When we sort through new gear each week, we try to showcase products for all the diverse ways of enjoying the outdoors. Looking for something sleek and futuristic? ENVO’s electric trike checks that box, as do COROS’s latest watches. On the other hand, those who prefer less techy offerings will find a book on thru-hiking and a vegan camping food brand.
The more sophisticated gear junkies out there will want to take a look at the YETI French presses and the fashionable UPF shirts from nascent brand OLEU Originals. Find your next favorite thing right here.
ENVO Veemo Velomobiles
Nope, that’s not a Volkswagen golf cart you’re looking at — it’s the new electric vehicle from ENVO Drive Systems.
The e-mobility brand has launched two models of this EV concept, the semi-enclosed Veemo SE ($6,200) and the topless Veemo LT ($4,650). With a top speed of 20 mph and a 43-mile battery range, these electric tricycles are meant for a small travel radius.
It’s perfect for those looking to electrify their daily commutes, the company said, with the trike wheel format offering increased stability and safety. The LT version mirrors the SE model, but lacks a windscreen and covering. Both versions are currently available for purchase on ENVO’s website, with shipping scheduled for mid-May.
COROS Vertix 2S
The Vertix 2S, the latest watch from COROS, comes with plenty of updates to the durability, battery life, and GPS accuracy of the original Vertix 2. But it’s the visual elements that make a big impact with this launch. This techy timepiece comes in three styles — Earth, Moon, and Space — each with a different watch face celebrating the spirit of exploration.
The watch also allows for 118 hours of continuous GPS use and up to 48 days in Daily Use mode. It also sports COROS’s most advanced heart rate sensor yet, the brand said. The VERTIX 2S functions under significant pressure or in a vacuum, COROS claimed, and comes in either silicone or nylon bands. They sell for $700.
ISLE Switch Pro
With the Switch Pro Series board, ISLE has released an upgraded version of its original hybrid model. ISLE touts the 11’6” Switch Pro as the world’s most rigid inflatable 3-in-1 SUP-Kayak. (We’ll have to test it out and see.)
It has the new Airtech Pro InfinityFiber, which supposedly increases the board’s rigidity by three to four times while keeping it a lightweight 23 pounds. Priced at $1,095, the board incorporates the ISLE-Link connect system for switching between kayak and SUP modes. It also includes welded rails to prevent air leakage and prolong the board’s lifespan.
Compatible with up to a 3-horsepower motor assist, the Switch Pro is “e-assist ready” for those looking to convert it into an e-SUP or e-kayak. The complete package includes a carbon SUP/kayak paddle, Cloud Kayak seat and foot brace, ultralight leash, hand pump, repair kit, and a flex touring fin — all storable in a portable, wheelie backpack.
ROKA Retro Aviators
I can only judge by the photos, but those bourbon-colored Havanas are undeniably sexy.
After over 2 years without releasing new shades, ROKA has introduced two aviator sunglasses just in time for summer: the teardrop-styled Havana and square-styled Bandera. These retro-inspired aviators combine classic aesthetics with performance-driven features, the brand said.
Whether it’s a casual day out or a knife-edge mountain bike descent, these sunglasses are engineered to handle diverse environments and demands, ROKA said.
‘Thru Hikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail’
Renee Miller and Tim Beissinger, known as @thruhikers on social media, have now literally written the book on thru-hiking.
They certainly have the trail cred — Miller and Beissinger have completed the 3,000-mile Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada, as well as the Pacific Crest Trail and 1,000 miles across Germany. And that’s just the quick intro.
Now, the adventurous duo has launched a guide for both novice and seasoned hikers, from planning and preparation to trail life and post-trip recovery. It includes practical advice on trip planning, gear packing, animal encounters, and adhering to the “leave no trace” principles. Readers will even find over 20 plant-based dehydrated recipes suited for the outdoors.
Preorder your copy of Thru Hikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail.
Poe & Co. Folk Foods
Jamie and Jayson Poe, a husband-and-wife team of Michelin-trained chefs, have launched Poe & Co. Folk Foods.
The couple has created gourmet, just-add-water camping meals for campers and hikers looking for delicious vegan options for their next outing.
The product range includes Black Garlic Ramen Bowl with carrots, edamame, and nori; Coconut Chickpea Stew featuring basmati rice, cauliflower, and turmeric; and a Quinoa Sweet Potato Skillet with black beans, tomato, and chipotle. Each meal is made from nutritious, plant-based ingredients, the brand said.
Appalachian Gear Company AlpaLite Collection
Appalachian Gear Company just dropped its latest collection: AlpaLite, a fabric that combines 80% alpaca fiber with 20% recycled nylon. Though known for making 100% alpaca garments, the brand has now started experimenting with blends to “enhance” the fiber’s natural benefits with some stretch and durability.
Alpaca fiber, for those new to the game, comes from the eponymous South American camelid, and has become more widely used in modern apparel for its strength and warmth, even when compared to merino wool. The AlpaLite collection includes the AlpaLite Hoodie, priced at $150, and the AlpaLite Quarter Zip for $154.
Appalachian Gear Company has plans to expand the lineup in the future.
OLEU Originals
If you’re looking for top-shelf UPF/sun protection shirts, the word on the streets is that emerging brand OLEU Originals makes some of the best around.
OLEU’s shirts blend classic Hawaiian style with eco-friendly materials like ocean-bound plastics. Yet they still feel ultra-soft, with stylish designs that will look great in the surf or at the bar, the brand said.
Key features include UPF50+ protection, quick-dry and wind-resistant fabric, and a zippered back security pocket. They also have a recycled snap front closure and flat-lock seams. Designed in California and made in the USA, the men’s shirts cost $120 while the women’s styles are priced at $90.
Sanuk x Surfrider Capsule
Sanuk has teamed up with the Surfrider Foundation to release the Sanuk x Surfrider capsule collection — just in time for Earth Day.
This eco-conscious footwear line includes four beach-ready styles, designed with sustainability in mind by using recycled fishnets for the nylon mesh upper. Highlights include the Ziggy Switchfit x Surfrider sandals, for both men and women, and the Donna x Surfrider shoes, also for both men and women.
Sanuk contributed $50,000 to the Surfrider Foundation to support the organization’s efforts to protect coastlines.
Helinox White Chair Zero
While the white color option for Helinox Chair Zero ($150) is undeniably classy, especially for an ultralight kit, the brand has dropped lots of new colors this spring among its many camping chair models.
My personal favorite is the Mint Multi Block color for the Chair One ($110), another great example of the industry finally embracing a broader aesthetic. Hunters may like the Multicam color now available on the Tactical Sunset Chair ($200).
