Andrew Alexander King climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in boots he bought at Walmart. Now, his home is full of gear from some of the biggest brands in the outdoor industry like Black Diamond, Sea to Summit, and Mammut.

King will use the gear to achieve some grand goals like becoming the first African American to climb the Seven Summits. But here鈥檚 the thing: King isn鈥檛 your typical pro athlete who grew up learning to climb. He鈥檚 a freelance program manager who has worked for companies like Live Nation, Lego, and the New England Patriots.

So how did he become an athlete ambassador in the outdoor industry?

King was raised in poverty in Detroit and moved to Hawaii as a teen when he was adopted by his grandparents. It was there that he dove into the outdoors and taught himself to climb and surf. When George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery were killed last year, soon after his great grandmother died from COVID-19, King sought the one place where he felt safe.

鈥淢other Nature’s not trying to kill me. The outdoors was the safest space in my head,鈥� King said. 鈥淎fter George Floyd, my protest was going to the mountains and into the ocean. If you’re going to kill me for being Black, then you’re going to have to find me in the middle of the ocean or at the top of a mountain.鈥�

For years, King had been climbing around the world and volunteering and donating in communities he visited through his social awareness initiative, The Between Worlds Project. When he decided in 2020 to climb the Seven Summits, it was around the time that outdoor brands were spurred by the Black Lives Matter movement to reexamine their roster of athletes and take notice of the overwhelming lack of diversity. Many reached out to discuss partnerships with King, but he was mindful about how he entered the athlete ambassadorship space.

鈥淲hen you look at mountaineering, it is a colonial sport. Most people who are getting publicity are of Caucasian descent,鈥� he said. 鈥淚’m going to do this climbing goal in a way that’s breaking through glass ceilings and learning about issues in different communities along the way.鈥�

King estimates that it will take $190,000 and ten years to complete his goal of climbing the Seven Summits. He will soon climb Denali in June with 国产吃瓜黑料 Consultants. While most of his time is spent training for this endeavor, he found a moment to speak with us about how he鈥檚 holding brands accountable for how they work with and represent athletes of color.

How are you changing the way athletes work as ambassadors with brands?

I knew about athlete ambassadorships because I was a D1 track athlete at the University of Maine, and when you work for corporate spaces, you understand the economics and the contracts of what it means to be an ambassador. I think that’s what freaked out a lot of brands when they reached out this summer. They were like, 鈥淭his guy understands media rights contracts, like how much his image is worth. He’s not just going to take gear.鈥�

I don鈥檛 just want free gear because I know, when you put my face on an ad, how much it’s going to be worth over time. It’s very rare to have an athlete that’s not a pro athlete come in and be like, 鈥淵ou can have my photos for one year. Any time after that you have to re-sign or go through contracts.鈥� If you put my face up in 2023 without my consent, you’re profiting off that, which is exploiting my story and my culture to benefit your profits.

I’ve been working in the corporate space and know that every brand needs to have core values to keep them in line with what they’re doing. If your core values don鈥檛 align with mine, then I know you’re not going to be a good fit.

I tell outdoor brands, here are my core values: Can you leave a place better than when you found it? Do you empower people of color in that community, so they feel like you’re helping them? Do you give back to nonprofits? Do you establish some kind of ambassador program that lets people of color speak about their struggle and not take that struggle and profit off it? Can you show me your diversity and inclusion initiatives and how you’re going to elevate that over time?

I challenged the brands. I’m not putting any clothes on, I’m not tagging any photos, I’m not putting anything out, if you do not sign me with a contract because we’re in this together. And if you sign me, I’m not just going to take photos on top of a mountain. I’m going to talk about world issues, openly and publicly, and if you’re not comfortable with that, then we shouldn’t work together.

I’m trying to set up a place for athletes of color to really feel included. I think a lot of brands realized that I鈥檓 changing the way we think of activism and athletes in the outdoor space.

How did the brands respond?

The only brand that really got me was Black Diamond. Tyler Wicutt, sports marketing manager (who has since left the brand), heard about what I was trying to do with The Between Worlds Project and how I鈥檓 making sure I understand the people and their issues in local communities and bring them forward as I climb. Wilcutt said, 鈥淭his is bigger than climbing mountains. This is actually pushing things forward.鈥�

They started loading me up with gear. They were followed by other brands over time, like Hoka One One and then Sea to Summit. Some people were pretty apprehensive because Black Diamond was tied up in the bad publicity with their parent company [who sold body armor, riot gear, and tear gas] used during the George Floyd protests. I met with them, we all sat down, and I said, 鈥淣one of us are perfect. I’m not perfect, you’re not perfect. But this story is about progression. If we’re going to do this, let’s build it together.鈥�

There are other brands that are in the outdoor space that gave gear and stuff, but when we sat down and I really pushed those core value questions, they couldn鈥檛 answer them. You鈥檒l put a [Black Lives Matter] posts up, but are you going to really start diversifying your portfolio of athletes? Can you tell me how you’re going to pick your athletes?

How can other athletes better navigate the ambassadorship space in the outdoors?

Find mentors and reach out. My mentor is Melissa Arnot Reid, the first woman to ascend and descend Everest six times. She already knows what it is to be a minority in a very male-dominant sport, and she did it on her own terms. Finding mentors that help you articulate what you’re trying to be and understanding your value really does help.

Secondly, understand from a corporate standpoint what your value is by knowing who you are.聽 A lot of individuals just take the gear, because they break through the glass ceiling, and think, 鈥淚’m just taking anything I can get.鈥� You have to ask, how do you keep this going?

Can you explain why you started The Between Worlds Project and what you do with it?

Every time I go somewhere and climb, I give back to a nonprofit that is pushing through the glass ceiling, so we can stand above it collectively and diversely, to make a better place for the human race in the outdoor space. That鈥檚 The Between Worlds Project.聽

I look at the region and I see what they鈥檙e really struggling with. Then I look for a nonprofit that is not heavily funded or funded by an individual. I reach out and say I’m looking to come and learn about their struggles and issues and help elevate it. Plus, I donate up to $200 of wishlist items to them. In the Dominican Republic, Charlie鈥檚 Foundation needed school supplies, so I donated face masks and up to 250 school supplies like construction paper, glue sticks, pencils, chalk, and white boards.

