After a whirlwind day on the show floor, and a few trends are already standing out. Green products and reducing weight everywhere possible are just a few of the big trends we are seeing. Fast, light, and eco! Here are a few of the standout products we have seen at the show.
Patagonia Footwear:
Last year, Backpacker Magazine challenged five footwear manufacturers to create a hiking boot with their “Zero Impact Challenge.” Eighteen months of research and development went into the production of Patagonia’s entry to the competition, the new P26 hiking boot. They used the opportunity to push the supply-side end of the picture and reduce waste and increase the percentage of recycled content throughout the whole shoe. One example: previously, Patagonia Footwear’s EcoStep Vibram soles had 15% recycled content–now they have 50%. We had a chance to try a pair on in the booth and were shocked at how lightweight they were. Though points were knocked off for the use of leather (a debatable resource), Patagonia stands by their decision, as the bottom line for them is to make a high quality, durable hiking boot that can take a beating. New for the Spring 2011, the boots will be available in men’s and women’s styles and retail for about $200.
Primus and Brunton:
Outdoor gear makers Primus and Brunton have partnered and joined forces, so the new year will bring a new look and products to each brand’s lineup. Rather than have duplicate products, the entire product lineup was refined–Brunton is for gadgets and gear, and Primus will be your source for camping and backpacking stoves, as well as lightweight cookwear, lighters, lanterns and a few flashlights. One of the really cool products we saw was the Primus TiTech Cookware (MSRP $72-90), a line of ultralight titanium cookpots, great for saving a lot of weight when you really need it (and are willing to pay the price). For those who aren’t so concerned with extreme weight-saving, they have also introduced an AluTech cookware line, made of aluminum, ranging in price from $26-36, depending on size and style.
Ruff Wear:
Ruffwear’s big product debut at OR is their new Polar Trex Dog Boots. These dog booties have been in the works for a while, and it’s really exciting to finally see them in person. The Polar Trex boots are designed after lots of requests for a winter-specific boot for dogs. The specially-developed Vibram sole is designed for cold weather traction on snow and ice. A high gaiter with reinforced fabric protects dogs feet and lower leg from ski blades, as well as keeping the bootie secure in deeper snow. All the closures are designed to be adjusted using gloves or mittens, so in cold weather you don’t have to freeze your fingers to get your dogs boot adjusted. MSRP $89.95.
All images courtesy the manufacturers.
