Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2015: ‘Best in Show’ Awards

Twice a year legions of outdoor aficionados clad in leather boots and plaid shirts descend upon Salt Lake City for the trade show affectionately known as Winter OR. It’s here, at the outdoor industry’s largest trade show, that distributors and members of the media scout out the latest gear and emerging industry trends for the year ahead. After scouring the showroom floor and pouring over our notes, our editors have put together their list of the best that Winter OR 2015 had to offer.

Patagonia Knife Ridge Jacket and Pant

Utilizing the power of Polartec Powershield Pro fabric with fully taped seams, the Knife Ridge Jacket and Pant are designed for those tackling the most technical backcountry terrain. Both garments are nearly 10x as breathable as ‘hardshell’ options. Coupled with 4-way stretch throughout, Patagonia ensures that the Knife Ridge Jacket and Pant work with you, not against you, as you skin up the mountain. The technical features are accentuated with a clean aesthetic and a plainweave face and jersey knit backer on the inside that glides easily over and under layers.
MSRP: Jacket $449; Pants $379

 

Under Armour Fat Tire GTX

Inspired by fat bikes, the Under Armour Fat Tire GTX is a prime example of the new thinking UA is bringing to the outdoor industry. Think of the Fat Tire GTX as your go anywhere, do anything, all-terrain shoe that’s ready for hiking, trail running, and general conquering of outdoor terrain. Featuring a GORE-TEX® breathable waterproof membrane and BOA® speed closure system, this shoe is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store along your adventures.
MSRP: $199.00

 

Fischer PROFOIL Climbing Skins

Powered by Fischer’s new Crown Technology and made from polyethylene, PROFOIL is a revolutionary waterproof, super-lightweight backcountry ski base attachment. Optimized for enhanced glide climbing, PROFOIL allows you to lengthen your uphill stride with permanent grip in all conditions. PROFOIL’s waterproof material prevents water absorption, thus eliminating weight gain while ascending. Available for Fischer Transalp and Ranger skis in 15/16.
MSRP: $275.00

 

NuDown Squaw Peak Jacket

Consider it your own personal revolution in insulation. Featuring proprietary NuTech technology, the first on-demand customized insulation system, the Squaw Peak Jacket offers insulation courtesy of naturally pumped air giving the user power to create and adjust their own ideal temperature no matter what the conditions. Each pump adds approximately one degree Fahrenheit of comfort offering a comfort range that spans over 30 degrees.
MSRP: TBA

 

Icebreaker Helix LS Shirt

The Helix LS Shirt is the perfect blend of technical functionality and street savvy style making it an ideal option whether you’re playing in the mountains or on the city streets. This reversible-lined flannel shirt uses merino flannel instead of cotton on one side, paired with a woven 100-percent recycled polyester body quilted with 70gm of Icebreaker 100-percent merino insulation. Simply put… it’s glorious.
MSRP: $250

 

Altra Halo Running Shoe

From the outset, Altra Running has been bringing fresh thinking to the marketplace. Now that tradition of innovation continues with the Halo Running Shoe. Altra Running has teamed up with sensor company iFit to further Altra’s goal of encouraging proper foot positioning and low-impact running. An integrated sensor in the midsole measures aspects of your gait and sends it to your smartphone or iFit GPS Watch. Unlike other performance metrics that you analyze after your run, the Halo gives you real-time feedback as you run.
MSRP: $180

 

STANLEY Classic Growler

While the hammertone green finish harkens to a time gone by, trust us when we say, this ain’t your grandpa’s beer growler. This vacuum insulated stainless steel 2-quart growler has a foam-insulated lid that keeps your golden goodness cold for 16 hours. A heavy-duty handle makes pouring and transporting your beverage a cinch. And STANLEY finished off this growler with an innovative clamp system not only keeps your beer fresh.
MSRP: $50

 

Hoka One One Tor Ultra High WP

Prior to our OR pilgrimage, we had heard rumblings about the TOR Ultra from Hoka One One. After seeing this speed hiker in person, we can assure you that it’s all it was purported to be. The flagship of the forthcoming MTN Trek series, the Tor Ultra Hi WP combines HOKA’s signature running shoe cushioning and Meta-Rocker geometry with a supportive high-top upper. Underfoot a Vibram MegaGrip outsole ensures exceptional traction on dry and wet terrain. Leather and a tough nylon mesh upper give foot and ankle support, and an eVent membrane keeps your feet dry.
MSRP: $230

 

Titan Stormproof Match by UCO

When Prometheus stole fire from Zeus and the gods and gave it to mortals, we imagine that it came in a form that looked somewhat similar to the Titan Stormproof Match. Burning up to 25 seconds, the Titan Stormproof Match is the longest-burning windproof and waterproof match on the market. It not only provides instant access to light and heat, but will even re-light itself after being submerged in water. The full kit includes 12 matches, 3 replaceable strikers, a waterproof case that floats and a cord for attachment to lanyard.
MSRP: Full Kit $9.99; 25 Pack $9.99