Smith, the longtime maker of outdoor eyewear and headwear, and Koroyd, one of Smith鈥檚 ingredient brand partners, have filed a joint lawsuit against snowsports giant Burton for patent infringement.

Smith Sport Optics Inc., based in Portland, Oregon, and Koroyd SARL, based in Monaco, filed the complaint against The Burton Corp. earlier this week in the U.S. District Court in Utah.

The two companies alleged that Burton is improperly using their patented technology in two versions of Anon-branded helmets. Anon is the helmet and eyewear brand that Burton launched in 2001.

According to the complaint obtained by 国产吃瓜黑料 Business Journal, Smith and Koroyd claimed Burton violated their U.S. Patent No.10,736, 373鈥攋ointly owned by Smith and Koroyd and referred to in the complaint as the 鈥�373 patent鈥斺�渂y selling and importing Anon-branded Logan and Merak snow helmets that incorporate WaveCel technology.鈥�

They alleged WaveCel infringes upon their 2013 patent that makes helmets safer for skiing, snowboarding, and biking. Smith and Koroyd further stated that WaveCel 鈥渨as developed specifically to compete with Koroyd and marketed so as to draft off of plaintiffs鈥� years of combined efforts in blazing a path of innovation in the helmet industry.鈥�

鈥淪uccess Is Threatened by Infringement鈥�

Smith and Koroyd claimed that Burton 鈥渂egan selling ski and snowboard helmets under its Anon brand incorporating plaintiffs鈥� patented technology in direct competition with the patented Smith-Koroyd helmets and over plaintiffs鈥� objections.鈥�

They went on to accuse Burton of launching 鈥渢he Anon WaveCel helmets in a manner calculated to capitalize on and appropriate plaintiffs鈥� goodwill and innovative reputation by co-opting the aesthetic scheme that plaintiffs had been using in marketing Smith-Koroyd helmets鈥攄epicting black helmets with cell array structures visible through the helmet鈥檚 vents in Koroyd鈥檚 signature green color and black backgrounds.鈥�

Moreover, they argued, the 鈥淪mith-Koroyd helmets have been a great commercial success, [which] is now being threatened by [the] defendant鈥檚 infringement.鈥�

Smith and Koroyd said in a joint press release: 鈥淏urton was informed of Smith鈥檚 and Koroyd鈥檚 patent rights, and was asked to respect those rights by not making or selling the accused Anon-branded WaveCel helmets. Burton moved forward with the launch of the Anon helmets, leaving Smith and Koroyd no choice but to pursue the federal court action to protect their intellectual property rights. A second lawsuit brought by Koroyd against Burton in Germany also alleges IP violations based on WaveCel helmets.

鈥淪ince 2013, Smith has partnered with Koroyd鈥攃reators of the iconic green, open cell technology utilizing welded tubes that crumple instantly on impact鈥攚ithin its helmets to continue the legacy of innovation and design while providing consumers advanced impact protection and superior performance. Together, Smith and Koroyd have invested almost a decade of time and resources into research and development to integrate Koroyd material into Smith products under a unique, patented method.鈥�

When reached for comment, Smith鈥檚 general manager, Francesco Rinaldi Ceroni, issued the following supplemental statement to OBJ about the company鈥檚 joint lawsuit with Koroyd.

鈥淪mith has pushed the boundaries of innovation and attention to detail for over 50 years,鈥� he said. 鈥淲e take pride in creating trusted products that perform and protect, and our decade-long partnership and investment with Koroyd exemplifies our commitment to advancing equipment that enhances the consumer experience. We鈥檙e dedicated to protecting our technologies, our craftsmanship, and the integrity of our brand.鈥�

Smith, Koroyd Seek Injunction and Damages

Formed in 2010, Koroyd produces safety material for bicycle and snow helmets (and other products). Its patented technology is based on 鈥渨elded tubes [that] crumple instantly on impact, absorbing maximum force in a controlled manner, minimizing energy transferred to your head.鈥澛�

The company said its technology is featured in 鈥渟ix of the top 12 grossing helmets by US$ sold during the North American season 2019/2020, and is available in circa-29 percent of all snow helmets sold over 100 US$ in the North American market.鈥�

鈥淥ur business is structured in such a way to inspire transformation and innovation throughout our entire group,鈥� said John Lloyd, founder and managing director of Koroyd. 鈥淭hrough our long-term R&D investments we have consistently delivered unique safety solutions which offer a significant performance advantage compared to legacy and emerging products, and have become the trusted technology partner to the leading brands in a diverse range of industries.聽

