The Women’s Adventure gear gals came back from the Winter Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City last night. They saw some interesting items that will be out on the shelves sometime this summer/fall.
Things that made us go hmmm’
Lowrance Outback
Lowrance Endura Outback handheld GPS: For someone like me who hates to read directions, it appears I might not have to with this navigation system. The cost-effective, entry level GPS is lightweight, compact enough to easily carry and the touch screen as well as the large keypad buttons make it super easy to use. It operates on two AA batteries and weighs only 5.8 ounces. It retails for $229.99 Available May 2009 www.lowrance.com.
Mountain Hardwear Ardica Enabled Radiance Trifecta Jacket: Yeah, that’s a mouthful and we know it, but this jacket could be pretty hot (literally) next fall. The folks at MH have partnered with Ardica to create a heated jacket. As soon as the temperature drops, power up your coat and in seconds the heat is being transmitted through different panels in the interior. If the chill isn’t getting to you, but your phone or mp3 is dying, the battery pack is compatible to charge them up. Available fall 09. www.mountainhardwear.com
Hobnail Kit
La Sportiva Hobnail kit: Think studded snow tires, but they are on your feet. Convert any shoe with a rubber sole from an accident waiting to happen into a grippy, secure way to navigate ice and snow. Simply screw the hobnails into the sole and off you go. The kit includes hobnails and tool. $45.00 www.sportiva.com
Prana Fiona Pullover: Got Milk? Well you might have had it this morning in your cereal, but is it in your sweater? Prana is one of several companies utilizing a very interesting fabrication that is a blend of milk and wool (40/60). Sounds like it could be stinky but the first impression didn’t make my nose turn. The fabric is soft to the hand and the design was stylish for a technical piece. $90 www.prana.com Available fall 09.
miSoul
K-Swiss miSoul running shoes: It is always surprising when a company tries to reinvent the wheel, but often times it can lead to very cool innovations. I am not sure if this is the case with the new shoe from K-Swiss, but we are looking forward to putting them to the test. They have taken a running shoe chassis and made two interchangeable soles for the shoe. Cushion and Light are your options depending on the type of feel you are going after and a locking mechanism assures that the insole is in the proper position. Stay tuned. $140 www.kswiss.com