Highlights from ISPO 2018, part 3: the latest innovations in outdoor gear

Daniel Neilson reports on innovations from Hanwag, Mammut, Trekmates, AKU and The North Face 

Our final dispatch from the ISPO outdoor tradeshow in Germany that highlights the best of next winter’s gear includes an updated jacket from OMM, new backpacks from Lowe Alpine and a great-looking boot from Mammut.

• Highlights from ISPO 2018, part 1
• Highlights from ISPO 2018, part 2

The North Face Ultra Fastpack Mid GTX (Knit Version)

Why are they interesting?

We’re going to say that word again: Knitted (well it’s easier than saying Ultra Fastpack Mid GTX (Knit Version). This is the third generation of the well-regarded mid shoe. The North Face has been experimenting with seamless technology for a few years – the advantages being less waste and fewer weak points – across much of its clothing range. This shoe has a ‘knitted’ upper that is seamless and reinforced where it is needed. It has a Gore-Tex membrane and a Vibram ‘Megagrip’ outsole. It’s also got: “ESS midfoot shank for torsional rigidity and protection against stone bruising.” Answers on a postcard.

Trekmates Glenmore Ankle Gaiter

Why is it interesting?

The latest addition to the extensive range of gaiters is the Glenmore, a gaiter explicitly designed for trail shoes. There is a strap around the shoe and a velcro front with a popper. A stretch panel at the back allows plenty of give for running or fast hiking. It’s a neat little piece that could quietly become one of our favourites.

Mammut Kento GTX

Why is it interesting?

This super-sleek Mammut boot caught our eye. It’s more than just aesthetics; the simple construction allowed designers to cut the weight down: 625g men’s 8.5. Fewer seams mean less weak points too. It has a durable Kevlar mesh between the outsole and mid, allowing the foot to sit nearer the ground. Memory foam is used in the collar of the boot. The lacing system is pretty smart too as it pulls in on the heel as well as just tightening around the top of the foot. It is B1 rated for crampons.

Hanwag Anros ES

Why is it interesting?

There is a new Tatra that we’ll be reviewing later in the year with some other three season boots, but just to quickly highlight these rather lovely boots that ate aimed at a more lifestyle audience. Why? Well, often brands will test some of the technology out here before rolling it out on more technical pieces. The Anros ES uses Eco-Shell, a PFC-free waterproof membrane Fjällräven pioneers a couple of years back for its waterproof jackets. The soles are designed by Michelin for cold weather and snow. This European-made shoe also has a warm lining and uppers made from European tanneries. It looks pretty good too! It will be available in late September.

AKU Bellamont Plus

Why is it interesting?

Here’s another shoe that probably falls under the lifestyle category (although for a pub walk shoe it would be great), but we’ve picked it out because of its environmental credentials. This is the first ever shoe with an Environmental Product Declaration. The International EPD System gives retailers and, well, us, the reassurance that there are a transparent design and production process. The shoe itself has Nubuck uppers and Vibram soles.   

That wraps up another year at ISPO. There are more bits and bobs that we’re still waiting for final information on that we’ll also be bringing you soon.