I’m just a few hours away from my flight to Salt Lake City, Utah to attend the Summer Outdoor Retailer show which kicks off tomorrow, August 1. Who’s excited? *Hand raised.* (Me.)
The Outdoor Retailer show takes place two times a year, once during January for winter sports, and again in August for summer sports. Major outdoor industry companies showcase their new products for the upcoming season. Buyers from REI all the way down to small local retailers peruse (read: powerwalk the convention center) the boothes for new clothing and gear for the following year. I’m a lucky duck and am attending the show as member of the working media. I attended this past Winter OR show and had a fantastic and insightful time. It’s incredible the quality of clothes and outdoor gear these companies are developing, and I’m bursting with excitement to share with you what I see during this next week.
Here are just a couple of the companies I’m particularly amped up to check out…
These guys (who are also based in Seattle-local!) are a particular favorite of mine. ExOfficio is introducing a new travel clothing line featuring their drirelease technology which keeps your clothes more fresh and you less stinky. I saw the photos of the their new goods and let me tell you, the clothes are looking sharp! I just might have to go shopping before my trip to Switzerland in October. 🙂
The company that successfully brought recess back. I was impressed when I saw KEEN at winter OR back in January, their styles are fresh, fashionable and functional. And my MJ Sienna shoes are in regular rotation in my wardrobe here in Seattle. No doubt these guys will continue to shine in the footwear industry, and I look forward to see what they’ve come up with for summer 2013.
Horny Toad continually puts out clothes that are comfortable, simple and flattering. Perfect for travel. I particularly enjoy their skirts and long sleeved shirts. As y’all know, my fashion style is down-to-earth, if you were to even say I had a fashion style. This being said, Horny Toad is a standard go-to for everyday wear. Stay tuned to hear what they’ve come up with for next year.
Yet another company that dazzled me at the winter show. They are introducing a new line of travel packs and luggage this fall which I got to look at up close last January. The luggage was solid and stylish, make sure to keep an eye out for these packs on their website and in stores. I am sure they will have something “wow” up their sleeve at the show this week.
Photo courtesy of Summer OR.