Hot Takes from Outdoor Market Alliance Summer 2025
new gear, innovations, technology, sustainability and more!
Many of the Treeline Review team at Outdoor Market Alliance, crammed into the new two-person NEMO Dragonfly Osmo tent.
Nine of Treeline Review’s editors and writers talked with 52 companies at the Outdoor Market Alliance’s (OMA) Summer 2025 Denver Media Show this month.
We discovered what’s new and exciting in the world of outdoor gear and wanted to share it with our readers. From the ultralight to the sustainable, to innovative designs, and fresh takes on oldie but goodies, we walked the floors in search of what Treeline Readers want to know about gear.
One theme of the show we couldn't get away from: uncertain pricing in the future. Nearly every brand showing us gear for Spring 2026 said any estimated prices they could give us was just a guess. Tariffs and supply chain uncertainty mean that we could see swings of up $20–50 for gear items in the $100–$300 range. Our big takeaway is that if there has been a piece of gear on your dream list for a while, now is the time to buy.
Here's what we’re looking forward to testing for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026.
Interested in winter gear trends or gear that will be coming out right now? See our OMA Winter 2025 article.
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Liz Thomas' takes
Liz Thomas trying on the new PFAS-free waterproofing in the Paramo rain jackets at OMA.
While I was walking the show, it felt like less innovation was going on as brands scrambled to address changing laws around PFAS waterproofing and deal with tariffs. But when I sat down to reflect on the show, it turns out that there were a lot of cool things that actually impressed me. -Liz Thomas, editor-in-chief
In the Ultralight Innovation space:
Ultralight brands have long feared the ‘Big Outdoor Industry’ coming after their lightweight gear. We've seen a lot of gaffes in the past, like the use of ultralight fabric with overbuilt hardware. There's also been what I'm going to call "Gram Washing"—big brands marketing their gear as ultralight without a lot of delivery.
This time around, the numbers are starting to play out and brands aren't pretending to be ultralight: they're just doing it. They're making lighter gear, but not trying to directly say they're going after the ultralight space in what appears to me as a genuine healthy respect for the scrappy cottage brands.
Ultralight and lightweight gear innovation items I thought were cool:
6-oz Outdoor Research Helium Rain jacket and rain pants. The long-time thru-hiker favorite and winner in our Best Lightweight Rain Jackets guide and Best Rain Pants guide just got lighter and more waterproof. We're getting a sample and sending it to the Appalachian Trail to test immediately.
Mountain Hardwear AirMesh shirt is dual-sided with one fluffy side and one mesh side. Designed to compete with AlphaDirect and Octa ultralight fleece options, it weighs 6 oz and the one I am testing will be replacing my puffy jacket for the rest of the summer. It's coming out for the Fall and I suspect will be in the pack of many a thru-hiker next season.
Therm-a-Rest Parsec sleeping bag update is using Muscovy duck down to create their most ultralight sleeping bag yet–a competitive 1 lb 12 oz for a 20F degree sleeping bag (not sleeping quilt!). So far, we've only seen Zpacks and ZenBivy using Muscovy and they are honest that it is due to cost compared to goose down. But Therm-a-Rest says (and had the video—see below—to prove it) that Muscovy bounces back better after compression and that each individual duck down plume adheres to each other better for a better lofting experience. We'll have to test this one out and will confirm!
La Sportiva ski and climbing backpack made with Spectra. Reminding me of similar alpine ski and mountaineering by Cielo Gear or Hyperlite Mountain Gear, it has the full capability to carry skis and a durable dedicated pocket to keep your crampon points far from things it could destroy like down jackets.
EXPED Ultra sleeping pad update delivering R-value of 5.6 in a 12 oz sleeping pad for ~$50 less than the NeoAir XLite. Rivaling Therm-A-Rest's long standing thru-hiker favorite inflatable sleeping pad, this update to their long-standing bright green sleeping pad will provide more insulation and has vertical baffles, which tend to be more comfortable for side-sleepers. It looks nearly identical to the current EXPED Ultra 5R Mummy–it is what inside that will make the difference in weight and insulation.
FITS merino socks. The legacy brand is getting a reboot (pun intended) with over 80% of their models being new as of this year. The differentiator compared to other merino socks is a patented system that makes the toe box more open than tube-style outdoor socks. As wider shoes and more freeing toe boxes become more popular in trail running shoes, the brand is re-emphasizing their design, coming out with more colors, patterns, and cushions and modernizing themselves for today's sock enthusiast.
