Best New Gear | June 2022

Rugged adventure packs, luxurious luggage, and summer-ready shades are just some of the excellent pieces that stood out in June. Dive right in as we discover the month’s best new gear, right here…

EDC

Nomad x Orbitkey Key Organizer

From Melbourne to Santa Barbara, the two top players in the organization and carry space have teamed up for an exclusive collaboration. Both companies started as Kickstarter campaigns and have grown into mature and stable companies, producing some of the best products designed to alleviate everyday frustrations with clever design.

Nomad’s take on the Orbitkey Organizer features a minimal and seamless brand with a no-stitch design. Of course, the crew from California opted for Horween leather, from one of America’s oldest tanneries. The rustic brown leather is paired with black stainless steel hardware and a custom D-ring with custom chamfering, designed to mimic Nomad’s buckles. The Organizer carries 2-7 keys plus car keys and fobs.

Orbitkey Vader and Obi-Wan Kenobi Key Organizers

Fresh off their exciting May the Fourth drop, Orbitkey just dropped two new additions to the Star Wars collection. Following the premiere on Disney+, the Obi-Wan Kenobi organizer features brown suede inspired by the Jedi’s robes. An ivory leather lining, gunmetal hardware, and debossed lightsaber motif round out the design.

On the other side of the force, the Vader key organizer features an all-black leather band. Polished black hardware mimics his shiny armor, while a debossed red lightsaber references his weapon of choice against the enemies of the Empire.

Reigning Champ x District Vision Eyewear

Continuing their partnership with District Vision, the Canadian sportswear brand Reigning Champ just dropped a capsule of performance eyewear, with a nod towards their classic athletic uniform. Priced from $200 to $250 USD, there are three models to choose from, ranging from sport to fashion silhouettes. They all share titanium cores, gradient lenses, are water and oil repellent, and have an anti-reflective treatment. The sunglasses are engineered and developed in Japan and are limited edition.

WESN x Pioneer Carry

Knifemaker WESN has teamed up with Pioneer for a two-piece collection highlighting the strengths of both brands. Limited to 99 sets, Pioneer left their mark on the Pioneer Microblade. The typical D2 blade steel is swapped out for an upgraded S35vn, complemented by titanium scales. Not stopping there, the scales are milled with Pioneer’s hatch pattern. The Microblade is a frame lock opening with a pocket clip and lanyard hole and rides on ceramic bearings.

The WESN Global Pouch comes in a forest green colorway and is made from 10XD, made up of Pioneer’s custom blend of UHMWPE and nylon. Featuring five internal organization pockets and YKK AquaGuard zippers, the Global Pouch is ready to serve as a tech kit or Dopp kit and everything in between.

GiantMouse ACE Nazca

Design lines are a key element in any GiantMouse knife. And for their new ACE Nazca, GiantMouse looks to awe-inspiring ancient inspiration for your EDC. The knife gives a nod to Peru’s Nazca Lines, while bringing modern-day functionality to your setup. It is the brand’s first design to feature a cross-bar lock and comes in both titanium and green canvas Micarta options, with a Böhler M390 MICROCLEAN stainless steel blade.

Tactile Turn Ultem Bolt Action Pen

At the behest of their friends at powerhouse EDC retailer BladeHQ, Will and his team at Tactile made a run of Bexar knives and Bolt Action Pens in Ultem, a semi-transparent, high-strength plastic that has some pretty amazing resistance to high temperatures, steam, and moisture. Compared to some other acrylics, Ultem can be machined thinner while maintaining the same strength. It’s also more drop-resistant to protect against those occasional mishaps. To support the bolt mechanism, the Ultem version is machined a little thicker than the traditional metal-bodied offerings but the weight savings in materials would negate that. Available in black or natural bodies and in standard (5.6″) or short (5.1″), it’s easy to narrow in that ideal fit. Considering this was a special run, it’s uncertain what the future of Ultem at Tactile Turn is, so if it piques your interest, now is the time to pick one up!

Smoll Envelope Wallet

If you’re a fan of sleek, seamless design that allows the material to shine, the Smoll Envelope Wallet is well worth checking out. Inspired by origami, the design uses laser-cut premium vegetable-tanned leather, with no stitching or glue in the assembly. Minimalist yet functional, the wallet comes in Compact and Long versions, with both offering organization for cards, coins, and bills.