For Denali, the issue I’m going to tackle is racism because it鈥檚 one that’s close to me, and something we struggle with in America. I am going to donate $1,000 to Kai Lightner鈥檚 nonprofit, Climbing for Change. I don’t want to do just a monetary band aid, but I know for him, he needs it because he gives that money to other individuals and provides them the chance to buy gear. If I have enough, I want to donate $500 to the NAACP chapter within Minnesota for George Floyd.

I’ve always paid for The Between Worlds Project for the last six years. I’m grateful that I’ve been able to go to school, earn two degrees, and work for Fortune 500 companies. This is how I wish to give back on my journey.

What will you do after you summit the Seven?

When I’m at the top of Everest, I’m walking away. I’m going to go back to helping nonprofits, be an old guy surfing. It’ll be someone else’s turn. For now, I鈥檓 setting up structures with certain brands, so individuals, like women and men of color, really have an opportunity to speak and tell their story with brands that will help them.

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Outdoor footwear innovation continues to accelerate at a steady pace, and nowhere is that more evident than in the category鈥檚 sustainability practices.

Several brands have introduced, or will soon introduce, shoes that are recycled from other shoes or upcycled from other products, and others are debuting biodegradable shoes.

To find out what innovations are happening in the category, we checked in with several outdoor footwear makers about the material and design advancements they plan to debut either this year or next. The brands listed below are just a sampling of industry players that will be exhibiting their innovations at this summer鈥檚 trade shows, but they’re illustrative nonetheless of exciting happenings in footwear innovation across the outdoor space.

One thing seems clear: as consumers continue to demand greener products, brands are answering the call.

Hoka One One: Anacapa

Hoka鈥檚 all-new hiker set to hit shelves July 1, the Anacapa, will be available in mid- and low-cut silhouettes. The Anacapa, along with several of Hoka鈥檚 other hiking shoes, features more recycled materials in its upper construction, including Gore-Tex fabric with a leaf bootie, which is designed with 45 percent recycled content by weight. The Anacapa 鈥渦tilizes several recycled materials and marks a step forward in our effort to bring more sustainable practices to our manufacturing and business,鈥� Colin Ingram, director of product at Hoka One One, said.

鈥淎t Hoka, we’ve been making an increased effort to be aware of the impact our manufacturing process has on the planet, as well as to take concrete steps to mitigate that impact,鈥� Ingram added. 鈥淥f course, we are not the only brand trying to improve our stewardship of the environment. Consumers are demanding that brands act responsibly, and there is increasing recognition in the industry of the urgency with which we need to act to conserve and protect our home. I don鈥檛 think this trend is going away鈥攏or should it鈥攁nd you will see brands increasingly assessing where and how their shoes are made and taking steps to reduce waste and mitigate our effect on the climate.鈥�

Keen: Howser Harvest/Elsa Harvest collections

Keen has taken big strides in its sustainability efforts, even going so far as to publicly challenge other footwear brands to go PFC-free. The company is upping its sustainability game this year and next with two collections鈥攕et for release between November ’21 and April ’22鈥攖hat include shoes made from old car seat leather and coffee grounds. Keen鈥檚 Howser Harvest, Howser Harvest sandal, and Elsa Harvest collections will include these materials, part of the company鈥檚 鈥�detox journey鈥� that it鈥檚 been pursuing for the last seven years.

鈥淭his detox journey started around 2014 with the belief that we need to do more,鈥� said Erik Burbank, VP of the Keen Effect, the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program. 鈥淲e wanted to focus on taking the toxins out of our supply chain. We鈥檙e all about experiencing the outdoors and the mental and health benefits of being outside. The idea of our products causing human and planetary harm was contrary to our core beliefs. We dug into this issue, and what we found was that those PFCs were being applied on everything, so we started along this journey.鈥�

Mammut: Aegility Pro

Though Mammut won鈥檛 launch the Aegility Pro until spring 2022, the brand is excited about the product, which 鈥渄rastically minimizes the number of parts and steps used through a revolutionary design, thus reducing the carbon footprint,鈥� said Christoph H眉hnerbein, Mammut鈥檚 head of product management footwear. Images and details of the product are under embargo until Mammut鈥檚 global sales meeting in May.

鈥淭o describe this is not easy,鈥� H眉hnerbein said. 鈥淵ou have to see the shoes and the concept, and most importantly, try them on. We strongly believe in taking a step towards more sustainable footwear with this patented design. Above all, sustainability through innovation without compromising functionality is an important guiding principle.鈥�

Salomon: Index.01

Salomon鈥檚 newest offering, the Index.01, which hit shelves last week, is a recyclable, performance-oriented road running shoe. The brand says the shoe is 鈥渢he result of three years of research and development at Salomon鈥檚 Annecy Design Center in the French Alps, developed to reduce material waste and lessen the environmental impact of footwear by using circular lifecycle principles. The Index.01 is the latest project from Salomon鈥檚 Play Minded Program, the brand鈥檚 ongoing sustainability initiative.鈥�

Becky Marcelliano, outdoor marketing manager for Salomon North America, said 鈥淪alomon鈥檚 Index.01, officially launching in North America on 4/22, demonstrates the value and capabilities of circular economy principles. Salomon will continue innovating with this focus.鈥�

Marcelliano said Salomon鈥檚 new factory in Annecy, France, is a game-changer for the brand鈥檚 sustainability and circular lifecycle ambitions, as the new facility will provide 鈥渓ocalization, reduced transportation lines to our European markets, and better control of the process.鈥�

Scarpa: Mojito Bio

The Italian footwear brand Scarpa鈥檚 big push this year is B Corp certification. One example of this pursuit in action is the May ’21 launch of the Mojito Bio, made with a “sugarcane-based EVA midsole that provides cushioning and is 100 percent biodegradable,” as well as the incorporation of an “innovative new biodegradable natural rubber,” which the company says is the first of its kind on the market.

