HydraPak Introduces New Water Filtration Systems
HydraPak has introduced water filters designed to work seamlessly with their existing selection of flexible bottles, water storage, and reservoir lines. HydraPak President Matt Lyon states, “Adventure depends on water, and we’re constantly looking for the best way to help keep athletes hydrated so that they can continue to do what they love.” The new products include a 42-millimeter Filter Cap compatible with all HydraPak 42-millimeter opening products, complete with a high-flow nozzle and dust cover. In addition, there’s a “first of its kind” 28-millimeter Filter Kit, which can be threaded directly onto a bottle or connected via the Plug-N-Play systems. Finally, the company is offering complete hydration systems in the form of the Flux 1.5-liter and Seeker 3- and 6-liter containers.
$varies | hydrapak.com
Ridge Merino, The Hammil Flannel
A quality technical flannel is a staple of the overlanding pack list and a great mid-layer for various activities. Ridge Merino recently announced the Hammil, which promises “to have the classic flannel look with supercharged performance thanks to stretchy merino-blended fabric.” Key features include merino “stretch” wool (55%) blended with recycled polyester (45%) and wood-button closures on the placket, cuff, and pocket. It also incorporates a hanger loop label, chest pockets, and is offered in navy and olive night colorways. The company explains that the natural merino provides warmth and odor resistance, while the recycled polyester dries quickly and increases durability. Finally, all Ridge Merino products enjoy a lifetime warranty against manufacturing and material defects.
$120 | ridgemerino.com
Freespirit Recreation, Evolution Series V2
Freespirit Recreation has launched their premium vehicle rooftop tent, the Evolution Series V2, and “believes that the EVO 2 will rival all hardshell rooftop tents currently on the market” while being a true 4-season shelter thanks to their Tri-Layer technology. According to Director of Product Development Ben Tewes, “It was time for someone to listen to what users were saying and take the time to design and create a new product based on feedback from true experts—the people using these products as a means to explore the outdoors.” Notable upgrades over its predecessor, the EVO 1, include dimmable LED lights, an all-new Air-Core mattress, and the ability to store bedding inside when the tent is closed. Available for purchase and ready to ship from February 15.
$tbc | gofsr.com
AirSkirts, Inflatable Cooler
Space is at a premium when you live and travel in your vehicle, and innovative equipment and storage solutions that optimize a rolling home’s capacity make a difference. A fridge or cooler is a must-have luxury but takes up a considerable amount of real estate when not in use. AirSkirts’ 9.8-pound inflatable cooler solves this issue by simply deflating when not in use and conveniently packs into the included storage bag (14.5 x 27.5 x 6.5 inches). The cooler utilizes trapped air as a natural insulator and can keep ice cold for two days. It’s constructed using the same durable material as inflatable SUPs and boats (strong enough to stand/sit on), includes a high-pressure pump, and a removable, reusable liner to make cleaning easier.
$300 | airskirts.com
Nuke Sunrise Bikepacking Announces Moab Bikepacking
The bikepackers among you will likely be familiar with the awesome handmade bags and accessories produced by Nuke Sunrise Bikepacking. The company recently announced Moab Bikepacking, which will provide “rental equipment and setup, water caches, water resupply, shuttles, post-trip showers, route advice, and bike boxing/shipping.” Bikepacking overseas is magical, but flying across the world with a bicycle and touring gear can be stressful. The option to travel with just a suitcase and be outfitted upon arrival by the Moab Bikepacking team with an appropriately sized adventure-ready Marin Pine Mountain bike and premium gear from the likes of Salsa, Topeak, Old Man Mountain, Big Agnes, Thermarest, GSI, and, of course, Nuke Sunrise Bikepacking is an attractive option.
Darche, Eco Series
Darche announces its Eco-Series line, which, as the name suggests, is manufactured using eco-friendly materials. It will “encompass their entire existing product line” but will also introduce new products. First up is their Eco Bamboo dishwasher-safe 12-piece dinner set, made using biodegradable bamboo fiber. Second is their Eco Drybag 25-liter Daypack constructed with 100% ecoWGAF polyester, showcasing a waterproof coating, adjustable padded shoulder straps, and a large main compartment with a zipper inner pocket. Finally, they’ve released an Eco Insulated Mug, which will keep the contents hot for over three hours or cold for over six hours. It’s constructed using 304 stainless steel and offers a long-term alternative to disposable cups.
