It is always hard to figure out what to include in these Best of Show guides and what products just to don’t make it. There is only so much room. In this Best of Show we found products to help you in your travels, tents that are both light and functional, gear to help you enjoy the water and more. We hope you find this gear has interesting and innovative as we did.
Eagle Creek EC Lync Luggage
With a large number of people living in apartments, condos or other small spaces, Eagle Creek built this piece with them in mind. Eagle Creek is reinventing versatility with the new EC Lync™ System. They call this the next “lync” in travel gear. Super lightweight and built Eagle Creek strong, the EC Lync shifts from wheeled upright to ultra-light backpack and then breaks down for storage in very small spaces. It also comes with Eagle Creek’s “No Matter What Warranty.”
• Available: Spring 2015
• MSRP: $280-$320
Grand Trunk Getaway and Explorer Toiletry Kits
If you love to travel you need to check out these Toiletry Bags. The Getaway is perfect a week’s worth of toiletry items and the bigger Explorer is best suited for extended trips. It has a multifunctional attachment hook that can secure the bag closed, hang easily from a hanger or hook, or handle any other MacGyver rigs you come up with. One of the most useful as well as unique feature is the LED Light and Mirror which makes it easy to freshen up on any late night train ride or where power is not available.
Features:
• 600D Oxford Nylon Exterior
• Multiple waterproof YKK zippers with zipper garage
• Custom buckle for multiple hanging/clip options
• Mirror with LED Lighting
• Waterproof Interior
• Water Resistant Exterior
• MSRP: $79.99-$99.99
• http://www.grandtrunkgoods.com/
ECCO O2 Shoes
The ECCO O2 is a highly breathable, fully waterproof shoe for men and women featuring GORE-TEX SURROUND technology to keep feet cool, dry and comfortable even on warmer days. Part of the Spring/Summer 2015 collection, the shoe represents joint development efforts between ECCO and GORE to create a new outdoor everyday option showcasing both companies’ latest walking comfort technologies. Each shoe is constructed using a special GORE-TEX membrane that surrounds the foot from above as well as below. This works in concert with a smart air channeling system in the sole and ECCO-exclusive lateral midsole vents to deliver 360-degree comfort and weather protection.
Features:
• Perforated upper in soft and smooth yak leather offers athletic flexibility and excellent breathability
• GORE-TEX® SURROUND waterproof construction with increased breathability ensures an optimal climate for your feet
• High-density insole enhances moisture transportation
• Direct-injected PU midsole foam and foot-fitted last provide long-lasting cushioning and outstanding walking comfort
• Durable and lightweight TPU outsole for outstanding flexibility and all-day comfort
• Available: Spring 2015
• Men’s and Women’s models
• MSRP: $190.00
Patagonia Crag Daddy
This crag pack carryall provides easy access through a duffel style opening and features an internal frame for a comfortable carry even when fully loaded. The pack uses durable Cordura nylon fabric for puncture and abrasion resistance. The massive main compartment has duffel-bag style opening making loading and unloading gear simple. There is a zippered stash pocket for guide books and stretch mesh water bottle side pockets. Side compression straps accommodate various loads a Air Flow mesh shoulder straps and back panel, padded waist strap and an adjustable sternum strap are some other notable features.
• Available in two sizes: Small/medium and large/extra large
• Available: January 2015
• http://www.patagonia.com/us/home
Sierra Designs Tensegrity Tent
2015 marks Sierra Designs 50th Anniversary and in celebration of the occasion, they have created the Sierra Designs Elite Collection. Part of this collection is the Sierra Designs Tensegrity Elite Tents. To honor the principle of ‘tensional integrity’ for which they are named, the Tensegrity Elite tents represent an aggressive reimagining of non-freestanding tent design. Using only two trekking poles, one included pole, and seven tent stakes to pitch, these tarp tents are light and sturdy while offering a ton of interior space. Thanks to this unique configuration, Tensegrity Elite tents are wider at the top than at the bottom, giving backpackers extra space where it’s needed most, making them far more comfortable to use. To save weight, the tents use 20D nylon ripstop in the floor and body. This ultralight nylon is silicone treated on both sides to increase durability, but will need to be seam sealed. Large drop doors give an open, airy feel and tons of ventilation while 12” awnings provide abundant sun and rain protection. Tensegrity Elite tents are also available in Tensegrity FL (Feather Light) versions, offering 30D nylon ripstop floors, 20D polyester ripstop body, and seam taping throughout.
