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.
Yakima Fishing
Yakima bets big on fly fishing with three new fishing-focused products for fall 2019. Pictured, the DoubleHaul is a premium rod carrier specifically for fly and spey rods. Further, Yakima releases the TopWater, a hard-sided storage box for tackle, rods and reels of all types, and other fishing gear. Last, the ReelDeal is similar to ski carriers but carries up to eight fully rigged rods on top of your car. The DoubleHaul, TopWater, and ReelDeal cost $699, $549, and $169, respectively. Yakima will debut the products at next week’s Outdoor Retailer show.
Garmin GPSMAP 66i
Garmin combines its inReach satellite communication technology with GPS navigation in the GPSMAP 66i, the latest iteration in its GPSMAP 66 series. With this GPS device, you get two-way messaging, an SOS function, and preloaded TopoActive maps with direct-to-device BirdsEye satellite imagery. Previously, adventurers needed to carry a Garmin GPSMAP and Garmin inReach for the communication element. Now, both are combined in one. The GPSMAP 66i is available now for $600.
Coast Mini Lantern
Affix the Coast EAL 13 Stormproof Mini Lantern, $30, to metal surfaces thanks to its rare-earth magnet on the bottom. For July 2019, Coast releases a miniature lantern with multiple hanging options and 330-lumen output. Further, the light features three white light modes and red light modes. On low, the Coast EAL 13 Stormproof Mini Lantern can run for 120 hours. And it’s rated crushproof and weatherproof, so rough this one up.
Wolf and Grizzly Fire Safe
From its less than 1-inch height unfolds an entire fire pit with the Fire Safe — a portable fire pit from Wolf and Grizzly. The unique element to Fire Safe is not only its packability, but it also prevents ashes from scarring the ground. Constructed from two pieces of stainless steel, the Fire Safe uses a patented hinged, collapsing design to unfold. It yields an 11.4 x 11-inch burn area and is compatible with Wolf and Grizzly’s elevated Grill. The Fire Safe is on Kickstarter now for $67.
Sony 600mm Lens
Cue lens envy. Sony released its new super telephoto lens, the 600mm F4 G Master Prime Lens. You read that right, a 600mm prime lens. To ensure a good shooting experience, Sony employs two extreme dynamic (XD) linear motors for fast, precise autofocusing and reliable subject tracking. The brand used a large, extreme aspherical (XA) element to suppress common telephoto lens aberrations and an 11-blade circular aperture mechanism for high-quality bokeh. You can shop for the 6.7-pound lens on Sony’s site now for $13,000.
Teva x Snow Peak
Two style-savvy brands team up for a limited-edition shoe, the Teva Hurricane XLT 2 Alp by Snow Peak. This ’90s-inspired tech sandal sports Snow Peak’s “Outdoor Lifestyle Creator” catchphrase on the strap. And Teva’s polyurethane webbing is quick to dry. These water-ready shoes are available now for $130.
MKC Tab Wallet
Carry your keys in your wallet with the MKC Tab Wallet. With a pull-tab design, you can easily access your cards. And keys swivel out from two dedicated locations for quick use. An RFID-blocking middle pocket protects your information, and you can add accessories like a bottle opener and thumb drive. The MKC Tab Wallet is on Kickstarter now for $53 early bird.
The Plant Shoe
Pineapple, linen, kenaf, eucalyptus, lactae hevea, and cotton are the ingredients in the Plant Shoe. According to the brand, Native, this marks the world’s first modern sneaker made entirely from plant-based components. This means zero waste is left behind after you’re done with your sneaks because these are biodegradable. But the Plant Shoe doesn’t come cheap. The kicks are available now for $200.
Baby DeeDee Sleep Nest Travel
Ever wonder why, in the hot summer months, it still feels comfortable to be covered by at least a sheet at night? Baby Deedee applies this idea to its line of baby products. The brand claims its breathable fabrics help babies feel less exposed, which helps them sleep better as a result. This year, Baby DeeDee made the Sleep Nest Travel, pictured, its first sleeping bag for babies. With ultralight duvet fabric, this bag can be used indoors and out. The Sleep Nest Travel costs between $43 and $55 (depending on size) and is available now.
Dew AVO Drybag
A drybag that looks good? Dew promises to keep your essentials dry without sacrificing on the looks. Launching on Kickstarter on June 18, the AVO drybag is airtight and waterproof with a roll-top design. It features high-frequency welding with supposedly indestructible seams. With water-resistant, quick-access pockets on the outside, a foam padded bottom, and ergonomically shaped shoulder straps, this drybag looks like one you’d want to take around town.
Velocio Ultralight Gloves
Accentuate your skin suit with some flashy gloves from Velocio. The cycling brand goes all in on color with its Ultralight Glove, available in four flashy hues. The Ultralight Glove is a lightweight version of Velocio’s Race Glove. It features limited face fabric for more breathability and a non-padded, durable, synthetic microsuede palm. Check out the $39 gloves on Velocio’s site.
