the best new camping & hiking gear of 2022

 

Even though winter is just kicking into high gear [at least here in Colorado], we wanted to share some new gear coming down the pipeline from a few of our favorite clients - Gregory, Therm-a-Rest, Outdoor Research, MSR, GCI Outdoors and PackTowl. Together, there is a whole host of new gear - coming out spring 2022 - that will help your readers better enjoy the great outdoors this spring and summer. Check out the new goods here and email us for more information or sample requests.

 
 

Gregory Baltoro & Deva 

The pinnacle of backpacking comfort and functionality, the Baltoro and Deva, have been a long-time staple and best-seller in the premium backpack space. The new FreeFloat A3 suspension system, featuring an auto-rotating shoulder harness and patented FreeFloat dynamic hipbelt, moves independently from the outer frame to flex and adapt to the natural movement of your body for a new standard in trail comfort. An alloy perimeter frame enables dynamic support and a more stable carry. The foamless AirCushion backpanel is built from a proprietary 3D mesh structure consisting of 90% open-air for true breathability - while eliminating pressure points. Three adjustable torso sizes makes it easy to fine tune the size that best fits your back length and curvature and gives you the options to size up or down to accommodate different body shapes and sizes. Matching performance with sustainability, Gregory reduced the carbon footprint of each new pack by 31% by reducing its use of plastic, using more sustainable materials, and PFC-Free DWR.

The Baltoro is available in 65 [4.92 lbs] and 75 [4.98 lbs] liter capacities. The Deva is available in 60 [4.64 lbs] and 70 [4.7 lbs] liter capacities.

MSRP: $299.95-$329.95.

 

Gregory Inertia H20 and Women's Swift H20 

The Inertia H20 and Swift H20 hydration packs, longtime Gregory favorites, receive a substantial update for Spring 2022 that includes new organization and improved comfort. The 3D foam backpanel provides ventilated support, while the Momentum Hydro suspension efficiently manages reservoir refills and provides a secure fit for high output adventures.

For longer days, the Swift and Inertia were designed with an optimized organization system that crosses boundaries and offers versatility for both hiking and everyday use. Its external hydration sleeve provides easy access to water, while the front bungee system, zippered hipbelt pockets and a dedicated hydration/technology compartment offer simple storage options that can be used to hold everything from trail snacks to a smaller laptop or tablet. Additionally, the newest iteration of Gregory’s patented 3D Hydro Reservoir comes with each pack, providing seamless integration with Gregory’s SpeedClip system.

MSRP: $89.95 - $109.95.

For the full list of new spring 2022 products by Gregory, click here.

 
 

Therm-a-Rest Parsec Collection

Take on frigid backcountry pursuits with the comfort and performance of the Parsec Collection. Spring 2022, Therm-a-Rest will expand its Parsec Collection of fast and light sleeping bags to include two more temperature ratings - 0 and 32-degrees - as well as updating the existing Parsec 20. The family of three bags boasts a new cold-weather-conquering design and 100% recycled shell and liner. The new recycled nylon is softer to the touch and lighter than previous versions, but just as durable. Sustainable 800 fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down absorbs 90% less water and dries three times faster. The no-fuss, anti-snag zipper prevents accidental tears, and a refined fit - tested and perfected in Therm-a-Rest’s onsite cold chamber - achieves optimal thermal efficiency and comfort with precise down distribution and Toe-asis Foot Warmer Pocket.

The Parsec 0 weighs in at 2 lb 6 oz [MSRP: $529.95, size regular]. The updated Parsec 20 weighs in at 1 lb 12 oz [$449.95, size regular]. The Parsec 32 weighs in at 1 lb 8 oz [MSRP: $399.95, regular]. Compression and storage sack are included.

 

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow

You never have to rough it again with the new and improved Compressible Pillow. The fan-favorite now offers customizable firmness - and comfort - with a new cinch cord that allows you to tighten and loosen the cover to adjust the firmness to just the right level. The ultra-soft cover is made from 60% recycled polyester and the foam used inside is excess foam from mattress production - making the updated pillow both green and comfy. The pillow packs down into itself so you can rest better on the go. 

The pillow is available in sizes small, medium, and large and weighs in at a lightweight 10 oz [MSRP: $34.95, size regular].

 

Therm-a-Rest Juno Blanket

The Juno Blanket is the most compact and packable blanket in the Therm-a-Rest line, packing down to 9.5” x 11”. The eraLoft Insulation reduces the blanket’s weight without sacrificing warmth, it’s also highly compressible and water-resistant - perfect for any and all outdoor adventures. The cozy polyester lining is soft to the touch and the ‘Wear it Snaps’ allow you to fasten the blanket around your shoulders. Whether you need extra insulation on your lap, around your shoulders, or something to sit on by the campfire, you will find yourself reaching for your Juno blanket again and again.