鈥淐opycat products offer little advancement for the end consumer and impede innovations for all. This action is part of our global strategy to enforce our registered rights. The protection of intellectual property encourages innovation, copying product reduces innovation and, if rewarded, discourages research and development. We will continue to maximize our contribution to the sports and safety segments and protection of people pursuing their passions and facilitating them to experience life to the fullest.鈥�

Smith and Koroyd are seeking relief in this matter that includes a permanent injunction against Burton that would prohibit the company 鈥渇rom any further direct or indirect infringement of the 鈥�373 patent through making, using, offering to sell, selling, or importing the infringing Merak and Logan products and any other product that infringes the 鈥�373 patent.鈥�

The companies also seek 鈥渄amages caused by defendant鈥檚 infringing actions,鈥� including 鈥渆nhanced damages and all attorneys鈥� fees and costs incurred by plaintiffs in this action.鈥� In the complaint, Smith and Koroyd also 鈥渄emand a jury trial on all issues so triable.鈥�

When reached for comment, Burton issued the following statement: 鈥淏urton was just served this lawsuit yesterday, so we need time to evaluate it.鈥�

The post Smith and Koroyd File Joint Lawsuit Against Burton appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

After all but losing spring 2020 to the pandemic, retailers and consumers alike are looking for gear to get excited about in 2021. So excited, in fact, that we decided to add their votes to our ranking of next season鈥檚 top products. Together, we鈥檝e pored over, narrowed down, and rated this year鈥檚 submissions to bring you the 50 most coveted products, ranked.

With all the supply chain disruptions and bleak sales during the pandemic, many brands and retailers are focused on selling through what鈥檚 currently in stock. So we opened up our TV50 nominations to select in-line products as well. They are indicated below with the label “Available Now.”

Breaking Down the Votes

How did we come up with this list? We received 359 submissions from 159 brands. Prices ranged from $2 (for a packet of energy gel) to $4,799 (for a kayak). We culled the list to the most interesting 65 products, then put these finalists out for a vote among three different user groups: our internal editorial team, a panel of retail shop owners, and consumers drawn from a group of superfans of BACKPACKER, our sister publication. Everyone voted on each product, assigning a rating from one (not interested) to ten (very interested).

Here are the top picks of each voter group.

TOP PICKS FOR RETAILERS: Big Agnes TwisterCane Pad; Nemo Roamer Double Sleeping Pad

TOP PICKS FOR CONSUMERS: PrimaLoft Gold with P.U.R.E. tech; Big Agnes TwisterCane Pad and Leatherman Free T4 (tie)

TOP PICKS FOR OUR EDITORIAL TEAM: PrimaLoft Gold with P.U.R.E. tech; Big Agnes Sidewinder bag

1. PrimaLoft Gold with P.U.R.E. Tech

$199 (for Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket, insulation pictured above)

THE PROMISE: This new synthetic insulation makes
a massive dent in carbon emissions.

THE DEETS: Patagonia鈥檚 Nano Puff will be the first jacket to feature the lightweight and highly compressible PrimaLoft Gold P.U.R.E. (Produced Using Reduced Emissions), a 100 percent recycled synthetic microfiber material. The production process saves roughly half the carbon emissions by binding the synthetic fill without heat, instead using an eco-friendly treatment to cure it with air.

2. Big Agnes Twister-Cane Bio Foam Pad

$50

THE PROMISE: This superlight pad (8 ounces) is made from sugarcane, not petroleum.

THE DEETS: For the first time, a closed-cell foam mat is made from renewable material grown with rainwater, reducing the industry鈥檚 dependence on EVA foam.

3. MSR Guardian Gravity Purifier

$250

THE PROMISE: Get pure water in minutes without breaking a sweat.

THE DEETS: The MSR Guardian Gravity Purifier uses two stages for purification. The hollow fiber technology removes viruses, bacteria, and protozoa, while the activated carbon reduces chemicals, tastes, and odors. The result: one liter of clean water in two minutes without any pumping. Bonus: no backflushing necessary, as the integrated purge valve does the work.

4. Leatherman FreeT4

$65; Available Now

THE PROMISE: Get a multitool with true one-handed operation.

THE DEETS: Twelve tools are accessible from the outside with simple magnetic聽closures, an architecture that eliminates fingernail use to deploy. Everything鈥攆rom the four screwdrivers to the bottle opener鈥攆it in this compact (3.6-inch) and light (4.3-ounce) package.