Not gear, but I'm stoked about the new Realand Nutrition protein powder. They were all delicious (and I've literally tried dozens of them as a blind tester for our Best Protein Powder guide). But the one that blew my mind the most was the non-flavored whey protein. It only has two ingredients. And it has so little flavor, Sara pointed out you could add it to mashed potatoes or any other thru-hiking food for some extra protein!
Better intermediate mid-priced gear
One theme of the OMA show across nearly all brands was building better mid-priced gear. When it comes down to it, most outdoors people own intermediate gear because we're really into an activity but aren't competing, so we don't need to spend the absolute-most to get the performance we need.
In the past, we've seen the most impressive innovations at the margins: the highest level gear would always get lighter, stronger, and have cooler materials. The entry level gear would see innovation for performance you could get on a budget. This year, we saw high-tech features that traditionally have been only found in ultralight and higher-performance gear coming to intermediate level gear.
Here are a few of the most impressive mid-range gear items:
For backpacking and camping tents, the long-standing fan favorite, the Marmot Limelight tent, is going away and being replaced with the impressive looking Marmot Trailfin. Like the Limelight, the Marmot Trailfin has a bulbous shape–wide enough to store a 60L backpack near the head and narrower towards the feet. It is straightforward to set up with a color-coded clip system. The Limelight has always been a good option for intermediate backpacking/camping–leagues above a Big Box store tent. Even with tariff uncertainties, it is priced hundreds of dollars less than similar tents we saw at the show and on the market now.
Similarly, EXPED is coming out with a strong competitor in the backpacking space. The new, thru-hiker sized volume of their Lightning Pack is just around 2 pounds and has a maximum load of 50 pounds, nearly 10 pounds more than similarly weighted backpacking backpacks. For a 2-pound pack, it also has a lot more features than you would expect including a bunch of zip pockets to go along with its structured frame.
We're seeing the trend to make better intermediate gear in the climbing space, too. Scarpa and La Sportiva are releasing new true intermediate level climbing shoes. They are designed for stronger and fitter people getting into climbing who know once they get a few techniques down, they're going to start pushing hard. We have a few intermediate options for just those kinds of climbers in our Best Beginner Climbing Shoe guide, but the competition is about to get a lot stiffer in this space.
Both Scarpa and La Sportiva released shoes that provide the comfort and durability newer climbers need, but that hit performance across multiple types of climbing criteria really hard. Newer climbers want something that can perform across multiple types of climbing as they figure out whether they're more of a boulderer or sport climber and how to tackle slab, crack, or alpine (and are likely not investing in different types of shoes for each type of climbing and rock).
As usual, OMA has me excited for the future of outdoor gear and getting outside. Despite the uncertainty in the world, more than ever I am reminded that one of the most important things in life is getting outside with your friends.
Mary Beth Skylis’s Takes
Here are a few innovations and updates I’m excited about from the summer 2025 OMA show from Treeline Review writer Mary Beth Skylis.
COAST RL35R 1000 Lumen Voice-Activated Headlamp
The COAST RL35R 1000 Lumen Voice-Activated Headlamp is a new release that allows the wearer to toggle between its 15 different settings with the power of their voice. Settings like color, beam shape, and intensity can be shifted with a simple command, which is really nice when you have your hands full. Like early versions of Biolite’s rechargeable headlamp, the current version of the COAST RL35R has a rear battery pack built into the headlamp. But a new prototype is in the works, and COAST expects to release a front-loaded headlamp with the same voice-controlled features in fall of this year.
Marmot Wraptor Zipperless Sleeping bag
Marmot is stepping out of its comfort zone with the release of a zipperless sleeping bag in spring of 2026. In order to retain warmth around the body, the sleeping bag design comes with two flaps that fold around the body and can be secured with a magnetic closure and a few different clasps. In addition to a unique front closure system, the footbox also comes with a top panel that allows your feet to come out of the sleeping bag. The release will include two synthetic bags and two down bags with this design.
Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight Backpack 2.0
Outdoor Vitals is releasing the second iteration of its popular Shadowlight backpack with a few updates later this year. The new model will have a zipper down the front pocket, dividing the compartment into two ultrastretch mesh pockets, which are known for their durability. The earlier version of this pack was available in both 45L and 60L sizes, but after noticing extra enthusiasm surrounding the 60L version, Outdoor Vitals decided to move forward with just the 60L size.