The shoe鈥檚 upper is constructed with Bio Knit Fabric, a breathable material made from bamboo-derived fibers. The Bio鈥檚 lining and laces are also bamboo-based. Scarpa says all other components have a vegetable base and construction uses water-based, non-polluting adhesives. The shoe comes with recycled packaging, too.

鈥淭his project was driven by Scarpa鈥檚 desire to not have its shoes last for decades or hundreds of years in landfills, as is the case with conventional footwear today,鈥� the company said. 鈥淲ith Americans throwing away more than 300 million pairs of shoes a year, the compounding concern is obvious. Scarpa chose to pioneer this effort with its Mojito, which is its highest-volume selling shoe as a company. It plans to integrate these biodegradable materials technologies into more of its footwear in years to come. This effort also ties in a larger direction for Scarpa as a company to be more sustainably minded.鈥�

The post A Glimpse into the Future of Outdoor Footwear Innovation appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

The iconic Swiss outdoor brand Mammut has a new owner after its parent company, Zurich-based Conzzeta AG, followed through on its previously announced divestment plans and sold the gear and apparel maker to private equity firm Telemos Capital.

The transaction, which the publicly traded Conzzeta announced Monday morning, is expected to close by mid-2021.

Financial terms of the deal weren鈥檛 disclosed, but the company said in a statement that 鈥渢he sale price reflects Mammut鈥檚 strong positioning as a leading global outdoor brand, as well as the considerable progress it has made in recent years in systematically overhauling the product range, digitalizing the business model and optimizing the cost structure.鈥�

Mammut鈥檚 2020 sales were CHF 218 million (US$238.4 million), and the brand posted a strong first quarter of 2021. Sales of CHF 64.5 million (US$70.5 million) marked increases of 26.9 percent on a reported basis and 28.2 percent on a currency-neutral basis.

鈥淚 am proud of our entire team and the successful transformation of Mammut over the last few years,鈥� said Oliver Pabst, Mammut Sports Group CEO. 鈥淎t the same time, I am very much looking forward to working with Telemos to expand Mammut鈥檚 leading position as a Swiss premium brand internationally and to strengthen our purpose: to ‘create a world moved by mountains鈥� with sustainable, innovative, and digital products and services. With Telemos, we have found a partner who fully supports us in the implementation of our strategy.鈥�

Mammut has been on the market since December 2019, when Conzzeta announced it would divest the brand鈥攖he lone asset in its outdoor division鈥攁nd focus on its other business segment.

At the time, Conzzeta said it didn鈥檛 have the 鈥渘ecessary market access outside Europe to realize [Mammut鈥檚] potential in the foreseeable future. Conzzeta is therefore evaluating buyers that meet the required criteria. Depending on the market situation, the sale should be completed by the end of 2020.鈥�

鈥淚t was a pleasure and honor for me to accompany the journey of Mammut over the past almost six years,鈥� said Michael Willome, Conzzeta Group CEO. 鈥淭he Mammut team achieved significant milestones over this period of time, for me most notably the development of the products into a more modern, fresh, and young look and feel whilst still keeping the premium quality and performance features.

鈥淚 am especially impressed by the new product ranges for the female clients who finally are fully participating in the rich offerings of Mammut. In addition, the strong push for the digital channels, which results in very high and continued growth through mammut.com and relevant marketplaces. I wish Oliver Pabst, his team, and all the people of Mammut the very best for the future under new ownership. I am convinced that this next chapter in the long history of Mammut will be a prosperous one.鈥�

Taking Mammut from Public to Private

With the sale, Mammut will transition from its current operational structure as a publicly traded company to one owned by a private equity firm. Based in London, Telemos Capital was founded and is chaired by Philippe Jacobs, who is also co-chairman of Zurich-based Jacobs Holding AG.

While Mammut鈥檚 new owner doesn鈥檛 have any outdoor brands in its portfolio, according to the firm鈥檚 website, Jacobs says the company was excited about working with the 159-year-old brand.

鈥淢ammut, with its rich heritage and strong brand, has achieved significant milestones over the past decades and we are very excited about the future possibilities with the Mammut premium outdoor products and services,鈥� he said.

Mammut has undergone some transition in the U.S. in recent years, primarily with its North American leadership, but it appears to be in steady hands under managing director Kris Kuster, who took over on a permanent basis in early 2019 after being appointed as interim director in the fall of 2018 following the abrupt departure of North American CEO and managing director Joe Prebich.

The brand鈥檚 NA operation is based in Williston, Vermont, but in 2019 it opened a key sales and marketing office in Denver to better serve Western U.S. dealers. In 2018, Mammut acquired the digital outdoors platform Mountain Hub.

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The outdoor industry continues to shine amid the economic ravages of COVID. For this installment of our quarterly earnings recap, we found that most publicly traded outdoor brands are performing well relative to other industries.

A few companies saw softness in certain categories, but on numerous earnings calls, CEOs cited healthy demand for outdoor apparel and gear and also projected continued growth throughout 2021 as the country eyes the end of the pandemic.

Below are Q4 summaries of the outdoor-focused public companies that reported earnings in the last few weeks.