SPD x MKII Paradive Watch

Special Projects Division (a sub-label of PDW) has partnered with MKII Watches on a striking dive watch collaboration inspired by the US MIL-W-50717 timepiece. The original was issued to US Special Forces and CIA maritime units and the collaboration salutes its design while adding features such as an SPD Kraken Trident logo on the dial, an orange-tipped sweep hand, as well as a branded case back with a serial number. The collab comes with black and OD green PDW Ti-NATO straps and an Expedition Watch Band Compass Kit and will launch on 4th July at 1200 PDT.

Urban

Buck Mason Carry-On Suit

A refreshing take on a new era of dressing, the Buck Mason Carry-On Suit proved to be one of its most popular products when it was introduced. This year, the brand has expanded the Carry-On collection, introducing new colors, as well as a matching short that is available with either a 6.5″ or 8″ inseam.

The Carry-On Suit is comprised of the Carry-On Jacket and Carry-On Pant, in Jet, Sage, Anchor, and Khaki colorways. They are constructed from 5.5 oz stretch cotton twill, with a 3-roll-2-button blazer for a modern, sporty look. The bottoms are vintage army chino-inspired and feature slash hip pockets, two single-welt back pockets (including one with button closure), and a single welt coin pocket. 

Alex Crane Bo Shorts

With summer officially kicked off, it’s shorts season and Alex Crane has an offering they want you to keep in mind. The Brooklyn-based sustainable staples brand’s Bo Shorts are made from renewably-grown French linen that’s dyed with organic pigments and soft-washed with eco-friendly and biodegradable enzymes. A drawstring waist, two slant pockets, and a patch pocket in the rear, with a Goldilocks inseam, make it the perfect choice for travel, BBQs, and beach activities.

Olivers Venture Series

Looking for cool, chic comfort that transitions effortlessly from the commute to weekend fun? Olivers delivers all of this in their new Venture series. The collection features the Venture Polo and Venture Long Sleeve Polo, both made with CoolMax Cotton. This temperature-regulating fabric combines 63% cotton and 37% CoolMax fibers to create a breathable, moisture-wicking, and comfortable material that doesn’t look overly technical. The versatile silhouettes move easily between work and play and are great everyday staples for your wardrobe.

Timbuk2 x ASTRO Gaming Bags in Galaxy Gray

Need to up your carry game with precious tech in tow? Timbuk2 and ASTRO Gaming have just released their tech-savvy collab in a new Galaxy Gray colorway. Featuring the CS03 crossbody sling and BP35 backpack, this considered collab provides thoughtful organization and padded protection for your tech. And to elevate your tech carry to the next level, it’s also backed by a lifetime warranty.

Trakke x Banton Frameworks

Trakke have teamed up with Banton Frameworks, Scotland’s only eyewear manufacturer, on a stylish collab that’s perfectly timed for summer roamings. Made by hand with high-quality Italian acetate, the eyewear comes in optical and sunglasses options in a boldly stylish olive frame. Complementing the eyewear is a dry-finish waxed canvas case with a soft Italian moleskin lining to protect the glasses when not in use.

Remote Equipment Delta 7 – Prototype Program

The Delta 7 is the latest release in Remote Equipment’s experimental Prototype Program. And quick access is a priority with this eye-catching sling. Hence the addition of two side Tweave® stretch pockets and a front pocket that keep frequently used gear close at hand. Inside you’ll find further pockets for additional organization, while compression straps allow you to adjust the volume as required. Available in a range of weather-resistant fabrics, this versatile bag can be worn as a sling or waist bag depending on your preferences.

Outdoors

100% Peter Sagan LE “Tie-Dye” Collection

By the time this is published, the 2022 Tour de France should have kicked off. San Diego-based eyeglass brand 100% has teamed up with legendary sprinter Peter Sagan for a truly unique set of glasses. As the namesake suggests, the Tie-Dye collection features bold and colorful frames, paired with triple purple mirrored lenses. 

The three cycling glasses that make up the collection are designed in California. They feature Ultra HD lenses made from impact-resistant and lightweight polycarbonate, interchangeable lenses, as well as hydrophobic and oleophobic lens treatments to repel water, dirt, and oil. All three come with a hard case, microfiber cleaning bag, clear replacement lens, and an extra alternative fit nose pad for that dialed-in comfort.

Prometheus Design Werx Raider Field Short in Technical Ripstop

When you’re out adventuring, you need apparel that can keep up. So PDW created the Raider Field Short in Technical Ripstop. Made in the USA, this active-ready short features a custom-milled 6.1oz mini-ripstop fabric with added stretch for enhanced comfort and freedom of movement. Suitable for wearing on both land and in water, this versatile short also offers 13 pockets while maintaining a clean, understated style in a choice of three colorways.