The new pack will also include a few extra gear loops by popular depend, and an updated V-top closure on top. Unlike the previous version of the pack, the backpack panel will no longer be removable. Instead, it’ll feature two fixed aluminum stays. And the entire weight of the pack comes in under two pounds.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor boots are back!
You might not have noticed, but the Ultra Raptor boot briefly disappeared from La Sportiva’s catalogue. But it’s making a comeback in Spring 2026 with a few updates. This version will have a toothier outsole and come in a low and GTX mid option. I wore an early version of this boot for many winter adventures, and it quickly became a go-to item for me because it lacked the heftiness of some boots without compromising warmth and functionality. So, I’m stoked to hear that it’s coming back.
TRAVOCA
Travoca is a new brand that came to be when a former appliance engineer decided to dive into the land of travel overlanding and camping. The Rigel Cooler is the result of his exploits. It comes in four different sizes, and can be divided into a fridge and freezer compartment. But unlike some electric appliances I’ve owned, this one actually freezes. The Vega Power Station had been powering two coolers almost three times over by the time I made it to Travoca, and it still had more than 40% of its power left.
Mary Murphy’s Takes
Our founder Liz already touched on this regarding the feel of the show, but between all the new products, exciting innovation, and some very cool forecasts ahead for 2026, there were undertones of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. As in: with tumultuous supply chain issues and looming tariffs in an increasingly more expensive economy, brands are embracing the durable, well-performing technology and fabrics they already have. They are making adjustments, updates, and even new products with this sentiment of “this already works and we trust it” in mind.
I applaud the many brands taking or incorporating this stance into their thinking—after all, we don’t need piles of new gear every year, we only need improvements on already really good gear. Gear is expensive, and what is even more valuable to us, the industry and consumers, nowadays isn’t minor updates or new colors, its steadfastness, commitment, quality production, and innovation to make a piece of gear the best it can be.
We saw shoes, tents, and backpacks that got material updates, for example, to tentpole design or waterproofing, to the amount of recycled fibers in a fabric, to the improvement of hardware or attachment points, or the ratio of EVA foam in a padded shoulder strap. An insane amount of packs, sleeping bags and pads are getting extended sizing or more sizes (regular, wide, new volumes, etc.). A proprietary midsole, a better cinch cord, the addition of merino, a more compact pole design: surely, this is technology these brands already have, but are finding new and ingenious ways to use them across product lines.
Across the board at OMA this year, we saw packs, gear, footwear, and apparel from brands like Scarpa, Gregory, NEMO, Osprey, Outdoor Research, Polartec, Kuhl, and Smartwool. We saw old brands and new brands, and gear from 100-person companies to technology from a 5-10 person startup. And of course, we saw and chatted with fellow gear testers, other gear reviews, and friends across the industry.
New Gear on Mary’s Watch List:
The new Scarpa Ribelle Cross 2 is on editor Mary Murphy’s radar.
Scarpa’s updated Golden Gate and new Golden Gate LT (for this spring), as well as the new crossover model to the Ribelle line, the Ribelle Cross 2.
Smartwool will have a new Intraknit technology wool baselayer for Spring 2026, as well as a fleece made from Smartwool’s Second Cut project.
The NEMO Dragonfly Osmo tent is getting an overhaul, including design, pole, and rainfly updates.
. . . and much more!
Becca Downs’ Takes
Treeline Review editor Becca wrapped up in the Marmot Wraptor zipperless sleeping bag and the new Marmot Tungsten UL 2 tent.
After missing the first day of OMA due to travel issues, I hustled around day 2 to meet with outdoor brands and learn as much as I could about what’s coming down the pike. Here’s what I noticed and am excited to see.
Playful Outdoor Recreation
Sometimes we get so caught up in the technical specs and innovation in outdoor gear, we momentarily lose sight of the point: that spending time outdoors is fun. One thing I noticed at OMA this summer was brands leaning into playfulness, silliness, and joy–or perhaps we’re all so in need of more of those feelings these days that I noticed it more? In any case, here are a few brands leaning into the fun of the outdoors.
