Best New Gear | September 2023

With cooler temperatures on the way, September welcomed warmer pieces for your wardrobe, handy travel accessories to keep your small essentials well organized, and adaptable bags that can span the weekday and weekend alike. Delve in and discover all of this and more as we check out the month’s best new gear…

EDC

Benchmade 748 Narrows

Awarded the coveted “American-Made Knife of the Year” at Blade Show, the new 748 Narrows from Benchmade combines ultra-light EDC use, highly engineered design, and a combination of the highest quality steel and available materials into a single package. The goal of the team at Benchmade was to create a full-sized knife with modern materials, while keeping it as light as possible. While building the thinnest knife possible, the team redesigned the AXIS lock mechanism by pairing a ball-bearing action with a titanium frame. At 2.4 ounces, the Narrows is 33% thinner than the Bugout, with two times the break strength.

Incipio iPhone 15 cru. for Magsafe Collection

Incipio’s latest phone case collection, cru. for Magsafe, just debuted with the iPhone 15 range. It’s an all-new collection combining great protection with style. Featuring elevated leather, textile, and camo designs, cru. cases combine personalized style with the industry-leading drop protection that the brand is known for.

Bellroy iPhone 15 Cases and Apple Watch Straps

Bellroy’s classy and practical phone cases are now available in options for the iPhone 15, updated with eco-tanned leather and color-matched polymer. Available in three styles including the Phone Case, Phone Case – 3 Card, and Mod Phone Case + Wallet, the cases provide sleek and multifunctional protection depending on your carry preferences. Additionally, Bellroy has also welcomed new watch straps for the Apple Watch. The leather Bellroy Watch Strap features an improved fit and color-matched polymer, while the waterproof Venture Watch Strap combines a flexible FKM polymer band with stainless steel hardware for a tough but understated feel that transitions smoothly between urban and outdoor use.

The James Brand Gatecliff Notebook Cover & Burwell Pen

TJB, known for their EDC knives and tools, is expanding their Communication category with the introduction of a new notebook cover and pen. Named after the Gatecliff projectile point found in the Great Basin of Nevada and Utah, the notebook sleeve keeps a notebook and pen handy. Made of wear-resistant Cordura and a plush microfiber interior, the Gatecliff is designed to last a lifetime. 

The company also launched a new click pen called the Burwell. Following their first click pen, the Benton, this new writing instrument features a stainless steel barrel in a slimmer EDC-friendly diameter. It’s made to slip into your pocket or the Gatecliff Cover easily. It uses easy-to-find Parker-style G2 refills.

Urban

Ally Capellino Autumn 2023

Ally Capellino have welcomed autumn with flair by introducing a number of new additions to their line. First up is the new Fritz Waxed Cotton Rucksack, the brand’s largest backpack. It’s designed with photographers in mind but suits anyone who needs to carry a lot of gear. It’s crafted from 270g waxed cotton fabric from Halley Stevensons, paired with a vibrant orange molded zip and orange interior. Inside you’ll find a choice of pockets including storage for a laptop, with additional exterior pockets to keep your gear organized on the go. Additionally, Ally Capellino also give a nod to their original waxed cotton Frank with the Frank Large Waxed Cotton Utility Rucksack in Dark Brown made from the last roll of the traditionally finished British waxed cotton fabric. And if you fancy some subtle tartan style in your setup, check out their tartan twist on the Freddie Waxed Cotton Holdall using a re-waxable waxed cotton in an understated tartan design.

DSPTCH Block Collection

The newest addition to DSPTCH’s RND line is the Block Collection, a series of bags that deliver sustainable functionality and durability in one. The collection is made in the USA using ECOPAK, a tough and sustainable fabric made from recycled materials. The RND line focuses on innovative fabrication and materials and the Block Collection offers a versatile and long-lasting selection of bags that lend themselves to multiple carry needs and will keep going strong for many years to come.

Arc’teryx Granville SS23 Collection

Arc’teryx’s Granville collection delivers a considered blend of clean urban style, outdoor-ready durability, and protection from the elements, making these adaptable pieces for a variety of day-to-day environments and outdoor explorations with the essentials in tow. The collection includes a range of shoulder bags, backpacks, and a sling, all made with Arc’teryx’s highly weather-resistant and durable N400r-AC² ripstop fabric. Versatile for daily commutes, trail hikes, travel settings, and more, these pieces are well worth considering if you’re after technical construction and multifunctional design in your carry.