5. Osprey Aether/Aerial Plus 60L Packs

THE PROMISE: This updated version of a proven winner supports even heavier loads.

THE DEETS: The Plus version of the Aether (men鈥檚) and Ariel (women鈥檚) features a lighter frame that carries closer to the body to better stabilize heavy loads, yet remains breathable and comfortable. The lid detaches to convert into a daypack, or just to slim down the pack for shorter trips.

6. Primus Lite+

$115

THE PROMISE: Get a back- country stove for every kind of chef and every kind of meal.

THE DEETS: Versatility is the name of the game for the 16-ounce Lite+. It鈥檚 equally adept at quick-boiling (2:45 per half liter) and gentle simmering, plus it has a low center of gravity and even flame distribution. Bonus: includes a hanging kit.

7. Honey Stinger Protein Waffles

$27 (12 pack);聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: These snack waffles pack a protein punch.

THE DEETS: Now with ten grams of protein per pack, these anytime snacks aid muscle recovery and taste like a treat. Wild Berry or Apple Cinnamon filling is sandwiched between two thin, crisp waffles. Our taste testers keep asking for more.

8. BioLite HeadLamp 750

$100

THE PROMISE: It鈥檚 almost as bright as your car鈥檚 headlights yet weighs only five ounces.

THE DEETS: With six light modes, a burst option to briefly produce 750 lumens, and a 400-foot beam on max, this headlight screams safety and versatility. The battery lasts five hours using 500 lumens, but a full 100 hours on low, with an eight-hour reserve power mode and powerbank. Trail runners and mountaineers alike will love the constant brightness mode. Most lights using alkaline batteries dim, but the use of lithium batteries pre- vents the typical discharge curve and keeps the lumens in a steady state.

9. NEMO Roamer Double Sleeping Pad

$400

THE PROMISE: This plush pad for two is so comfy you just might forget that you鈥檙e camping.

THE DEETS: With four inches of open-cell foam and an R-value of six, this double-wide, self-inflating pad provides a deluxe mattress covered in soft, recycled polyester fabric. The included pump means speedy inflation.

10. Big Agnes Sidewinder SL

$280

THE PROMISE: It鈥檚 the ultimate sleeping bag for side sleepers.

THE DEETS: 70 percent of us sleep on our sides and now there鈥檚 a bag built
just for us. The Sidewinder contours to a side sleeper鈥檚 position while also allowing freedom of movement for rolling over. Even the foot box is contoured to the angle of the side sleeper鈥檚 feet. Body-mapped fill (650-fill DownTek with synthetic overlays near the hips and feet) optimizes warmth.

11. Klean Kanteen Food Boxes

$15-$60

THE PROMISE: These reusable, super-tough containers are ideal for storing snacks.

THE DEETS: Sold as a set or in three different sizes, these dishwasher-safe, stainless-steel storage containers don鈥檛 rust, shatter, or retain flavors (like plastic containers often do). The silicone lids are leak-proof and BPA-free, and the containers are sized for trail mix, sandwiches, or a whole picnic lunch.

12. PHOOZY Apollo II

$35;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: Protect your phone in the wildest environments.

THE DEETS: If anything can protect your phone from the elements, it鈥檚 NASA space suit technology. The Phoozy combines a thick EVA foam with a patent-pending chromium thermal layer and UV coating that protects the battery from dying in the cold and overheating in the sun.聽The case is water-resistant and protects against drops up to eight feet.

13. POC Sports Tectal Race NFC聽SPIN Helmet

$250;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: This helmet protects you during and after a biking accident.

THE DEETS: Thanks to a near-field communication (NFC) medical ID tag in the helmet, first responders can instantly read your medical profile via any NFC-enabled smartphone and use it to inform medical decisions when you鈥檙e unable to speak. The fully wrapped construction, combined with POC鈥檚 patent-pending SPIN (Shearing Pads Inside),聽silicone-injected pads, and precision straps, improves rotational impact and structural integrity, but the helmet still weighs less than 14 ounces.

14. Gregory Katmai/Kalmia 50-65L

$260 (55L)

THE PROMISE: This pack moves with your body to provide ultimate comfort.

THE DEETS: The Katmai (men鈥檚) and Kalmia (women鈥檚) packs feature a ventilated, suspended mesh backpanel that cradles your lower back for fit and comfort. The customizable 3D hipbelt hugs the body and decreases rubbing and hotspots.

