Best New Gear | August 2022

Quality organization for your tech and EDC essentials, circular tees for sustainable wardrobe style, and a comfy sling for your pooch were just some of August’s great new releases. Discover all of these and more as we dive into the month’s best new gear…

EDC

Orbitkey Sanitizer Holder

In early 2020, just five weeks into the pandemic, the Orbitkey team designed and shipped the original Sanitizer holder. This month, they revisited it and came up with a new version. This time, it has been redesigned into a beautiful aluminum bottle and is available in three finishes: black, silver and blush. Designed as a 50ml pump, it’s suitable to dispense liquid and gel-based sanitizers. And it comes with an Orbitkey Clip attachment so you always have cleanser within reach.

Tactile Turn Slim Side Click

Ever since the original Side Click release, customers have been asking for a slim version, especially after seeing what a more narrow version might look like, with the Slim Bolt Action. Two years later, after much refinement and engineering, the team at Tactile Turn is ready to announce the all-new Slim Side Click. Instead of just producing a slimmer body, they also modified the flat spring to maintain the familiar action, as well as redesigned the clip for a sleeker, tapered appearance and switched to a single screw design for deeper pocket carry.

The new Slim Side Click measures just 0.365″ in diameter (compared to 0.43″) and is available in three body lengths and refill styles – Standard (5.8″), Short (5.3″), and Mini (4.6″). In addition, it can be had in four core metals – titanium, bronze, copper, and zirconium. It is available now for purchase.

Tactile Turn Trailhead

Tactile Turn’s Seasonal Releases are a true win-win situation for both the company and the public. It’s a chance for the team to flex their creative muscles and produce pens inspired by an activity, sport, or theme. Though limited, the Seasonal Releases are available for purchase during a lengthy period, ensuring anyone interested has a chance to purchase.

Trailhead is the Summer 2022 release. Inspired by the great outdoors, pulling inspiration from hiking shoes, backpacks, tents, fishing gear, and nature itself, the pen is based on the new Slim Side Click. It comes with a speckled Cerakote body and a redesigned clip with a special and on-brand laser engraved design. It is available in three lengths until October 30, 2022.

GiantMouse GM9 & GMP9

The GM line can be thought of as Vox and Ansø’s no-holds-barred studio, a playground where they can let all their creative juices and ideas run free. With their latest release, the GM9, aka “The Tantukko”, they applied their distinct style for their take on a modern Nordic Tanto folder. A hollow grind is the prominent feature on the main edge while a secondary flat grind at the tip gives the user the best of both worlds – piercing ability and a main slim edge for slicing. 

The GM9 is a liner lock folder featuring a 20CV blade that measures 3.4″ long with a thickness of 0.138″, a PVD bronze handle, and weighs 5.3 oz. It is limited to 400 numbered pieces and once it’s sold out, it will be discontinued forever. For an extra level of exclusivity, GiantMouse produced exactly 200 units of the Pirate Edition (GMP9) which sports a black-out stealthy aesthetic and swaps the bronze handles for titanium and the titanium backspacer for bronze. These sold out quickly after the drop.

RHINOSHIELD GRIPMAX and GRIPMINI

Have a habit of dropping your phone? RHINOSHIELD’s new phone grips bring peace of mind to you (and your tech) with straightforward and sustainably made designs. The GRIPMAX and GRIPMINI operate easily with a simple sliding action and also double as phone stands for hands-free video viewing or calls. Made with 85% recycled PET bottles, the phone grips can also be customized to suit your personal style, bringing a little flair to your phone carry too.

Leatherman Garage Batch #003: PARTS

Leatherman have been shaking up the tool game for decades and now their Garage Batch #003: PARTS presents one of their most sustainable tools to date. The folding knife is constructed by reusing parts found in the factory and offers interchangeable work and EDC blades to adapt to a range of needs. The G10 handle scales are comfy and durable for daily use and a removable pocket clip and lanyard hole provide flexible carry options. Plus with its light weight, coming in at just 2.9 oz (82.21 g), it’s a convenient piece to carry every day.

