Outdoor Retailer–the largest outdoor and action sport trade-show in the world–is where gear junkies go to get a premium fix. It happens twice a year with its winter edition happening now. While we realize winter isn’t the most popular season to standup paddle, the gear displayed at the Winter OR is something every standup paddler can appreciate.
To keep our finger on the pulse of what’s hot and new in 2018, our edit staff has been roaming the floor at OR, evaluating the latest crop of outdoor and SUP accessories that’ll keep us stoked and stroking into the warmer seasons. Here are a few picks from our time at the 2018 Winter Outdoor Retailer. –MM
Astral Footwear Rassler 2.0
$125 (available August 2018)
astraldesigns.com
The new Rassler 2.0 from @astralfootwear is billed as the next generation for hardcore river users. Reinforcements in the toe and heel and increased durability takes this popular shoe to the next level.
Sealline 115L Pro Pack
$200
seallinegear.com
The @Sealline 115L Pro Pack is the perfect compliment to any long term inflatable SUP expedition. It’s large capacity, paddles straps and comfy weight bearing system make those long portage’s a real possibility. The best part is when you deflate your board it fits right inside the pack. #Seallinegear
Yeti Hopper Flip 12
$249.99
yeti.com
Who doesn’t like going for a paddle with a six-pack and lunch for two? The @Yeti Hopper Flip 12 can be clipped right onto your board straps and can hold up to 13 12 oz. cans and keeps ice cold for multiple days.
CrazyCreek Hex 2.0
The @CrazyCreek Hex 2.0 original is a lightweight, compact camping chair that rolls up and weighs only 22 oz. Whether you are looking to have back support while sitting on your board and basking in the sun or just want to have a chair when you find that perfect spot on the beach…why not bring it along?
Kavu Fisherman’s Chillba
$40
kavu.com
The Fisherman’s Chillba is an extremely packable, water-resistant sun hat made by @Kavu. It’s black underside minimizes reflection of light off water. It is the favorite hat for most water sports. Not only that, it fits in right in your PFD pocket.
Uco Titan Storm-Proof Matches
Uco Titan storm-proof matches are full waterproof fire starters. You just never know when that one lighter you packed may fall in the drink. Then how are you gonna start that stove at sunset? With a 25-second burn time they are a great accompaniment to any first aid or camping setup. @ucogear
Joshua Tree Sun Stick 50
Joshua Tree Sun Stick 50 is a roll-on sunscreen stick. @Jttreelife makes organic products with performance you can count on. The small size makes is easy to pack in your board shorts pocket for use anytime in the day. Everything that can be natural is. Though they do make some sacrifices to make sure it works.
MSR Windburner Combo System
$260
msrgear.com
If expedition paddling is your thing, come prepared to sleep out for days on end and bring the right cooking setup in your drybag. The Windburner Combo System by @msr _gear is light and efficient and features a 2.5 L sauce pot and an 8″ skillet, and works wonders for small groups. The stove’s windproof radiant burner boils water fast in all conditions, whether you’re cold-weather camping with friends, or cooking a gourmet meal on a windy beach. The stove system nests all components for easy, efficient packing.
XTRATUF Boots
$145
xtratuf.com
Some call it the Alaskan Sneaker. Others call it bombproof. Designed for the fishing industry based in the Bearing Sea, these boots from XTRATUF are the real deal. This 2.0 version comes with reinforced toe and shin guards, revamped slip-resistant outsoles and triple-dipped chemical resistant latex uppers guaranteed not to leak. The hike to the water has never been easier.
Nat Geo River Maps
New river maps from @natgeomaps! The map series is starting with Colorado rivers. We like the flip-book style, built with durable waterproof pages. River access, mileage, rapids and fishing info is all included.
Drinktanks Insulated Growler
$165 (complete kit)
drinktanks.com
Based in Bend, @drinktanks has come out with a rad lineup of vacuum insulated growlers and keg caps – guaranteed to keep your brew fresh for up to a week with their integrated CO2 system.
Chaco Footwear Classic Z Sandal
$130 (available March 2018)
chaco.com
@chacofootwear and The National Park Foundation have teamed up to produce a new line of colorful sandals representing our countries favorite national parks. Part of the proceeds will go back to support the National Park Foundation.
Follow the hashtag #orwm18 for real-time posts from the floor at the 2018 Winter Outdoor Retailer and check out our picks from the early days at 2018 Winter OR.
The article was originally published on Standup Paddling
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