15. Six Moon Designs Wild Owyhee 2P Tent

$600;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: Even the tallest campers can sit up straight under this tarp tent.

THE DEETS: The dual-pole design affords 48 inches of headroom, and not just at the center point. Two doors and vestibules offer convenience, storage, and access. The No-See-Um mesh skirt perimeter provides full ventilation and bug protection, and of course you get complete rain protection, all for just one pound.

16. Patagonia Provisions Cacao + Mango Bar

$27 (12 pack);聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: This natural fruit bar breaks the granola bar mold.

THE DEETS: Our testers say these bars make you feel like you鈥檙e on a tropical island, thanks to the organic blend of sun-dried mangoes, cacao nibs, bananas, and almonds. The pocket-size聽bar delivers 140 calories.

17. Black Diamond Capitan MIPS Helmet $100

THE PROMISE: Maximum head protection doesn鈥檛 need to be hot, heavy, or uncomfortable.

THE DEETS: With a sleek, cradled fit and plentiful brain coverage, the Capitan is cool and comfortable without compromising noggin protection. The MIPS technology absorbs and redirects oblique impacts to the helmet.

18. SPOT Gen4 Satellite Messenger

$150

THE PROMISE: This one-way communication device聽stands up to the roughest elements.

THE DEETS: The newest SPOT Gen4 messenger has an upgraded outer casing and water-resistant rating (IP68), plus prolonged battery performance, all for less than four ounces. The new mapping option stores more than 50 waypoints for tracking.

19. Cusa Coffee

$6 (seven pack);聽Available Now

THE PROMISE:聽Get gourmet coffee on the go.

THE DEETS: Cusa took the instant tea world by storm a few years ago, and now it鈥檚 jumping into the instant coffee game. For cold or hot brew, just shake or stir with water for ten seconds to dissolve the blend. We got a sneak taste test and the verdict is thumbs up! Available in a variety of roasts and flavors.

20. Voormi Diversion Hoodie

$249;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: It鈥檚 the cozy, stink-resistant hoodie you鈥檒l reach for over all the others.

THE DEETS: This 21.5-micron merino wool jacket is reinforced with nylon fibers and finished with a DWR coating to deliver protection against the elements. Features include integrated thumbholes, a chest pocket with a headphone port, and a relaxed fit.

21. LEKI Cross Trail 3A

$150

THE PROMISE: These poles are purpose-built for both trail running and backpacking.

THE DEETS: At just over a pound per pair, the three-section Cross Trail 3A is a light and strong aluminum-shafted pole with a glove-like grip/strap system to help runners sail down the trail or trekkers power up big climbs, all while keeping a relaxed hand.

22. HOKA One One Clifton Edge

$160

THE PROMISE: The unique heel geometry creates a聽smooth impact and an un- matched gliding sensation.

THE DEETS: The newest Hoka debuts a lighter top layer of midsole foam paired with a radically extended heel section to absorb heel strike forces. The weight is just 7.2 ounces per shoe with 26mm of cushion in the heel and 21mm in the forefoot.

23. Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot

$150

THE PROMISE: This inflatable camp cot (pictured upside down to show the structural design) gets you off the ground for comfortable snoozing and packs down small for easy transport.

THE DEETS: The perimeter tubes elevate it 8 inches off the ground and stabilize the sleeper in the middle of the cot, even on uneven ground. The antimicrobial treatments inside the chambers prevent mildew, odors, discoloration, and degradation. At less than three pounds, it transports easily.

24. Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort Insoles

$50;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE:聽Give your feet extra protection and comfort on the trail.

THE DEETS: This insole enhances the stability and comfort of any trail runner or boot and offers retailers a great upselling opportunity. Built with heel impact technology, shock-absorbing, dual-comfort foam, and a carbon-fiber stabilizer cap, these will turn the miles into smiles.

25. Therm-a-Rest聽Air Head Pillow

$43 – $48;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: Get a better聽night鈥檚 sleep with this lofty but light synthetic pillow.

THE DEETS: Backpackers will hardly notice the extra 5.6 ounces, but they鈥檒l appreciate the comfort of this four-inch-thick baffled inflatable pillow after a long day. It comes in two sizes and is shaped to fit into the hood of a sleeping bag. The brushed polyester outer is machine washable.

26. Vasque Footwear Satoru Trail LT

$150

THE PROMISE: This minimalist shoe protects and supports like a midweight hiker.

THE DEETS: The Satoru Trail LT strips away everything but comfort and versatility. With zero drop for a natural stride and a one-piece molded mesh upper (no overlays, stitching, or glue), it鈥檚 lightweight but protective.