Goldwin Tech Pack

Goldwin have launched their first daypack with the Goldwin Tech Pack – and they’ve set the bar high with this highly technical, sleek, and practical pack. Limited to just 200 units, the pack is carefully crafted in Japan. The design was driven by a desire to blend technology and minimalist urban style and uses sealed seams to maximize protection from the elements. While seam tape was originally developed for jackets, applying it on backpack forms is much more challenging. This resulted in craftspeople applying the seam sealing technology for the bag by hand. The bag is made with an original fabric that started with a more durable GORE-TEX®︎ material used in snow bib pants, which was subsequently reinforced with waterproof nylon on the back for increased strength, reduced thinness, and reduced moisture permeability. The pack also uses YKK AquaGuard zippers and features custom zipper pulls inspired by skis as a salute to Goldwin’s origins.

Western Rise AirLoft Shirt Jacket

Looking for a versatile Goldilocks second layer that’s just right for temperate settings but goes well with an outer layer in colder settings too? Western Rise have you covered with their revamped AirLoft Shirt Jacket that features dynamic stretch and a quick-dry and packable insulation. It accomplishes this by using Toray’s 3DeFX+ continuous fiber technology that offers more loft (read: warmth) than any other synthetic option while still being able to be compacted. They paired it with Primeflex exterior fabric which is self-cleaning, as well as dirt and stain-resistant. The Shirt Jacket features a modern cut and tailored silhouette, three zip pockets, matte black snaps to keep it stealth, adjustable cuffs, and a water-resistant treatment.

Mack Weldon Silver Denim Collection

Mack Weldon dives headfirst into the denim market with the launch of their Silver Denim Collection. The collection features IONIC+ silver-infused denim, which was developed in collaboration with Cone Denim and Noble Biomaterials, ensuring odor-free jeans for their lifetime. This is accomplished with a unique silver-infused ring-spun cotton that’s both antimicrobial and comfortable to wear. The jeans also feature eco-friendly features such as a waterless rinse in the washing process, durable hardware, reflective accents, bonded seams, and lint-preventing mesh in the pocket.

Mack Weldon WARMKNIT AIR Shirt Jacket

Known for modern men’s essentials and performance-based clothing, Mack Weldon have just launched their WARMKNIT Air Shirt Jacket, a lightweight and warm fall-ready layer. The jacket features a wind- and water-resistant recycled polyester shell with bonded seams. It’s insulated with Thinsulate fill for warmth without adding much weight and includes a convenient zip and snap front closure, along with internal pockets. It’s machine washable for easy care and available on the site as well as in their retail locations.

Mystery Ranch Catalyst

The new Catalyst is an all-purpose pack that’s perfect for work, travel, or outdoor adventures. Available in three sizes (18L, 22L, and 26L) the Catalyst features the iconic 3-Zip design for rapid access to interior contents. Two zippered internal pockets keep things organized while a padded laptop pocket with elastic supports laptops up to 15″, 16″, and 17″ in size, respectively. The packs are made from eco-friendly 500D recycled CORDURA and have YKK coated zippers for durability and water resistance. 

DSPTCH x Engineered Garments Capsule Collection

DSPTCH have teamed up with menswear brand Engineered Garments on a custom, eye-catching collection of bags that deliver top-notch craftsmanship and creative flair. The DSPTCH x Engineered Garments Bag Collection features four key DSPTCH styles in three colorways, crafted in the USA with custom-dyed DYNEEMA composite fabric. The fabric has a unique pattern created through a hand-folded technique, with an original collaborative dyeing process perfected over months of trial and error to create the desired aesthetic.

Aer x Porsche Rennsport Reunion 7 Collection

Looking to rev up your carry with some bold colorways? Aer have partnered with Porsche on a limited-edition collection for Rennsport Reunion 7, the world’s biggest gathering of Porsche fans at WeatherTech Raceway in Monterey, CA. The collection takes inspiration from 75 years of Porsche sports cars, revamping the Aer City Pack and City Sling 2 in Porsche’s iconic colors including Guards Red, Schwarz black, Geyser Gray, Crayon, and Speed Yellow. The collection is available exclusively on-site at Porsche Rennsport Reunion 7 from 28 September to 1 October.

