The AvaTech SP-1, and accompanying software platform, could be a game changer in the snow safety field. Photos courtesy of AvaTech
AvaTech
SP-1 Probe and AvaNet
The most groundbreaking product at Outdoor Retailer didn’t have a booth, and is not something most of us can buy. AvaTech is a potential game-changer in the snow safety world, and features two new products—a software and a hardware component—to help snow safety professionals (avalanche centers, ski patrols, commercial guides, etc.). The system is exclusively for professional use at the moment, though brand president Thomas Laakso says a consumer adaptation is likely in the future.
In the simplest terms, the software is a platform where professionals from around the world can organize, analyze, share, and discuss snowpack information and pit profiles. The platform is being used in 34 different countries by various snow safety organizations, including the American Institute for Avalanche Research and the U.S. Forest Service National Avalanche Center. That, in and of itself, is a valuable new resource.
AvaNet is a global platform where snow scientists and avalanche professionals can swap and analyze data. Photo courtesy of AvaTech
The most eye-opening breakthrough, however, is the SP-1 probe. A collapsible probe, similar to what most backcountry travelers (should) carry, the SP-1 is equipped with sensors that read the snow pack and produce a hardness profile similar to what avalanche professionals make after analyzing a snow pit. Readouts appear on a screen on the probe’s handle, and are sent via Bluetooth to the user’s smart phone, where it can then be transferred to the AvaNet platform and analyzed remotely. For example, a patrol director could see data from all the patrollers in the field immediately, and coordinate avalanche control efforts from his office.
The probe doesn’t replace a traditional pit—with snow, more information is always better—but allows a forecaster to quickly check the snow pack in many different locations, and compare that data to other observations.
[For more on avalanche safety, click here]
The Icon, left, and the Linux aren’t designed to do everything, just to make you look good after you’ve done it. Photos: Derek Taylor
Discrete
Icon (women’s) and Linux (men’s) down jackets
MSRP: $220
While most brands at Outdoor Retailer seem to be touting a Swiss Army Knife of outerwear—the technical piece that can also look stylish for a night on the town—Discrete Clothing is going the opposite direction. With its new street wear line Discrete aims to be the go-to leisure garment for people who spend the majority of their time in technical wear—people such as company owner/founder and professional skier Julian Carr. By not trying to be everything, Discrete has more freedom in material choices and cut. Both the Icon and Linux are wider in the hips for more comfort, and the Linux features a 100 percent cotton denim outer shell. Both are stuffed with 90/10 down, so you’ll stay warm on frigid winter nights, and both are treated with a waterproof coating. “You can wear it in a blizzard on your way to the bar and be OK,” says Carr. “You just don’t want to be in a blizzard on the top of a peak.”
The philosophy behind the Hoka One One is more cushion and protection means more comfort and enjoyment. Photo: Derek Taylor
Hoka One One
Hokaoneone.com
Tor Ultra Hi WP, Summit Mid WP and Summit WP
MSRP: $230 (Ultra Hi); $180 (Summit Mid); $160 (Summit WP)
Hoka One One (pronounced Oh-nay) running shoes were developed by ultramarathon competitors who were looking for more cushioning and protection to help them run faster down hill. The technology has since caught on throughout all aspects of running—trail to street, competitor to exerciser. The shoes utilize a proprietary softer density cushioning material, and a 50 percent increase in the amount of cushion. The sole geometry has also been reworked to incorporate more rocker to help smooth the transition from heel to toe, and to allow the foot to move more naturally. Since their launch in 2010, Hoka has skyrocketed in popularity. Unintentionally, the brand has become the go-to for athletes from other sports who had otherwise sworn off running because of knee injuries.
Hoka is now taking their cushioning technology and is applying it to trekking shoes. The Tor Ultra WP blends Hoka’s cushioning and support with a supportive leather and nylon mesh upper and a Vibram sole. The upper also incorporates Event fabric to help with waterproofing and breathability. At less than 500 grams, the Tor is still light enough for trail running. The Summit Mid WP and Summit WP both follow the same philosophy, but with shorter cuffs.
The Incase Pro Pack keeps all your GoPro gadgets organized.
Incase
Goincase.com
Action Camera Pro Pack
MSRP: $199
Incase, the brand known for creating innovative accessories for Apple products, has set their sights on the action camera world. The Pro Pack, and a collection of accompanying accessories, was designed to protect and organize everything you need to produce your next viral edit. This is more than just a carrying case for your selfie-stick. The Pro Pack is designed for the professional film crew and athlete. Accessory organizers ($30 each) provide a home for memory cards, water casings, batteries, mounts, etc. There is a mount integrated into the strap for capturing the hike to the surf break or skate spot. A pocket on the top can carry a DSLR body and small lens, and the entire organizing section can be subbed out for a camera block to accommodate a professional quiver of lenses. The Pro Pack utilizes an impact resistant material called TensaerLite to keep all your gear safe if the pack is dropped.
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