27. Cotopaxi Teca Calido Hooded Jacket

$150

THE PROMISE: A little bit casual, a little bit technical, this colorful jacket diverts scrap textile from the landfill.

THE DEETS: Made from a combination of repurposed and recycled materials, this two-ounce insulated wind- breaker is sure to pop off the rack. It鈥檚 also reversible. One side features Cotopaxi鈥檚 signature color-blocking; the other a more subdued solid hue.

28. Matador SEG42

$190;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: This load hauler combines the best features of a backpack, duffle bag, and packing cubes into one.

THE DEETS: With five zippered compartments, this 42-liter travel bag keeps you organized. Carry it like a pack or stow away the shoulder straps and use the top or side straps for duffel duty. It鈥檚 carry-on compliant and the nylon shell is durable and water resistant.

29. GSI Outdoors Lite Cast Frypan

$29

THE PROMISE: Get cast-iron performance without the weight.

THE DEETS: Traditional cast iron fry pans are heavy, but, at three pounds, this thinner, ten-inch skillet is 30 percent lighter than most. The polished cooking surface prevents sticking and eases cleanup.

30. Smith Lowdown 2 CORE

$129;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: Eco-conscious adventurers will wear these shades with pride.

THE DEETS: Created from recycled plastic bottles and castor oil plants, these are glasses you can feel good about. Even the microfiber bag comes from recycled single-use plastics. The polarized lenses reduce glare from sun and snow.

31. Kelty Grand Mesa

$130 (2P) / $190 (4P);聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: This spacious shelter won鈥檛 break your budget.

THE DEETS: Available in a two- or four-person version, this is an ideal three-season tent for entry-level backpackers. The color-coded corner pockets make setup a snap, and the large D-shaped single door and vestibule are roomy for easy entry/exit and gear storage.

32. Black Diamond Tag LT Shoe

$135

THE PROMISE: These approach shoes are so light and packable, they can send the route with you.

THE DEETS: The Tag LTs collapse readily into a flat package no bigger than their midsole, thanks to the two-way stretch polyester upper. A carry strap binds them together and the heel loop makes them a cinch to clip to your pack or harness once you reach the crag. They weigh 15 ounces per pair.

33. Danner Trail 2650 Campo

$140

THE PROMISE: This lightweight, breathable, and grippy low-cut hiker is built for hot, dry, and rocky terrain.

THE DEETS: The Campo鈥檚 EVA midsole provides welcome cushioning and drainage ports, while the Vibram outsole easily tackles the desert鈥檚 sandy and uneven surfaces. The mesh upper and multiple drainage ports in the toebox and heel provide airflow and breathability to beat the heat.

34. LifeStraw Go 1L

$45

THE PROMISE: Fill, filter, and drink with this affordable, all-in-one device.

THE DEETS: The lightweight, reusable LifeStraw Go 1L bottle has an internal membrane microfilter along with a carbon filter, which combine聽to remove bacteria, parasites, and harmful chemicals from up to 1,000 gallons of water.

35. Kurgo Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Harness

$45;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: Keep your best friend safe, both in the car and on the trail.

THE DEETS: This multitasking harness works for standard walking as well as for clipping your dog into your car鈥檚 seatbelt system for safe road tripping. With steel hardware and five points of adjustment, the harness passes crash tests designed for child restraints.

36. Helinox Incline Festival Chair

$120

THE PROMISE: It鈥檚 the ultimate festival chair.

THE DEETS: The DAC alloy frame offers stability and support, and the sliding front feet adjust the seat angle for optimal comfort and positioning. The broad, flat contact points minimize impact on festival grounds and without legs, the three-pound chair keeps a low profile, so you won鈥檛 block the action for people sitting behind you.

37. Merrell Moab Speed

$120

THE PROMISE: Merrell鈥檚 best-selling shoe just lost some weight.

THE DEETS: The trail running version of this popular shoe keeps a low profile and weighs just over a pound per pair. The hybrid design tackles varied terrain with a Vibram outsole, ten millimeter drop, layered mesh upper, and padded collar.

38. Hydro Flask Outdoor Kitchen Collection

$20 – $75

THE PROMISE: Kitchenware that鈥檚 ready to rough it, but sleek enough for fancy backyard cookouts.

THE DEETS: Eight pieces, including utensils, bowls, and lids, nest into a tote聽for easy portability. The stainless-steel construction is easy to clean and the double-wall vacuum insulation keeps foods hot or cold during travel.

