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We'll introduce some of the mountain tools we've come across at outdoor exhibitions around the world (part 1)

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Written by Yasushi Hisatomi

an outdoor equipment exhibition held every year around the world , I was completely overwhelmed by the sheer scale, bustle, and boundless atmosphere of freedom that I could never have imagined from Japan.

Over a thousand outdoor brands, manufacturers, buyers, and media from around the world gather at the vast venue over several days, and attendees are greeted by a wide range of products covering a wide range of outdoor genres, from the latest outdoor gear scheduled to be released next season, including backpacks, shoes, and apparel, to the latest materials, parts, manufacturing equipment, and technology

This year, I was fortunate enough to be able to witness three very different exhibitions: "Outdoor Retailer" in the US, "The OutDoor Show" in Europe, and "Asia Outdoor Trade Show" in China, all with their own unique personalities. I've reported on some of them on this site ( Europe here , China here ), but of course there are still many more items that I wasn't able to introduce there. I wouldn't want to let the year end with them left behind, so I'm going to be releasing them in several installments over the winter break. I hope that this will convey to you that the world is full of mysterious gear that no one has ever seen before, and that the outdoors is truly a global industry and culture.

Just to be clear, the products we will be introducing below are only scheduled to be released in each regional market, so it is unclear whether they will be officially available here in Japan

For past exhibition reports, including what's going on at outdoor exhibitions, please see here

1. SALOMON

The Salomon booth was packed with new products for a wide range of activities, from running to trekking. One product that caught my eye was the S/LAB SENSE ULTRA 2, a shoe developed in collaboration with world-class ultra runner François D'Henne for ultra-distance races, which was prominently featured at the entrance

2. OSPREY

The latest product from Osprey, a leading backpack specialist brand, is an ultra-lightweight, highly durable, and highly functional backpack that weighs just 800 grams yet boasts a large 40L capacity and a back frame with ventilation. This is made possible by a unique ultra-thin fabric that is as lightweight as possible while maintaining durability. I can't wait to get out into the field

3. Outdoor Research

OR, one of the US brands that is always boldly experimenting with new materials, has released their latest outerwear, a fast and light rainwear made with a new version of Gore-Tex Active, which adds a flexible and comfortable lining to the traditional highly breathable membrane

4. KLYMIT

Klymit, a new sleeping pad brand known for its unique V-shaped tubes that are ultralight yet comfortable, has grown into a comprehensive sleeping gear brand with a diverse lineup. This year, they announced the Armored V, a highly durable and comfortable air pad that won't puncture even if you place it on broken glass, as well as the V ULTRALITE SL, the company's lightest Static V pad to date

5. SALMING

This Swedish sports brand originally started out as an ice hockey gear manufacturer. In 2014, they launched a running division, and in addition to their high-quality designs, they are also active in research and development. They also seem to be focusing on trail running, so we can look forward to their new releases next season

6. CAULDRYN

This is the world's first self-heating insulated bottle, capable of boiling water and keeping it warm using a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that doubles as a mobile battery. It's perfect for winter touring, when coffee shops are scarce. It won the Gear Institute's BEST NEW GEAR AWARD

7. My Comfy Socks

These socks look just like wool, but they're actually made from alpaca. Made with wool from Peru in South America and carefully sewn in an American factory, these alpaca socks are said to be stronger than merino wool, flexible, lightweight, and boast moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties. I was given a sample to wear, and they certainly feel like lighter wool socks, and are quite comfortable

Please also refer to the following for information on outdoor exhibitions around the world and reports on past exhibitions.

   

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