Next Season’s Hottest Outdoor Gear
Written by Justin and Patrice La Vigne
Published on June 23rd, 2022
We received more than 240 product submissions for our semiannual roundup of next season’s hottest gear and, based on the mix, it’s clear the outdoors is only becoming more inclusive, sustainable, and experimental with each passing year.
With the recent outdoor boom showing no signs of slowing, brands are now developing products better suited to a wider user base without diverting attention from more specialized gear for experienced adventurers. Our team of staffers, gear testers, and retailers helped narrow down the picks to the top 50 most anticipated products of Spring/Summer 2023, ranked in order of stoke. (All available in men’s and women’s, or unisex, unless indicated.)
1. Pale Blue Earth Rechargeable Smart Batteries ($30, 4-Pack of AA)
The Promise: Americans throw away 10 million disposable batteries every day. These help alter that dirty trend.
The Deets: You’ve heard of rechargeable batteries, but these smart batteries charge five times faster than other models (within two hours), and the lifecycle of each one can replace up to 1,000 disposable alkaline batteries. Each battery has its own micro USB port and can charge via wall outlet, computer, or power bank. Ultralighters will love the weight, too: nearly 40 percent lighter than disposable batteries.
2. NEMO Forte Endless Promise ($180-$240)
The Promise: Conscious consumers will appreciate the sustainability promise of this bag series.
The Deets: The updated versions of these sleeping bags (20- and 35-degree) are zero-waste all the way from production to end-of-life. Made with all Bluesign-approved materials, the shell and liner are 100 percent recycled fabrics and the insulation is post-consumer recycled PrimaLoft synthetics. And because 95 percent of the bag is made from a single polyester polymer, it can be recycled at the end of its life. If it can’t be repaired or recommerced, customers receive a $20 credit toward new Nemo gear.
3. Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie ($220)
The Promise: This ultralight synthetic layer has properties that beat its down counterpart.
The Deets: Reduced stitching translates to better flowing synthetic insulation under a 12-denier nylon shell, providing four-season warmth. The polyester strands woven throughout mimic the shape of thousands of connected down clusters, promoting high loft and more resistance to compression versus down. Remarkably, the weight stays below 11 ounces.
4. Granite Gear Crown3 60 ($220)
The Promise: A unique structural frame on this pack offers customizable carrying capacity.
The Deets: This 60-liter pack has a standard load carry of 35 pounds, but it can be adjusted from 25 to 43 pounds. The compression-molded polyethylene frame sheet has an add-on U-shaped aluminum stay (sold separately) that integrates seamlessly into the suspension system. A fully removable dual sternum strap system provides a secondary hug over the chest. Eco bonus: There’s an undyed color option, and by skipping the color dying process for the fabrics, hardware, and webbing, the pack’s water waste drops by 55 percent.
5. Oboz Katabatic Mid B-Dry ($170)
The Promise: This mid-height waterproof shoe performs like a trail runner, but is meant for fast hiking.
The Deets: Multi-directional lugs around the perimeter, midfoot, and rear give lateral grip and braking ability for purchase on the toughest terrain, even under the weight of a pack. The welded TPU heel cup and toe wrap the foot for stability and protection, all with a weight of under one pound per shoe.
6. Alpacka Raft Refuge ($1,275)
The Promise: Stay comfortable and dry through rough waters for multiple weeks.
The Deets: The whitewater deck and cargo fly—along with the six grab loops on the bow and stern—allow for secure storage of gear while tackling Class III rapids. The 7-foot boat cinches down to 15 by 7 inches and under 6 pounds for transport.
7. Grand Trunk Evolution 20 Down Hammock ($300)
The Promise: Stop hassling with over-quilts and under-quilts.
The Deets: This complete system integrates a 650-fill, 20-degree down sleeping bag with a hammock, all at under 2 pounds. The 40-denier nylon fabric is DWR-treated and breathable to battle the weather.
8. Artilect Exposure Hoodie ($160)
The Promise: We thought we’d seen everything, but this layer is (literally) bananas.
The Deets: Combining merino and nylon with 30 percent banana fiber—a renewable byproduct of banana farming—makes for noteworthy durability. The 18-micron merino wool delivers that soft and cozy feel, with an added benefit of full-density coverage with UPF 50+ UV protection and a fitted hood.
9. Bern Hudson Helmet ($140)
The Promise: Be more visible on night rides from all angles.
The Deets: Three settings on the integrated and rechargeable rear LED light (6.6 lumens) offer better visibility, while the helmet’s MIPS technology beefs up the layer of protection by absorbing and redirecting impacts. Bonus: Brain protection doesn’t need to be hot or heavy; the helmet weighs less than a pound and 13 vents keep the noggin cool.
10. Milo the Action Communication ($249)
The Promise: Works like a walkie talkie, only better.
The Deets: Keep a spread-out group on the slopes, water, or trails in verbal communication with these hands-free, waterproof, lightweight radios. No need to push a button to talk; multiple voices can be transmitted simultaneously and clearly, even in windy conditions. Clip the device to a pocket, collar, or backpack—or pair with a bluetooth headset for even more convenience.
This article was originally published in the Outside Business Journal