39. Granite Gear聽Dagger 22L Pack

$100;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: It鈥檚 the ideal pack for ambitious dayhikers.

THE DEETS: The Dagger utilizes Granite Gear鈥檚 arch system to anchor the frame
to the hipbelt and distribute the load evenly. The 22-liter nylon packbag fits day trip essentials inside, but the stretch side and front pockets give it a little extra capacity.

40. Deuter Future Air Trek 50 + 10L

$250

THE PROMISE: This pack鈥檚 calling card is versatility.

THE DEETS: One pack for all: The ventilated mesh back and fit system adjusts to any body shape or size, while the detachable toplid lets you add or subtract volume. A U-shaped front zipper means you can get to any part of the pack quickly and easily. And a roomy side pocket is big enough for a hydration bladder.

41. Sierra Designs Nightcap

35掳F $150 / 20掳F $170

THE PROMISE: This zipperless bag is built with salvaged materials.

THE DEETS: Recycled, post-industrial fabrics that would otherwise go to waste form the 20-denier ripstop nylon shell, while the synthetic insulation is sourced from recycled water bottles. The bag has a self-sealing foot vent and an integrated pad sleeve.

42. Karukinka Tase

$329;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: This will be the midlayer you reach for time and again.

THE DEETS: Combining three types of wool鈥攁lpaca, llama, and merino鈥攊nto a single fabric is exciting, but comes at a high price point. All these cold-weather fibers have the overlapping benefits of wicking moisture and staying warm when wet, but the longer fibers of merino increase durability. Alpaca and llama fibers are hollow, contributing to the fast-drying and moisture-wicking performance.

43. 国产吃瓜黑料 Inside Explorer Essential Kit

$50

THE PROMISE: This kit is perfect for any kid who dreams of adventuring.

THE DEETS: Get your kids started early and safely with these essentials for exploring the great outdoors, whether it鈥檚 the backyard or the backcountry. The set includes a pair of binoculars, a legit orienteering compass, LED flashlight, a four-in-one whistle/thermometer, instructions, and a protective carrying pouch.

44. Bogs Footwear Kicker

$45

THE PROMISE: Life hack for parents: These eco-friendly, closed-toed kids鈥� shoes are easy on, easy off, and machine washable.

THE DEETS: Kids can use and abuse these shoes, all while keeping their feet dry, sweat-free, and less stinky. The new Bloom insoles come from algae blooms, which are dried into flakes and mixed with EVA to create a comfortable footbed, while also cleaning up water habitats.

45. Moon Fab聽Moon Shade

$350;聽Available Now

THE PROMISE: Versatile attachment hardware makes it easy to create ample shade whenever and wherever you need it.

THE DEETS: This portable, 420-denier polyester awning can attach to any vehicle or door frame (with heavy-duty suction cups) or even mount to trees, fences, and railings. When deployed, there鈥檚 nine by seven feet of coverage with UV protection and reflective coating. At eight pounds (including its own carrying case), it can easily go from ball games to campgrounds.

46. Odlo Active F-DRY Light Eco Sports Baselayer

$45

THE PROMISE: This fast-dry- ing tee is ideal for serious aerobic activity.

THE DEETS: Combining polypropylene with recycled polyester, this short-sleeved baselayer has a push-pull effect to regulate body temperature and keeps you smelling like a rose. And it鈥檚 ultralight at less than half an ounce.

47. EDELRID Tommy Caldwell Eco Dry CT 9.3 Rope

$300-$380

THE PROMISE: It鈥檚 a rope as eco-conscious as Tommy Caldwell himself, with the first and only dry treatment that鈥檚 safer for the environment.

THE DEETS: Available in three lengths with a 9.3-mm diameter, the rope coils without tangles and has extreme abrasion resistance. The bi-color sheath makes finding the middle a cinch. And the Eco Dry 100 percent PFC core and sheath dry treatment are free of the fluorochemicals commonly used to provide water- and stain-resistance to climbing ropes.

48. Level Six Freya Drysuit

$900

THE PROMISE: This women鈥檚 drysuit has a unique rear access so she can answer nature鈥檚 calls, quickly.

THE DEETS: The zipper for the rear relief area is designed to be non-irritating when paddling in a kayak, sitting on a raft, or standing up on a paddleboard鈥攕o basically comfortable all the time. The waterproof/breathable fabric is articulated for unrestricted movement, with reinforced knees and elbows聽for durability. The adjustable waistband system provides a precise fit.