CIMORO UL Mountain Vest V1 Founder Edition

Need to carry fast and light with minimal bounce? CIMORO steps up with their UL Mountain Vest V1 Founder Edition. This highly adaptable pack moves easily through a range of active pursuits, from running commutes to day hikes and even skiing sessions. The pack fuses design elements from the brand’s SUMMIT BAKPOD and UL Running Vest V1, offering the comfort of a running vest with the carry capacity of a 25L pack. Plus with a range of customizable features available for a modest fee, from the fabric mix to the organization and sizing, you can really make this already limited-edition pack your own.

Tifosi Stellar Series

Tifosi brings fun summer vibes to your warm-weather excursions with their new Stellar series. In a salute to the summer night sky, the series introduces colorways such as “Moon Dust”, “Cosmic Black”, and “Cotton Candy” across their performance and leisure sunglasses, so you can find a style that’s just right for wherever your next outdoor adventure takes you.

Azo Equipment Dejen and Amhara Adventurer Backpacks

Azo Equipment’s updated Adventurer series offers products aimed at those who spend a lot of time outdoors, including the Dejen Adventurer and Amhara Adventurer backpacks. Both packs are handmade in the UK and feature rugged Cordura fabrics, laser-cut PALS attachment points, and a choice of pockets for storing smaller items. The 22L Dejen is a burly companion that will handle a variety of day-long expeditions, while the Amhara (in 32L and 38L) offers a solid larger alternative when you need to haul bigger loads in demanding terrain.

Triple Aught Design Nautilus Swim Trunk

With the weather heating up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing swim to cool off. And TAD brings style and performance to your swim setup with their Nautilus Swim Trunk. The 4-way stretch fabric provides freedom of movement and is not only DWR treated but also features 3D diamonds on the reverse side to raise the fabric off your skin for quicker drying. Additional features include a gusseted crotch, adjustable waistband, two hand pockets with integrated loops, plus a Velco-closure rear pocket.

Photography

HUNG SUPPLY

Key to getting that unexpected great shot? Having your camera with you. And newly launched HUNG SUPPLY have created a range of camera carry options to ensure your gear is ready to go when creativity calls. The star of the show is the Sidewalk Camera Sling; a compact bag designed to carry essential gear for agile, on-the-go photography. A wide opening and padded construction keep your camera gear accessible and protected. Plus the detachable strap also doubles as a camera strap. Looking for an even more compact camera carry option? The Roscoe Pouch is a solid pick for a point-and-shoot camera or general EDC essentials. And with multiple carry options including cross-body and belt loop carry, it adapts easily to different settings and needs.

Travel

Carl Friedrik Large Check-In Suitcase

Carl Freidrik’s Large Check-In brings luxurious class to your travels with an elegant and durable design that looks equally good in business and leisure settings. Ideal for those who need to pack larger loads, this 90L suitcase includes compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket to keep your gear tidy on the go. Exuding sophisticated functionality with a lightweight polycarbonate exterior, aluminum lock frame, Italian Vachetta leather detailing, and Hinomoto spinner wheels, the suitcase also includes a lifetime guarantee for added peace of mind.

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE Series

The Eagle Creek Tarmac XE series brings a fresh feel to the popular Eagle Creek Tarmac format, blending adventure-ready performance with clean style for urban settings too. The suitcases feature tough, 100% recycled main body materials, along with Hypalon-reinforced corners, a kickplate, and impact-resistant handles. The durable, oversized wheels tackle cobblestones and curbs with ease, while the No Matter What® Warranty keeps you traveling in confidence. Add in the useful organization features including interior compression wings, a quick-access exterior pocket, and 15″ laptop storage, as well as a range of sizes to choose from, and you’re ready to tackle a variety of travel settings.   

Triple Aught Design Azimuth Duffel

Need a duffel that flies under the radar until duty calls? TAD’s Azimuth Duffel returns as a tough, lightweight, and packable duffel for a multitude of carry needs. The highly weather-resistant duffel can be carried over the shoulder, by hand, or in backpack mode and is a great option for stowing in a vehicle or larger luggage, ready to be deployed at a moment’s notice.

Our Best New Gear guides are brought to you by David Vo and Catherine Baecker-Khoury.