Overland News of the Week

Dainese Group Announces Most Advanced Airbag Vest

The Smart Air promises to be a significant upgrade to its predecessor and features the new D-Air triple-activation airbag, which can be deployed three times before requiring replacement. It incorporates a user-friendly and replaceable gas generator, which triggers the airbag in just 45 milliseconds (4x faster than the blink of an eye). The D-Air is powered by a rechargeable battery (lasts up to 12 hours) and brings MotoGP technology to the everyday rider. We’re all guilty of spending money unnecessarily on our interests, but this potentially life-saving accessory is worth every dime.

$699 | dainese.com

Full Windsor Magware Collection

At some point, most overland travelers will experience some form of irritating rattle when navigating backcountry roads, and a common culprit is cutlery/utensils. Fortunately, the new Magware collection from Full Windsor looks to be an ideal solution. As the name suggests, the products are magnetic, which allows for easy, secure, and rattle-free stacking. The lightweight and eco-friendly lineup utilizes space-grade materials, includes various cutlery and bowl sets, enjoys a lifetime guarantee, and is available in a range of colors. Finally, they feature a hard anodized finish for easy cleaning and are dishwasher-safe.

$varies | fullwindsor.com

Nomad Wheels 505 Touring

Nomad continues to produce some of the best-looking overland-ready wheels on the market. To this end, the company has unveiled its 505 Touring wheels, inspired by long-distance races across the African continent. The new Dakar-infused wheel is constructed using lightweight A356-T6 aluminum and showcases a 10-spoke design with a color-matched snap-on cap and debossed Nomad logo. The 505s are offered in three colorways (black, salt, and silver), pass or exceed all DOT standard load ratings, and are sold in 16- and 17-inch diameters. Finally, they enjoy a lifetime structural warranty and are the official wheel of Tread Lightly.

$269 | nomadwheels.com

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Aspect 32 Pack :: Overland News

The Aspect 32 is a minimalist day pack designed with backcountry skiing in mind but is also suitable for various activities. It’s available in three torso-length sizes and is constructed using fully woven Dyneema and DCH 150 materials for exceptional durability. It incorporates a dual ice tool carry system, external daisy chains and pockets, a zippered lid pocket, hip belt, side compression straps, YKK zippers, glove-friendly buckles, and more. Despite a plethora of features, the new pack weighs just 27.3 ounces and provides 32 liters of volume. If you’re looking for an ultra-lightweight technical pack for the upcoming season, then look no further.

$349 |hyperlitemountaingear.com

Garmin Tread 2 Powersport Navigator and Handlebar Controller

Tread 2 is an off-road navigator purpose-built for snowmobiles, side-by-sides, ATV, UTV, and motorcycle enthusiasts. It incorporates an array of attributes to navigate the backcountry, including on- and off-road mapping, satellite imagery, live updates, federal public land boundaries, and access to Outdoor Maps+ (which requires a subscription). In addition, it integrates a 6-inch, high-resolution, ultra-bright display and is IP67 dust/water rated. Garmin has also unveiled the Tread-compatible handlebar controller (sold separately), allowing users to zoom in/out of their map view, select/scroll through map layers and waypoints, and control music using the intuitive glove-friendly push button design.

$700/Tread 2, $150/handlebar controller | garmin.com

Tern Overland Launches New 550 x 1,450 Arctic Tern Dual Pane Acrylic Window

After seven years of supplying the same 11 sizes, Tern Overland has announced the largest dual-pane acrylic window available on the market. This impressive product is offered in both Classic and Flat models and spans 550 x 1,450 millimeters. It delivers expansive views and ventilation while providing the same robust thermal insulation. Additional properties include a UV and impact-resistant acrylic and lightweight aluminum frame, blackout blind and fine mesh bug screen (available in white or black), push-button locking handles with a semi-locking position, and a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. It’s the ultimate choice for maximum light and thermal efficiency in your rolling home.

$1,007-1,042 | ternoverland.com

Rogue Panda Blue Ridge Handlebar Harness

Rogue Panda’s Blue Ridge Handlebar Harness promises to be their most stable handlebar system to date and has been tested with up to 6 pounds of gear. The lightweight solution (8.5 ounces) is made with CNC-machined aluminum clamps (made in Flagstaff, AZ) and attaches securely without needing a head tube attachment. Twin carbon fiber bars hold the drybag from your head tube, while nylon shims protect your handlebars. The system is offered with various optional extras, including Drop Bar Cable Shims, Austere Mfg Cam Buckles, and a Blue Ridge ccessory Bar (perfect for mounting lights, GPS, phone, etc).

