Tactical Tailor

Archive for the ‘Outdoor Retailer’ Category

OR – Lowa Z-6 and Z-8 Series Boots

Tuesday, February 4th, 2014

At OR I had a chance to catch up with German brand Lowa to find out about their new Z-6 and Z-8 series boots coming later this year. Leveraging the technology of the Zephyr, the new Z-6 and Z-8 (the number denotes the height of the upper) utilize the well-proven and patented PU MONOWRAP® frame technology but are beefier with a medial sole wrap and heavier duty lug pattern to protect against rope abrasion during fast rope descents. The goal was to produce a boot that offers the walking comfort of light hiking boots combined with the support and protection of backpacking boots. LOWA further toughened up the design up with a full-length nylon stabilizer and an aggressive rubber outsole. Lightweight metal closed hooks allow for speed lacing and meet requirements for airborne operations so no more taping up your eye hooks.

Lowa Z-6S GTX Sage

Lowa Z-6S GTX

Below you will notice two suffixes in the full list of models names which denote the leather choices of split (S) and Nubuck (N). GORE-TEX® linings provide waterproof comfort, breathability and warmth in damp weather. Quick drying fabric linings are offered for hot and humid climates. LOWA’s patented Climate Control System pumps heat and moisture away from the foot, keeping feet dry and less prone to blisters.

Lowa Z-8S Tan

Lowa Z-8S Tan

Available in six-inch and eight-inch heights and in black, desert and sage.

Z-8N GTX® – Black
Z-8S GTX® – Dark Brown, Desert
Z-8S – Desert
Z-6N GTX® – Black
Z-6S GTX® – Desert, Black, Sage, Dark Brown
Z-6S – Black

Lowa Z-8S GTX Brown

Lowa Z-8S GTX Boot Image

OR – 32 North Introduces New Military Boot Compatible STABILicers

Thursday, January 30th, 2014

32 North VB

32 North has introduced new versions of their popular STABILicers that fit Vapor Barrier (VB or Bunny) Boots, Mukluks and issue combat boots, including cold weather models. These are critical for areas with ice, helping you stay on your feet.

These new models are available for unit and agency purchase exclusively through ADS.

www.32north.com

What a Trade Show is Like with Beyond

Thursday, January 30th, 2014

Ever wanted an back stage view of Beyond Clothing at a trade show? If so, here’s your chance. There’s even a quick glimpse of me in there. Good times wee had by all at my favorite trade show; Outdoor Retailer.

OR – Ultimate Survival Technologies – ParaHatchet

Tuesday, January 28th, 2014

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The ParaHatchet from Ultimate Survival Technologies features a 5mm stainless steel handle/blade and is wrapped in 8.2′ of either Orange or Glow In The Dark paracord. The blade integrates 3 hex wrenches and a rope cutter. It’s affordably priced and is the kind of insurance I’d throw in the trunk with a survival kit.

OR – Selk’Bag – Patagon

Tuesday, January 28th, 2014

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Selk’Bag has been around for several years now but many have considered it a gimmick, more suitable for car camping (or slumber parties) than serious outdoor pursuits. But now they’ve introduced the new Patagon, a serious upgrade to the ergonomic sleep system that resembles an expedition suit rather than a sleeping bag. Rated for use to 35 Deg F, with extreme use to 9 Deg F, this is no small feat considering the extremities are separate from the torso. The bag is insulated with their proprietary KreKran which is named after the Chilean Ona Indian words Kre for Sun and Kran for Sun-Man. Temp ratings by independent lab.

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Below, you can see the mesh lined, zippered vent found either side, mid-thigh. You will also notice that the booties can be removed via zipper so that the wearer’s boots are exposed for movement.

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The Patagon features a magnetized quick release hand closure system with integrated hand straps that let you secure the mittens out of the way.

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The two-side, zippered bib opening is baffled and goes all the way to the waist on the right side (while worn).

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Available in Forest Black, the Patagon incorporates an adjustable hood and offered in sizes Med – XLge.

www.selkbagusa.com

OR – Tipsy Elves

Sunday, January 26th, 2014

If it were possible to ‘win’ Outdoor Retailer, I’d say Tipsy Elves with their wide variety of irreverent Christmas sweaters is a definite contender.

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OR – Fjallraven

Friday, January 24th, 2014

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The Smock No. 1 from Fjallraven is part of the new numbers collection. The 1 behind the product name denotes it is the first smock design. It is made from G1000, a proprietary PolyCotton blend with a beeswax coating. This not only improves weather resistance but the fabric’s life as well. The Smock No. 1 incorporates classic design features including 4 patch cargo pockets on chest and hem as well as 2 poachers pockets on the rear skirt. It also boasts inset bicep pockets and inset Napoleon pockets on the chest. Toggle pulls are made from scrap leather from the production floor.

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www.fjallraven.us

OR – Beyond

Friday, January 24th, 2014

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Beyond is quite a hit at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market. About a year or so ago, I sat down with front man Rick Elder and he shared his brand strategy with us. I know a lot of you have been chomping at the bit wanting to see product, and it’s here. For example, you may remember the Helios Alpha Jacket we showed you over last summer was recently featured in “Outside” magazine. It’s paired with a Brokk pant, a lightweight, super breathable, technical outdoor pant that features articulated knees.

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They’ve also introduced both a softshell pant and jacket in the Rig. They both utilize a proprietary fabric and the pant integrates a proprietary 2-way stretch Cordura. Naturally, they are articulated and have several features that we will cover over the next few weeks.

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In fact, the booth is packed with new styles. They pride themselves on helping their customers survive in any environment in the world and they are investing in new tech and design to make that more than just a desire. Beyond looks at themselves as a tech company who happens to specialize in the medium of specialized clothing. Garments are being wear tested in the environment they are built for and designs updated real time based on feedback. With a 90 day development cycle, they are nimble enough to give the customer exactly what they want.

You may notice a bit of an urban design influence but colorways are limited edition so if you see something you want, you’d better jump on it before it sells out because the next time it’s offered it may well be in a different color combination.

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Naturally, this isn’t the case for the Mission community. Products for this group are customized for the purpose and colors are available as needed. As for the term ‘Mission Community’ I can’t think of a better way to describe it. It isn’t limited to military, LE, or contractors, but also encompasses First Responders, SAR and even NGOs. It’s that group of users that go beyond recreation.

I visited Beyond’s headquarters in November and got to take a peak behind the curtain as they developed several of the designs I saw today at OR. Beyond keeps one leg planted firmly in the outdoor market and this drives their innovation engine. As mission customers we reap the benefits of this focus. You need to keep a constant eye on Beyond. New products will be constantly hitting the street.

www.beyondclothing.com