• Tensegrity 1 Elite (1lb, 10oz; 17.1 sq ft interior; $399.95)
• Tensegrity 2 Elite (2lb, 2oz; 29.3 sq ft interior; $489.95)
• Tensegrity 1 FL (1lb, 15oz; 17.1 sq ft interior; $319.95)
• Tensegrity 2 FL (2lb, 8oz; 29.3 sq ft interior; $389.95).
• https://www.sierradesigns.com/
Big Agnes MtnGlo Tent Series
Big Agnes announces a new collection of tents and camping accessories featuring mtnGLO™ Tent Lighting Technology, a proprietary, integrated illumination system. The patent pending mtnGLO™ Collection features multiple tents across a variety of categories, ranging from ultralight backpacking tents to car and base camping models. The patent pending technology features LEDs integrated into the construction of a tent. The LED lighting technology easily turns on and off with the flick of a switch so backpackers and campers no longer have to fumble for headlamps or flashlights in the dark. Big Agnes partnered with Joey Energy, an American brand that invented an integrated power supply that is currently found in backpacks and courier bags. The Joey T55, available in select mtnGLO™ Collection products, is designed with rugged electronics and a tough, water-resistant case. It can be charged via wall outlets or USB ports and provides high-speed charging for most devices.
• Available: Spring 2015
Therm-a-Rest Bug Shelter
It seems at each show Therm-a-Rest keeps exanding their sleep systems to have a more complete system. For Spring 2015 they will be introducing the bug shelter to their line. This fits snugly atop of their UltraLite cot to keep mosquitos, spiders, and other uninvited guests at bay. The bug-stopping mesh retains high-clarity visibility and ventilation while the easy-to-set-up unified hub and pole system erects 55 in. high for a tent-like sleep experience.
• Available: January 2015
• http://www.cascadedesigns.com/therm-a-rest
Klymit Static V Luxe
I have been a longtime fan of Klymit’s different pads now for a few years and each year they seem to create a new pad that is either lighter or more comfortable. This year is was all about comfort. The Static V Luxe is the largest and most comfortable inflatable pad in the Klymit line. The Static V Luxe features the same V Chambers as the original Static V, but in a cushioned three-inch thick, 30 inch wide and 76 inch long design. The V Chambers limit air movement and heat loss, and distribute weight for better support and comfort. The pad inflates in approximately 16 breaths, and the added dynamic side rails ensure sleepers don’t slip off.
Features:
• Weight: 25 oz.
• Inflated Size: 30 x 76 x 3 in.
• Packed Size: 4 x 9 in.
• Fabric: 75D Polyester
• MSRP: $89.95
Montane Minimus Grand Tour Jacket
Weighing a mere 7.6 oz., this ultralight backpacking shell is loaded with technical features for long-wearing comfort. Two angled body vents deliver unimpeded, adjustable breathability, while zoned construction pairs PERTEX Shield+ with PERTEX Shield Lite in the shoulders, hips and rear for added durability. Micro-taped seams are purposefully designed away from pack contact zones. A three-point adjustable helmet-compatible hood, zippered chest pocket, semi-elastic cuffs and articulated sleeves round out the jacket without adding unnecessary weight.
• Weight 7.6 oz.
• MSRP: $259.00
Brooks Range Lt. Breeze Jacket
I don’t know if it has to do with “Breeze” in the name but this jacket is one to watch for in 2015. The Lt. Breeze Jacket features a groundbreaking moisture management system that will change the way you look at wind jackets. Perfect for keeping the chill off during high aerobic activities such as hiking, biking, or evening adventures, the outer shell of the jacket uses a 20d lightweight and breathable nylon to protect the user from the elements and the inside of the jacket is lined with spongy fleece dots. The fleece dots move sweat away from your skin and keep the inside of the jacket from becoming clammy, making it possible to wear as an outer layer or standalone piece. A minimalist design, the Lt. Breeze weighs only 5.5 oz. making it easy to throw in your pack or pocket. Features include a chest pocket, low bulk cuffs, and a zipper guard.
