Unveiling the Future of Adventure: Top Gear from Outdoor Retailer Summer 2019
The Outdoor Retailer Summer Market consistently serves as the premier stage for showcasing groundbreaking innovations in the outdoor industry. Each year, enthusiasts, retailers, and industry leaders gather to discover the latest advancements designed to enhance every adventure, from the serene wilderness hike to the most demanding expeditions. The 2019 Summer Market was no exception, brimming with revolutionary products across all categories of outdoor gear. Beyond the sheer ingenuity of the designs, what truly stood out was the pervasive and inspiring social mission promoted by nearly every company in attendance. These forward-thinking brands are not just crafting exceptional equipment; they are embracing their role as diligent stewards of the outdoors, championing sustainability, conservation, and responsible recreation. This commitment to environmental and social responsibility, demonstrated so publicly and passionately, sets the outdoor industry apart, creating a powerful synergy between innovative products and a profound purpose.
From ultralight backpacking essentials to smart personal safety devices, the market was a treasure trove of exciting new releases. Our team meticulously scoured the exhibition floors, test-drove promising prototypes, and engaged with the visionary minds behind these incredible products. While the sheer volume of high-quality gear was impressive, a select few truly captured our attention, standing out for their ingenious design, practical utility, and potential to redefine how we interact with the natural world. Join us as we dive into our top picks, the standouts that promise to elevate your next outdoor experience.
Peak Design Travel Tripod: Redefining Portability for Photographers
For far too long, photographers have faced a dilemma: choose between a bulky, stable tripod or a flimsy, compact one. Peak Design, renowned for its innovative camera accessories, has shattered this compromise with the introduction of its new Travel Tripod. Designed from the ground up, this tripod aims to be the world’s most portable, packable, and effortlessly easy-to-setup professional-grade solution ever conceived. The true genius lies in its meticulously engineered legs, which nest perfectly together when collapsed, achieving an astonishingly slim total packed diameter of just 2.5 inches—remarkably similar in size to a standard water bottle. This groundbreaking design allows the Travel Tripod to extend to an impressive 62 inches at full length, offering the stability and versatility demanded by serious photographers.
Beyond its compact footprint, the Peak Design Travel Tripod excels in user experience. Its system of non-inverted legs rapidly deploys with an aligned configuration of locking cam levers, allowing photographers to set up their shot in mere seconds with just three swift hand movements. The integrated tripod head features a single, intuitive dial for smooth 360-degree adjustment and secure locking, making precise framing a breeze. Furthermore, Peak Design’s proprietary quick-release top-plate technology ensures lightning-fast camera attachment and detachment, eliminating fumbling when crucial moments arise. Whether you’re a globetrotting travel photographer, a landscape enthusiast hiking into remote locations, or a vlogger needing a stable base on the go, the Travel Tripod’s blend of professional performance and unparalleled portability makes it an indispensable tool for capturing breathtaking images and video wherever your adventures lead.
Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD: Powering Your Adventures, Compactly
In our increasingly digital world, keeping devices charged is paramount, especially when exploring off the grid or navigating busy travel hubs. While we’ve long appreciated the robust capabilities of power banks like the Sherpa 100AC for powering laptops and digital cameras on the road, its weight could sometimes be a hindrance for fast-paced travel or ultralight day trips. Enter the new Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD, a sophisticated and significantly more portable solution that offers comparable charging prowess in a streamlined package, ideal for the modern adventurer.
The Sherpa 100PD distinguishes itself by offering versatile charging options without the bulk of its AC-enabled predecessor. It comes equipped with a powerful USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port, two traditional USB-A ports, and a convenient Qi wireless charging pad, allowing it to charge multiple gadgets simultaneously. From smartphones and tablets to laptops and mirrorless DSLR cameras, this compact power bank ensures your essential electronics remain operational. The highlight is its robust 60W USB-C PD port, which not only provides lightning-fast input for recharging the power bank itself but also delivers rapid output to significantly reduce the charging time for your compatible devices. Measuring a mere 7.5 x 3.7 x 1 inches and weighing just 1.4 lbs, the Sherpa 100PD is perfectly sized to slip into a backpack for a wilderness trek or tuck into a work bag for a busy day of travel. Critically, it is airline-approved and ready for global adventures, making it the ultimate companion for keeping all your gear charged, whether you’re navigating airport terminals or enjoying a remote camping experience. Released on July 3, 2019, at an accessible price of $169, the Sherpa 100PD offers an unbeatable combination of power, portability, and convenience.
