We’re on the ground at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2017, scouting the best new gear from the outdoor industry launching in 2018. Ahead of announcing our annual picks for Best in Show, we’re taking a moment each day of the show to share some our favorite items from the floor.
Yeti Panga Duffel
Yeti announced its first-ever duffel bag, the Panga, at the end of last month. The original images were impressive, but the bag itself lives up to all the hype that Yeti has garnered for its rugged coolers (and every other product the Texas-based company creates). The fully waterproof bag comes in 50, 75 and 100 liter volumes, and best of all, you can get your hands on one right now.
Rab Flashpoint Pull On
UK-based Rab Equipment is a mountaineering brand to its core, but that doesn’t mean its innovative technical outerwear can’t be leveraged for use closer to sea level. The Flashpoint Pull On is a super-lightweight shield that guards against rain and wind thanks to three-layer waterproofing from Pertex (also based in the UK). It also comes in a pared-down anorak profile, which keeps weight low (4.6oz to be exact) and style high.
Spyderco Shaman
Spyderco was built on one fundamental design principle: easy, one-handed knife opening. It’s a simple idea, aptly applied to a simple yet wholly-utilitarian knife such as the Shaman. The new, large-bladed drop point folder is a welcome addition to Spyderco’s wide range of knives. The 3.58in CPM S30V stainless steel blade will be available with either a serrated or plain edge, and both come with the patented Round Hole cutout.
Danner South Rim 600
You know Danner from its classic brown leather and often red-laced hiking boots. They’re burly, built with materials capable of lasting more miles than you could ever put on them. The company’s latest, inspired by the more-frequented side of the Grand Canyon, is a lightweight hiker built with a combination of mesh and water-resistant suede. The South Rim 600 sheds bulk without sacrificing style.
Thule UpRide
Thule has always been there for you when it comes to hauling your stuff around, and its latest bike rack adds to its roster of thoughtful gear haulers. The UpRide is a universal rooftop bike rack that uses a front wheel cradle in order to lock in bicycles of nearly every shape and size without any contact to the frame, which will have fans of carbon rejoicing.