The Juno Blanket weighs in at 13.5 oz [MSRP: $69.95].

For the full list of new spring 2022 products by Therm-a-Rest, click here

 
 

Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie, Jacket & Vest

SuperStrand LT styles employ a unique new synthetic insulation — VerticalX™ SuperStrand — that helps create the best warmth-to-weight layering package Outdoor Research has ever offered. Ideal for four-season warmth, this collection features a unique quilt pattern that reduces stitching, creating an uninterrupted flow of insulation and warmth. Soft and supple construction creates an amazingly comfortable wearing experience. The unique lofted polyester strands in VerticalX™ SuperStrand mimic the shape of thousands of down clusters connected along a strand, truly blending the best properties of down and synthetic insulation. This material has extremely high loft, offers warmth if it gets wet, and is more resistant to compression over time than down. This ultra lightweight layering package (309 grams, men’s medium hoodie) is capped with a bluesign® approved, windproof 12D nylon shell fabric. Men’s and Women’s.

MSRP: $219

 

Outdoor Research ActiveIce Spectrum Sun Hoodie

Combining UPF and active-cooling technologies to offer optimal performance in hot, sunny climates, the ActiveIce Spectrum Sun Hoodie is the ultimate protective, versatile summer layer. The platform starts with soft, chafe-free, and ultra-lightweight polyester/spandex fabric that’s comfortable against the skin, airy and quick-drying in hot climates, stretchy for movement, and protects against the sun with a UPF 50+ rating. Outdoor Research adds in thermo-regulating and cooling ActiveIce technology, which feels cool to touch (as opposed to feeling cool after responding to moisture). The top is cut with OR’s Dynamic Reach design so that the body doesn’t ride up when arms are overhead. Other details include a three-panel hood and thumbholes.

Men’s and women’s. Also available in long-sleeve tees for men and women, and short-sleeve tees for men.

MSRP: $79

For the full list of new spring 2022 products by Outdoor Research, click here

 
 

MSR Low Down Remote Stove System 

The LowDown Remote Stove Adapter is an upgrade for your canister stove or stove system, allowing it to do more than you ever thought possible. It can turn your tiny, ultralight stove into a group cooking pro or transform a tall stove system into a non-tippy coffee machine on your camp table. The fold out legs create a wide, stable base that significantly lowers your stove height, for stability on uneven ground or when cooking around young campers. It also allows stoves of nearly any size to support larger pots and pans with ease. The remote valve and fuel line move the flame control away from the stove and pot, making cooking adjustments easier. And it folds up nice and compact for easy stowing whether you’re backpacking with friends or camping with the family. 6.2 ounces

MSRP: $49.95.

For the full list of new spring 2022 products by MSR, click here

 
 

GCI Legz Up Lounger

Using Legz Up Technology™ which was first introduced as part of the Freeform Zero Gravity Lounger™, the Legz Up Lounger™ brings comfort and relaxation to the outdoors! With a built-in leg rest, the Legz Up Lounger allows users to switch back and forth seamlessly between legs up or legs down. Stay cool and comfortable when you recline the mesh backrest to one of four positions for an even more relaxing experience. It also includes a head pillow, beverage holder, phone pocket and backpack straps for easy portability.

MSRP: $100

For the full list of new spring 2022 products by GCI, click here

 
 

PackTowl Personal Towel 

The Personal towel is the best-selling quick-drying microfiber towel on the market, and with good reason. Its ultra-versatile, absorbent, and superfast-drying performance make it great for any activity, including camping, travel, fitness, swimming and more. The Personal towel also stays fresh longer thanks to Polygiene® odor control. With three fresh new prints, it's easy to make a personal statement with the Personal towel. MSRP: $11.95 - $44.95.

 

Princeton Tec Vizz

Princeton Tec is synonymous with lighting. Few brands hold the pedigree that Princeton Tec does for creating lighting products that perform under any condition, and with upgrades to the consumer-favorite Vizz in ‘22, it’s brighter and more user-friendly than ever.

The Vizz has been an outdoor staple for adventurers of all kinds since its debut. For ‘22, the innovative yet user-friendly Vizz now ups its potency to 550 lumens in a one-touch interface that makes it one of the easiest to use headlamps available. And with a runtime of 90 hours (or, nearly four days hiking, camping, climbing, spelunking…) on a trio of AAA’s, you can go farther, longer.

Plus, on top of the lumen and performance upgrades, the VIzz will not see an increase in MSRP!

Fun Fact: ALL Princeton Tec outdoor headlamps default to Red lighting when you first turn it on. Why? For two reasons, really. If you’re hunting, good luck having that swath of light paint your firing line. But mainly it’s for all of the people who’ve experienced someone turning on a headlamp while you were looking right at them, and then you saw nothing but blobs for 30 minutes.