Twice each year, I walk around the Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City gawking at all the new gear. A lot of it's cool, but prohibitively expensive. This stuff, on the other hand, costs less than a dinner out. Presenting the five under-$30 products I’m most excited about from this year’s event.
Leatherman Skeletool KBx Knife ($25)
When I think , I think feature-rich multitools. But this year, my favorite Leatherman product was their minimalist, 1.5-ounce Skeletool KBx knife which launches in June. For $25, you get a locking 2.6-inch stainless steel blade with a well-balanced aluminum handle that feels good in your hand and is stiff enough to keep the knife from flexing. I also like that the knife comes in flashy colors like blue and green instead of just gray or black.
Duckworth Ski Socks ($26)
The Duckworth founder is a ripping skier, which is a large part of the reason why this company now makes . Built from merino wool sourced from the company’s Montana-raised Helle Rambouillet sheep, the socks have minimal padding for a better boot fit, but are still plenty warm, thanks to heavily crimped fibers that trap lots of warmth.
Chums Key Quiver ($10)
ճ is a silicone pouch that holds all your keys in a tidy, organized bunch. It also comes with a multitool that includes a Phillips screw driver and bottle opener.
Led Lenser Neo Headlamp ($25)
If you run at night,. It’s feathery, at just 1.9 ounces, and throws out a wide 150-degree, 90-lumen beam. It also comes with a blinking red light on the back to ensure cars can see you from behind. At full power, the headlamp will last 10 hours on three AAA batteries.
Sun Day Afternoons Northwest Trucker Northern Lights ($28)
So many trucker hats look the same.. It has a beautiful, original snow-camping scene, under the Northern Lights, painted by artist . And unlike cheaper hats that just soak up sweat, this one has a nylon headband designed to move moisture away from your head.