49. MTHD Traverse Trail Run Short

$95

THE PROMISE: These men鈥檚 shorts are built to beat friction and irritation.

THE DEETS: A stretchy, 20-denier nylon paired with an underlying Polartec Power Dry polyester built-in boxer brief grants the flexibility and breathability runners need. A Polartec NeoShell pocket keeps your phone protected from sweat even while you鈥檙e Strava-ing a full day.

KEEN Ridge Flex Mid*

$170

THE PROMISE: These boots actually make hiking easier.

THE DEETS: KEEN says that the pliable TPU inserts at key flex points (across the forefoot and at the Achilles heel) in this midweight hiker require 60 percent less energy to bend. That saves energy and combats foot fatigue, but it also nixes break-in times and improves durability, as leather tends to break down earlier at flex points.

*This last-minute entry missed our deadline for voting but we love the innovation and suspect it would have scored well, so we鈥檙e including it here without a ranking.聽

The post The Voice 50: The Hottest Gear of Next Season appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

An icy wind whipped fresh snow into mini tornados in the narrow alleyways of a Golden, Colorado, storage facility, and Bruce Gordon dropped a box of product samples into the slush under his rented box truck.

He looked over at his business partner Zach Branson and said, 鈥淭here鈥檚 got to be a better way.鈥�

The two were hustling to make their outdoor sales agency, Mountain Source, a success, and knew that the storage-locker-and-rented-truck strategy would only get them so far. Eventually they found a home base in the Denver Merchandise Mart.

This hulking event space and collection of showrooms, tucked into an industrial pocket of north Denver, opened in 1965 as a wholesale marketplace. Unlike the Colorado Convention Center, the new home of Outdoor Retailer, which accommodates sweeping events attended by entire industries, the Denver Merchandise Mart specializes in connecting sales representatives to buyers. It鈥檚 strictly B2B and not open to the public.

Since opening, The Denver Merchandise Mart has become a major business hub for the western wear industry, and outdoor industry sales reps in the Rocky Mountain region鈥攍ike Mountain Source鈥攁re wisely beginning to take note.

The Scene

The Denver Merchandise Mart, or just 鈥淒enver Mart,鈥� has the look and feel of a massive ’70s-era hotel, with crisscrossing escalators and stair cases in a bright multi-story atrium and long, window-lined hallways and event halls. But instead of housing vacationers, this facility has apparel and accessory companies as guests.

I pass showrooms with jewelers hunched over magnifying glasses, bedazzled cowboy boots, sterling knives with elk-antler handles, and cabinetry and backsplash supplies among a blur of other things on my way to meet with Todd Herrick, a managing partner of Denver Mart. Herrick is a pilot and backcountry skier who came to Colorado in 1987 and also owns Telluride Helitrax, Black Canyon Anglers, and Gunnison River Farms.

鈥淲e have nearly one million square feet of space in total,鈥� Herrick told me. 鈥淲e have loading docks for every event hall, freight elevators, a concert stage (Garth Brooks, Lori Morgan, and Merle Haggard have played there), a drive-in outdoor movie theater (showing first-run movies on weekends Memorial Day to Labor Day, but available to tenants for midweek private events), security, 24/7 access for tenants, and free parking.鈥� Denver Mart hosts a trade show every weekend and can run up to four separate shows simultaneously.

鈥淲e have everything from western shows to car shows, toy train shows, roofing shows, the state bar exam, marijuana shows. The marijuana crowd鈥攕howing grow lamps and products like that, not bud鈥攖hey鈥檇 have a show every week if they could. They鈥檙e going gangbusters. But my point is, we can fit any particular industry鈥檚 needs,鈥� said Herrick. 鈥淚f you want to build an ice climbing wall outside, we鈥檒l setup an ice climbing wall.鈥�

The venue also has space for up to 400 tenants in showrooms ranging in size from 180 square feet to more than 8,000 square feet. This is a real attraction for a sales rep who may be used to the relative chaos of showing gear out of the back of a truck or van. Currently, 142 outdoor lines, from Jack Wolfskin and adidas Outdoor to Alpine Start and Selk鈥檅ag to Gregory have leased showrooms, which each agency can customize to their liking. Showroom tenants have 24/7 access and meet with retailer and potential buyers on their own terms. With Outdoor Retailer鈥檚 high-profile move from Salt Lake City to Denver, Denver Mart expects its outdoor industry tenant list to grow.