Acushnet Holdings Corp. (NYSE: GOLF)

Acushnet, the parent of outerwear and ski apparel brand Kjus, reported fourth-quarter sales of $420.5 million, up 14.2 percent year-over-year. Net income grew 20.7 percent to $21.6 million. David Maher, president and CEO, said of the company鈥檚 outdoor brand, 鈥淭here’s a lot of talent within the Kjus organization. We are pleased with how the team is positioning the business for the future and the investments we are making to prepare Kjus for long-term growth.鈥澛�

Adidas AG (XETRA: ADS)

Adidas says persistent currency headwinds in Q4 sank revenue 5 percent to 鈧�5.5 billion (US$6.7 billion) while net income plummeted to 鈧�429 million (US$514.2 million) from 鈧�1.9 billion (US$2.3 billion) in the year-ago period. The company鈥檚 big announcement was its ambitious plan to invest 鈧�1 billion (US$1.2 billion) over the next five years in digital transformation.聽

Camping World Holdings Inc. (NYSE: CWH)

RV dealer Camping World benefited from the growth of camping and #vanlife last year as more people looked to social distance in the comfort of their outdoor rigs. Q4 sales of $1.1 billion increased 17.5 percent, and net income of $14.4 million was up from a loss of $28.5 million a year ago.聽

Canadian Tire Corp. (TSX: CTC)

The parent of Helly Hansen reported that the outdoor brand鈥檚 revenue was $196.1 million, up 11.4 percent, or 12.1 percent on a constant currency basis, from the same quarter a year ago. Canadian Tire CEO Greg Hicks said he was pleased with Helly Hansen鈥檚 performance in Q4 amid 鈥済lobal restrictions and closures.鈥�

Clarus Corp. (Nasdaq: CLAR)

Clarus reported sales increased 24 percent to $75.9 million in the fourth quarter, but that growth was driven by its Sierra Bullets asset. Sales at Black Diamond Equipment, Clarus鈥� flagship brand, were flat, but the company projects BD鈥檚 sales to increase 17 percent to $200 million in 2021. On the March 8 earnings call, Clarus President John Walbrecht noted that BD鈥檚 apparel sales spiked 19 percent鈥攇rowth that was 鈥渞eflective of our decision to not aggressively promote or discount Black Diamond products at the onset of the pandemic; we believe this has strengthened our long-term competitive position.鈥� He also gave a shout-out to BD for being named one of 鈥渢he best-selling climate equipment brands in a January installment of [国产吃瓜黑料 Business Journal鈥檚] 2020 Retailer Survey.鈥澛�

Compass Diversified (NYSE: CODI)

CODI reported Q4 sales climbed 18.5 percent to $474.8 million, while net income of $8.4 million was more than double the profit from a year ago. During the quarter, CODI completed its acquisition of Boa Technology Inc., and that brand exceeded expectations by posting revenue growth of 2.5 percent and EBITDA growth of 29 percent. Says CODI CEO Elias Sabo: 鈥淲e remain impressed with the Boa team鈥nd we鈥檙e optimistic about the company鈥檚 future.鈥澛�

Conzzeta Group (SWX: CON)

The Swiss-based parent of Mammut Sports Group AG says sales for the outdoor brand were adversely affected by retail closures in Q4 but the brand offset that softness with 鈥渃ontinued progress in digital channels.鈥� Company-wide, sales dropped 18.6 percent in 2020.

Dick鈥檚 Sporting Goods Inc. (NYSE: DKS)

A surge in outdoor and sporting goods helped Dick鈥檚 grow revenue 19.8 percent to $3.1 billion, while its net income tripled to $219.6 million. Recently appointed CEO Lauren Hobart didn鈥檛 discuss DSG鈥檚 new outdoor retail concept, Public Lands, and the company鈥檚 CFO mentioned it only when he noted that Dick鈥檚 still plans to convert two Field & Stream locations into Public Lands stores this year, as executives discussed in late 2020.聽

Emerald Holding Inc. (NYSE: EEX)

The parent company of Outdoor Retailer and numerous other trade shows not surprisingly posted a significant revenue dip and income loss in Q4. Sales fell 72.8 percent to $12.2 million and the company posted a loss of $58.1 million. On the earnings call, Emerald CEO Herv茅 Sedky didn鈥檛 discuss OR specifically, and he only briefly mentioned Surf Expo, saying that its in-person January show 鈥渃learly highlights the vital role that face-to-face events play in driving connections, commerce, and growth for customers and communities. This provides real optimism for the future.鈥� Outdoor Retailer was pushed back eight weeks but will happen in person this summer.聽

Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN)

Watch and fitness tracker brand Garmin reported Q4 revenue of $1.4 billion, up 23 percent from the prior-year quarter, led by growth in its marine, fitness, and outdoor segments. Net income slipped 7.6 percent to $333.5 million.聽

Vail Resorts Inc. (NYSE: MTN)

Stymied by a 鈥渃hallenging operating environment as a result of COVID-19,鈥� according to CEO Rob Katz, Vail reported sales for its fiscal second quarter ended January 31 of $597.1 million, a 20.8 percent decline from the year-ago period. Net income fell 28.4 percent to $147.8 million. But the company is much better situated than it was a year ago when it had to shut down its resorts, and Katz said 鈥渙ur growth in pass holders this past year also positions us well as we head into the 2021/2022 season.鈥澛�

Wolverine World Wide Inc. (NYSE: WWW)

The parent of Merrell, Chaco, and other footwear brands reported Q4 revenue slipped 16.1 percent to $509.6 million. The company also reported a loss of $170.7 million in the period. One bright spot was the digital channel. Wolverine CEO Blake Krueger said the company鈥檚 鈥渆commerce revenue grew 50 percent in 2020, and we have planned further investment in this area to enable growth of 40 percent in 2021.鈥�

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Full disclosure: gear is a wicked subjective thing. Always has been, always will be. To curate this list, our team of hardcore鈥攁nd highly opinionated鈥攇earheads pored over hundreds of new product launches, reading the specs and sifting through the marketing promises. We zoomed in on photos and watched embargoed video clips. And we debated. We culled the massive list down once, then made another pass until we had our 50 most coveted products. Then we voted to determine the rankings (we are a democracy, after all). In order of how badly we want to try it, here is Part Two of our list of the 50 most exciting product launches for Fall 2019.

24. Jones Snowboards Super Sap Bio-Resin [$479]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 the greenest snowboard on the market.

THE DEETS All Jones boards are now built with Super Sap Bio-Resin, a bio-based, USDA-certified, renewable epoxy resin made with plant-based carbon instead of petroleum-based carbon.

THE STOKE Resins are the most toxic component of skis and boards. Super Sap is a huge sustainability step in this category, and we hope other brands follow suit.

