The Outdoor Retailer 2022 Snow Show is a great place to get a first look at new winter gear. I had the pleasure of talking to numerous brands about their gear and learning what went into its creation. Many of these products won’t be available until later in the year (next Fall and Winter), which gives customers enough time to scheme and dream about their upcoming purchases. Below are ten items to consider for your upcoming winter travels.
Transporting Your Snow Gear – Dakine
This winter, new to the Dakine line is a hard-shell snowboard and ski case. If you travel all over to hit the best slopes, this one’s for you. Gone are the days of soft cases, which wear out over time and lose their protection. With new protection and versatility for your gear, Dakine’s Low Roller Hardside is constructed with a 100% recyclable shell. The case is large enough for two boards, boots, and equipment, making it an excellent option for couples traveling together. This product will be following a long line of durable products for skiers and snowboarders by Dakine.
Staying Warm – Ignik Firecan
Are you ready to have a campfire anywhere? Whether you’re winter camping or hosting a tailgate post-skiing, having a traditional fire isn’t always possible. Luckily, Ignik‘s portable fire pit is here to solve that problem! Compact and durable, you can quickly and safely set up the Firecan and have warmth in minutes. Built with mesh sides, it heats up faster to allow for greater heat transmission. Additionally, because it’s a propane fuel source, it’s forest safe which means you can stay warm anywhere. If you are looking for a fire starter for this season, SunnySports currently offers a variety of options to keep your winter camping warm.
Casual Winter Snow Shoes – Danner Cloud Cap
Whether you’re walking around your neighborhood, walking your dog, or hitting the slopes, having a comfy yet sturdy winter boot is needed to keep from falling on ice. The Danner Cloud Cap is just that shoe. It’s 100% waterproof which can be a lifesaver when you’re walking in the snow and slush. On top of that, it has best-in-class insulation to keep your toes nice and warm. Lastly, their Vibram Arctic Grip works exceptionally well on ice, providing you with superior traction. Danner also offers other great hiking footwear options, no matter your terrain.
Snowboarding Socks – Minus33
Minus33 has been making wool socks since the 1910s. This year, they dove into making snowboarding and skiing socks. The socks are 64% wool to keep your feet warm and dry as you cruise up and down the slopes. Minus33 is joined by other brands who offer socks perfect for keeping your toes warm in the colder months.
Ski and Snowboard Car Transportation – Chuck Bucket
New to Outdoor Retailer, the Chuck Bucket is a trailer-hitch ski rack that simplifies transporting your skis or snowboards. You’ll no longer have to reach on top of your car to strap in your boards. Put your gear in the bucket, strap it in, and you’re done. On top of saving you time, it also keeps the inside of your car from getting wet if you were to load them inside. The bucket installs on your hitch and can carry up to eight pairs of skis or 4+ snowboards.
And when its time to store your skis and snowboard during the offseason, we have you covered with this article to help avoid damaging your gear.
Ski Overalls – Kavu
Sometimes, you want to look good and have fun. The Kavu Pocatello is designed for a lazy day at home, a bluebird spring day on the mountain, or a road trip. No matter what the day has in store, you’ll be the best dressed! Their fleece overalls come in two styles: Baja Night and Mix. In colder conditions, you can top the overalls with a winter jacket as well.
Quick Adventure Meals – ReadyWise
With multiple dehydrated food brands already on the market, it can be hard to stand out. But Adventure Wise is doing just that with the first vegan lineup in the industry. They are also putting their unique and tasty twist on fan favorites.
Winter Down Jacket – Greenland Down Liner Jacket
The Greenland Down Liner Jacket is perfect for places that get chilly but not brutally cold. It’s also ideal for wearing under a heavier coat in below-freezing conditions. This light but warm jacket is made with ethically produced down and has recycled fabric on the outside that is PFC-free. With zippered hand and chest pockets, you’ll have plenty of room to store things. As apparent at Outdoor Retailer 2022, you can expect more jacket options coming from Greenland very soon.
Winter Hiking Socks – Darn Tough
When it comes to choosing hiking socks, Darn Tough is tough to beat. Based out of Vermont, they offer, in my opinion, some of the best hiking socks on the market. I have multiple pairs and have never experienced a blister or hot spot in my life. With 64% wool and 33% Nylon, they offer incredible moisture-wicking ability to keep your feet dry, which decreases the chance of blisters. Furthermore, they are so confident in their quality that they offer a lifetime warranty on their socks. There are already a number of Darn Tough socks available, and it appears their collection will just keep growing.
Beanies – Locale Outdoor Apparel
Keeping the head warm is always a priority, and Locale Outdoor has a beanie in every color to do that and more! I swear they had more beanies displayed at OR22 than I’d ever seen in my life. They have various styles, from regular cotton beanies up to cashmere.
It’s clear from Outdoor Retailer 2022 that many brands are planning bigger and better releases for the upcoming seasons. Be sure to look out for some of these products when available for purchase at Sunnysports!
Article and Photos by Alec Sills-Trausch
Alec is a photographer, writer, and avid hiker who enjoys pushing the limits to find incredible destinations. He hopes through his work to inspire others to get outside and to respect planet earth so future generations can enjoy it just the same. He’s also a cancer survivor. And, he hopes to use his voice to show that you can have a wonderful life after the treatment.