Vasque Clarion ’88: A Modern Twist on a Classic Hiker
The Vasque Clarion ’88 is more than just a hiking boot; it’s a journey back in time, masterfully blended with cutting-edge technology. This new release evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia for the classic hiking boots of the 1980s, with its distinctive throwback styling that will resonate with seasoned adventurers and new hikers alike. However, beneath its retro exterior lies a boot that is anything but old-fashioned. Vasque has expertly packed a formidable array of modern technical features into this stylish and robust package, ensuring it meets the rigorous demands of contemporary trails.
Designed for durability, comfort, and protection, the Clarion ’88 integrates a Gore-Tex lining, providing unparalleled waterproofing and breathability, keeping feet dry and comfortable in diverse conditions. The renowned Vibram outsole delivers exceptional grip and traction on varied terrains, from slippery rocks to muddy paths, instilling confidence with every step. A premium suede upper not only contributes to its classic aesthetic but also offers durable support and a comfortable fit that molds to your foot over time. This limited-edition classic is built to endure, promising years of reliable performance on the trail. Its thoughtful combination of vintage appeal and advanced functionality makes the Vasque Clarion ’88 a compelling choice for anyone seeking a hiking boot that offers both timeless style and uncompromising modern performance. This highly anticipated boot became available on August 15, 2019, a must-have for collectors and hikers alike.
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak: Affordable Adventure for Everyone
The notion of a high-quality kayak for under $300 might seem impossible, yet the new inflatable Intex Excursion Pro Kayak defies expectations, making waterborne adventures accessible to a broader audience. This remarkable kayak is engineered with a suite of features typically found in much more expensive, high-end models, democratizing the joys of paddling and fishing. Its inflatable design is a game-changer for portability and storage, effortlessly stowing away in the trunk of a car, the bed of a truck, or even a closet when not in use. This eliminates the need for roof racks or dedicated storage spaces, making spontaneous trips to the water easier than ever.
Despite its affordable price point and inflatable construction, the Excursion Pro Kayak doesn’t skimp on amenities. It features adjustable seats and built-in footrests, ensuring a comfortable paddling experience for users of varying heights, even during extended excursions. For angling enthusiasts, the inclusion of fishing rod holders on each side provides convenient, hands-free fishing, allowing paddlers to focus on their catch. Even when fully inflated, strategically placed handles on the front and back offer an easy and secure way to carry the kayak over land, from your vehicle to the water’s edge or across a sandy beach. Crafted from durable, puncture-resistant material, this kayak is designed for stability and resilience, capable of handling various calm water conditions. The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak truly stands out as an exceptional value, offering an accessible entry point into the world of kayaking without compromising on comfort, features, or reliability.
Zero Breeze Outdoor Portable Air-Conditioner: Stay Cool, Anywhere
Camping and outdoor recreation can be incredibly rewarding, but battling oppressive heat and humidity, especially in a tent or small enclosed space, can quickly dampen the experience. Traditional air conditioning units require a constant power supply, limiting their use to areas with electrical hookups. The Zero Breeze Outdoor Portable Air-Conditioner offers a revolutionary solution, providing genuine cooling power wherever your adventures take you, free from the constraints of power lines. This battery-powered AC unit is an absolute game-changer for anyone seeking comfort in hot and humid circumstances, particularly in off-grid environments.
Designed to perform optimally even in challenging conditions, the Zero Breeze effectively creates a conducive and refreshing environment inside tents, small cabins, RVs, or other compact outdoor shelters. Its powerful cooling capabilities ensure that sticky, sleepless nights become a thing of the past, transforming your outdoor living space into a comfortable sanctuary. The portability afforded by its battery operation means you can enjoy cool air deep in the wilderness, on a remote beach, or during a scorching festival. For campers, tailgaters, and anyone who cherishes the outdoors but struggles with the heat, the Zero Breeze portable air conditioner represents a significant leap forward in outdoor comfort technology, allowing you to truly relax and rejuvenate, no matter how high the mercury rises.
Leatherman P-Series: The Next Evolution of Multi-Tools
Leatherman, the undisputed pioneer in multi-tool innovation, has once again raised the bar with the launch of its groundbreaking Free series, beginning with the highly anticipated P-series. The P2 and P4, pliers-based tools, represent a significant leap forward in ergonomic design and functionality, designed to make every interaction smoother, faster, and more intuitive. These tools are built around an innovative magnetic architecture that allows for effortless one-hand opening of all implements, a crucial feature when you have only one hand free or are working in challenging conditions. Gone are the days of wrestling with stiff tools or breaking a nail to access a specific blade or screwdriver.
Having had an exclusive sneak peek at the Free lineup earlier in the year at Outdoor Retailer, the excitement for these tools to hit the market was palpable. As someone who rarely leaves home without a Leatherman—my trusty Wave has been a constant companion, and the Skeletool has become a recent favorite for its minimalist utility—the Free P2 immediately caught my eye as a new must-have for everyday carry. Its thoughtful design ensures that all tools are accessible from the outside, further streamlining workflow and efficiency. The P-series combines Leatherman’s legendary durability and precision craftsmanship with a user experience that genuinely feels revolutionary. For outdoor enthusiasts, DIYers, or anyone who appreciates having a comprehensive toolkit readily available, the Leatherman Free P-series is not just an upgrade; it’s a redefinition of what a multi-tool can be, making it an indispensable part of your gear.
Onewheel Pint: Compact Thrills, Accessible to All
The Onewheel Pint marks an exciting new chapter for the personal electric vehicle industry, introducing Onewheel’s most affordable and user-friendly model yet. Designed to bring the unique, exhilarating experience of Onewheel riding to a wider audience, the Pint combines compact design with impressive performance, making it perfect for urban commutes, campus navigation, or simply cruising for fun. With a top speed of 16 MPH and a practical range of 6-8 miles on a single charge, it offers ample power and endurance for most short to medium-distance trips.
What truly sets the Pint apart is its accessibility. Its smaller form factor and lighter weight make it more maneuverable and easier to carry than its larger siblings, enhancing its appeal for riders looking for a portable solution. The intuitive lean-to-go interface offers a sensation akin to snowboarding or surfing on pavement, providing an incredibly fluid and engaging riding experience that is surprisingly easy to learn. Priced starting at $950, and available for pre-order with shipping commencing in July, the Pint is not only more budget-friendly but also opens up the Onewheel lifestyle to a broader demographic. It’s an ideal choice for new riders eager to experience the carving sensation and freedom of Onewheel, as well as seasoned enthusiasts seeking a nimble and convenient option for everyday adventures. The Onewheel Pint is poised to transform short-distance travel into an exciting journey.
Personal Safety Beacon by Breadcrumb: Your Lifeline in the Wild
In an increasingly connected world, venturing into the wilderness or embarking on solo adventures often means sacrificing the safety net of cellular reception. This is where the Personal Safety Beacon by Breadcrumb emerges as an indispensable tool, offering peace of mind for you and your loved ones. This innovative, Bluetooth-enabled device provides a crucial layer of security, especially when you venture beyond the reach of traditional communication networks. Compact and versatile, it can be easily attached to your backpack, bike, waist, arm, or any piece of gear, becoming a seamless extension of your outdoor kit.
The core functionality of the Breadcrumb beacon is its ability to share your location with designated contacts. By simply granting access to your device via the free Breadcrumb mobile app, you enable friends and family to monitor your whereabouts. The truly revolutionary aspect is that if you don’t return home as expected, your trusted contacts can find your last known location, even if you are in an area without cell reception. This proactive safety measure provides a vital lifeline, allowing rescuers or loved ones to initiate a search with accurate starting points, drastically improving response times in emergencies. For solo hikers, trail runners, backcountry adventurers, or anyone who values personal safety when exploring remote areas, the Breadcrumb Personal Safety Beacon is a small device that offers immense reassurance and could make all the difference when it matters most.