Teva introduced us to the new Aventrail collection, including the R2T Trail Running Sandal and Aventrail Shoe. While I personally have never worn hiking sandals on trail runs, the R2T (i.e., road-to-trail) sandals have a wide enough base to appear protective on roads and clear trails, and the breathable neoprene mesh under the straps seem to help with general comfort and moisture management. But beyond any technical specs, these sandals and shoes are simply fun. The colorways, the straps, the airflow–it all feels childlike in a way that encourages carefree and playful outdoor recreation.
FITS Socks, a made-in-the-USA merino wool sock brand, showcased their upcoming designs. With FITS, we felt a lot of wow factors, from opening their spiel with a jingle, to showing what makes their socks unique (in short, a painstaking design that contours and holds shape around your foot better than tube socks), and displaying a whopping 80% increase in their upcoming inventory. As a runner, seeing the soon-to-be-released updated running socks made me stoked because I’ve never seen a design like this with a compression-fit crew cut that has a second, looser layer. We tested their low-cut running socks for our Best Running Socks guide, and can’t wait to try the new-and-improved ones next.
But excitement went beyond the thoughtful design—the prints of the new socks are interesting, beautiful, playful, and fun. From ‘80s jackets-inspired designs to desert landscapes and old school gym sock aesthetics, there’s a style for just about anyone. They also have smiley faces on the toes, making them great for puppet shows, which some of the Treeline writers may or may not have put on…
And finally, because this is one of my favorite outdoor apparel brands I rarely have an excuse to write about—Royal Robbins is expanding some of their apparel lines and including new, fun prints. Many outdoor brands do this often, but something about the new RR prints seems more playful (and still stylish) while maintaining functionality. My favorite is the upcoming Salathe Hoodie, which is not only extremely comfortable (seriously, I’ve already worn my test shirt in 90-degree sunshine and felt cool and protected), sun protective, and reinforced with their Mosquito Protection Technology, but the designs are simply cute. This is my new dopamine clothing item that I’ll be wearing all summer, whether backpacking in the mountains or walking to the coffee shop.
Post-PFAS-Scramble Returns
Some of the fun is also seeing what brands are doing now that they’ve made the transition to PFAS-free materials. We saw the return of products that had disappeared during the transition. The Therm-a-Rest Parsec sleeping bag and Corus Quilts are making a PFAS-free comeback in spring of 2026, as will new PFAS-free iterations of the Honcho Ponchos.
In more post-PFAS-scramble news, Fjallraven–which admirably started eliminating the use of PFAS back in 2009–is now back to collaborating with GORE-TEX. The Bergtagen Eco-Shell, for example, will now have a PFAS-free GORE-TEX waterproof lining.
Becca shows off the two outsoles on Craft shoes designed for gravel running.
Swedish Innovation
And speaking of Swedish outdoor brands, Craft made its OMA debut this year. This endurance sport brand is breaking into the US market feet-first. That is, their rainbow-like display of running shoes was the main attraction of their booth and drew my running-shoe-nerd self in like a tractor beam.
When I asked if their shoes were designed to be trail or road shoes, the answer was “yes.” That is, these shoes are designed for the reality of many runners, which is that they cross terrains and should have a shoe that works well on roads and trails. Some of their running shoes even have outsoles made from bike tires, which is a fascinating innovation I’m eager to test.
Craft’s active apparel is also painstakingly designed, with breathability and comfort clearly prioritized.
We’re eager to test their running shorts and shirts for our Best Men’s and Women’s Running Shirts and Best Men’s and Women’s Running Shorts guides.
Sam Schild’s Takes
Treeline Review writer Sam Schild looks at home using the Daylight computer in front of a van. Photo by Evan Dudley.
Here’s my hot take: many brands will say they have a revolutionary new product, when it's more of a simple improvement over previous ones. At this year’s OMA, I noticed a few brands doing new things that were particularly innovative. But most of what I saw was evolution over innovation. This isn’t bad, though, because you can’t constantly reinvent the wheel.
Daylight Computer
Maybe it’s because I’m the ideal customer, but I’m pretty excited about this computer designed for outdoorsy people. I work remotely and have an off-grid mobile office setup for really remote work. This tablet uses an e-ink screen that’s visible in direct sunlight and doesn’t overheat as easily as a standard laptop.
