Having more than 1300 exhibitors at Outdoor Retailer last week in Salt Lake City, I was in a state of dazzle and awe for the three days of the show I attended. Here are some of the incredible products that caught my eye for next summer season, broken down into categories because well, there were just too many good ones to choose from.
Shoes (Minimalist and Trail Running)
We all remember the introduction of the Classic Vibram shoe in 2005, the one that looked like a toe-sock shaped shoe. Though there is still a strong market for these extreme minimalist shoes that mimic barefoot running (think VivoBarefoot), there are a number of companies putting forth “Minimalist 2.0” style shoes as Leisure Trends would call it. These shoes provide more support, heal cushioning and rigidity in a slightly heavier shoe.
Specifically, KEEN is lauching their lightweight CNX line in multi-sport, casual and water-sport models. Each shoe in the line is less than 10 ounces and has a 4-mm drop from the heel to the toe, which supports the foot it its’ natural movement. The look on their water-sport CNX shoe is the tried and true classic KEEN look shown here. I was impressed with how light and bendable the shoes were compared to previous models.
Other footwear that caught my eye were Brooks PureProject shoes (4 different types to choose from!), Salomon XR Mission, Adidas Climacool Boat Lace and ECCO Biom Trail Perfomance shoes. Oh, and I can’t forget the Fore Runner RS from Patagonia!
Portable Power Chargers
Outdoor enthusiasts love playing outside, but they also love to remain connected. (Personally I fear the day that cell phone reception will reach river trips. 🙁 ) New portable electronic chargers are gaining ground for the summer 2013 market. Timbuk2 partnered with Joey Energy to showcase a messenger bag capable of charging electronics while you’re out and about (such a good idea!!) Also, the Biolite stove not only uses just twigs to fuel its’ campstove, but it also has an outlet to charge your USB friendly gadget at the same time.
And, I’ve saved the best for last: Goal Zero. This company wowed me with their various power kits able to charge anything from an iPod to a flat screen television. This being said, I hope people don’t start bringing their TV’s out with them camping. It’s called communing with nature for a reason!
Quick Drying Women’s Travel Wear
The list for companies putting out high durable and fashionable travel and active wear only keeps getting longer, not shorter.
I noticed a specific trend of high-quality organic cotton and merino wool being used, which feel smooth like butter next to your skin. I especially enjoyed seeing Horny Toad‘s new Seahorse dress in particular, shown here.
Aventura Clothing eco friendly and organic clothing also had some eye-catchers to watch for in 2013, as did merino wool powerhouses Icebreaker and Ibex.
A surprise for me this show was seeing Redington’s women’s clothing line.
I didn’t realize this fly-fishing company had women’s apparel, and I was pleasantly surprised at the booth to see the Crystal Waters Skirt. It looks perfect for travel.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of Outdoor Retailer Gear Wrap-Up…
Photo of shoes courtesy of KEEN, Biolite Stove of Biolite, Horny Toad Seahorse Dress of Backbone Media and skirt of Redington.