD-compatible cycling shoe made with BLOOM’s algae-based EVA foam alternative. The shoes utilize algae to produce a foam-like material that creates a watertight, cushioned sole. Available now on Kickstarter.
High-Intensity Sports Bra
A better bra for better workouts? MAAREE launches the Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra, built specifically for intense activities like HIIT, running, and combat. The key is the bra’s adjustable overband, a curved panel that provides upward-directed support when exercising. It also sports moisture-wicking, fast-drying materials for added comfort. Available now for $75.