As I write this, I’m sitting under a tree for shade with my laptop computer on a folding table and sitting in a camp chair. I’m using Google Docs and email in a web browser while constantly moving to stay in a small patch of shade. My laptop screen is currently set to maximum brightness, and I’m still worried about dust blowing into my keyboard. Since I’m outside, I’m wearing sunglasses. If I were inside, I would be wearing blue light glasses. I love to be outside and don’t love staring at a bright computer screen all day. So, I’m excited to try a computer that doesn’t look like a computer but is still powerful enough to run all the basic apps I use in my day-to-day work life.
Thule Outset Hitch Tent
This tent is essentially a rooftop tent that attaches to the hitch mount of a vehicle instead of its crossbars. The Thule Outset makes using and installing a “rooftop tent” more accessible—you no longer need to figure out what rack and crossbars to get in order to mount your rooftop tent, then hoist it up over that rack. The Outset simply attaches to the tow hitch you probably already have on your vehicle.
Since it’s so easy to install and remove, you can easily drop it at your campsite to claim it as well. You’d never be able to do that with a “real” rooftop tent that takes at least two people to hoist it onto the roof of your vehicle. It’s also great for people with dogs, because most dogs could never climb a 6-foot ladder into the tent attached to your roof.
Katadyn BeFree
As someone who has drank far too much water out of cow ponds, I’m pretty excited about the new version of the Katadyn BeFree water filter. This new hand-held filter has a removable charcoal filter that claims to make water taste better. So far, I’ve only used the filter in pristine mountain streams, but the flow rate is much slower with the charcoal filter inserted, so I’m pretty sure it’s doing something. I’m not exactly excited to drink gross pond water again, but I know it will happen and I’m hopeful this filter will make it taste at least a little better. The new Katadyn BeFree is a winner in our Best Water Bottles for Hiking guide.
Royal Robbins Salathe Hoodie
I’m excited about the Salathe Hoodie because it’s a loose-fitting sun shirt with a quarter zip and a hood. Most sun shirts fit tighter, and don’t have a way to open the front. While some people may prefer to have their sunshirt always covering as much skin as possible, I like some ventilation options, such as buttons or a zipper. I don’t always feel the need to be fully covered while wearing a sun shirt, and in those times I can open the front quarter-length zipper.
I already wore this on a backpacking and peakbagging trip yesterday, and love the feel of the recycled polyester material and looser fit. So far, the antimicrobial treatment is working well enough that I’m confident to wear this shirt on longer backpacking trips.
La Sportiva Lumina 100 Down Jacket
I’ve been low-key impressed with La Sportiva’s apparel for a while, and this year they’re releasing a line of ultralight down jackets that I’m pretty excited about. I’m most excited about the Lumina 100 Down Jacket, which weighs 5.9 ounces for an impressively warm jacket. This is light enough to carry on any mission, but it’s warmer than other ultralight down jackets I’ve used. It also costs less than other 1000-fill ultralight puffy jackets—this hoodless 5.9-ounce jacket costs $259, while other UL 1000-fill puffies cost over $400. Even other 800-fill ultralight puffies cost more than the Lumina 100.
Chris Meehan’s Takes
Treeline Review writer Chris Meehan at the happy hour before Outdoor Market Alliance. Photo by Evan Dudley.
Beyond the speed-dating-for-gear-nerds style of meeting at the event, I got some good hands-on time with what looked to me like some new ideas and interesting evolutions. -Chris Meehan, contributing writer
Thule OutPace
The Thule OutPace mounted. Photo courtesy @jussioksanen
Seems like most bike racks are getting bigger and burlier. With one of its latest, the Thule OutPace, Thule is bucking the trend somewhat. Sure it carries two bikes can carry a total of 110 pounds, but the compact rack only weighs 29 pounds. Most hitch bike racks take up considerable space in a garage or closet when not in use, but the OutPace folds down to next to nothing and can fit in most cars’ trunks.
Thule OutPace folded up and in a house. Photo courtesy @jussioksanen
The rack also has more premium features, like a tilt function that allows users to access the trunk or hatch while bikes are still on it and the ability to remove bikes in any order. But perhaps the coolest feature of the rack is the innovative hitch mount, which can transform from a 1.25” hitch mount to a 2” hitch mount in no time flat.
Ibex Mammoth Introduction and Wool Aire Update
Trying on the new Ibex Mammoth layer.
Ibex is pushing forward and bringing out some new woolen pieces we’re excited to test out in the fall and winter. The Mammoth is a new mid-layer designed for high-output activities, like uphilling, ice climbing, and mountaineering. With interior pockets for snacks, skins, or other items, it looks and feels like a good alternative to a synthetic fleece without screaming: “I’m outdoorsy!”
