Best New Gear: January 2018

2018 got off to a cracking start with a sweet range of new carry, from multi-tools to sleek EDC bags and adaptable travel carry. And we’re saluting the ones that really stood out with our roundup of the best new gear in January…

Converse X CORDURA® Collection

Finally, there’s some ruggedness and durability coming to mainstream streetwear. Converse and CORDURA® have teamed up to deliver in spades. The Converse X CORDURA® Collection features durable travel and everyday bags that are built to take a beating while looking slick on city streets. The collection includes the Street 22 Backpack, Toploader Backpack, 3-Way Duffel, Utility Backpack and Fast Pack and will be available from February 2018.

Mountainsmith Scream Series

When you’re venturing outdoors, you’ll feel every gram you carry. And if you want to keep those grams to a minimum, Mountainsmith’s Scream series will help you do just that. The updated ultralight line offers new features and materials for 2018, and the addition of the Scream 20 and women-specific Scream 50 WSD. The series includes four packs in total, the Scream 20 (a summit pack that can double as a compression sack), the Scream 25 (a packable summit and travel pack), the Scream 50 WSD (women’s specific design), and the Scream 55 which features a rolltop closure and weighs just 2 lbs 13 oz (1.27 kgs). 

Leatherman Tread LT

The original Leatherman Tread introduced a multi-tool in an innovative, wearable form. But now they’ve made it even more user-friendly with the Tread LT, which is slimmer than the original for added comfort. The removable links allow you to customize it to your wrist size and ensure it has a tool selection that best suits your needs.

Incase ProConnected™ 4 Wheel Hubless Roller

Incase have always been associated with protecting tech. But their ProConnected™ 4-Wheel Hubless Travel Roller actually integrates tech for smoother travels. The case features a removable Bluetooth-enabled 20,100mAh power bank with a dual port design that can charge USB-C and USB-enabled devices. The carry-on case includes a TSA combination lock, shoe bag and removable accessory pocket and is available in March 2018.

Property Of… Mitch Backpack Camouflage

Combining urban style and safety, the Mitch Backpack is a reflective rolltop pack that adapts to a range of needs while helping keep you visible at night. And now you can pick one up in a choice of two limited edition camouflage patterns, perfect for adding pizzazz to your daily packing.

MyKee 2.0 Grade 5 Titanium Multi-Tool Key

Fancy twenty functions in one pint-sized multi-tool? Meet the MyKee 2.0, a titanium multi-tool that can easily attach to a keyring or slip inside a pocket for functionality when you need it and compact, out-of-the-way design when you don’t. The tool offers features such as a saw blade, pry claw and hex wrench, and is available through Kickstarter now.

VINTA Type-II Camera Bag & Travel Kit

Do you enjoy traveling and photography? Wish there was one bag that could handle both carry requirements, alternating between urban and outdoor environments to suit your needs on your schedule? Well, there is. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, you can now pre-order VINTA’s Type-II Camera Bag and Travel Kit. Sleek looks and modular design makes it easy to adapt to diverse photography and travel settings with only one bag in tow.

Brooks England Discovery Range

Commuting by bike is great for your fitness, but not always so great for your gear when showers strike. But the new Discovery Range from Brooks England has you well covered. The collection features five stylish commuter bags that look sharp in work settings, while also offering thoughtful features for the commute such as weatherproof materials, YKK AquaGuard zippers, and reflective detailing.

Crafted Goods Ultimate Collection

Crafted Goods excel at Urban Active carry, and their Ultimate Collection takes it to even greater heights. Top-notch materials, versatile functionality and sleek aesthetics are key features across their Mr Groove Tote and Mr Sharp Backpack. Both bags feature removable front pockets which are great for organizing frequently used items and can also double as small bags in their own right. Additionally, the tote can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag or briefcase for added adaptability.

Arc’teryx LEAF Courier Bag 15

Arc’teryx LEAF are experts are creating understated, functional and reliable carry gear that can handle a range of missions. And their new Courier Bag 15 is a prime example of their design expertise. Inconspicuous, adaptable and meticulously made, this messenger-style bag offers top and side access to quickly and easily reach your gear, and comes with a removable cross-body strap for added stability on the go.

5.11 Tactical Dart Pack

With its clean silhouette and multifunctional design the Dart Pack can easily zip between work and play environments. Interior webbing and pockets make it easy to organize your work tools or weekend travel essentials alike, and the pack is also TacTec™ CCW-ready and compatible with hydration bladders if you’re hitting the hills for a hike.

Agile Travel Backpack

One bag that can move agilely between work, play and travel? The Agile Travel Backpack is just such a bag. The weather-resistant bag packs in a host of features including three-way carry, multiple pockets for organization, a USB charging port, a clamshell main compartment and an expandable design. For added functionality, the carry-on bag can also be paired with modular accessories and includes a Tech Organizer to keep smaller items tidy.

SUBTECH Pro Drybag 2.0 Series

Waterproof down to 50 meters (164 feet), floats fully packed with an adult on top in case of emergency, and features a built-in inflatable shockproof system to protect fragile gear. Pretty impressive for a bag, and all part of the package with the Pro Drybag 45L. This rugged duffel forms part of the Pro Drybag 2.0 Series from SUBTECH, and is joined by fellow waterproof companions the Pro Drybag 100L and Dry Totebag 95L. Solid options when water getting to your gear is not an option.

Pacsafe Venturesafe X Series

Looking for bags with inbuilt security that don’t draw attention? Pacsafe’s new additions to the Venturesafe series fit the bill well. The Venturesafe X18 and X12 Anti-theft Backpacks feature a variety of handy theft deterrents such as PopNLock security clips, eXomesh® Slashguards, Carrysafe® Slashguard Straps and RFID-blocking pockets. All in lightweight designs that work well as both travel and EDC bags.

Mystery Ranch 2018 Line

Mystery Ranch always deliver with rugged durability, functionality and user comfort. All worthy features to have in your carry whether you’re embarking on an expedition, setting off on a hiking adventure, or navigating the hustle and bustle of city life. Even better, their new Spring line caters to all these needs and more, with pieces such as the Ridge Ruck, Hover Pack, Terraframe 80 and Front Pack ready to step up and get your gear wherever it needs to go.

needessentials Backpacks

needessentials is a firm believer in consuming less. How? By ensuring the gear you do have is timeless, well made and just what you need, without unnecessary excess. And their carry reflects these ideals. Their Dry Bag, Travel Pack and Day Pack are made with premium materials and construction, feature low-key aesthetics with no branding, and thanks to the online brand model and no middlemen, they come in at very reasonable prices too.

Leatherman Collector’s Edition Pocket Survival Tool

Leatherman are celebrating 35 years of creating some of the best multi-tools around. And it’s only fitting that the celebrations salute an original. The Leatherman Collector’s Edition Pocket Survival Tool is based on Tim Leatherman’s original design first released in 1983. Only 500 of the multi-tools have been created, each made in Portland, Oregon and individually numbered. The Collector’s Edition PST features 14 tools to conveniently handle a variety of DIY and day-to-day needs.