Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2018 – Part 2 – Denver, Colorado
Welcome to part two of my coverage on Outdoor Retailer’s 2018 Winter Market in Denver, Colorado. The latest footwear, packs, apparel, and gear from the outdoor industry awaits. Over at the Alchemy Equipment’s booth, I had a chance to check out their modern men’s winter coats, jackets, and packs.
On some jackets I found magnetic snaps to close the pocket s shut. On one backpack I found a unique magnetic button that you twist to unlock. Needless to say, I was impressed by just how fashion-forward but functional both their appeal and gear were. Best of all, their colors ranged from grey to black to blue; no tacky neon colors, which I loved!
Chrome Industries booth featured a super attractive camo bag that has a tactical yet, everyday look and feel to it. When I saw their latest backpack with “the most comfortable backpack you will ever wear” sign next to it, and I just had to try it on. Wow, it was out of this world! Beyond the packs, their appeal line looked great too.
Chippewa had all the handsome men’s leather boots you’d expect alongside some rather unique displays. Alongside their boot cut out featuring all the layers that go into some of their boots, I found something entirely unique! On the top of their coffee table display, I found a size 22 boot. Yup, a size 22! This thing was massive and had a hefty weight to it.
GoggleSoc’s wall of protective goggle covers took me by surprise. Not only did they invent the GoggleSoc, but they also started printing them with everything from ski resort mountain maps to professionally taken photographs and beyond.
Wild Outdoor Apparel featured a handful of beautifully waxed leather men’s jackets. While I liked the contrasting flannel and pattern interiors, what I enjoyed the most was finding a piece of clothing that would last a lifetime. Needless to say, these jackets are heavy duty!
I came across Vibram’s new Arctic Grip outsole later on in the show and was told it performed like magic on ice. Knowing how well Vibram’s outsoles work I wouldn’t be surprised if they invented an outsole that stuck like glue to cold and icy conditions. For now, I’ll have to field test a pair in the future and report back.
YKK Zippers had more zippers than you can even imagine. From lightweight zippers that feel like you’re holding nothing to zippers in countless colors. Best of all, their metal zippers are all lead-free including the paint!
With that said, go ahead and explore the photos from Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2018 below. You’ll find a handful of brands I didn’t have time to mention, but yet, still featured some exceptional pieces of winter gear!
Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2018 Part 2: