Twice a year companies around the world come to Salt Lake City to show off all their newest gear at the Outdoor Retailer Show. Each year that I go I am always looking for that next great development that will make my outdoor lifestyle even better. This show definitely didn’t disappoint with some great new products coming in 2015. Read on to see what you will need to put on your wish list.
Brooks Cascadia 10
With each new update the Cascadia just keeps getting better, making it one of our favorite trail shoes. Tackle tricky terrain with 4-point pivot posts that balance like an SUV’s independent suspension system and protect the feet with the ballistic rock shield underfoot. No-sew construction brings lightweight comfort and a BioMoGo DNA midsole adapts cushioning to not only your feet, but also the surfaces of adventure. Enhancements like a soft, pliable materials throughout, and more readily activated pivots equip this next generation Cascadia for any trail.
Features:
• Decoupled outsole around pivots maximizes function and adaptability, and allows pivots to activate more readily
• Free-floating webbing and a TPU saddle provide a conformable, locked in fit
• Soft, pliable materials throughout and a virtually seamless upper construction maximize comfort
• BioMoGo DNA, Full-length S-257 Cushsole
• Heel and Forefoot Pivot Posting System
• Forefoot Ballistic Rock Shield
• Forefoot Cushpod Construction
• Profile Sockliner
• Moisture-managing Element Mesh and linings
• Available: Spring 2015
• Men’s and Women’s models
• MSRP: $120.00
• http://www.brooksrunning.com
HOKA Challenger ATR
HOKA is coming out with a few new shoes for Spring 15 but one to watch for is the Challenger ATR. This is a new trail shoe that features the lightweight, smooth-riding characteristics of the their award-winning Clifton road shoe. But because this is a trail shoe they have increased the support in the upper and gave it a more aggressive outsole. Independent rubber pods with 4mm lugs provide for adaptive, all-terrain traction on a variety of surfaces. This versatile, all-terrain shoe weighs in at 8.6 ounces (men’s 9.)
• Available: Spring 2015
• Men’s and Women’s models
• MSRP: $130.00
New Balance Fresh Foam Boracay
For Spring 2015, New Balance will introduce an update to their Fresh Foam series with the Fresh Foam Boracay. Designed to preserve the ultra-soft ride that runners have come to enjoy with the original Fresh Foam, this update looks to increase the cushy feel to make the ride even smoother. The Fresh Foam Boracay continues with data driven design, which provides a revolutionary approach to neutral running by combining ultra-plush cushioning with a reduced 4mm midsole offset. By combining the intelligence and experience of a human designer with cutting edge computer software, the New Balance design team studied and applied the strike and impact patterns of runner’s data. The learnings from this research influenced sidewall shapes and geometries, and even a more intuitive top bed design for the one piece mid-sole foam that has incredible flexibility and ride. The Fresh Foam Boracay features a soft, plush upper lux to the foot, inclusive of our neoprene stretch tongue, designed for a comfortable lace up experience for this runner.
• February 2015
• MSRP: $119.95
Salomon S-Lab X-Series
It was interesting seeing this shoe come from Salomon. Known mainly for their trail shoes, the S-Lab X-Series is their first take at what they are calling an urban trail shoe. The S-Lab X-Series offers a collection of 3D technologies to race across a diverse urban landscape with precise foothold, assured traction, and a dynamic ride. Some key features are a 2-way stretch lycra and quick drying breathable mesh upper. It features Salomon’s Quicklace system and lace pocket like their trail shoes.
Features:
• Weight: 8.36oz (size US 9)
• Protective synthetic toe cap
• Racing last
• Non marking Contagrip®
• Available: Spring 2015
• Men’s and Women’s models
• MSRP: $160.00
Saucony Speed of Lite Jacket
For Spring 2015 Saucony is introducing the Speed of Lite Jacket. It is engineered and designed to be extremely lightweight, while still protecting against the elements, and maintaining maximum breathability. X-Static XT2® silver threads, which provide permanent anti-microbial performance are combined with VENTLITE mesh at the back and underarms to keep runners dry, and odor-free. A DWR-coated front panel and sleeves provide water resistance. A couple key features are the hidden back zippered storage pocket and that it packs into its own pocket for easy storage.
Features:
• Laser cut perforation at the upper back
• X-Static XT2® made with pure silver, for permanent anti-microbial performance
• Long, lean fit with shaped bottom hem and slight drop-tail
• Hidden back zippered storage pocket keeps your essentials secure
• Reflective details on front chest and cuffs keep you bright in low light
• Packs into its own pocket for easy storage on the go
• Envelope style thumbholes keep sleeves down and hands warm, but stay covered when not in use
• Available: Spring 2015
• Men’s and Women’s models
• MSRP: $95.00
• http://www.saucony.com/en/home
Orange Mud Double Barrel Pack
I am always looking for a good way to carry water while out on long runs. The Double Barrel is a great solution. The first thing that I noticed about this pack is how high it rode on the back, leaving the lower back cooler. There are two neoprene stretch pockets on the shoulder straps that are great for gels, other energy food or anything you need quick access to. There is also a rear pocket that can fit a more food, phone and other essentials items but it still hugs the back. As the name applies it hold two water bottles, which are included. Definitely check out this new company and pack. Also check back for my full review of the Double Barrel coming soon.