Trakke Laggan Mini Accessory Organizer

Dig the organization of Trakke’s Laggan Pro but don’t need as much space? Trakke have released a nifty alternative with the Laggan Mini. Smaller but just as capable as its big brother, the Laggan Mini offers 12 sections for organization, with a rear A6 size pocket. The clamshell opening makes it easy to store and retrieve items, while the durable waxed canvas construction and YKK AquaGuard zipper protect your small tech and travel and EDC essentials in trusty style.

Gerber Gear New Options for Sedulo 

While not a new addition to the Custom Shop, the Sedula, Gerber’s American-made EDC folder has some new options. The team from Portland, OR have added burnt orange and trillium white handles, 20CV drop point blades in black oxide and stonewash finishes, and PVD blue and champagne hardware. Launched two years ago, the Sedulo is built in small batches in Gerber’s headquarters. Customers can choose from a combination of handle colors, blade types, and laser marks, and nearly every piece of hardware is customizable.

Troubadour Small Storage Collection

Consisting of three bags and made from a proprietary recycled fabric, the Small Storage Collection from Troubadour will help you stay organized on the go. 

The Buddy Case measures 6.5 x 5.5 x 2.5 inches and opens flat for easy access to all your gear. There is an exterior quick-access pocket with magnetic closure. Elastic pockets keep things tidy and a central pen pocket means a writing instrument is within easy reach.

The Caboodle Tech Case measures 9 x 6 x 3.5 inches and has a capacity of 3L. It opens from the top accordion-style and is a smart way to carry your tech accessories. A zipped external pocket and internal dividers with two-way elastic pockets keep things separated and organized.

Finally, the Rig Case is slightly larger at 3.3L capacity. A double zipper opening unveils a spacious interior. Hidden magnets are used to ensure easy opening and closing while elastic pockets keep everything organized. There is a grab handle for easy carrying and like its two smaller siblings, it’s made of waterproof vegan leather, recycled nylon, and a waterproof lining.

Urban

Arcade Belts Island Collection + REPREVE

The latest collection from Arcade Belts has all the big energy and fun vibes of the islands. With designs like Hang Loose, Fade Neon Hula, and Deliciosa Aloha, there’s likely something for everyone. In addition, 10% of each belt purchased online is donated to the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii to inspire future explorers!

Arcade Belts made a big announcement recently – all their belts will now be made with REPREVE, a post-consumer, certified recycled yarn. The shift to this new material for all their belt products means they will have a smaller environmental footprint without losing any of the comfort, durability, or functionality fans expect and love from Arcade. All lines including the Adventure, Capture, and Featureweave series of belts now feature REPREVE and are perfect for lightweight daily and travel belt needs.

Mission Workshop Signal LT Pants

Mission Workshop has unveiled a limited edition release of their classic Signal pants, this time using the Tweave 518C fabric found in their MTB shorts. This produces a lightweight, breathable, and durable all-season pant. The material change means it’s 35% lighter than the standard Signal but still maintains the same performance. It uses a standard jean front and back template but adds a knife pocket and extra seam zip pocket on the side for EDC kits.

Orbitkey Limited Edition Star Wars Desk Mats

The team from Australia has previously dazzled us with their Star Wars key organizers release and for August, they are back with a final installment. This time, the creative team focused on their Desk Mats, coming up with two designs sure to please fans. The all-new, limited edition Desk Mats were inspired by Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and the Dark Lord, Darth Vader. 

Each mat complements the wardrobe and weapons of the respective hero and villain and features a unique foil embossed detail within the toolbar depicting their lightsabers. The Obi-Wan Desk Mat features brown vegan leather and a taupe felt base, while Darth Vader’s desk mat pays homage to his stealth silhouette with an all-black vegan leather surface. Each design is available in two sizes: Medium and Large.

