Every time I think we’ll have a slow week, the outdoor industry shows it’s got another idea up its puffy sleeve. Once again, we’ve got plenty of winter gear for facing off against inclement weather, including an upgraded parka made from alpaca fiber, backcountry ski wraps, and even technical jackets that partner with college sports teams.
But we like to keep it varied and fresh around here, so there’s also sports hydration and backcountry meals, camper conversions, climbing shoes, and even a very fishy wetsuit. Find all that and more right here in Emerging Gear.
Sumarpo Fish Scale Wetsuit
If you like the idea of racing in a triathlon while looking like Aquaman, then you’ll want to check this out. Sumarpo just launched the Prana Core Triathlon Wetsuit with the aim of improving swim efficiency for triathletes. Priced at $1,200 and available for both men and women, the wetsuit uses technology inspired by aquatic creatures to reduce drag and increase speed, Sumarpo said.
The brand said a bionic fish-scale pattern on the abdomen is central to its design, mimicking the hydrodynamic efficiency of marine life. Unlike traditional smooth-surfaced wetsuits, the texture supposedly reduces resistance for smoother movement. It also looks flippin’ sweet.
Grayman & Company Tactical Suits
I can’t look at these suits and not think of the John Wick films. (One brand even attempted to make an actual bulletproof suit, though with a list of caveats.)
The tactical suits from Grayman & Company seem a bit more realistic, blending traditional tailoring with modern functionality for everyday carry. Inspired by the craftsmanship of pre-World War II Shanghai, the half-canvassed construction has a sewn, floating chest piece, hand-finished buttonholes, barchetta pockets, and a streamlined bespoke process where only four pairs of hands touch each suit from start to finish, according to Grayman & Co.
What sets Grayman’s suits apart is their tactical versatility, the brand said. Customizable features include concealed pockets, gussets, and armored fabric options, allowing wearers to discreetly carry essential items.
Roadloft Truck Camper Conversion Kit
Quebec-based Roadloft just launched a removable camper conversion kit for full-size pickup trucks. The brand claims it’s the first-ever such kit released in North America.
Regardless, the setup looks comfy and well-designed. Priced at $5,000, the kit transforms a standard 6-foot truck bed into a functional off-road camper while preserving the vehicle’s cargo-carrying capability, the brand said. A version for mid-size trucks is set to launch in May 2025.
The kit has modular components, including a foldable bed that converts between single and double modes, ergonomic seating with pivoting tables, and a tailgate kitchen with pull-out drawers for indoor or outdoor cooking. Multiple storage compartments optimize space, and the tool-free clip system allows easy assembly and removal within minutes.
PAKA Apu Parka 2.0
PAKA’s Apu Parka was a big hit when it was first released last year, winning a coveted ISPO Award for achieving functional warmth through sustainable manufacturing.
Now, the brand has an update that doubles down on those features. It’s fully waterproof instead of water resistant, with a 100% recycled shell fabric and leveled-up PAKAFILL insulation (50% alpaca fiber, 50% recycled polyester). Designed to withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees F, it’s also PFAS-free and Bluesign-certified. Other additions include a topographic print liner, improved cuff closures, and new colors. Get yours for $350.
So iLL Roam Soft
So iLL has introduced the Roam Soft climbing shoe, a slipper-style shoe designed in collaboration with renowned climber Fred Nicole and actor Jason Momoa as part of the So iLL x On The Roam collection. Priced at $170, the ROAM Soft is built for climbers seeking precision and sensitivity on aggressive overhanging boulders and sport climbs, the brand said.
The ROAM Soft has a hand-shaped downturned last, no midsole, and a tensioned design from toe to heel. The upper is crafted from vegan-friendly microsuede, with a three-way stretch knit entry and elastic band. The split outsole, made with Vibram XS Grip rubber, extends to the top of the heel.
BCKR
Another new brand on our radar is BCKR, an Austin, Texas-based brand making technical apparel for sports fans. Featuring officially licensed gear for Ohio State, Texas, Georgia, and Oregon, BCKR offers limited-edition drops for fans facing extreme weather on game day.
Key products include the BCKR Dry One Waterproof Coat ($300) made with Toray three-layer breathable fabric (20K waterproof rating) and YKK AquaGuard zippers. There’s also the BCKR Cool One UPF Pullover ($100), which has UPF 50+ sun protection and breathable fabric, the brand said. There are also jackets and caps from BCKR, which commits a portion of sales to support university athletes and programs.
Willow Wrap Max Backcountry
Made in Minnesota, the Max Backcountry ski wrap fits wider cross-country and backcountry planks ranging from 65mm to 80mm. It keeps skis securely bundled while protecting bases with a foam pad.
The Willow Wrap product slides onto skis and keeps them together. A Velcro strap wraps around, letting you cinch on poles for a single package that’s easy to tote. Once off the skis, the Willow Wrap ($16) fits into a pocket and out of sight.
Find a local retailer of Willow Wrap on the brand’s website.
Snow Peak Tabiki Hearth Set
Snow Peak has introduced the Takibi Hearth Starter Set, a vertical grilling system compatible with its Takibi Fire & Grill and Pack & Carry Fireplace. Priced at $210, the set offers a controlled grilling experience with four-sided skewer slots for versatile cooking.
Its central chamber holds wood or coals, allowing for even heat distribution. The hearth set can also replace the traditional Grill Bridge, offering more precise control during grilling, according to Snow Peak. When not in use, the hearth folds flat, with detachable skewers, and stands for easy cleaning and compact storage.
Life Time Hydrate
It seems there’s always a new sports beverage to try these days, and now we’ve got one from race organizer Life Time.
The company just released Hydrate, a sugar-free electrolyte supplement for endurance athletes during training and race day. Available in Lemon Lime, Peach Mango, and Blood Orange flavors, Hydrate contains salt, trace minerals, and three to five times more electrolytes than standard sports drinks, according to Life Time.
It contains no added sugar, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, stevia, or allulose. The 10.79-ounce bottle is priced at $40.
Backpacker’s Pantry Backcountry Bucket
A bucket of backpacking meals? I’ll take 10, please.
Backpacker’s Pantry, a trusted favorite in our guide to the Best Backpacking Meals, is now giving us the Backcountry Bucket. This ready-to-eat meal kit, priced at $140, contains 24 servings of 12 meals, with two servings per pouch. That’s enough sustenance for one person for up to eight days.
Meals include options like Peanut Butter & Banana Oatmeal, Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken, and Pad Thai. Shelf life varies between 3 and 10 years, depending on the meal.
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