Features:
• Medical grade neoprene stretch web on pocket closure.
• Padded arm sleeves for extra comfort on the long haul.
• Dual interior zippered cargo, accessible on the fly.
• Reflective logo in between the bottle holders.
• 2 bottles, 24oz each included.
• 1″ thick antimicrobial back padding
• Silky smooth webbing for comfort and a solid fit.
• Canted bottles for easy reach.
• Weight: 498 grams
• Warranty-Lifetime. Plus if you don’t like this pack use it first, beat it up, get it dirty, then send it back if it just doesn’t work.
• MSRP: $109.95
• http://www.orangemud.com/collections/running-packs/products/hydraquiver-db
Magellan Cyclo 505 GPS Cycling Computers
The Cyclo 505 is a powerful GPS cycling computers specifically designed to provide the most routing options, sensor support and connectivity. This cycling computer has a big 3” touch screen making it the largest touch screen in the GPS cycling computer category. Compatible with over 140 ANT + sensors for monitoring heart rate, speed, cadence, power and more and support wireless Shimano Di2 to be able to read and record shifting information. It has direct Bluetooth Smart sensor support, Wi-Fi® capabilities, wireless music control (from your smartphone) and text message notifications/alerts. Also one of the best features is the Surprise Me™ feature. This lets you choose between different routes (up to 3) provided after the rider has entered either distance or time criteria. Choose the difficulty and grade that is best suited for you or your group.
Features:
• Complete USA road network and OSM crowd source trail data showing cycling POIs like bicycle shops
• Surprise Me™ suggests up to 3 different routes after entering distance or time criteria
• Bluetooth® Smart connectivity for smartphones and sensors including over 130 ANT+ speed, cadence, heart rate and power accessories
• Compatible with Shimano Di2 electronic road bicycle shifting systems with Di2 Wireless Unit featuring D-Fly
• Shake-N-Share keeps everyone together by sharing a route with other Cyclo 315 or 505 series owners
• 505 and 505hc include Out-front mount, 505hc model includes heart rate monitor and speed/cadence sensor
• Price: $429.99-$499.99
• http://www.magellangps.com/Store/Cyclo-Series/Magellan-Cyclo-505-USA
Smith Overtake Bike Helmet
The Overtake is the most comprehensive road bike helmet on the market through the use of AEROCORE™ construction featuring Koroyd®, a series of polymer cores that absorbs 30% more energy than traditional EPS foam. Ultra-lightweight (250g) and boasting superior ventilation, aerodynamics, lower weight, and overall protection against its competition. Select colors available with MIPS® linings to reduce force to the brain in the case of low, high, multi and rotational impacts. Additional features include 21 optimized vents for balanced aerodynamic performance without compromising ventilation, Smith’s VaporFit™ dial-operated 360 adjustable fit system, and ultimate sunglass integration.
Features:
• Lightweight AEROCORE™ In-Mold Construction
• Ventilated Protection Featuring Patented Koroyd® Material
• Integrated Skeletal Structure and Aramid Filament Reinforcement
• VaporFit™ Adjustable Fit System
• 21 Optimized Vents Balance Aerodynamic Performance Without Compromising Ventilation
• NEW X-Static with Reactive Cooling Performance Lining
• Ultra-Light Single Layer Webbing
• AirEvac Ventilation
• Ultimate Sunglass Integration
• Available: November 2014.
• MSRP $250 / $290 with MIPS.
Adidas terrex Agravic Tee
The terrex Agravic Tee, with a mix of 50 percent merino wool and 50 percent ThermoCool polyester, provides you with a base layer that transports sweat away from the body and an ideal next to skin feel. This base layer fabric also absorbs moisture and insulates the body even when wet. In addition, this lightweight tee (4.2oz) is made out of just one piece of fabric and has only two seams, making it very comfortable when wearing under a backpack.
Features:
• Pontetorto® Merino Tecnowool: 50% merino wool/50% ThermoCool hollow fiber polyester.
• No seams on the back piece and only 2 seams on the front
• Colors men: base green
• Weight: 4.2oz
• Available: Spring 2015
• MSRP: $125.00
• http://www.adidas.com/us/outdoor
GU New Flavor Energy Gels
Since the launch of the Salted Carmel flavor, GU energy gels have become a regular addition to my pack for hikes and trail runs. They are now introducing a couple new flavors that will definitely make it in my pack as well. The two new flavors are Root beer and Lemonade. I think I like them as much as I do because I love both Root beer and lemonade. The past summer I have even became more convinced of just how effective GU energy gels can be while hiking with a couple people that almost didn’t make it without it extra boost.
• Box of 24 gel packets – $31.50
• Box of 8 gel packets – $11.60
• http://guenergy.com/guenergygel-original.html