Winter OR Round-Up: Osprey

www.ospreypacks.com
“The Internet of Things” was a big, buzzy phrase at last year’s CES, as online accessibility continues to become part of our daily lives. And while the outdoor industry probably won’t ever go full-cyborg on us, we have seen some smart tech-centric products over the last few years, from avalanche airbag backpacks and outdoor-focused apps to smartphone cases with batteries and high-def videos of…everything. And in fall 2013, Osprey’s Portal line of packs (pictured) will continue this trend, targeting traveler and touch screen-dependent subway riders. The seven packs, like the Tech Commute, will have touch screen-friendly see-through windows and padded sleeves for tablets and smart phones, in both messenger bag and backpack styles, starting at $99.

They’re also making packs for the more active commuter (read: the cyclists, runners, and in-line skaters—hey, we see one in DC every once in a while!). Designs like the Radial ($159) and the Spin ($139) will have a nicely vented back panel, a padded laptop sleeve, an integrated rain fly, and bike-friendly features like a dedicated U-lock pocket.

We also look forward to the new line of snow packs. The Reverb ($89), for example, will target the lift-access resort set who might also want to do some in-bound (or sidecountry) hikes. It’ll open via the back panel (so it lays in the snow with the shoulder straps facing up, thus keeping them dry), let you carry your skis diagonally (or your board vertically), and has space for all the essential backcountry tools as well as an extra layer and a hydration reservoir. The Kode ($129) ups the ante with more storage (including a stowable helmet pouch on top), the ability to carry the skis A-frame or diagonally, side-zip access, and a hydration sleeve in three different pack sizes.

Varies

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Winter OR Round-Up: Sea to Summit Spark Sleeping Bag

www.seatosummit.com
Weighing in at a whispery 12.3 ounces, the new Spark is a 850-fill waterproof down sleeping bag that’s primed to become a minimalist’s favorite outdoor resting place. The bag is rated to 46 degrees and packs down to the size of a softball. It’ll be out this August in both regular and long lengths. The 10D Pertex Quantum shell is treated with DWR water repellency, with a soft-touch nylon interior. Through-hikers, adventure races, and dedicated minimalists will love the bag’s awesome weight-to-warmth ratio.

$269 ($289 long)

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Giro Combyn Soft-Shell Helmet

www.giro.com
Those few skiers and snowboarders who are still not wearing a helmet just ran out of another excuse. Available this August, Giro will introduce the Combyn, which they’re calling a “soft shell” helmet. It uses an impact-absorbing liner made with vinyl nitrate foam constructed into two distinct layers to handle both high- and low-energy impacts. Unlike most helmets on the market, this liner is compressible and flexible, and, when paired with a proprietary shell material similar to that found in hockey and football helmets, makes for a very comfortable, flexible fit without sacrificing any safety features. The helmet will have eight vents, a removable goggle holder, three fit kit sizes, and will be fully compliant with CE EC 1077 safety regulations.

$120

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Winter OR Round-Up: Gore Tex Introduces New Gore Tex Pro

www.gore-tex.com
Gore Tex’s most waterproof membrane, Pro Shell, got a significant upgrade this year. The 2.5- and 3- layer membrane has always been on top of the waterproof category, but breathability was an issue. The new Pro Shell is a rumored 28 percent more breathable than the original, putting its sweat management properties up with the best in the industry. The 100 percent ePTFE-based microstructure is bonded to the outer material, with a specially developed lining completing the system. To increase durability, Gore added a new patent-pending Micro Grid Backer technology for internal abrasion and snag resistance. We tested a new Arc ‘Teryx Pro Shell jacket for Fall ’13 on an Interconnect ski from Solitude to Alta to Brighten and back. This tester’s pants were last year’s Pro Shell, the jacket was the new stuff. The Interconnect is lots of steep skinning, followed by great backcountry ridges and bowls. The new material really does breathe well. We’ll report on ongoing tests later this spring, with special focus on not only breathability, but waterproofness as well. Expect to see this new tech in a handful of outdoor brands like The North Face, Arc’Teryx, Outdoor Research, Marmot, and Mammut.

Prices vary.

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Winter OR Round-Up: Icebreaker

us.icebreaker.com
As we mentioned after the Summer Outdoor Retailer, New Zealand’s Icebreaker continues to expand their line of high-quality merino wool into designs that marry their magical wool with soft shell exteriors to provide weather-proof pieces with all the all-natural qualities already associated with the brand. The Viento Jacket (hooded: $325; non: $300) and the Stealth Jacket ($300; pictured left) and Hood ($325) will boast a water-repellent, breathable, wind-proof exterior, with a comforting merino wool lining. We particularly like the fashion- and fit-forward silhouette of the women’s Viento Hood ($325; pictured center), with its slim hourglass cut.

Their GT line—technical apparel dialed for high-aerobic activity like winter running, Nordic skiing, and skiing and riding—will expand with new garments like the Drive Long-Sleeve Half-Zip top ($140; pictured right), with wool has been treated with nanotechnology to add water and stain resistance. This bluesign-accredited technology integrates tiny nano particles on a rigid surface to reduce the contact area to let mud, water, and oil simply run off the fabric.

Perhaps most compelling, however, is the slight revamp to their travel-inspired line, which expands its formerly slim/athletic fit to become a wee bit roomier. This should make products like the woman’s Vista Skirt ($100) and windproof soft shell three-quarter-length Highline Jacket ($380), the men’s Escape Hood Stripe ($140), and the Seeker Pants ($180) appeal to a broader swath of smart travelers.

Prices vary.

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