25. HydraPak IsoBound [$38]

THE PROMISE The world鈥檚 first insulated reservoir (no hose jacket required) keeps your water at the perfect temp, always.

THE DEETS Double-wall construction and open-cell foam insulation create a barrier around the reservoir, keeping fluids from freezing in winter and cooler longer in summer.

THE STOKE We鈥檒l miss Grandma鈥檚 hand-crocheted bladder sleeves, but not our frozen water bottles.

26. inov-8 Roclite 335 [$150-$175]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 the first hiking boot to feature graphene in the outsole鈥攁 super strong carbon-based material that adds ultralight durability.

THE DEETS This winter fast-hike/trail runner hybrid boot has a PrimaLoft upper and a graphene-infused rubber outsole for greater wear, traction, and flexibility. When graphene was developed in 2004, the scientists who isolated it earned a Nobel Prize, and the incredibly durable, super thin substance was heralded as world changing.

THE STOKE Boot soles that never wear out? Challenge accepted.

27. Dynafit TLT8 Carbonio [$849]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 an ultralight touring boot with real drivability on steeps.

THE DEETS An update to the popular TLT6, the 8 has Grilamid and carbon construction; a single, strong cuff buckle; and a reinforced, lower-volume shell to maintain performance while conserving weight. The cuff rotates a full 60 degrees for a natural, energy-saving walk mode.

THE STOKE Two-buckle boots don鈥檛 normally have the all-mountain performance the TLT8 claims, so our curiosity is piqued.

28. Vasque Coldspark UD [$140]

THE PROMISE This is one of the nimblest winter boots out there.

THE DEETS Vasque swapped out traditional insulation for a heat-reflective barrier to bump up the BTUs in this revamped favorite while cutting out weight and bulk.

THE STOKE If the space blanket idea works inside footwear, it could be a big step toward agility in winter boots.

29. Nite Ize RunOff Collection [Starting at $25]

THE PROMISE Drybags with the world鈥檚 first toothless waterproof zippers.

THE DEETS Expanding into a brand-new category, Nite Ize launches six different bags, all featuring its new Tru Zip, which is superquiet, smooth-running, and easy to operate. The pouches are made of welded thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which is flexible and compressible. They鈥檙e waterproof (and sand- and dustproof) down to one meter for 30 minutes.

THE STOKE Sounds like it takes the fiddlework out of sealing a drybag. Our iPhones await samples.

30. Hestra Freeride CZone Mitt [$160]

THE PROMISE Handwear created specifically for snowboarders.

THE DEETS The Freeride removes the ski pole-specific pre-curve and gets rid of the outside stitching that skiers like for better grip. Increased durability/flexibility in the cuff and bottoms of fingers stand up to repeatedly ratcheting bindings.

THE STOKE The riders on staff finally feel loved.

31. Leki Helicon Lite Backcountry Pole [$80]

THE PROMISE These touring-specific poles are dialed to make your transitions silky smooth, like the pow you crave.

THE DEETS The Helicon Lites feature a strap that releases quickly when pulled upward for safety in avalanche terrain. The notched Binding Basket is designed to manipulate touring bindings鈥攍ike adjusting heel lifters and popping boot buckles.

THE STOKE The less futzing we need to do during transitions, the better.

32. K2 Mindbender Skis [$500]

THE PROMISE The Mindbender鈥檚 new laminate has unrivaled torsional and longitudinal stability.

THE DEETS The key tech here is carbon fiber woven in different directions to boost torsional and longitudinal rigidity separately for better stability all over the mountain.

THE STOKE The carbon braid means a damp shovel, but makes the tail more manageable鈥攊deal for a wide variety of ability levels.

33. Somewear Personal Satellite Hotspot [$350]

THE PROMISE A superior app user experience means unprecedented ease of use and reliability in a messenger beacon.

THE DEETS This compact, lightweight unit pairs with your smartphone to聽provide global two-way text, location sharing, weather updates, and SOS emergency services with a mobile-first approach.

THE STOKE Every emergency beacon worth its batteries is two-way now, but聽this one saves some cost by hitching your SOS to your phone, which is cool. But if your phone dies, you might, too.

34. OluKai Pehuea Heu [$130]

THE PROMISE If a sneaker and a slipper had twin love children, the result would be these cozy kicks.

THE DEETS The upper is made from waterproof nubuck leather and lined with genuine shearling, and the beefy rubber sole and gel footbed mean your feet will be high, dry, and comfy all day long.

THE STOKE Because why should wearing slippers all day be frowned upon?

35. Matador Freerain 24 [$65]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 the super-packable backpack that doesn鈥檛 compromise on features.

THE DEETS At 6.6 ounces, this frameless 24-liter backpack packs down to five by three inches and has a roll-top closure, front organization pockets, and plenty of adjustable straps for dayhikes or travel.

THE STOKE Compared to other compact packs, the Freerain 24 has features galore. But the real test will be how it carries.

36. Mountain Hardwear Phantom Alpine 15掳F [$900-$930]

THE PROMISE Free your arms and stay warm on that chilly bivy with the Phantom Alpine鈥檚 dual side zips.

THE DEETS The bag features 850-fill goose down and a zipper on each side聽that lets you pop out your arms to do camp stuff.

THE STOKE We鈥檝e loved the Phantom collection for years, and the addition of dual side zips brings more versatility and comfort to the table.

37. Mammut Diamond Fingerboard [$450]

THE PROMISE This hangboard is your personal trainer.

THE DEETS An attached mobile-phone holder automatically operates the Mammut training app as you weight and unweight the hangboard so you can follow the free training workouts hands-free and keep your phone from getting chalked.

THE STOKE Did hangboarding finally get fun? Maybe a little bit.

38. Ortovox Trace Ski Pack [$100-$120]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 the ultimate skimo pack.

THE DEETS It keeps weight low and close to the body for optimum balance, while the ventilated shoulder straps and hipbelt stay comfortable during sweaty ascents. Main pack access is through the backpanel, with dedicated spots for a shovel and probe. Available in four sizes, from 18 to 25 liters.

