This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
With an emphasis on Utah companies, The Salt Lake Tribune took a look at some of the gear being shown at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2014 under way at the Salt Palace. Most of the gear at the show, which is closed to the public, will not be available in retail stores or on the web until spring 2015.
Stryker stove from Camp Chef
This Logan-based company is well known for providing equipment to help feed the masses or dress up the backyard patio cooking area. Camp Chef is launching into a new demographic with the Stryker stove. Meant for light car camping or backpacking, the single-burner runs on isobutene or propane, or both. Stryker comes with a 1.3-liter cup, a serving bowl, stand and mesh storage bag. The base model weighs 8.3 ounces, is capable of boiling water in two minutes and will be available in the spring for $60. http://www.campchef.com
Ghost Lite jacket from Mountain Hardwear
Created for runners and cross trainers or times when the temperature cools just enough that a T-shirt won't do, the Ghost Lite weather resistant shell provides a lightweight option for staying comfortable. The jacket weighs in at 3 ounces and will be available in men's and women's models for $100 in the spring. http://www.mountainhardwear.com
UNEEK shoe from KEEN
Comprised of two braided polyester cords and a sole, KEEN says the UNEEK provides a "truly unique fit experience with a look and feel unlike any other." A lightweight midsole and rubber pods in the heel and toe area give users protection and traction. Not surprisingly, the shoe only tips the scales at 8.5 ounces. Available in the spring for $100. http://www.keenfootwear.com/uneek
Backcountry Bed Elite from Sierra Designs
The launch of the Backcountry Bed last year was a big success. Sierra Designs is following it up with a spring release of the Elite. Playing on the zipperless and top-opening bag, Elite is stuffed with 850-fill DriDown, making it a solid option for most campers with a 15-degree rating. The bag weighs 1-pound, 9-ounces and will go for $519. http://www.sierradesigns.com
High Tide shorts from Horny Toad
Stretchy, quick drying, lightweight and stylish, the High Tide shorts are good for woman on the go in the outdoors. The woven polyester offers 40-plus UPF protection from the sun and a durable water repellent finish. A rear hip pocket stores necessities for a good outing. Available in the spring for $66. http://www.hornytoad.com
Venture 30 from Goal Zero
Salt Lake-based Goal Zero has taken the recharging gear category by storm. The Venture 30 Weatherproof Recharger is ready to increase it to a tornado. Makers say it can handle whatever Mother Nature can muster, but it particularly is fond of sunshine, which it runs through Nomad solar panels to convert to power for your smartphone, headlamp, point-of-view cameras and MP3 players. The Venture 30 can also give a 50 percent boost to tablets, charge two devices at the same time and can also be charged from human-made power sources via a USB port. Available in the spring for $99. http://www.goalzero.com
Static V Luxe pad from Klymit
What was once minimalist is growing into downright luxurious. Ogden-based Klymit hit the scene at the Outdoor Retailer with a unique gas-charged jacket and then made even larger waves with a super lightweight sleeping bag with puff in all the right places. The pad has grown up and its newest version is the Static V Luxe. It is still easily packable and lightweight at 25 ounces, but comes in a 3-inch-thick, 30-inch-wide and 76-inch-long model. The pad, they say, can be inflated with approximately 16 breaths. Available now for $89.95. http://www.klymit.com
New choices from Mountain House
Sure it is nice to spend the time and energy to produce fresh fixings on the trail, but sometimes it is just easier to boil water and have dessert. Backpackers and campers have been using Mountain House to fuel up during their trips for nearly 50 years. The company recently introduced the following new selections: Biscuits and Gravy ($5.99); Apple Crisp ($7.49) and Fire Roasted Vegetables ($3.99). http://www.mountainhouse.com
Ember Power Light from Black Diamond
Adventurers sometimes plan to be out in the dark and sometimes not. Either way, Salt Lake City-based Black Diamond has you covered with the Ember Power Light. And when the 150 lumens isn't needed, owners can plug in hand-held devices for a boost. The Ember has a rechargeable, sealed lithium polymer battery. The battery can be disengaged to stop energy drain and a power meter make sure you can utilize battery life accordingly. Available in the spring for $49.95.
Shoreline Vapor jacket and pants from Carhartt
The "working man's" clothing company continues to expand its reach into other categories with the Spring 2015 release of the Shoreline Vapor jacket ($120) and pants ($110). The jacket is a nylon shell protected with Storm Defender and Rain Defender technologies. The pants are also a nyon shell with Storm Defender waterproof breathable membrance and Rain Defender water-repellent finish. An elastic waistband helps for the active folks working or playing in the rain. http://www.carhartt.com
Cragsmith pack from Patagonia
Three new packs for the spring from Patagonia's Alpine collection were "built by climbers for climbers." The Cragsmith Pack 35L is the middle choice of the three. The design makes are easy access in tricky situations through the top or back. The pack also opens wide without the need to remove or dump everything out to find what you need. The Cragsmith will run $129. http://www.patagonia.com/us/home
AirCore down pillow from Cocoon
Instantly turn your camping trip into a glamping excursion with the AirCore pillow. Cocoon created the down pillow for campers or travelers who find creature comforts make sleeping easier than a crumpled up jacket or dirty T-shirt. The pillow features water-resistant down surrounding an air bladder. Weighs 4.8 ounces. Available in the spring for $49.95. http://www.cocoonusa.com
FourPlay bike rack from Yakima
Bike racks have come a long way and Yakima has been a major player in the improvements. The FourPlay is a tray-style trailer hitch rack that holds four bikes. Yakima says it will hold bikes of all sizes -including fat bikes. The FourPlay can be easily converted into a two-bike rack. The tray is low, making it easier to load and can be folded up when not in use. Available in the spring for $499. http://www.yakima.com
Glacier Commuter Press from GSI Outdoors
This 14-ounce press/coffee mug is made of high-grade 18/8 stainless steel and features double wall vacuum insulation to keep beverage temperatures where you want them. The design of the Glacier allows the user to slide an inner carafe to brew coffee or tea rather than the need to use a plunger. Comes in blue, green, red, orange and stainless for $32.95.
Predator XL fishing kayak from Old Town
What's 13 feet long, 36 inches wide, able to float 600 pounds and capable of getting anglers to the fish no matter where they are? Say hello to the Predator XL from Old Town. This foot-controlled rudder system allows hands-free forward and reverse steering and can now also include a Minn Kota motor to cover more water. A range of models will be available, including the motor option and a flat floor for standing and sight fishing/casting. The base model will run $1,599, with the motor option at $2,699. http://www.johnsonoutdoors.com
Twitter: @BrettPrettyman —
More previews
See more gear previews via the Trib's Hiking Utah blog at http://www.sltrib.com/Blogs/hiking.