TECHNICALLY ‘IT’ COLLECTIONS ADD OUTDOORS’ LIFESTYLE ELEMENTS
OUTDOOR RETAILER MARKET, Salt Lake City, August 11th
Words, Images-Judith Ecochard and from Deuter website
In an economy where urban nomads as well as casual nature enthusiasts are making purchases that adapt for many uses, it only makes sense to buy potable carriers that can admirably work on mass transit and the mountains.
Two brands, Deuter (via Germany) and the American line Gregory –are known for their fit and comfort. We were happy to see new colors and functional backpacks, sports packs and even baby carriers that are well priced and durable.
DEUTER:
For a hundred years and counting, Deuter (rhymes with Reuters) has churned out in demand carriers for European alpinists, cyclists and climbers. Relied on for anatomically superior fit and a must have airflow ventilation system, the “backpack specialists of mountain enthusiasts” now has a line of adaptable and technical daypacks “for people who like to get out there.”
Or just have a whole lot of stuff to haul around.
For those needs, we think the beefed up and comfortable daypacks in the ACT Trail line are ideal. With great access via a two-way zipper - the ACT Trail packs are made with a flexible Delrin® construction Aircontact back system that adjusts for different back lengths, and works for activities like hard core sports or hailing cabs. For women the ACT Trail 28 SL features Deuter’s SL fit with a shorter back length, narrower shoulder straps with shaped fit, thoughtfully placed sternum straps, and softer hip belt padding. The packs also come with built-in rain covers, a exterior mesh stuff pocket and bungee cord and zippered side pocket.
Lighter loads benefit from the AC Lite 16 and AC LITE 20 packs that have the Deuter's Aircomfort back system for great ventilation and comfort in a streamlined technical daypack. Other features include a zippered lid pocket, mesh side pockets, hydration compatibility and integrated rain covers. Plus the collection is made in cool new tones like silver, mandarin mango, denim, and bamboo. (Prices $79-$89)
Additional urban warrior options include the Giga Office and Cross City styles with ample room for office cargo and large padded compartments for laptops.
People with little humans to carry around will appreciate the top of the line Kid Comfort Three ($185), a bestselling day carrier for tots that’s already a bestseller at Paragon Sporting Goods in NYC. Made for a comfortable adjustable fit for the adult hauler (Vari-Flex hip belt), the carrier has a five-point child safety harness, an integrated sunroof, and an adjustable child seat.
And it comes with a teddy bear.
INFO: DEUTER
GREGORY
An all American company, Gregory’s S/S 2009 styles will pop off retailer shelves with the rainbow colors soon to hit. We were a bit embarrassed we weren’t familiar with the brand that’s racked up “Best Of” awards galore.
But were happy to get educated…and realized we could’ve spared our aching backs a whole lot of pain.
BACKSTORY:
Founded by Wayne Gregory who designed his first backpack as part of a Boy Scout project, the outdoor industry veteran launched Gregory Mountain Products in 1977. For the past 31 years, Gregory packs have rightfully earned the ne plus ultra reputation for outstanding ergonomic fit and comfort…including an innovative waist belt system (Quick Adjust 5 point) that adjusts for different hip angles-automatically improving load transfer!
WOMEN FRIENDLY:
We previewed the Active Trail Collection – featuring the Arreba™ and new models Maya and Dipsea – that are smaller day packs innovatively constructed (a waist band that stretches when you do, BioSync™ technology)… for hiking/biking. Available in eye-catching colors like warp red, amethyst, jade, turquoise and lime green, the packs has front media pockets, two waistbelt pockets and women specific harness and yokes. ($79-$109)
INFO: Gregory Packs