While roaming the aisles at the Boston Outdoor Expo last weekend, we ran into a bunch of small, local companies that are creating innovative products in the outdoor space. Here are just a few that caught our attention:
Made in Maine, Hüga is a durable, long-lasting, quick-drying, battery-powered, heated seat cushion. Originally designed for outdoor dining during the pandemic, the 14”x18” cushion was quickly embraced by sports fans, hunters, anglers, campers, boaters, and anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Handsewn of tough, waterproof materials with a choice of rechargeable batteries (can also be used to charge a phone), each cushion has straps and buckles for attachment to chairs and benches, or carrying backpack-style. Available with three, six, or ten hours of battery life in a choice of five colors in Cordura or marine-grade vinyl.
Price: $145
Lucaya is a small start-up in the Boston area, and its first product release is the Kopak Utensil Set—a compact, durable, high-quality (and dare we say elegant) solution for the outdoors, or anyone on the go. It’s also an environmentally friendly, reusable alternative to plastic utensils.
The two-part set is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, making it lightweight and durable. With its clever, patent-pending, super-thin compact design and strong magnetic enclosure, the set seamlessly fits into any backpack, pocket, or purse.
Price: $50
Another New England-based company creating eco-friendly gear and apparel is Merrimack. Its new Eco Sling Bag is thoughtfully crafted from recycled polyester to be environmentally responsible, lightweight, and durable. Further, its water-resistant finish keeps essentials dry. Available in four colors.
Price: $39
Appalachian Trail through-hiker Kevin “Spud” Pariato got the idea to start Spuds Adventure Gear in the middle of his southbound trek. One of his biggest hiking “pain points” was how to store his trekking poles when they weren’t needed, such as when scrambling over ledges and boulders. The solution: magnetic trek pole holders!
The Spuds Stick Stashers are quick-connecting pole holders that easily attached to a backpack to keep your hands free. They are available in two models that accommodate most trekking poles on the market. They can also be used to hold ski poles, of course.
Price: (original) $35
(V2.0) $40
The versatile Trail Tether from Stahr Outfitters can be used in a variety of situations, from securing gear on rugged trails to organizing everyday essentials at home or in camp. It’s also the only gear strap that’s child safety rated to be used as a pacifier clip, guaranteeing that you’ll never lose a binky on the trail again!
The Trail Tether can be used to:
Price: $17