Browse the Outdoor Brand Showrooms

The Chaco Showroom

The Gregory Showroom

The Jack Wolfskin Showroom

The Smith Showroom

The Smartwool Showroom

鈥淲e are in Adams County which is non-union, so you have great creative freedom to set up a trade show booth how you like it,鈥� said Herrick, 鈥渁nd for tenants who lease showroom space, we feature a 鈥榣oss of line clause,鈥� which lets a sales rep out of their lease if they lose one of their three biggest clients.鈥� For reps who are often on 30-day revolving contracts, this eliminates the personal liability of a long-term lease.

The western wear industry (think Justin, Cinch, and Ariat) was an early adopter of Denver Mart and serves as an example of the type of community the ownership hopes to cultivate within the outdoor industry.

The Value

To get an idea of how the big western brands have used the show rooms, we tour a few of their largest and most lavish. First, Corral Boots, which has a stone fireplace and full bar, along with cocktail tables, and more than a dozen sales rep stations. Next is Miller International (parent company of Cinch jeans, among others). Their space is the size of a commercial outlet store, has a runway, overstuffed leather chairs, a huge bar, and a seating area that鈥檇 be right at home at any sports bar in America.

鈥淚t鈥檚 so easy to imagine a big outdoor or snow sports brand creating a ski-lodge or Swiss chalet apr猫s scene,鈥� I said to Herrick.

鈥淎nd they could show ski films at the drive-in out back,鈥� he replied.

We also tour the Ariat and Carhartt showrooms. The former was one of the first tenants in Denver Mart and boasts an 8,100-square-foot showroom. Carhartt鈥檚 has a sleek mountain-modern vibe, several private rep stations, and a huge conference room with a 16-seat table and the largest video-conference-ready flat screen I鈥檝e ever seen. It looks like a corporate headquarters.

What鈥檚 crazy is that many of these large showrooms are only utilized during the Western English Sales Associations biannual shows. That鈥檚 just eight days per year.

鈥淭his is where brands and buyers conduct a substantial amount of business. It鈥檚 worth it鈥攁nd it鈥檚 stood the test of time over the years. It works. Even with the internet and e-commerce, these industries are ultimately very tactile. You need to physically see the product and share stories and strategies with each other, personally, to make sound decisions,鈥� said Herrick. 鈥淎nd these industries that take up shop here are very community-driven.鈥�

The Potential

So, are outdoor industry brands utilizing it and how? To begin answering that, I met up with Mountain Source, an outdoor and snow sports sales agency with eight team members servicing retailers in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Nebraska.

鈥淲e used to use a storage unit and a rented truck and show product in a retail space,鈥� said partner Bruce Gordon. 鈥淣ow we have a controlled environment to interact with retailers with no distractions like we might have if we were meeting at a shop, or even worse, the back of a van. It鈥檚 revolutionized our business.鈥�

Mountain Source currently reps Chaco, Fj盲llr盲ven, GU, Hanwag, Klean Kanteen, Smartwool, and Swany.

鈥淲e want to change the agency model. As we grow, our goal is to have a [show] room for each of our brands,鈥� said Gordon. 鈥淯ltimately, we want to show a buyer that they could stock all of our brands, and in this environment, we can mimic how those brands could be displayed in the store. Smartwool is now flying people from outside of our territory to pre-line here in this showroom.鈥�

Their bright Smartwool space features vinyl wall wraps, custom racks and signage, and individual meeting tables to display product on. The Chaco space has artificial turf and a vibe 100 percent in line with the booth I鈥檝e seen at Outdoor Retailer for years. Their showrooms are inviting, casual, and fun, just like the brands they rep.

鈥淲e all got into this business because it鈥檚 fun, right?鈥� said Gordon. 鈥淏ut then at some point the fun is out of it. Having showrooms at the Mart has been key to us bringing some of the fun back. We can do really creative things in this space. With all of the support from the leasing manager and staff here, we have extreme flexibility to do whatever we want.鈥�

Mountain Source鈥檚 biggest success, business wise, has been with brand extensions. 鈥淚n an unhurried environment, we can introduce buyers to more brands. We were not able to do that as successfully before,鈥� said partner Zach Branson.

鈥淭his space allows our staff to tell better stories. We do 80 percent of our annual business in this showroom now,鈥� added Gordon.

鈥淚t sounds cheesy,鈥� said Branson, 鈥渂ut this place has given us a real sense of pride and really gotten us excited to reinvest in our business. There鈥檚 no other place we鈥檝e seen where we can do this.鈥�

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