A peek at emerging products from the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design.
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Better BioLite
Charge your phone faster and dial your flame more precisely. BioLite introduces its second-generation Camp Stove with upgraded features. Higher output for charging electronics more quickly, a four-speed fan for flame control, an on-board battery storage are CampStove 2’s call-outs. Available this month for $130.
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Clean Generator With Power
Crank up the juice on a generator that’s silent, fume-less, and rechargeable. Goal Zero releases its Yeti 400 ($700) and 1400 ($2,000; pictured) with lithium replacing the lead-acid packs in previous models. The update is designed to make the generators longer lasting, lighter weight, and easier to maintain. The Yetis are AC and solar rechargeable, and chainable.
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Wool Sneakers
Austrian brand Giesswein launches a line of merino-wool running shoes. Correct, the uppers are made 100-percent of wool. The footbed is replaceable and made of a “plant-based” material. The brand claims the wool provides stretch, temperature regulation to cool or warm your feet, and antibacterial properties to prevent odor. Available in 13 colors for $96.
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‘Anti-Gravity’ Pack
Osprey integrated its “anti-gravity” (AG) back- and hip-hugging mesh panels into male- and female-specific packs. The men’s Aether and women’s Ariel (pictured) have a top lid that can be removed and used as a daypack, and interchangeable hipbelt and harness to customize fit. Available in a range of sizes, from 55-80 liters ($290-330).
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Indestructible SUP
Pick out a stand-up paddle-board you can ride for life. BIC unveils its TOUGH-TEC line of SUP boards this year, which are designed to last a lifetime without breaking the bank. Five boards ranging from $650-$750 are made from heat- and pressure-treated polyethylene skin that the brand touts as “essentially indestructible.”
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Off-Road Sedan
Tear across any terrain with the kiddos in tow. Can-Am, maker of extreme all-terrain super toys, goes a shade more practical with the four-seat Maverick X3 Max. The family-friendly side-by-side starts at $25,000.
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Iconic Throwback Bike
Relive the ’60s (if you were there) with ape-hanger handlebars, a coaster brake, and a banana seat. Schwinn presents the limited-edition Lemon Peeler-yellow Stingray, an identical replica of its trademark Stingray model. Only 500 of these retro rides will be produced, each complete with suspension fork, fenders, and glittery saddle. The $350 Lemon Peeler will be sold exclusively on Amazon soon (no official release date).
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‘Dr. Tray’ Bike Rack
Take your bikes, any of your bikes, out to the trail without worrying about dings or mounting hassles. Yakima‘s aluminum Dr. Tray two-bike, hitch-mounted rack is the “lightest in its class,” according to the brand. It can fit road, mountain, and fat-tire bikes up to 5 inches, and provides 18 inches clearance between bikes to prevent pedal scratches and brake-lever dings. Available spring for $579.
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Travel Wine Bottle
Take your favorite vintage on the trail. Hydro Flask‘s stainless steel, 25-oz. Wine Bottle is insulated, leak-proof, and has a “drip-free” spout. Available now for $45. Wine tumblers are also available for $30.
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Organic Work Pants
Apparel-maker Mountain Khakis recreates its Original Mountain Pant for fall 2017, maintaining the same durable quality but with responsible craftsmanship. The Flannel Original Mountain Pant, Alpine Utility Pant, Original Field Pant, and Mountain Trucker Jacket will be made from organic cotton.
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Technical Hoodie
Stay warm, dry, and vented. It’s the aim of most cold-weather layers and Outdoor Research claims it’s done it best. The $350 Alpenice Hooded Jacket uses Polartec Alpha Direct “naked fleece” on the inside and OR’s waterproof-breathable AscentShell on the outside. We’ve tried AscentShell in other products and found it effective at venting and keeping dry. Available fall.
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K9 Cooling Vest
Keep Fido cool, comfortable, and safe for summer runs. Ruffwear‘s $40 Jet Stream cooling vest reflects heat away and keeps dogs cool through evaporation. Soak the vest in cold water before the run, wring it out, and zip it around your dog to keep their underside cool. Available in April.
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Handmade Bike Bag
Strap it to your bars, or tuck it under your saddle. Topo Designs’ Bike Bag is simple, adaptable, and made in Colorado. The funky-colored bag works for tucking away phones, maps, or mid-ride snacks. The $50 Bike Bag is waterproof and has a shoulder strap to carry while you’re on foot.
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Beer Cooler Backpack
Bring your suds anywhere and keep them cold. Mountainsmith releases its Crosstown Cooler Tote, a 22L backpack and shoulder bag. The $60 insulated tote has enough room for a six pack and some snacks, just toss in some ice.
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