I loved testing $250 custom-moldable hiking boots and ultra-slick $200 cooler packs at the Outdoor Retailer show last week. But I also know that’s a ton of cash, and most people aren’t going to drop that much on shoes and beer haulers. That’s why I walked the floor to find more affordable and forward-thinking products: handy gadgets that you’ll come to love but won’t break the bank. Here’s what I found.
Jetboil JetGauge ($15)
There’s lots to like about fuel canister stoves like the Jetboil MinoMo or MightyMo. They’re compact and efficient, and, unlike liquid fuel stoves, there’s no chance of a fuel spill. But there is one big problem: It’s nearly impossible to tell how much fuel is left in the canister. If you’re like me, you probably have at least half a dozen partially filled canisters that you don’t want to throw away but don’t totally trust to cook your dinner out on the trail. That problem is solved by the JetGauge, a wallet-sized hanging scale that weighs all types of canisters and tells you how much fuel is left. On new canisters, you’ll also find a chart showing how many pots of water you can boil with that leftover fuel.
Heroclip ($20)
The Heroclip is a carabiner with a swing-out hook that’s designed to hang and organize gear (up to 50 pounds). One use: Hang the hook section on the back of a chair, then clip a backpack to the carabiner to keep it off the ground at a coffee shop. Another use: Throw the carabiner around a branch, then use the hook to dry your clothes at camp. Is it totally necessary? No. But can I think of a dozen or more uses for it now that I have one? Yes.
Darn Tough Topless Socks ($14)
Thru-hikers love Darn Tough socks because they live up to the name. Many people put a thousand miles on a pair before they wear out. And when holes appear, replaces all its socks for free, no questions asked. Now Darn Tough is bringing that durability to topless or no-show socks that go great with your Vans.
HydraPak 1L Stow ($14)
Flexible water bottles that roll up when empty are nothing new. That said, I was still excited about new one-liter Stow, because it’s shaped like a flask instead of a cylinder. That means I can shove it in my jacket or ski pants, and it won’t protrude unnecessarily when full of water. The flat design means I can also throw it on top of an SUP and not worry about it rolling off.
Cotopaxi 3L Bataan Fanny Pack ($25)
If you’re going to wear a fanny pack, which in 2017 is part utility and part fashion statement, you should go with the , featuring Cotopaxi’s loud-as-hell colorblocking. It’s just the right carry size (three liters) and sits comfortably around your waist.