WaterField Designs Essential Collection

WaterField Designs released four new bags, as part of their Essential Collection, during the month of August. Starting with the Essential Duffel, the team out of SF released a new bag each week. 

The Duffel measures 15.5 x 11 x 7 inches and holds just under 20L. Foam inserts are used to distribute weight evenly and create structure, allowing the bag to stand on its own. It’s constructed of 1680-denier ballistic nylon and is water and abrasion resistant and colorfast. Four hidden connection loops also allow the user to attach an optional strap.

For their second drop, WaterField applied their Essential lens to the Messenger Laptop Bag. It’s designed to hold a 14-inch MacBook Pro, Microsoft Surface Laptop 4, or any notebook up to 14 inches. The exterior boasts 1050-denier black ballistic nylon and a gold liner makes it easy to find items in the interior. A wide zippered front pocket with two interior pockets and key tether is a perfect home for accessories, while a YKK waterproof zipper keeps contents dry. Two magnetic Fidlock buckles secure the main flap and a rear grab handle and suitcase passthrough round out the convenience features.

The Crossbody Pouch is meant to serve as relief for overstuffed pockets. Measuring 8.25 x 6.25 x 2.5 inches with a volume of 2.1 liters, the sling is initially available in four colorways. The main compartment is large enough to fit an iPad Mini and a front zippered pocket and open front pocket allows you to access frequently used items.

The final member of the Essential Collection is the Backpack. Designed to fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro or similarly sized device, the Essential Backpack measures 15.75 x 11 x 6 inches with a volume of 17L. It’s made of 1680D black ballistic nylon that is colorfast and offers abrasion resistance. Firm and lightweight foam on the sides and bottom protects contents, adds structure, and distributes the weight evenly. As a bonus, it allows the backpack to stand upright when set down. An interior zippered pocket stows valuables while a horizontal zippered front pocket allows quick access to items, and includes an attached key tether. YKK waterproof zippers keep contents dry and a suitcase handle passthrough and leather-lined grab handle make transitions through the airport a breeze.

The bags are all made in the USA and are available for purchase now.

master-piece 2022AW Collection

master-piece are experts at blending fashion and function and their new 2022AW Collection proves that you don’t have to settle for an either/or approach. Stylish in looks and practical in use, the collection welcomes additions to their standard series as well as their master-piece WEAR line. With slings, backpacks, briefcases, and more on offer, all served up with master-piece’s signature superior craftsmanship, these are solid picks if you’re looking to add top-notch Japanese carry to your collection.

Triple Aught Design Waxed Canvas FAST Pack Litespeed

You love waxed canvas. You’re a big fan of TAD’s FAST Pack Litespeed. And a custom touch to your gear makes your carry senses tingle. Well, now you can enjoy all of this courtesy of TAD’s Armory Build FAST Pack Litespeed. Offering a customized take on a highly versatile pack, TAD is giving you the chance to build your bag the way you want it, with options ranging from fabric and color choices to webbing and tail options. And while waxed canvas is a new addition, there are several other fabrics available too. Plus with the new Sterile Edition, you get a range of enhancements over previous generations such as an improved back panel and shoulder straps. Built in the USA, the bag takes several weeks to be made, but considering your custom TAD is on the way, we reckon it’ll be worth the wait.

Patagonia Tee-Cycle T-Shirts

Patagonia have long championed sustainable business practices and products and their efforts come full circle with the Tee-Cycle T-Shirts. The brand’s first circular shirts are made out of 100% recycled materials. They use old discarded t-shirts to create Infinna™ fiber and blend it with factory cotton scraps that would otherwise end up in landfills. And once it reaches the end of its useful life, these shirts can be recycled into new t-shirts. Available in both men’s and women’s options, these t-shirts are a savvy way to add sustainable style to your wardrobe.

