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.
Birkenstock Moto Boot Sandals
Birkie sandals…for moto? Yeah, we’re confused too. The Rotterdam Moto Boot Birkenstocks ($590) provide protection around the lower legs but also that open-toe feeling. The sandals have synthetic uppers, an EVA sole, a cork footbed, and a Nappa leather and suede footbed lining. A combo of a buckle and Velcro fastener finishes it off. If this is the look you’ve been searching for, all power to you.
Pit Command Fire Pit Tools
Fire pit tool company Pit Command has forged a few new tools in the past month. The Ranger ($149), the Commander ($179), and the Talons ($169) all exist to help you stoke the fire, whether it’s in a Solo Stove or a Breeo. The Ranger and the Commander both have a carbon steel head with a hook, jabber, and axe tool, a powder coating, and a custom-molded handle. The Talons (possibly the most badass tongs to exist) are designed for grabbing and moving wood and are made of the same carbon steel.
Burton Mine 77 Collection Winter Drop
Burton’s annual Mine 77 collection — limited runs of innovative gear in honor of Jake Burton’s legacy — always goes fast. In fact, we didn’t even have time to cover the fall drop before it sold out. But the winter drop is here, with some great gear like the Toaster Insulator Pants ($250) and Midweight First Layer Top and Pant ($60-70), GORE-TEX shells and bibs, puffy slippers, mitts, and more.
Dometic Patrol Cooler
Dometic, which recently acquired Igloo Coolers, offers a slew of high-powered accessories for outdoor living. Its latest is the Dometic Patrol Cooler (from $170), an insulated, rotomolded ice chest with carry handles and a large drain. It comes in 20L, 35L, and 55L size options.
Knyphe Phone Case
This new gear’s name is a play on “knife” and “phone” — because this is a phone case and fixed blade all in one EDC package. The Knyphe ($89 on preorder) was created when its founder needed an easier solution to his pocket clutter: phone, keys, wallet, pocket knife, etc. The 440C stainless steel blade with an ergonomic handle stores slyly inside the hard phone case. Look for the Kickstarter on Jan. 10.
Dragon x Kimmy Fasani NFX2 Goggles
These Dragon Alliance goggles aren’t new, but the strap artwork and design are. Created by pro snowboarder Kimmy Fasani (married to fellow pro snowboarder Chris Benchetler), the NFX2 Goggles ($180-190) feature graphics designed by Fasani herself. The artwork includes three meditative, snow-capped mountain cartoons with hues of pink and purple as well as a purple Ion Lumalens.
Athletic Brewing Lodge Life Beer
Athletic Brewing’s Lodge Life ($13 per six-pack) is a dark “fireside brew.” This non-alcoholic beer is made with Vienna hops, and the cinnamon, vanilla, and cacao nibs give it a s’mores-reminiscent flavor to complement a smoked malt undertone. It’s dark, malty, and skips the alcohol — perfect for those who want a winter brew without the buzz.