$200 | roguepanda.com

Kia Tasman Pickup :: Overland News

Kia has unveiled its first pickup, the Tasman. This midsize truck debuted at the 2024 Jeddah Auto Show in Saudi Arabia and looks to be a promising new competitor within the midsize segment. It’s offered with a choice of gas or diesel motors, manual or automatic transmissions, single- and dual-cab bodies, and boasts up to a 2,634-pound payload and 7,716-pound towing capacity. In addition, this body-on-frame vehicle will be offered in various configurations, including an X-Pro variant that incorporates additional ground clearance, all-terrain tires, armor, a rear-locking differential, and intelligent driving modes.

$tbc | worldwide.kia.com

Outin Fino Portable Electric Espresso Coffee Grinder

Laboursome hand grinders are a thing of the past thanks to the Outin Fino portable electric espresso coffee grinder. The new offering is manufactured using 420 stainless steel and is the perfect fit for life on the road thanks to its compact/lightweight (24.34 ounces) form factor and long-lasting battery. Desirable attributes include a contractible bean hopper, one-button operation, 28 grind sizes (covering espresso, Moka pot, pour-over, Aeropress, and cold brew), and a heptagonal burr for fast/precise grinding. Combine with the company’s Portable Espresso Machine for the ultimate bean-to-cup experience in the backcountry.

$140 | outin.com

Zpacks Ultralight Camp Shoes

Weighing just 1.8 ounces per pair, the Ultralight camp shoes are ideal for outdoor adventurers looking for an ultralightweight, breathable, slip-on layer for around camp. They incorporate a durable 4-millimeter foam sole, Robic nylon front and sides, a stretchy Lycra top to allow airflow, a wide tow box, and an adjustable shock cord that wraps around your heel for the perfect fit. The shoes can be easily stored in a pack, either flat or rolled, and enjoy a 2-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. It’s an innovative solution to enhance our experience in the backcountry.

$35 | zpacks.com

Blue Ridge Overland Gear First Aid Sling :: Overland News

The First Aid Sling is a grab-and-go solution for your first aid equipment. Manufactured in Virginia using durable 500D nylon Cordura, it incorporates two clear, string-reinforced, vinyl front pouches so that you can see the contents and attach/detach to the sling with Velcro. The strap allows for shoulder carry but can seamlessly be unclipped and used to anchor the sling inside the rig. Once opened and lying flat, the sling offers a practical workspace for organizing medical supplies. A first aid kit is essential when venturing into the backcountry, and the new Blue Ridge sling ensures that emergency provisions are close to hand and easily accessible.

$90 | blueridgeoverlandgear.com

AEV Snorkel Kit for 2023+ Chevrolet Colorado

The AEV Snorkel Kit was inspired by industrial and military applications and is now available for the 2023+ Chevrolet Colorado 2.7-liter Turbomax. It promises improved performance by drawing the cleanest, coolest air, even in the toughest conditions. It’s manufactured in the USA using OE quality, UV-stable linear-low polyethylene, which is lightweight, strong, and provides exceptional thermal stability. The kit includes a main snorkel body, a ram air inlet, all necessary hardware, and a trim template to assist with installation. If you’re looking to explore the backcountry, then a snorkel is a worthwhile investment.

$649 | aev-conversions.com

Biolite Luci Candle

There’s nothing like a candle to set the mood for a cozy/romantic night inside the rig, but an open flame poses a potential risk if left unattended. Fear not, as Biolite’s Luci Candle promises all the ambiance of a candle with none of the worry. The latest offering mimics candlelight and provides up to 18 hours on a single charge. Highlights include two flicker modes (low and high), IP67 water resistance, and a high-efficiency, mono-crystalline solar panel for charging in direct sunlight. It’s also lightweight (2.8 ounces) and collapsible when not in use.

$20 | bioliteenergy.com

Yakima Mod System :: Overland News

The Mod drawer system is designed to maximize your storage space and ensures easy access to essentials. As the name suggests, it’s a modular solution and customizable with the possibility to further upfit your HomeBase (available in three sizes) with various optional extras such as a Topper, Tote, Crate, Fridge Slide Kit, Work Space, and more. I recommend checking out the installation video on the Yakima YouTube for a better understanding of how it all comes together. The new Mod drawer system looks to be a fantastic choice for anyone looking to convert their daily for weekend adventures or as a practical addition to an existing overland rig.

$varies |yakima.com

Prinsu Pro Roof Rack

The original Prinsu rack was released a decade ago and was the “first form-fitting, aluminum, low-profile, modular rack to hit the overlanding market.” The new pro variant carries forward the desirable attributes of its predecessor but introduces key improvements. These include redesigned 44 percent stronger crossbars, a full corrosion-resistant stainless steel hardware kit, 15x stronger side rails, six drop-in points at the edges and center of the crossbar for mounting accessories, and bolt-on mounting feet recessed into the Pro Side Rail for a seamless fit. The Prinsu Pro is compatible with a wide array of vehicles; see the full lineup here.

$varies | prinsu.com