LYRA MAG.

OUTDOOR RETAILER/SLC words/images Judith Ecochard embedded video-Granite Gear Granite Gear, the USA maker of technical backpacks continues to expand its line-up for Fall 2012. Crown V.C. 60 & Crown V.C. 60 Ki (women's specific)-belt and shoulder straps -dual density padding for comfort-in cactus/moonmist The new AJI 50 and AJI 50 Ki (women's specific) are the second pack bunch based on the company's innovative Vapor Current suspension system---already in the popular CROWN V.C. packs---featuring ventilation channels molded into the cushioned molded foam back pad for superior air circulation from bottom to top-without shifting the pack's center of gravity... AJI 50- AND a full length HDPE die-cut sheet VC frame underneath the foam that supports loads up to 35lbs...that's removable too-for ultralight hauls. (Removing framesheet saves  6 ounces-good for hiking with load under 21 lbs) Java/Cocoa-AJI 50 ...

Outdoor Retailer/SLC-SIA/Denver words/images Judith Ecochard It may be summer months in the northern hemisphere...but even the occasional rainy, cool days...and chiller night temps make base layers, year round necessities. Highly performing, and techy (moisture wicking, body heat retention, easy care),  natural and synthetic fibers--- both figured prominently -equally so...in the company lines previewed at two major trade shows back in January. Eco factors and the multi-purpose versatility of base layers as regular everyday wear (like lingerie worn as outerwear as personified by Marlene Dietrich/Madonna and now scores of everyone)-also factored into some rather stylishly designed brands for women. ColdPruf® Base layers are courtesy of a division of Indira Mills, a 96 years young, family owned, North Carolina company---"manufactured" in the USA- sewn and packaged in Mexico, fyi. Men's Pro-Tek Crew and Pant-single layer mini waffle...100% recycled  perfo...

Outdoor Retailer/SLC words/images Judith Ecochard Fabrics are a big deal at Outdoor Retail, with textile breakthroughs finding apparel and footwear makers eager for the next cutting edge material...lined up for appointments, and writing orders. The first day,of this buzzy tradeshow had a seminar on textile trends that was jam packed...with retailers and manufacturers taking in the latest on performance fabrics, focusing in on the need for materials that regulate body temperature and moisture---particularly in the winter, retaining heat optimally and providing protection from extreme weather elements...that feels good next to the skin. All matter of tones and prints- are also a very big deal and a way to distinguish product from me-too competitors. At the Textile area of the Salt Palace--- samples from many different fabric makers...tacked up on story boards-provided a great visual on the Fall/Winter 2012-Spring 2012 color palettes for apparel and footwear. ...