Emerging Gear: Better YETI Cooler, EDC Sling, and More

When flowing down the trail at high speeds, reliable head protection is paramount. Giro’s new Merit Spherical Helmet ($220) combines many of the brand’s different technologies into a single piece of mountain biking protection. Spherical Technology, powered by MIPS, employs ball-and-socket mechanics in an effort to redirect rotational motion and mitigate impact. Fifteen vents with internal channeling are dispersed strategically across the Merit to maximize airflow.

Massif’s new First Responder Collection includes the Elements Softshell Jacket ($631), a GORE-TEX outer layer with built-in EMS and SAR (search-and-rescue) patch attachments. The Elements Jacket aims to provide the ideal warmth-to-weight ratio for when SAR responders are outside for hours on end in variable conditions, without sacrificing durability. Massif was co-founded by a member of the Grand Teton National Park SAR team — first-hand experience that directly informed the design of the Elements Jacket.

South Africa-based gear company Front Runner Outfitters announces the Slimsport Roof Rack ($625-919) — a low-profile roof rack designed for activity-focused drivers. The new iteration has a “sleek and unassuming” aesthetic, with lots of room for cargo. Currently, the Slimsport Rack is available for select model years of Toyota Tacomas and 4Runners as well as Ford Rangers, F-150s, and Raptors. Front Runner Outfitters makes various accessories for the rack, including a side-mount accessory bracket.

The popular softshell Hopper M30 cooler from YETI is getting a fresh update. What’s more, the brand also debuts a hot new color: Bimini! A giant tote bag for your food and drinks, the M30 is known for its ability to hold an entire case of beer and was the first YETI cooler to use a magnetic closure. The 2.0 version ($350) comes with MagShield Access, which aims to make loading and unloading easier by helping the M30 stay open while you put stuff in or take it out. YETI claims that the M30’s ColdCell insulation can keep ice frozen for multiple days.

Clarks Shoes have been the go-to footwear for many in Jamaica since the 1950s. Now, the brand is honoring the island nation with a special collection of three heritage styles. The Clarks Originals Jamaica Pack includes the Desert Jamaica ($170), the Jamaica Bee ($180), and the Jamaica Trek ($170). As reggae producer Bunny Lee said, “Clarks stand the test of time inna Jamaica.”

Under Armour’s UA Flow Velociti Wind debuted in 2021, and it’s already getting an upgrade. The UA Flow Velociti Wind jumped into the market last year with an all-in-one cushioning system that eliminates the need for rubber on the outsole. The Velociti Wind 2 ($160) has the same UA Flow tech and midsole compound — but a new upper with supporting tapes sewn in, new Tatami Stitch Heel, molded EVA sock liner, reduced weight, and more. The shoe weighs 8 to 8.3 ounces. The Velociti Wind 2 is available for men and women for $160.

This kit represents an ongoing brand collaboration between James Brand and Topo Designs. For those looking for an everyday-carry outdoor knife and a handy place to carry it, enter the Utility Capsule ($159). The shoulder bag comes with an adjustable webbing strap and multiple zippered pockets. With the shoulder strap removed, hook-and-loop straps allow the bag to attach to a backpack. The included Redstone knife is a partially serrated 2.5-inch stainless steel blade.

Men’s activewear brand Ten Thousand is introducing CØNCEPT, a series of seasonal drops of experimental gear. The first CØNCEPT offering is the CØ1 PANT ($118), a stretchy and feature-packed pant designed for the gym, traveling, and roaming about town. Made from four-way-stretch fabric, the CØ1 PANT aims to build upon Ten Thousand’s bestselling gym-specific Interval Pant.