5 Booths (and Brands) You Shouldn’t Miss at the Outdoor Retailer Show

Hiker? Skiier? Kayaker? Backpacker? Climber?

Whatever you might be, the Outdoor Retailer Conference that kicked off today in Salt Lake City will have something in store for your wild side. With so many companies represented at the show, you might be a little bewildered on what to see and where to go. Well have no fear! The Hound is here to help you navigate the OR Show. Here are 5 booths that every outdoor enthusiast should go check out (with links to where they are on the floor plan so you don’t get lost):

1. Patagonia: Often nicknamed “Patagucci”, their products hold true to their nickname with some jackets being priced at $500 or more. But worth it? Absolutely! Patagonia not only produces some of the highest quality outdoorwear on the market, but buyers can also send in their garments to Patagonia for repair. And if you’re ready to get rid of that awesome Patagonia jacket entirely (but why would you?), you can send it back to Patagonia, and they’ll recycle it into new fabric and garments. Talk about being earth-friendly! They’re at booth #13027

2. Backpacker’s Pantry: The name can sound misleading, but Backpacker’s pantry makes products for more than just backpackers– their lightweight freeze dried food packets can be also be used for kayaking trips, climbing expeditions, or even a quick lunch in the office.  One of the biggest producers of freeze-dried food, this company makes just-add-hot-water versions of everything from Jamaican BBQ Chicken to Strawberry Cheesecake. While freeze dried food can seem a bit unappetizing, Backpacker’s Pantry products has done an excellent job of providing delicious, lightweight food for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. Check them out at booth #30038E

3. Petzl: Let there be light! The industry leader in headlamps and climbing gear, Petzl just released the NAO headlamp which uses a light sensor to auto-adjust the light beam to best suit the users needs. They’re not only a company that makes great gear (I’ve had my Petzl Tikka headlamp for years now), the Petzl Foundation supports educational and environmental research all over the globe. They’re at booth #4027

4. Superfeet: Yes, insoles can be cool too. You might be thinking that old, decrepit people are the only ones who need insoles, but alas, my friend, this is not true. Superfeet makes insoles in a variety of shapes, sizes and support profiles for all different kinds of uses. From mountaineering boots, to high heels, there is an insole out there designed to give you more support and make your feet happier (I have 5 pairs and can vouch for the difference it makes). Go figure out how to protect your body and get more support at booth #15017

5. Smith Optics: No matter what you’re doing, it’s important to protect your eyes too. Believe it or not, your eyes can get sunburned too, and Smith makes products designed to help you keep that great vision no matter what you’re doing. From sunglasses to googles to prescription glasses, Smith makes eyewear that not only looks cool, but is built to outlast the outdoors. Find them at booth #31027E