Outdoor Retailer Trend: Custom Gear

Customizing specific features of your gear used to be something you did after you got it home from the store. Rigging something up here, lashing something on there. But it’s not that easy to, say, add pit zips to a soft shell jacket. Until now. Lots of gear manufacturers are jumping on the customizable gear bandwagon. And they do the work for you. Yes, you can put away your sewing kit.

Take Big Sky’s award winning Evolution tent ($299.95). This two person, two door tent isn’t new, but the customization options keep expanding. Add the rainfly that has a porch feature for $40. Or upgrade from aluminum poles to carbon fiber poles for $110. Stakes, storage bags, guy lines…it’s all completely a la carte. Get exactly what you want, and skip the rest. After all, who doesn’t have a bunch of tent stakes lying around already? Check out all the new options at bigskyinternational.com.

I mentioned the NuCanoe in a previous post. It’s not for the fast and light set, but if you’re into fishing, this boat’s for you. Every boat from NuCanoe starts with the same wide hull; then you pimp it out from there. Add another seat if your buddy’s coming along, or remove it if you’re solo. Attach fishing rod holders so you can sip a cold one while trolling along. Add a small motor so you troll along a little faster. And add a cooler to keep your cold ones (or, maybe, live tackle) cold.

Lastly, Beyond (formerly Beyond Fleece) wasn’t at this year’s show (someone correct me if I’m wrong), but the company’s awesome customization efforts should be lauded anyway. In three weeks time, you can have one of the best soft shell jackets on the market completely customized to suit your needs and style (all done online). The Cold Fusion X starts off at $199. Pick your colors at no charge. Add pit zips for $15 and an interior pocket for $15 more. Add a hood for $30 or thumb loops for $10. The combinations are endless. Then give them your measurements and sit back and wait for the delivery guy.

If anyone else noticed uber-customizable gear at Outdoor Retailer or elsewhere, please comment below.—Kate O'Mara

Comments

[Kate]

nice catch, Rick. sorry about that. OR has my head spinning!

[Bill Mikesell]

Did you get a chance to see the preview for a film by JuntoVenture? 4 adventurers traveled from Death Valley to Denali traveling only with goods made is sustainable processes. This meant eating only organic and local food, wearing clothing made from organic or recycled fibers, and practicing leave no trace. Their trip was a first-ever expedition and they documented their journey in film. To find out more about it check out www.JuntoVenture.org.

[Rick]

I know this is a short report - but where is the proof reading?
I don't think I can order a steak with my tent, and I'm not sure who you're buddy is, but I may have met your buddy.