$varies | gtfoverland.com
Durston, X-Mid Pro 2
Spring is fast approaching, and it won’t be long til camping season begins. This in mind, a tent is the most accessible and wallet-friendly choice for sleeping under the stars, and today’s offering from Durston is a great ultra-lightweight option. The X-Mid Pro 2 is a 2-person tent that weighs just 1.2 pounds yet provides “a spacious interior for two large adults with a generous 90-inch floor length, steep end walls to maximize useable length, best-in-class headroom, and dual spacious vestibules.” The tent is constructed using Dyneema composite fabric and is pitched seamlessly with two hiking poles and just four stakes. A few notable revisions to the X-Mid Pro 2 for 2023 include dual interior pockets, stronger door toggle magnets, upgraded Dyneema core guylines, and superlight interior zippers.
$varies | durstongear.com
Artilect Outwear Showcases World’s First User-Repairable Zippers and High AF Down Stretch Parka
Zippers are usually the first point of failure on a jacket. Unfortunately, this small yet significant issue can lead to the disposal of an otherwise functional garment. Artilect, in partnership with YKK, has had many world-first innovations, including TouchLink and PU Conceal Zippers. However, their latest offering, the YKK Revived Zipper is undoubtedly the most significant development to date. This genius solution is the “first-ever user-repairable zipper” and will be integrated across Artilect’s full product line. One such product is their new High AF Down Stretch Parka, which features 700-fill down clusters that incorporate “bonded gold nanoparticles to increase dry times up to 60%.” The parka showcases a below waist length, easily adjustable hem, and an abundance of pockets.
$450 | artilect.studio
Ombraz Announce Side Shields for their Armless Sunglasses
I was first aware of Ombraz armless sunglasses shortly after their hugely successful crowdfunding campaign on indiegogo.com. I reviewed their Dolomite sunglasses in the months that followed and have been a fan ever since. During testing, I noticed that one of the shortfalls of the armless design was increased peripheral glare. Fortunately, the company are committed to innovation and recently solved this issue with their new side shields. This accessory is “removable and completely malleable with patent-pending louvered ventilation. The side shields are built for the water, snow, or anywhere else you need to block peripheral light and reduce glare.” Shields are available for the Dolomite, Classic, Leggero, Viale, and Teton models. It’s also worth noting that some models include an additional nose plug for added protection.
$50 | ombraz.com
Redarc Announces New President of Mobile Power and Connected Vehicles
Redarc specializes in the research, design, and advanced manufacturing of power and safety solutions. Managing Director Anthony Kittel recently announced that the company was excited to have Peter Favilla (previously vice president of Global Marketing and Chief Experience Officer of Customer Solutions at Pentair) join the team. “His depth of experience will undoubtedly elevate the Redarc team while providing us with new opportunities to serve our customers at an even higher level. We foresee the markets we serve will grow to exciting new heights in the coming years.” This is significant as Peter’s efforts will be focused on Redarc’s expansion both internationally and in North America, which means exciting new products and perhaps evolving into additional markets.
Nemo Equipment, Dragonfly Bikepack Osmo
Nemo consistently produces class-leading gear, so I was excited to see they’d released a new super-lightweight tent, the Dragonfly Bikepack Osmo. The “tent is tailored specifically for two-wheeled journeys, canoe trips, and other excursions where its ultra-small pack-down size will make a huge difference.” Offered in 1- and 2-person configurations, the former’s packed weight is just 2 pounds, 11 ounces, and the latter is 4 pounds, 1 ounce. Highlights include high-performance recycled poly-nylon ripstop fabric, ultralight aluminum DAC Featherlite NSL poles (with shortened segments), a Landing Zone waterproof removable storage tub, white no-see-um mesh panels, and an Overhead Nightlight Pocket. In addition, it incorporates Bluesign-approved fly and floor materials and a single-seam tub construction. Pitching couldn’t be easier thanks to color-coded anodized poles, matched webbing, and Jake’s Foot pole clips.
$520-$580 | nemoequipment.com
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