LYRA MAG.

Outdoor Retailer/SLC Like old cell phones that were the size of American footballs…hiking/waterproof lug sole boots were the equivalent, weight wise. Now---over the past two decades, new materials, multi-tasking needs and lifestyles- and the influence of sneakers on design (comfort/lightness)…shows up in most reworked footwear lines with regards to hiking/performance/trail running kicks. For 2014---Salomon delivers on good looking lifestyle and more minimalist footwear for streets, trail and trek locales. HIGHLIGHTS: Cuuute ….the wool/leather all-weather (except summer heat) HIME High $160 and Mid for women-that  comes in an urban chic charcoal/black -with weather tough-grippy Contragrip® rubber sole. Durable Contragrip® nice tread too last for years wool ribbed cuff , felt/leather upper- with grippy outsoles---lace-up faux fur collar-in the Hime High KAIPO CS W ater P roof Mid $140- mid high with a slimmer profile than previous day boots/h...

Outdoor Retailer/SLC The outdoors world has its superstars but it's nothing like the in world of sports…where name droppers---with serious recognition and athletic creds- are able to move merchandise off the shelves, based on their names alone. Companies making gear for cold weather pursuits-backcountry, hiking, trekking---need to rely on their high integrity, reputation, and functionality of their apparel offerings--- with proven reliability- and backed by warranties. That way 'smaller' brands without marketing muscle…can thrive. Salomon is one of those labels that stand for quality and innovation. It is on the backs of outdoors types around the world-because the apparel ( and footwear -a later post) are made to move, protect and perform…with top tier textiles and design features…that are durable. Has to be---! Highlights from Fall 2014 Super Halo Hoodie jacket-Matador/black,--there is a women's version too Keep warm in a DWR treated 800 fill down with...

Outdoor Retailer, SLC Cool gear, gadgets, trends… a few highlights of the latest OR show that took place in January 2014. AHHHHHH… GET A GRIP! Part 9 -Although the past two winters made multi-seasonal footwear the mantra must for many outdoor brands-THIS past winter that supposed to end this week- was a reminder that icy conditions need special traction for those on the go… Several new innovations were up to the additional challenges of moving upright- on slippery ice-providing extra grip akin to adding chains on automobile tires…a familiar requirement on Rocky Mountain ski resort roads…though even snowbird destinations probably could have used the past few months!  Altra Footwear-Olympic trail runner---quite the outsole for a minimalist inspire running shoe Jambu - uses German company Tecvision''s techy spike system - for its new retractible steel studded Flex Climber… as seen at Demo Day. pull back and dial around-retractable tungsten carbide spike---me...