THE STOKE Seems like everything we want for daily missions.

39. Mountain Equipment Odin Jacket [$200]

THE PROMISE Fewer stitches, fewer holes, fewer little white feathers floating in the wind.

THE DEETS Each baffle is created during the fabric weaving process, resulting in improved durability and better heat retention, plus it virtually eliminates migration of the 700-fill, water-resistant down.

THE STOKE聽Woven baffle jackets have been around for a few seasons (think: Mountain Hardwear) but this is a similar tech at an easier-to-swallow price point.

40. Full Windsor Splitter Titanium Multi Utensil [$60]

THE PROMISE Toss all your old sporks and melted spatulas. This is the only camp utensil you need.

THE DEETS The 1.8-ounce Splitter is made of two separate titanium utensils: a spatula and a long spork (perfect for reaching into dehydrated-meal bags). When joined, they morph into tongs.

THE STOKE Does the world really need another titanium spork? No. But this is so much more. Declutter. Simplify.

41. Noso Pride Patch [$7]

THE PROMISE It fixes ripped gear and stands up for inclusivity.

THE DEETS The 2.25 x 1.5-inch patch features the iconic rainbow flag and is suitable for repairing tears in puffy jackets, sleeping bags, and shells in seconds.

THE STOKE We love these patches: why use duct tape to make a temporary, messy repair when you could do the job right and make a statement of unity?

42. Helly Hansen Odin Mountain 3L Shell Jacket and Bibs [$475-$600]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 a tailored-just-for ski-tourers top and bottom outer layer.

THE DEETS The Odin shell and bib use a new proprietary membrane built for the stop/start tendencies of ski touring; the hydrophobic microporous membrane that releases moisture quickly in cold and dry weather. For backcountry relief, the men鈥檚 bib has a front zip, while the women鈥檚 has a drop seat that allows you to keep the suspenders up.

THE STOKE The membrane sounds a lot like others out there, but we do like the design of this outfit.

43. MSR Paragon Snowshoe Binding [starting at $260]

THE PROMISE Snowshoe bindings are notoriously cumbersome. These slip on easily, stay snug around your boots, and keep you stable even on the steepest of slopes.

THE DEETS This one-piece TPU mesh binding is light, durable, freeze-proof, and conforms to a wide array of boot sizes with a glove-like fit. The single-piece design makes them easier to adjust (no more messing with multiple straps over the foot). The mesh and variable thickness of the TPU help prevent pressure points without sacrificing durability or strength.

THE STOKE Could the perfect binding make us actually want to go snowshoeing? We鈥檒l get back to you on that one.

44. Terracea Beacon and Huntington 2L Jackets [$360]

THE PROMISE The Beacon (for men) and Huntington (for women) look at home on city streets and have the technical chops to keep you warm and comfy on the slopes.

THE DEETS These water-resistant insulated jackets feature body-mapped PrimaLoft Silver insulation, helmet-compatible hoods, magnetic zipper and pocket flaps, and long, butt-covering cuts to combat icy chairlift seats.

THE STOKE A fresh new brand on the apparel scene is always welcome. We hated to send our sample back after living in it for a week in Vermont.

45. Merrell Thermo Rogue Boa 2 Mid GTX [$250]

THE PROMISE This athletic hybrid is packed with the best in protection, but stripped of any bulk, so you can move fast on any winter adventure.

THE DEETS PrimaLoft Gold, along with Aerogel over the toes, provide warmth, and a Gore-Tex lining keeps things dry. The Boa lacing system ensures quick adjustments and a secure lockdown. Vibram鈥檚 Arctic Grip Dura 2 compound combined with Merrell鈥檚 new lug geometry enhances the grip and adds speed and confidence on trail and ice.

THE STOKE We dug the Rogue when it came out last year. This is a worthy upgrade.

46. The North Face Summit L6 Insulated Belay Skirt [$250]

THE PROMISE This women鈥檚 wrap-around puffy skirt will keep anyone鈥檚 tush warm on the chilliest belays.

THE DEETS It鈥檚 a puffy for your butt and legs. Measuring 27.5 inches long, the skirt uses 800-fill, water-resistant down and a ten-denier Pertex Quantum shell for weather resistance and durability.

THE STOKE Women will love it as a winter wardrobe staple, but there鈥檚 no law against men wearing it, either.

47. LiftRider Ski Backpack [$125]

THE PROMISE You won鈥檛 grapple with bringing an extra layer and/or lunch, because wearing this ski pack is like wearing nothing at all.

THE DEETS The super-low-profile, wedge shape of this 20-liter pack allows you to jump on the chairlift with it right on your back. The main compartment holds an extra layer and the included two-liter hydration system, while a padded upper compartment keeps your PB&J from getting squished (it rests above the back of the chairlift). Breakaway pack straps add safety, ensuring you never get caught on the chair. Also cool: A dedicated cell phone garage keeps your phone insulated and the battery life fresh.

THE STOKE We love the idea of having everything we need for a full day of frontcountry skiing, without the hassle of hauling a traditional pack.

48. Kathmandu Connect Smart Backpack [$350]

THE PROMISE The Connect pack is a powerful, smart travel bag that won鈥檛 ever get stolen.

THE DEETS The 28-liter, travel-specific Connect Smart Pack features a Joey integrated power system that will charge multiple devices and pair with your phone via Bluetooth to prevent theft. If your pack gets too far from the phone it鈥檚 paired with, the Joey inside will ring and make noises to avert a thief. Or if you lose your phone, the Joey can actually call it to help you find it.

THE STOKE OK, it feels like a slightly paranoid product, but how fun would it be to bust a thief with this?

49. Osprey Daylite Waist [$30]

THE PROMISE Fanny packs are hot right now, and this one is sleek, non-fussy, and affordable.

THE DEETS Like the rest of Osprey鈥檚 Daylite line, the new Waist is lightweight and simple, yet functional. It features a zippered main compartment, an interior mesh organizer, key clip, and adjustable waist belt in a superlight and portable package.

