A Hat That Cools You, Projector That Fits in Your Pocket, and a Surfboard That Looks Like a Porsche: Emerging Gear This Week

If the sweltering heat and humidity didn’t alert you that we’re in the full swing of summer, this week’s batch of Emerging Gear certainly will. This week has products that promise to keep you cool, including ultralight sun hoodies and hats with graphite to draw out heat.

You can also hit the beach with a classic car–inspired, custom surfboard, or plan an outdoor movie night with a projector the size of a thermos. Check out this week’s Emerging Gear and plan some fun in the sun.

Omius Cooling Cap

When it comes to picturing innovative, high-tech outdoor gear, hats are probably not the first category that comes to mind, yet upstart brand Omius shows the humble running cap can still be cutting-edge.

Omius’ new cooling cap ($214) has 20 cooling pieces that rest on the skin and “amplify your body’s natural cooling system,” according to its website.

The graphite in the pieces is supposed to help draw heat away from the skin through evaporation. They also contribute to a very distinct look that is sure to draw attention during your next race. The tech is also available in a headband and visor format.

Porsche x Almond Surfboard

We covered the first collab between Porsche and Almond back in 2023, and now these brands are reuniting for round two. The new board ($3,000) is inspired by Porsche’s iconic 911 Carrera RS 2.7.

In honor of the car’s debut in 1972, Almond will only make 72 of these boards, available in three different color options: white with a blue, red, or green stripe.

“For this new collection, we chose to shape a 6-foot winged swallowtail design that draws inspiration from both the iconic 911 Carrera RS 2.7, renowned for its powerful performance and unique silhouette, and the surfboard designs of the early 1970s — the same era that this 1972 Porsche celebrates, with their blend of classic lines and cutting-edge performance,” Dave Allee, founder and owner of Almond Surfboards, said in a press release.

Field Mag in Print

In a world of Kindles, audiobooks, and social media, there’s something special about high-quality print media. There’s nothing like seeing the crisp photos printed on the page and holding it in your hands.

Fortunately, some upstart media brands are returning to print — Field Mag just released its debut print issue ($35). The biannual publication includes travel guides, photo essays, news articles, and gear reviews.

According to its website, Field Mag “aim[s] to inform, inspire, and help shape a more inclusive and accessible future of outdoor recreation for everyone through diverse stories and expert-led guides.”

With a page count of 208, there’s plenty of adventure content to dig into in this issue.

Arc’teryx Konseal

Arc’teryx released a revamped version of its most popular approach shoe, the Konseal ($190). The new model is designed for even tougher terrain, the brand said, with Vibram XS Flash 2 for superior grip and a stable underfoot platform for added support.

With a redesigned heel, the new Konseal claims a better fit with fewer blisters. Compared to prior models, the new Konseal is 3-7 ounces lighter, making it perfect for those long approaches where every ounce counts.

JMGO PicoPlay Projector

Imagine a movie projector that is small enough to fit in a fanny pack but still delivers high-quality visuals. Thanks to JMGO’s new PicoPlay ($500), that possibility is now a reality.

Its compact size makes it perfect for camping, the beach, and travel. This small-but-mighty device displays video in 1,080P FHD resolution with 400 ISO lumens. Its picture ranges in size from 40 to 180 feet.

The PicoPlay is also ready to party, with a high-quality Bluetooth speaker and mood lighting.

Ocun Diamond S Bouldering Shoe

Ocun, a climbing brand based in the Czech Republic, may be new to U.S.-based climbers, but it should be on their radar. It recently released a new flagship bouldering shoe, the Diamond S ($180). This asymmetrical, aggressive shoe excels on overhung routes, with rock-solid toe and heel hooks.

Despite the strong downturn, the Diamond S remains comfortable. GearJunkie writer Mary Andino tried the shoe, downsizing quite a bit, and still didn’t feel like her toes were being squished.

The microfiber upper provided excellent breathability, as well; after 20 boulders in 20 minutes, feet stayed dry and cool.

Agency Backpack

Travel bag company Agency began as a Kickstarter, and now its products are available to the public on its website. Its Guide backpack aims to be durable and versatile, accompanying you from the beach to the office to the park.

The airtight zipper prevents water or dirt from getting inside, and with two straps and six attachment points, it can be worn as a messenger bag, backpack, or crossbody.

Weighing in at just 17 ounces, it’s light enough to wear all day comfortably. The Guide intro bundle ($199) includes the Guide bag, Core organizer, Vista cube, and a zipper lubricant.

Verge Bini Legacy Line

Verge’s new cycling kit ($100) honors ground-breaking Eritrean cyclist Biniam “Bini” Girmay, the first Black African to wear the Tour de France’s Green Points Jersey, which is given to the race’s most consistent sprinter. The collection includes three jerseys (the Ashenafi, Tigat, and Qelṭuf) that all pay homage to Girmay’s legacy.

Designs include a striking primary color patchwork motif and a bold purple-and-black pattern. According to Verge’s website, “When you buy this kit, you’re helping Bini give back — proceeds go toward creating high-quality race clothing for young African riders chasing their dreams.”

Jerseys are available in a wide range of sizes, from 2XS to 5XL.

SMBL Skyward Sun Hoodie

A sun hoodie presents a versatile piece of an outdoor athlete’s summer wardrobe. UPF ratings promise sun protection, but it also serves as a light layer when conditions change. Outdoor apparel brand SMBL just dropped a sun hoodie it thinks will change the game.

The Skyward ($130) is made with graphene, a layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb, to create an ultralight fabric that excels at thermoregulation. A long-sleeve that won’t make you overheat even in the desert sun is a rare find. SMBL claims its new hoodie does just that. The Skyward is also odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and UV-blocking.

Alpine Sea Co. 18L Daypack

Oregon-based brand Alpine Sea Co. wants to make the last daypack you’ll ever need. Its new 18L bag is made for commuting, hiking, air travel, and more.

The Fidlock roll-top closure means the bag can expand to hold 23 L if need be. With multiple pockets and entry-point zippers, it’s easy to stay organized and grab what you need quickly. It’s compatible with hydration reservoirs 1.5 L in size or smaller, and it’s made with tear- and water-resistant fabric for durability.