We’re also stoked to see the revamped Wool Aire Hoody. The puffy uses wool in baffles as insulation, and it felt like it was coming close to the lightness of some down jackets in the same class. But what we’re really excited about with this update is the turn towards a more athletic use. The hood now has a reinforced brim that will make it easier to see out of, even in the sun and the waist now has an adjustable hem.
Kai Burkhardt’s Takes
Kai goes for the slam dunk on the basketball hoop mounted on the Kelty Highroads tent outside Outdoor Market Alliance's headquarters.
As per usual, I saw an endless amount of apparel, but this year, a few actually stuck out in my mind instead of blending all together. Plus, I’m excited about Thule’s hitch tent and some extra-durable dog gear.
ROA Mesh Hoodie
My fellow Treeliners already explained why pieces like the Royal Robbins Salathe Hoodie, Mountain Hardwear AirMesh Shirt, and Ibex Woole Aire Hoodie are exciting, but one top I was super excited about seeing was ROA’s Mesh Hoodie. It was there to show off Polartec’s Power Dry, and I was immediately reminded of Norwegian fish net base layers, which are supposedly warmer than normal base layers when paired with proper layering. If the breathability and moisture management of mesh layers truly means they can keep you warmer, ROA’s shirt could be a gamechanger for thru-hikers and trail runners.
Thule Outset Hitch Tent
Sam already highlighted the Outset, but as someone who has a love-hate relationship with rooftop tents, I figured I’d chime in too. In short: I think the Outset is a really cool idea. It’s a product that’s probably wrong for a lot of people, but for the folks it’s right for, it’s really right.
I’m picturing the Outset in my mind as the happy medium between a ground tent and a trailer. Whether it’s because of mobility issues or comfort, some people just can’t or won’t sleep on the ground. But trailers can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars. Rooftop tents could be a solution, but not if mobility or the strength you need to set it up matters. The Outset, in contrast, sits low to the ground so you (or your dogs) don’t have to climb up a ladder or bend down to the ground, but you still get the plush comfort of a rooftop tent’s thicker fabrics and mattress. Plus, since you can unhitch it from your car, you don’t have to fold it up if you want to go for a hike after setting up camp, which is easily the worst part of using a rooftop tent.
If I’m convincing you, don’t get too excited, because I heard it’s going to cost around $4,500 (it’s currently 3 999,95 € on Thule’s French website). Is that a ridiculous amount of money? Yes. But is it cheaper than a trailer? Also yes. We’ll need to test it hands-on to see if it’s truly worth the spend.
Gunner Homestead Dog Bed
There seems to be a million dog beds on the market in all shapes and sizes. Some are orthopedic, some are portable, others are shaped like donuts, and there are even human-sized dog beds too. But Gunner, a brand famous in the hunting community for its crash-tested dog crates, is making their first dog bed that isn’t built to go inside a crate.
Okay, that might not sound too exciting, but Yeti had a similar dog bed for years that was truly outstanding. It had a 2-in-1 design, with an inner bed that you could take out and move around, it was super dirt and smell-resistant, and had a waterproof base and washable cover. Like most Yeti products it was too expensive, but it was awesome. Unfortunately, it was discontinued about a year ago, but now Gunner’s Homestead is seemingly taking its place.
It has a similar 2-in-1 design, a waterproof base and washable cover, but what sets Gunner’s bed apart is its 3D Loop interior core. It’s an antimicrobial material that’s also waterproof, which means it won’t get moldy and can be taken out of the bed and hosed off. That’s a huge improvement over the typical foam found in normal dog beds. We’ll see if that material is as cozy as the memory foam that’s found in today’s high-end dog beds.
Sara Kruglinski’s Takes
Sara shows off a new Buff hat.
This was my first experience at OMA and I was excited to see all the new gear in person and touch things. The trends that really stuck out to me were seeing more brands leaning into gravel shoes. With running clubs becoming more popular and running on surfaces that blend road and trails together these gravel shoes are going to fill that need. I no longer think they are a gimmick, but a well-designed, thoughtful piece of equipment that I am excited to test out long term.
