“Gradually, then suddenly.”
Since The Sun Also Rises, Hemingway’s signature quip has been used to describe everything from political upheaval to cultural change — or, for our purposes, industry in flux.
Some of the products that make up this year’s GP100, a retrospective of its most important releases, represent the slow-burning trends quietly shaping our world. These include a rugged ring watch, rethink of the carry-on and modular pickup truck, all glimpses of where we might be headed.
Others, such as an AI-powered web browser or MIM (metal injection molded) knife blade, showcase the far end of the fuse, the place where innovation becomes not only material but irreversible.
Like with last year’s list, our team has taken on the task of ranking the inductees, an imperfect science considering the scope of the categories covered.
We’ve also cast a wider net than ever, focusing more breakthroughs in place of hard release dates, which can vary by markets and often hide the stories worth telling.
As such, the 2025 Gear Patrol GP100 is sure to ruffle a few feathers, if not for the selections then certainly for their order. Though perhaps it’s for the best.
After all, change is not always smooth nor welcome. But it is always on its way, first slowly before arriving all at once.
GP100: We will reveal this year’s GP100 winners in batches of 20 over the course of the week. Bookmark the collection page to stay on top of the countdown. In the meantime, see last year’s winners.
