We toured the floor at Summer Outdoor Retailer—the biggest trade show in the outdoor industry, which just wrapped up in Denver—to check out what some of the leading trail sports brands have in store for next season. For weekend warriors to FKT-record-holders-in-training, these six innovative pieces of gear are sure to keep you fast and light on the trail.
Salomon Odyssey Triple Crown Trail Magic
For Thru-Hikers
Salomon’s new Odyssey Triple Crown Trail Magic can tackle any long-distance trail.
While the three long-distance trails that make up the Triple Crown—the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail—vary wildly in the type of terrain covered, there’s finally a one-stop shoe that can tackle it all. Aside from being incredibly lightweight (9.7 oz. for women, 11.6 oz. for men), this shoe features Salomon’s state-of-the-art Sensifit technology. Coupled with a wider footbox to accommodate the drastic changes a thru-hiker’s feet undergo, this shoe fits better, lasts longer and is a true testament to the spirit of the trail. These kicks will be available in REI stores nationwide starting spring 2019.
Vasque Breeze LT
For Explorers
Photo Credit: Jess Daddio
With Vasque‘s latest mid-cut hiking boot, which will be available at REI in February 2019, hikers get a lightweight boot with the same protection and waterproofing as a burlier option. Thanks to the brand’s exclusive Vibram Ground Control LiteBase outsole, this hiking boot weighs a mere 1 lb. 6 oz. for the women’s model and just 1 lb. 11 oz. for the men’s model, giving it the feel of a trail runner with the support of a traditional hiking boot. Combined with GORE-TEX® and Extended Comfort Technology, the Breeze is a great four-season boot that provides both waterproofing and breathability. The stylish yet subtle colors also make the Breeze look just as fitting in town as it does on the trail.
Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL
For Rockstar Moms
Deuter’s Kid Comfort Active SL, new for 2019, is built specifically for women’s bodies. (Photo Credit: Jess Daddio)
Child-toting backpacks aren’t new to the market by any means, but Deuter is really stepping up the game next spring with the first-ever women-specific kid carrier. The shorter torso range can be easily adjusted to fit bodies of all shapes and sizes, while the tapered shoulder straps and more conical hip belt make carrying that top-heavy load more comfortable. A must-have for active moms everywhere, this pack will be available in select REI stores and online starting in May 2019.
Ultimate Direction SCRAM Pack
For Scramblers
Photo Credit: Jess Daddio
There’s an increasing demand within the industry to design products that prioritize versatility and Ultimate Direction’s SCRAM pack is taking the lead in that arena. Designed by ultrarunner Anton Krupicka, the SCRAM is a 20L pack that was created to tackle it all—skiing, climbing, running and more (hence the acronym). Debuting at REI in select stores and online in February 2019, the SCRAM is made with nylon ACE RIP fabric with STS coating and a water resistant finish. The sleek bungee and hook-loop accessories can easily and securely stow everything from skis to hiking poles. Available in both small/medium and medium/large sizes, this unisex pack comfortably fits a wide range of body types and sizes.
Outdoor Research Refuge Hybrid Hooded Jacket
For Peak Baggers
Photo Credit: Jess Daddio
Layering for high-elevation summertime adventures can sometimes be a challenge, but with Outdoor Research‘s latest synthetic mid layer, alpine lovers will be surprised to find a unique balance of warmth, ventilation and weight. The torso is made with Outdoor Research’s VerticalX™ insulation, which feels more like 700-fill down than standard synthetic insulation. Unlike other synthetic jackets, the Refuge lacks an internal backer, which allows moisture to escape and body temperatures to be better managed. The sleeves are constructed with a water- and wind-resistant ripstop polyester that dries quickly in the event of an unexpected sprinkle. Available in select REI stores this October (women’s only) and online in early 2019 (women’s and men’s), this jacket will no doubt become a staple layer for every adventure, no matter the season.
Princeton Tec SNAP Modular Headlamp Kit
For Dawn Patrollers
Princeton Tec’s Snap headlamp can stick on your bike handlebar or anywhere there’s metal. (Photo Credit: Jess Daddio)
Multisport athletes will appreciate Princeton Tec’s attention to detail with the SNAP Modular Headlamp Kit, an REI exclusive, which just launched earlier this month and can only be found at REI until August. At 3.5 ounces, this small-but-mighty light can of course be worn on your head. Even cooler are its magnetic SnapDapter, which lets you stick the light wherever you need it so long as there’s metal, and its bike handlebar attachment.