I also noticed many brands coming out with women’s running and hiking-style spandex shorts that actually have functional pockets–yes, that is plural. There are of updates to the ultralight gear space as well with brands creating actually usable gear that looks durable and ultralight to appeal to thru-hikers and gram-counting trail runners who don’t want to lug extra weight in a vest. -Sara Kruglinski, operations coordinator and contributing writer
BUFF
There were too many hats to list just one, but BUFF is flooding the gear space with ultralight packable sun hats for running, hiking, and travel. There is an option for just about anyone in any color you could imagine. Some of my favorites are the Five Panel Go Cap which is coming out in a variety of colors and is stylish too. I also was a fan of the wider brimmed Explore Booney Hat which comes in neutral colors, and has a soft full coverage brim that won’t interfere with a pack. What makes it different than other hats is it uses the same wicking materials you'd find in a BUFF beck gaiter that help keep you cooler when it is hot outside.
Sneak peek at the convertible Helly Hansen AWE hiking dress
Helly Hansen Awe Hiking Dress
Helly Hansen is revamping the idea of a hiking dress with a 3-in-1 design that is stylish and functional. The dress is two pieces that can be worn separately or together for three different ways to wear. The dress itself is a lightweight shell and the base layer is a fitted one piece spandex romper with pockets.
This dress will appeal to thru-hikers and travelers who are looking for a piece that can do multiple things at once. I can see it being a spring and summer staple in my wardrobe and going on all my adventures. They thought of everything with this dress down to the drop back waist that allows for discreet bathroom breaks in the forest.
Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Minimalist Jacket
A fully waterproof ultralight adventure jacket for mountaineering activities and beyond. At 6.7 ounces for a women’s medium, this jacket is ultralight and features 3.5 later Helly Tech professional construction. With a single chest pocket and 2-way stretch fabric, this minimalist jacket is a contender for a spot in a thru-hiker’s ultralight kit. This looks like a promising piece of ultralight gear that can replace heavier options, even when weight isn’t an issue. It is great to see brands creating pieces that happen to be ultralight so outdoors people no longer have to choose between weight and performance.
MSR Hubba Hubba HD
MSR is updating the Hubba Hubba tent line with a warmer, more weather-resistant version. The HD version features less mesh while still being able to vent and prevent condensation build up. This version has more pockets and more livable space making it ideal for inclement weather when you might be spending more time inside and less time out on those trails.
The vestibules get an update here as well with more space for gear. There are fun details as well, like an integrated clothesline for keeping laundry dry. As a dog owner I am excited about the durability aspect of this version with updated fabrics and coatings designed to increase the tents lifespan.
Most notably, the new 3-season Hubba Hubba HD will use a new PFAS-free waterproofing with a hydrostatic head of 3000mm in the rainfly and 6000 mm in the floor, higher than many 4-season tents. In comparison, the Hubba Hubba LT tent has a hydrostatic head of 1200mm and 1800mm, respectively.
Parting Thoughts
Part of the Treeline Review team hanging outside the Kelty Highland tent, proving they are the coolest outdoor team at OMA.
Innovation happens in iterations, and while there may not have been tons of cutting edge changes, seeing top lightweight technology become more accessible across all price ranges is something that makes the team at Treeline happy–especially as outdoor gear prices are anticipated to increase this fall with tariffs. Anything that makes it easier and more affordable for more people to get outdoors is a win in our book.
As during OMA Winter 2025, we continue to be thrilled to see more European brands and more made-in-the-USA brands available. New brands means more options for outdoors people and it also pushes established brands to do better. This is especially true when it comes to sustainability, as many European brands are further along their journey. Having more options for made-in-the-USA brands is also good for sustainability, as it reduces the need for transport and associated emissions.
While lifestyle and fashion-forward gear may seem out of our wheelhouse, as we describe in our mission, the best gear is the gear that you love so much you will continue to use, year after year. So we don't think it's a bad thing that so many brands are focusing on versatile items that will work from town-to-trail, are reversible, or gear that is less ugly. If it means it'll get used instead of sitting in a landfill or in the back of your garage, we consider that a win for people and the planet.
Most of all, the joy of OMA is not in the gear trends, but in having a chance to gather with some of the Treeline Team. We're proudly a fully-remote company, which means our writers can live where they like playing outdoors. It also means we have fewer chances to give each other high-fives and share plates of nachos (or instant coffee and cheese, as happened at this OMA).
Getting us all together to celebrate the work we do is the best part of OMA and we were thrilled to have another chance to do that this summer.
