This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Wandering the aisles of the Salt Palace during the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market trade show that ended Sunday revealed a potpourri of toys, gadgets and must-have outdoor items that already or soon will be available online and in stores.
The massive numbers of products is amazing. So are the numbers.
This year's show saw 22,000 people attending and more than 1,060 exhibitors. Of the exhibitors, 19 percent were new.
"Outdoor Retailer is the largest gathering place for specialty retailers and industry brands," said Marisa Nicholson, the show director. "This event is the epicenter for our industry, where the entire community can come together to not only conduct business but to celebrate the people and the accomplishments, and to collaborate and engage in a more personal, face-to-face way."
Picking products to feature can be a challenge, largely because there are thousands upon thousands on the floor. But there were some fun and practical things.
Here is a look at some relatively new products:
Reflekt Unsinkable Polarized Sunglasses, $99 and $139
How many times have you jumped into a lake or swimming pool while forgetting you have sunglasses on and had them knocked off your face and into the water, where they sink? This product solves that problem by not sinking. The other advantage is that they are 20 percent lighter, though they look like other sunglasses. They come with a lifetime and loss warranty. For information, log on to http://www.reflektpolarized.com.
Boost Oxygen, $20 for 22 ounces, $10 for four ounces
This product comes in peppermint, unscented, pink grapefruit or menthol-eucalyptus flavors, and is 95 percent pure. It is designed to treat altitude sickness or give users a quick burst of oxygen when they are exercising. Given the bad air that frequents the Wasatch Front, having some pure oxygen when exercising that doesn't require a prescription can also be helpful. For information, log on to http://www.boostoxygen.com.
Hydro Flask 64-ounce Beer Growler, $65
Hydro Flask makes some of the best water bottles and coffee go mugs on the market because the insulation keeps liquids cold or hot for hours. This large beer growler is designed to keep beer from going flat and makes it easy to both keep cold and pour for those who want their favorite craft beer in the outdoors. Consider buying a companion pint metal cup to hold the beer as well. For information, log on to http://www.hydroflask.com.
Luminoodle, $19.99
This is the newest product from Utah-based Power Practical. It includes a waterproof five-foot-long lighted rope that provides 180 lumens of brightness. The package comes with three custom noodle ties and a utility loop for easy hanging as well as embedded magnets that allow the light to attach to metal surfaces. It also includes a nylon carry bag, which can double as a lantern if the light rope is stored inside. The device is powered by portable USB devices, such as the Pronto 5 that the company sells. For information, log on to http://www.powerpractical.com.
Traveler Guitar, $299-$549
Times around the campfire can often be enhanced with a little guitar music. The Traveler Guitar booth was one of the busiest at Outdoor Retailer, as retailers looked at this company's eight small-sized traveler guitars — both acoustic and electric — designed to take on the road and not take up much space. For information, log on to http://www.travelerguitar.com.
Munkees Multi-Tool LED, $9.95
This European company features a number of multi-tools, knives and flashlights designed to be part of a key chain. This new model features some basic tools that includes a handy flashlight. Those who like tiny gadgets that include bottle openers, carabiners, compasses, whistles, knives and key rings should check out the company's website at http://www.munkees.eu. There is a tab to switch the language from German to English.
Green Goo, $7.95 per canister
These all-natural products come in small canisters, which make them an ideal small first aid kit for outdoor enthusiasts. Ointments or sprays include first aid for sunburns, insect bites, cuts, scrapes and blisters; pain relief for sore muscles; dry-skin care; SPF 30 sunblock; skin repair for sunburn; poison ivy; cold sore; insect repellent and lip balm. For information, log on to http://www.greengoohelps.com.
Sky Board, $39.95
B4 Adventure offered one of the most interesting lines at the Winter Market. All of its products are designed to get kids outdoors and keep them active.
One of the newest is the Sky Board, which is an outdoor play toy with bouncy balls attached to a board that has handles users hold when bouncing, jumping or spinning. The design allows riders to get off the ground. The twin handles make it easier to get started having fun and doing tricks. Once skills are mastered, the handles are removable.
For information, log on to http://www.slackersline.com.
Flowfold floating wallet, $25
Unlike sunglasses, wallets don't often get out of pockets and sink to the bottom of lakes or rivers. But if that were to happen, it would be a major disaster.
The company offers a number of different sizes of wallets, including one that carries a passport or one that can be used for an iPhone or checkbook. But these Flowfold products, including some duffles, are designed to float and be waterproof. For information, log on to http://www.flowfold.com.
ThermaCELL heated insoles, $99.99
Nothing can ruin a day like cold feet. This product solves that by utilizing insoles to be put in boots. Heat provided by the rechargeable batteries can be regulated with a small remote with settings of high, medium and low.
For information, log on to http://www.thermacell.com.
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