THE STOKE If we鈥檙e wearing a fanny pack, it鈥檚 gonna be this one.

50. Popia Hat Collection [$60]

THE PROMISE These high-quality, on-trend merino hats will brighten your winter wardrobe and keep your head toasty.

THE DEETS All Popia hats (like the POW, pictured) feature supersoft, lightweight, fine-gauge merino wool; a double-layer design with a contrasting interior; and a generous pom to top it off. Small-batch, exacting craftsmanship (in playful motifs and bright colors) ensure it will last for decades.

THE STOKE Big fuzzy hat toppers are all the rage. We dig.

The post The Voice 50, Part Two appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Full disclosure: gear is a wicked subjective thing. Always has been, always will be. To curate this list, our team of hardcore鈥攁nd highly opinionated鈥攇earheads pored over hundreds of new product launches, reading the specs and sifting through the marketing promises. We zoomed in on photos and watched embargoed video clips. And we debated. We culled the massive list down once, then made another pass until we had our 50 most coveted products. Then we voted to determine the rankings (we are a democracy, after all). In order of how badly we want to try it, here is Part One of our list of the 50 most exciting product launches for Fall 2019.

1. The North Face FutureLight

THE PROMISE It seeks to solve the waterproof/breathable problem and dethrone Gore-Tex as the gold standard.

THE DEETS聽An industrial process known as nanospinning sprays polymers through up to 220,000 tiny nozzles to create a waterproof yet highly porous mesh-like membrane. Nanoholes allow air to pass through and moisture vapor to escape, keeping users dry and comfortable, not clammy and cold.

THE STOKE Next-level breathability, waterproofness, and sustainability in the shell category. Bring it on.

2. PrimaLoft Biodegradable Fabric

THE PROMISE It will degrade quicker than any other fabric if you bury it in your backyard.

THE DEETS A shell and now a fabric are infused with a food source that attracts microbes at a faster rate when in a landfill. What’s left after the bacteria breaks down the fibers is simply water, carbon dioxide, methane, and natural organic matter鈥攍ike compost. But the biodegradable polyester doesn’t compromise durability.

THE STOKE A fuzzy fabric that vanishes instead of clogging up landfills and polluting oceans? Be still our hearts.

3. Ombraz Armless Sunglasses [$160]

THE PROMISE Cordage, baby: that鈥檚 the future of sunglasses.

THE DEETS The adjustable polyester cord running between the temples and around the back of your head keeps the glasses snug to your face and ditches the possibility of broken glasses arms and head-squeezing pressure. Plus, acting like built-in eyewear retainers, they鈥檙e harder to lose and either hang around your neck when you take them off or function like a headband.

THE STOKE These things look crazy (like a fox), but after an early test, we fell in love. 鈥淣o pinching, no pressure, and steazy AF: Yes, please,鈥� said one tester.

4. Black Diamond Vision Down Parka [$399]

THE PROMISE A puffy tough enough for tree skiing.

THE DEETS According to BD, this burly fabric initially stumped designers because it was so difficult to cut. A polymer weave crisscrossing the 20-denier face fabric adds a lot of durability without penalizing weight. This 800-fill hydrophobic down toaster comes in at an airy one pound, four ounces.

THE STOKE Say goodbye to duct-tape patch jobs on your warmest layer: This one looks rugged enough to dance on in crampons. It could be a revolution in lightweight durability.

5. Outdoor Research Tundra Aerogel Booties [$69-$89]

THE PROMISE With NASA-designed Aerogel underfoot in these synthetic camp booties, cold doesn鈥檛 stand a chance.

THE DEETS Solid Aerogel won鈥檛 compress like typical insulation, so it鈥檒l keep your feet warm even while you鈥檙e standing on it. Plus, a grippy outsole steadies you on the icy trail to the outhouse. Also available in a low-cut slip-on version.

THE STOKE Aerogel has been popping up more and more in outdoor gear, but its lack of breathability has held it back. The bottom of a camp bootie seems like the ideal application.

6. Marmot West Rib Parka [$600]

THE PROMISE The West Rib features unique gridded down baffles to boost warmth in the extreme cold.

THE DEETS Marmot packed 800-fill down into cube-shaped baffles around the chest of this deep-winter puffy to trap warmth around your body. Synthetic insulation layered between the down and the Pertex Quantum shell material adds weather protection and durability.

THE STOKE We鈥檙e curious about the cubist baffles and layered use of synthetic fill. This thing sounds like a serious volcano.

7. Dahu E鈥檆orce 01 Boot [$TBD]

THE PROMISE It looks and operates like no other ski boot on the market.

THE DEETS The Grilamid shell has cutouts to eliminate pressure points and the liner is beefy enough to walk around in. The unique entry system has hinges at the front and back of the boot, creating a giant opening.

THE STOKE Comfort. Ease of use. Versatility. Boom.

8. Sweet Protection Interstellar Goggle [$220]

THE PROMISE The lens won鈥檛 fog. Period.

DEETS The Gore membrane increases moisture and air transfer, equalizing air pressure and preventing condensation. Retina Illumination Grading increases contrast and enhances vision in low-light conditions, and the carbon-reinforced frame creates a rigid structure for the lens.

THE STOKE Gore-Tex in a goggle? Just plain fascinating.

9. Six Moon Haven DCF Tent [$400]

THE PROMISE This is the ultimate featherweight shelter for fastpacking duos.

THE DEETS The Haven DCF is a shaped, supported tarp made of Dyneema Composite Fabric, which offers extreme durability at a paltry 12-ounce weight. With two doors, a peak height of 45 inches, and 51 square feet of interior space, it can also be paired with the Haven Net Tent to create a fully enclosed double-wall shelter at just one pound, four ounces.

THE STOKE Dyneema tents are the new standard in ultra-ultralight, and this one sets the bar high… er, low.

10. Patagonia Black Hole Collection [starting at $29]

THE PROMISE Every Black Hole pack, duffel, tote, and waist pack gives plastic bottles and factory scraps another life.