EVERGOODS x Carryology Griffin Collaboration

Our third collaboration with EVERGOODS celebrates Old World charm and vintage timelessness. Featuring four classic EVERGOODS pieces reimagined with a custom waxed canvas from Halley Stevensons and premium American leather, the EVERGOODS x Carryology Griffin collaboration combines ruggedness, practicality, and beauty in one. Not to mention a Griffin collab patch designed by the highly talented Dan Matsuda adding a finishing touch to this hard-wearing and heirloom-quality collection. While most of the colorways are sold out, there’s still a chance to score these handsome pieces in Black waxed canvas before they swoop off.

Outdoor

Beyond Clothing Ultra Lochi 2.0 Jacket

Beyond Clothing’s Ultra Lochi 2.0 Jacket is so well-loved that they are back with the third iteration, bringing a bevy of improvements to the fan favorite. It features a full reversible design in new earth-toned colorways and uses PrimaLoft BlackBio insulation. It also has a redesigned quilting pattern, re-tooled hood, and elastic drawcord on the hem. To keep things warm and clean, the jacket has a DWR-treated nylon micro ripstop shell, making it perfect for insulation or as a mid-layer during cold weather pursuits.

Benchmade Customizer Mini Bugout

Recently, Portland-based American knife company Benchade launched their revamped website, featuring a transformation that showcases the company’s history and product line. As part of the change, they opened up their popular Customizer to the Mini Bugout, a smaller and lighter version of the fan-favorite Bugout. Their Design and UX team focused on a mobile-first design that allows for full compatibility on smaller screens while on the go, without any of the formatting issues that may have plagued the site before. The new version of the Customizer allows users to design the Mini Bugout of their dreams by modifying handle colors, blade variations, and personalized text or imagery laser-etched into the blade.

Limited Edition Vasque Re:connnect Here Styles

Intended to be the most versatile shoe Vasque has ever made, the Re:connect Here collection bridges the gap between the front door and the backcountry, allowing you to go anywhere that is outside. The shoes are lightweight with a breathable upper mesh and wrap-around form-fitting tongue to make for easy slip-ons to start an adventure. Built on an anatomical last, Here wraps around the foot to provide support and stability. Aggressive Xlite outsole lugs allow for micro-directional changes in direction, and are suitable for both roads and trails. The newly introduced limited-edition colorways include Adventurine and Moonless Night. They feature bright pops of color and 3M reflective hits. The collection features both Mid and Low versions for both men and women.

Snow Peak AW23 Wool Tights

As part of their Autumn Winter 2023 apparel collection, Snow Peak is introducing their take on a warm base layer. The Recycled Polyester Wool Tights are available in three colorways with a range of sizes. They are quick-drying base layer leggings that combine recycled polyester and merino wool fabrics. They have a grid texture and are layered with graphene for antibacterial protection. An elastic waistband, fly, and tapered leg makes this the ideal camp pant. The pants are designed to be worn close to the body and are a slim fit.

Wizard Works Hobgob Hip Pack

Wizard Works have launched their first hip pack, the Hobgob, designed for outdoor adventures and bikepacking. The Hobgob is made in-house in London and is available in both standard and customizable options. To offer all-day comfort, the 4.8L bag has its buckles positioned on the wide padded wings rather than at your stomach. A structured, padded back panel with an airflow channel enhances the comfort, while your gear stays secure and tidy courtesy of a zippered front pocket, two interior elasticated mesh drop pockets with a key leash and clip, and an elastic bungee system at the base of the bag that’s handy for storing an outer layer.