Icemule Coolers: Advanced Portability for Chilled Adventures
When it comes to keeping beverages and food chilled on the go, Icemule Coolers have consistently set the standard for soft-sided, highly portable cooling solutions. All Icemule Coolers are engineered with a focus on rugged durability and superior insulation, featuring fully welded seams and leak-proof zippers that ensure they are 100% waterproof and even buoyant, making them perfect for water-based activities. The brand’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified with the introduction of the all-new GO Series, a collection built from the ground up to redefine portability and performance in soft coolers.
The GO Series introduces advanced new fabrics, enhanced features, and cutting-edge insulation technology, propelling Icemule’s renowned craftsmanship and portability to unprecedented levels. These coolers are specifically designed for absolute comfort and hands-free carrying, featuring ergonomic straps and a lightweight construction that makes transporting your provisions effortless. Whether you’re commuting through the city, exploring the depths of the countryside, relaxing on the coast, or trekking through the mountains, the GO Series ensures your contents remain icy cold and easily accessible. The ability to comfortably carry your cooler like a backpack frees your hands for other essential gear, making it an ideal companion for day trips, picnics, camping excursions, or any adventure where convenience and cold storage are paramount. With the Icemule GO Series, enjoying refreshingly cold drinks and snacks has never been more comfortable or versatile.
Helle Kletten (EDC): A Heritage Blade for Everyday Carry
From the storied workshops of Helle of Norway, an 87-year-old heritage knife maker celebrated for its exquisite Scandinavian craftsmanship, comes a truly remarkable offering: the Helle Kletten. This exceptional folding knife holds the distinction of being the most compact knife ever produced by Helle and marks the brand’s inaugural foray into the everyday carry (EDC) segment. Far more than just a tool, the Kletten is designed to be an heirloom-quality gentleman’s pocket knife, crafted with such precision and enduring beauty that it can be cherished and passed down through generations, embodying a legacy of utility and artistry.
The Kletten was several years in development, a testament to Helle’s dedication to perfection. Weighing in at less than 3 ounces and measuring a mere 3.1 inches long when folded, its incredibly compact size belies its formidable capability. Tucked within its elegant handle is a 2.1-inch drop point blade, forged from Helle’s renowned triple-laminated stainless steel. This legendary material is celebrated for its exceptional strength, edge retention, and resistance to corrosion. The blade features a razor-sharp Scandinavian flat ground edge, a hallmark of Helle knives, ensuring superior cutting performance and ease of sharpening. Despite its diminutive stature, the Kletten is a fully capable and reliable companion for a myriad of daily tasks, from opening packages to intricate crafting. Its blend of traditional Norwegian knife-making excellence, innovative design for modern portability, and a commitment to generational quality makes the Helle Kletten an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a functional, beautiful, and enduring everyday carry knife.
Embracing the Future: A Concluding Look at Outdoor Innovation
The Outdoor Retailer Summer 2019 Market was a vibrant testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of the outdoor industry. From ingenious new takes on essential gear like the Peak Design Travel Tripod and Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD, which solve long-standing user challenges, to groundbreaking innovations in personal mobility with the Onewheel Pint and enhanced safety with the Breadcrumb Personal Safety Beacon, the products showcased represent a forward-thinking vision for outdoor adventure. We saw a powerful blend of nostalgic design and modern performance in the Vasque Clarion ’88, and the accessibility of activities like kayaking was broadened by products like the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak.
Beyond the individual products, the overarching theme of sustainability and responsible outdoor stewardship resonated deeply. It’s clear that today’s outdoor brands are not just competing on features and price; they are competing on impact and purpose, inspiring a generation of adventurers to explore more responsibly. As we look ahead, the innovations from events like the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market promise not only to enhance our experiences in nature but also to deepen our connection to it, ensuring that the spirit of adventure thrives for many years to come. Investing in quality, thoughtfully designed gear means investing in better, safer, and more enjoyable outdoor pursuits, aligning perfectly with the industry’s admirable mission to protect the very environments that inspire us.