• Available: Spring 2015
• MSRP: $119.95
Columbia Ventrailia
Columbia keeps expanding their multiuse shoes and new for Spring 15 is the Ventrailia. Built with Techlite technology to provide all day comfort and great cushioning. They have also added midsole ports for built in ventilation and cooling with each step. Another great feature of the midsole ports is it ability to help dry the shoe. If you happen to get these wet, the midsole ports not only let water out but help to dry the shoe at you walk as well. Columbia has designed this shoe to go from light hiking to short trail runs.
Features:
• Techlite technology provides long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return
• Shock absorbent midsole
• Omni-Grip, non-marking traction rubber
• Multi-sport, lightweight shoe provides support, comfort, and ventability in one package
• Midsole ports for air ventilation and cooling
• Weight: 10.0oz for 1/2 pair
• Available: Spring 2015
• Men’s and Women’s models
• MSRP: $90.00
Chaco Outcross Evo 2
For Spring 2015, Chaco adds more styles to the successful OutCross collection, with the EVO 1, 2, 3 MJ and kids options. The OutCross platform of protective and versatile shoes, which launched to rave reviews and solid sales in 2014, moves forward with the new OutCross Evo collection in 2015. The OutCross Evo collection provides essential coverage with new colors, styles, and unique silhouettes that span land and water. With three styles for men, four for women, and a colorful offering for kids, the OutCross Evo collection combines breathable mesh and jacquard webbing to provide varying levels of open construction and ventilation across the styles. Each shoe has an instant-comfort, microfoam layer resting atop the premium polyurethane (PU) LUVSEAT footbed and nylon support shank. The rugged, non-marking EcoTread™ outsole is made with 25 percent recycled rubber and has 3.5mm lugs and a molded, siped tread design to offer impressive traction no matter the terrain.
• Available: Spring 2015
• Men’s and Women’s models
• OutCross Evo 1, 2: $110.00
• Evo 3: $115.00
• EVO MJ: $100.00
• Kids: $55.00
Old Town Next
Elegantly combining the comfort and solo-paddling performance of a kayak with the convenience, capabilities and confidence of a canoe. Crafted using the 3-layer construction technique that Old Town helped pioneer and patent, the NEXT incorporates some of the brand’s newest innovations like the Element seat system and blends them with the brand’s years of expertise. Lightweight, fun and easy to paddle, the NEXT is built for the adventurous, independent spirit. It has a pronounced tumblehome design which reduces the amount of reach required when paddling; improving paddling ability for both the two-bladed and traditional single blade paddler. The NEXT has a trim profile, sitting low to the water to reduce drag in wind, while Old Town engineers crafted the boat’s hull to include a subtle rocker that provides straight, smooth tracking.
Features:
• Length: 13’
• Overall Width: 29”
• Seat Width: 21”
• Weight: 49 lbs.
• Carrying Capacity: 450 lbs.
• Material: 3-Layer Poly
• MSRP: $999.00
Bomber Gear Palguin Dry Suit
Bomber Gear is introducing Polartec NeoShell to the paddlesports world for the first time ever in 2015. Polartec NeoShell is a material that has shifted the paradigm in the waterproof/breathable category and has been used by snowsports and outdoor companies since its inception. It is the first fabric to combine the superior breathability, ventilation and stretch of a soft shell with the waterproof performance and durability of a hard shell. The Palguin Technical Outwear series includes a dry suit, dry top and dry pants. The series also features 4-way stretch glideskin neoprene on the neck for added comfort, the highest quality waterproof zippers and latex gaskets for superior durability and reinforced panels in high wear areas.
• Available: Spring 2015
• Palguin Dry Suit: $999.99
• Palguin Dry Top” $399.99
• Palguin Dry Pants: $249.99