We’ve got some weird and wonderful gear for you this week. That category includes a HOKA shoe with a fashionable tassel, a power bank that clips on like a carabiner, and a “beginner” e-surfboard that still costs over $8,000.
But it’s not all sudden left turns in the gear world. There are also some burly MTB bikes for talented young riders looking for quality components, a new line of inflatable SUP boards, and even a whiskey inspired by the Colorado Rockies (and dedicated to one, in particular).
HOKA Speed Loafer
I can’t recall seeing a product name more oxymoronic than “speed loafer.” The latest release from HOKA is the popular running brand’s first dress shoe — and it sure is weird.
HOKA calls the shoe “category-disrupting,” which certainly seems like a fair description, given its attempt at combining a classic style defined by idleness with elements from a modern model used in ultramarathons.
It’s meant as a hybrid between a loafer and a high-performance sneaker, HOKA said. While it incorporates the midsole of the Speedgoat 5, the Speed Loafer still aims for fashion, with a leather and suede upper, a custom speed tassel, a leather sockliner, and reflective piping.
But then what happens? They slapped a Vibram Megagrip on it, along with a suede mudguard. The Speed Loafer sells for $185 and should become available on the HOKA website on January 31.
NESTOUT Carabiner Battery
We’re pretty stoked about any new product from NESTOUT, which currently tops our list of the Best Power Banks of 2025. That’s especially true of the brand’s Carabiner Battery, a rugged 5,000mAh portable charger that offers the same water, dust, and shock resistance of its flagship power banks.
With a USB-C in/out port, the Carabiner Battery fully charges in just 2 hours and 10 minutes with a 5V/2.4A charger. That means it can power a smartphone up to 1.6 times. A sturdy metal carabiner clip allows for easy attachment to backpacks, belts, or gear loops, while an integrated retractable phone stand provides hands-free viewing, the brand said.
A built-in cable holder keeps cords neatly stored, ensuring users are always ready to charge. It costs $45.
Prevalo Limited-Edition Zulu
If you’ve got a passionate young mountain biker who can truly shed on singletrack, you might want to take a look at this new release from Prevalo.
The brand just launched a small batch of limited-edition Zulu 4 and Zulu 5 mountain bikes. They’ve got upgraded components for young riders seeking top-tier performance, the brand said.
Both the Zulu 4 Limited and Zulu 5 Limited models come with a Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrain, Shimano XT 8100 hydraulic brakes, Heir Carbon two-piece crankset, and Heir Darkbar Carbon handlebar. Assembled in California, each bike costs $2,500.
Awake RAVIK Explore
I’ll likely never have the expendable income to afford an electric surfboard — but they sure look cool. And while Awake’s $25,000 RÄVIK model is certainly pricey, the brand just released a “beginner” version of the board that sells for $8,900. The new RÄVIK Explore aims to balance stability and ease of use with an agile, fun experience on the water.
These electronic surfboards allow users to “surf” even without waves. As for the RÄVIK Explore, it’s got a redefined shape and increased volume for added stability for those learning the figurative ropes.
But for advanced riders, the board’s dual hull channels and front rocker still allow for smooth maneuvers, according to Awake. It also has lighter-weight batteries — without sacrificing ride time.
Red Equipment Future Series
Adventurous SUP riders have some durable new options with the 2025 Future Series from U.K.-based Red Equipment.
The brand’s latest lineup includes 10 newly designed inflatable SUPs crafted from the brand’s MSL800 and MSL1000 double-drop-stitch materials, which aim for greater stiffness and less weight. Red Equipment is also a certified B Corporation, meaning it prioritizes sustainability in its product design.
Among the highlights is the updated Compact 11 ($1,650). The brand’s most popular model, it can surf moderate waves, as well as cruise through flatwater or the coast, according to Red. Completely new this month is the Compact 9’2″ ($1,600), a more agile, lightweight version of its big brother. Even more portable, it caters to paddlers of all levels looking to shed size and weight.
State Bicycle Co. 4130 All-Road
State Bicycle Co. has released the 2025 4130 All-Road, an upgraded version of its entry-level gravel bike. The updated ride includes enhanced versatility, improved components, and increased customization options — all for $1,000, the brand said.
Built on a rugged steel frame and fork, the new 4130 model now comes UDH-compatible, dropper-ready, and with semi-internal cable routing. Additional cargo mounts on the downtube, top tube, and fork expand carrying capacity. The optional Carbon Monster Fork also boosts tire clearance to 700x55mm.
A 12-speed drivetrain replaces the previous 11-speed setup, while mechanically actuated hydraulic brakes — previously a paid upgrade — are now standard. It’s also got wider rim profiles (23mm for 700c, 25mm for 650b), upgraded hubs, increased spoke count, and a 33-degree flared gravel bar.
DUER Stretch Canvas
There’s a reason why DUER made GearJunkie’s guide to the Best Men’s Travel Pants. The brand’s blend of comfort and durability is on point, especially in its new collection of stretch canvas apparel. First unveiled in September, DUER just expanded the line with more styles, including the Utility Pant, Relaxed Straight Chino, and a Utility Jacket.
After trying out the Stretch Canvas 7-Pocket Pant, I can say that they’ve quickly become my favorite pants. I’ve long preferred stretchy denim when it comes to daily life pants, but I may never look back from DUER’s fabric blend here. Explore the new collection of apparel for both men and women on the DUER website.
SMITH Ultralite Sunglasses
Celebrating 60 years of style and design, SMITH opened its archives to relaunch the Ultralite sunglasses. A throwback from 1987, the retro design returns with its classic cylindrical shield lens in a slight wraparound curve. Modern upgrades include bio-based frame material and ChromaPop lens technology.
Megol nose pads provide a no-slip grip when reacting to perspiration and moisture while auto lock hinges hold the frame open for easy one-hand on and off. The temple tips are also compatible with the included goggle-inspired strap for keeping frames secure. Available in five colors, each pair arrives in a Smith Archive Collection fleece pouch. The new Ultralite costs $175.
KUIU PRO G3 Bino Harness
KUIU has introduced the PRO G3 Bino Harness, the latest upgrade in its optics-carrying system. It’s got a patent-pending Rail-Lock accessory connection system and a waterproof softshell design. Engineered for hunters, the harness integrates a fleece-lined interior and redesigned pocketing for improved accessibility.
The Rail-Lock track system allows for secure attachment of accessories, including rangefinders, phones, and bear spray. A structured, forward-folding pouch with a waterproof membrane protects binoculars from dust and moisture, and a pouch opening allows users to mold the rim for quick, unrestricted access.
Finally, stackable foam shims provide adjustable height positioning. Retailing for $130, it’s available now on KUIU.
TINCUP Fourteener Bourbon
Colorado-based TINCUP Whiskey has dropped the next limited-edition run of its annual collaboration supporting the Colorado Fourteener Initiative, which protects and maintains trails on the state’s highest mountains.
For Fourteener Release No.3, the whiskey pays tribute to Mount Sneffels, with a portion of proceeds once again supporting preservation efforts of the 14,000-foot mountain. Aged 14 years in new American oak barrels and cut to proof with pure Eldorado Spring water, the latest whiskey offers a rich, smooth bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and butterscotch, the brand said.
It comes in a limited-edition bottle with artwork of Mount Sneffels. The 84-proof (42% ABV) whiskey is available nationwide, excluding Alaska, Hawaii, Tennessee, and Utah.
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