DSPTCH Pet Sling

A carry solution for your four-legged friend? While this may sound like a barking mad idea, there are actually several reasons why a bag to carry your pooch can come in handy. Want to keep your pet close on crowded public transport? Want to lend a helping hand to a golden oldie who can’t walk for long periods? Well, DSPTCH has you covered with their new Pet Sling. Designed for smaller dogs with a recommended weight limit of 25 lbs, the Pet Sling is made in the USA and comes in both Ballistic Nylon and Duck Canvas options. The 100% cotton lining can be removed for easy washing, while magnetic buckles and an adjustable strap add to the ease of use.

Active

Mack Weldon Stratus Compression Shorts

The NYC-based menswear brand just released their latest athletic piece: a new short that’s loaded with next-level performance features. The Stratus Shorts are made with 37.5 Technology; embedded in the shorts fabrics are particles that remove sweat in the vapor stage, keeping you dry and cool, even through the most intense workouts. The 5″ inseam shorts come with an 8″ compression liner that maximizes the range of movement and also acts to aid in speeding up post-workout muscle recovery. Mack Weldon has also added no-bounce zippered pockets on the outside and an interior compression pocket for your phone.

GORUCK Frogskin Camo Collection

Inspired by a frog’s crypsis skin, Frogskin Camo was designed as the US military’s first disruptive camouflage pattern. First issued to Marine Raiders in 1942, this pattern has a long history behind it but still holds appeal and practicality for modern-day use. So GORUCK are saluting this clever camo with new additions to their WWII Camo Collection. The Frogskin Camo pattern features across a range of versatile GORUCK pieces including the GR1, Rucker 4.0, Simple Pants, Simple Shorts, and more.

Artilect Sundown 250 1/2 Zip

One of the first clothing items to utilize Bluesign approved Nuyarn marino, this half-zip from Artilect offers extra loft and an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. Using a familiar waffle-knit structure, it’s 5x faster drying, is made of superfine 18 micron Australian merino Wool for maximum softness, and has great stretch and recovery. Additionally, it’s woven with strategic waffle and flat Nuyarn fabric placement for less weight and more warmth where it counts. It’s available now in four colorways and a full size run.

Outdoors

Osprey Talon Earth

Osprey just launched the brand’s first bluesign-approved product. By sourcing recycled fabrics inside and out, Osprey’s Talon Earth meets bluesign-approved criteria. It didn’t stop with just the fabrics either. Roughly half of the plastic hardware is also bluesign approved. 

The 22-liter technical pack is designed for dynamic body movement. It’s lightweight and ventilated and is able to move with you thanks to a BioStretch harness, a continuous-wrap hip belt, and a die-cut foam Airscape back panel.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 40-Degree Quilt

The 40-Degree Quilt features baffles loaded with 1000 fill power RDS certified down that provides a dreamy loft and consistent warmth in a wide variety of conditions. The generous sizing allows plenty of room to dial in the right amount of coverage for the conditions outside, and the sewn foot box keeps drafts at bay so you can fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. Just to keep the unmatched stoke going that can only come from finally drifting off, the durable 7d micro ripstop nylon exterior shell is luxurious to the touch and sewn up to provide comfort and reliability for countless trips to come.

Mountain Hardwear HiCamp and Stretchdown Lineup Additions

Mountain Hardwear introduces the new HiCamp lifestyle collection and additions to the Stretchdown family. Keeping users from various activity groups in mind, these two collections provide a range of apparel options that are suited to everyday adventures as well as mountain-side living.

Travel

Matador Speed Stash

No matter how many pockets your pack has, sometimes convenience and access is key. Matador hopes to solve both of these problems with their newly released Speed Stash – a universal backpack strap attachment that gives you quick acces to your phone, wallet, keys, and other essentials. It works with any pack with a sternum strap and is perfect for travel, hiking, or daily use.

Our Best New Gear guides are written by David Vo and Catherine Baecker-Khoury.