A peek at emerging products from the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design.
New Brand Backpack
Water-resistant, sustainably manufactured, and suited to commuters, photographers, and travelers – the Prima Pack System is the first product launched by Boundary. The modular pack has magnetic buckles and modular inserts to protect laptops, electronics, and cameras. It’s live on Kickstarter for $179.
Solar-Power Wallet
Protect your identity and charge your devices with this leather wallet. The RFID-blocking Solar Wallet has an integrated charging cable for USB, lightning, and micro-USB ports. The internal power bank recharges with external solar panels or by connecting to a power source. The Solar Wallet retails for $199.
Smart Bra
Sensors tucked behind soft fabric make the $249 VITALI smart bra, “the world’s first fashionable, comfortable smart bra.” The VITALI monitors breathing patterns, posture, and heart rate variability (HRV) to determine the onset of stress. If you slouch, breathe shallowly, or your HRV suddenly changes, the bra notifies you with “gentle taps” and through a smartphone app. Available with discounts on Kickstarter.
Aerodynamic Snacking
Refuel without breaking wind (not that kind of wind). The FoodCell food case bolts or straps to the top tube of a bike and claims it has more capacity than any aero food carrier on the market. It holds four 60mL gels and can be opened with one finger. Available on Kickstarter from $51.
Smallest Ski Wearable
Track form and foot position, record runs, and compare technique against your friends with the Carv ski-boot insert. Insert the insole and clip on the attached tracker, and the Carv sends real-time coaching feedback on motion and pressure distribution to your phone. It also analyzes flips and tricks. Available on Indiegogo for $100 off the $399 retail price.
Improved Bike Trailer
Pop off the wheels and fold this trailer flat to carry it in your car. Burley’s latest trailer, the Minnow, builds off its predecessors with push-button release for its 20-in. wheels and a collapsible frame for transport. The $269 Minnow also sports tinted windows to keep kids in the shade.
New Brand Backpack
Water-resistant, sustainably manufactured, and suited to commuters, photographers, and travelers – the Prima Pack System is the first product launched by Boundary. The modular pack has magnetic buckles and modular inserts to protect laptops, electronics, and cameras. It’s live on Kickstarter for $179.
Solar-Power Wallet
Protect your identity and charge your devices with this leather wallet. The RFID-blocking Solar Wallet has an integrated charging cable for USB, lightning, and micro-USB ports. The internal power bank recharges with external solar panels or by connecting to a power source. The Solar Wallet retails for $199.
Smart Bra
Sensors tucked behind soft fabric make the $249 VITALI smart bra, “the world’s first fashionable, comfortable smart bra.” The VITALI monitors breathing patterns, posture, and heart rate variability (HRV) to determine the onset of stress. If you slouch, breathe shallowly, or your HRV suddenly changes, the bra notifies you with “gentle taps” and through a smartphone app. Available with discounts on Kickstarter.
Aerodynamic Snacking
Refuel without breaking wind (not that kind of wind). The FoodCell food case bolts or straps to the top tube of a bike and claims it has more capacity than any aero food carrier on the market. It holds four 60mL gels and can be opened with one finger. Available on Kickstarter from $51.
Smallest Ski Wearable
Track form and foot position, record runs, and compare technique against your friends with the Carv ski-boot insert. Insert the insole and clip on the attached tracker, and the Carv sends real-time coaching feedback on motion and pressure distribution to your phone. It also analyzes flips and tricks. Available on Indiegogo for $100 off the $399 retail price.
Improved Bike Trailer
Pop off the wheels and fold this trailer flat to carry it in your car. Burley’s latest trailer, the Minnow, builds off its predecessors with push-button release for its 20-in. wheels and a collapsible frame for transport. The $269 Minnow also sports tinted windows to keep kids in the shade.