THE DEETS It鈥檚 still burly, thanks to 90-denier poly ripstop with a TPU laminate and a DWR finish, but it now uses 100 percent recycled fabric, lining, and webbing.

THE STOKE Tally this up as yet another reason to love our favorite duffel.

11. Black Diamond Equipment JetForce Pro [$1,399]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 the most advanced avalanche air bag pack out there.

THE DEETS This new version of BD鈥檚 award-winning JetForce series is still rechargeable and travel friendly. But the Pro is modular, letting you zip on and off a 10-, 25-, 35-, or 25-liter splitboard booster pack, making it super-versatile.

THE STOKE The modular design sets rippers up to stay safe on any day.

12. Tecnica Forge Winter [$300]

THE PROMISE Get a customized fit in a ready-for-winter hiker.

THE DEETS Like its three-season counterpart, the Forge Winter features in-store custom shaping for a perfect fit. It also adds Vibram鈥檚 Arctic Grip outsole and a Gore-Tex insulated comfort lining for waterproof/breathable insulation.

THE STOKE We fell in love with the original Forge, so a warm, winterized version is a no-brainer.

13. Rab Verglas Jacket [$375]

THE PROMISE It combines the best features of a parka and a shell鈥攚ithout turning you into a hot mess.

THE DEETS The Verglas is packed with 750-fill hydrophobic down for warmth, and Gore-Tex Shakedry over the 20-denier Pertex Quantum makes it waterproof while keeping it lightweight and mega-breathable.

THE STOKE For cold days with precip, this puffy looks like a winner if Shakedry can hold up to abuse.

14. Fischer Urban Cross-Country Ski Boot [$189]

THE PROMISE This is the first Nordic ski boot designed to take you from home to trail to apr茅s.

THE DEETS With a sneaker-like sole and chukka-style upper, you鈥檇 never know this was a cross-country ski boot. Designed for skiers less focused on racing and performance and more on casual exercise, it鈥檚 compatible with Fischer Turnamics and any NNN compatible binding.

THE STOKE Nordic boots have never looked so good.

15. Julbo Reactiv Performance Lenses [Starting at $210]

THE PROMISE Ski from dawn to dusk on bright bluebirds or during storm sessions.

THE DEETS The lenses鈥攁vailable in both shades and goggles鈥攎agically transition from clear (87 percent visible light transmission) to dark (12 percent VLT) in record time: roughly 20 seconds.

THE STOKE These just might be the one-quiver shades and goggles we鈥檝e been looking for.

16. Holden Outerwear Corkshell Summit Bib [$600]

THE PROMISE Cork is the insulation of the future.

THE DEETS These bibs (and their matching jacket) incorporate Schoeller鈥檚 recycled cork content to add heat retention without the bulk of traditional lofted insulation.

THE STOKE We鈥檙e always intrigued when brands find new ways to recycle materials, and companies have been chasing warmth without bulk for ages. Could this be the one that actually delivers?

17. G3 FindR Skis [$869-$919]

THE PROMISE Leave the ski straps at home. Magnets hold these skis together.

THE DEETS Updated for 2019, the powder-cruising FINDr series now features magnetic contact points, making bootpack transitions quick and easy, and eliminating the need for straps when shouldering your skis.

THE STOKE Pick 鈥榚m up, stick 鈥榚m together, walk away. Sounds pretty slick.

18. Blizzard Zero G 95 [$840]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 typically either/or: lightweight or stiffness. These are your new no-compromise skis.

THE DEETS The Zero G 95 touring ski strikes the ideal balance between uphill comfort and downhill charging, thanks to a carbon fiber frame that鈥檚 integrated over the wood core to reduce weight for speed on the skin track while still delivering a high level of stiffness for downhill performance.

THE STOKE Light feet on the uphill and stiff shred-ability on the down? 鈥楴uf said.

19. Smartwool Intraknit 200 Base Layers [starting at $120]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 the ultimate in body mapping.

THE DEETS Intraknit technology is a first-in-industry 3D knitting technique that can marry different weights of fabric into a single garment, without the use of seams. (The company already uses the technology in its socks.)

THE STOKE This sounds very much like the FuseForm tech that (sister company) The North Face introduced in shells a few years back. The concept makes even more sense in baselayers, where multiple seams can make body-mapped baselayers chafe in all the wrong places.

20. GoLite ReFill Eco 100 Jacket [$250]

THE PROMISE Keep warm and divert green plastic bottles from the landfill.

THE DEETS At a Taiwanese recycling plant, volunteers collect and sort bottles, and GoLite snags the ones nobody else wants鈥攖he green ones鈥攁nd turns them into dye-free clothing, like this PrimaLoft Silver Eco-filled puffy.

THE STOKE Recycled products are nothing new, but we dig how GoLite found a way to use the bottles that stump other apparel makers.

21. Mammut Meron IN [$449]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 as warm as you can get, without the bulk.

THE DEETS Premium 900-fill down is shelled with a lightweight, water-repellent Toray ripstop nylon and lined with an equally light, semi-transparent lining that traps the down.

THE STOKE It鈥檚 hard to make a puffy this warm not look like a Michelin man. This one does it through the magic of smart patterning.

22. Salomon S/Pro Boot Collection [$800]

THE PROMISE Get a custom-like fit, without all the hassle and expense.

THE DEETS Salomon digitally scanned more than 4,000 feet to identify a shell that鈥檚 compatible with 70 percent of the European/North American market without needing any significant modification.

THE STOKE Any respectable skier knows that custom-molding your boots is mandatory. Our apologies to all the boot-fitters out there, but this could be good.

23. Atomic Savor [$1,545]

THE PROMISE It鈥檚 the ultimate starter kit.

THE DEETS In an effort to combat exhaustion, soreness, and complicated equipment, Savor includes painless-entry boots, easy-to-handle skis, and a comfortable helmet designed specifically for rookies.

THE STOKE Want to get your SO on the slopes with you? This package might be your ticket to paradise.

The post The Voice 50, Part One appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.