Travel

Western Rise X Cotton Shirt

A button-down keeps you looking sharp in any setting but finding one that’s up to the challenges of travel use can be tricky. However, Western Rise certainly rise to that challenge with the X Cotton Shirt. It uses the same fabric as their X Cotton T-Shirt but provides a smart button-down style that’s ideal for travel use. The shirt is made with a blend of cotton, polyester, and elastane, with integrated silver ion technology to combat odors. The shirt provides four-way stretch, odor resistance, moisture wicking, and wrinkle resistance, all with t-shirt comfort. Adaptable for sightseeing, business trips, smart dining out, and beyond, this is a great shirt for one-bag travel that will keep you prepared to adapt to changing travel environments with ease.

Tortuga Travel Sling and Organizers

Tortuga, a brand that was one of the pioneers of purposely designed one-bag travel packs, are back with four new accessories to make sure every item has a home and you’re able to carry them with ease. The Travel Sling is great for hands-free, everyday travel. The Tech Organizer is your office away from home, allowing you to organize your cables and chargers. The Passport Pouch keeps your important documents, boarding passes, and of course, passport close by. And lastly, the Travel Pouches are a catch-all for everything else. Priced between $25 and $95, the four-part collection is available now.

Trakke Travel Dopp Kit

Sleek, tough, and built to last, Trakke’s Travel Dopp Kit is a handsome home away from home for your toiletries and grooming essentials on your travels. Crafted in Scotland from dry-finish waxed canvas, it includes a water-resistant YKK AquaGuard zip for secure storage, while protecting the rest of your travel gear from any accidental spills. A handy additional feature is the small elastic loop on the side that provides ready access to frequently used items such as a toothbrush or razor.

Harry’s x Matt McCormick Travel Kit

As part of their Mammoth Series of creative collaborations, Harry’s teamed up with artist Matt McCormick on a limited-edition travel kit. The kit is made from high-quality materials like brass, leather, and waxed cotton and includes a custom-designed bag with McCormick’s artwork, TSA essentials, two razor cartridge refills, and more. The collaboration also coincides with the grand opening of The Harry’s Motel in NYC and is available exclusively on harrys.com this month. 

Western Rise Transit Overshirt

One shirt that can keep you comfy on the plane before swiftly stepping out for dinner or a night out on the town? Western Rise’s new Transit Overshirt is just in time for traveling during the cooler months, adding extra warmth and flexible style to your travel wardrobe. It’s made with Western Rise’s proprietary Transit Flannel fabric in a heavyweight knit that packs in a bunch of travel-friendly features including a moisture-wicking interior, four-way stretch, odor resistance, and a smart heathered herringbone exterior. Packable, wrinkle-resistant, and versatile, this is a savvy one-bag travel piece for a multitude of environments and pursuits.

Trakke Gigha Collection

Trakke have welcomed a variety of new additions to their modular Gigha range to give you flexible organization while you’re on the go. The Gigha 5-Wide Hanger offers useful quick-access storage for the likes of stationery, cables, and other small items. The Gigha Mesh Hanger can be stacked in the Storr Travel Backpack or elsewhere where you want easy visibility of the contents and comes in two sizes. The Gigha Key Clip offers convenient storage for your keys and the Gigha Strap lets you convert the hangers into slings for EDC use at your destination.

Carl Friedrik Nylon Rover Collection

Carl Friedrik has delivered a sleek twist to their Rover Collection in the form of the Nylon Rover Collection featuring the Compact Weekender, Day-to-Day Backpack, and City-hopper Backpack. This new take on the luxurious travel collection delivers the pieces in an understated, functional, and travel-friendly black nylon. The durable nylon is made with 100% recycled materials, is water-resistant and easily handles demanding travel use. Elegantly practical for urban travel and versatile for day-to-day use as well, the collection’s blend of clean style and performance makes it a suave choice for city environments.

Type Two Labs Travel RX Pill Case Kickstarter

Type Two Labs, a group of three friends since college, are launching a Kickstarter campaign for their Travel RX pill case. Utilizing a circular case shape as opposed to the standard seven-day straight configuration, the pill carrier is made from high-strength plastic and TPU, to deaden sound. It’s impact-resistant, wear-resistant, and uses no failure-prone plastic hinges. Split into eight even sections, the pill case allows you to separate pills for every day of the week, freeing the final spot for a carabiner or keyclip attachment. A TPU rubber cover creates a water-resistant seal and is secured with small and strong rare earth magnets that allow you to rotate to click to each position for your daily needs.