Trend: Everything Old Is Cool Again

Vintage gear comes back at Outdoor Retailer

Among the high-tech fabrics and gadgets at Outdoor Retailer, some of the most popular "new" gear was actually modern versions of vintage gear.  A big trend for outdoor brands seems to be bringing back some of their original lines or taking inspiration from fashion that was popular in the 70s and 80s. 

Swedish company Fjallraven, is new to the US but has been outfitting Swedish outdoors men and women since 1950. The company is still run by the original founder Aka Nordin and continues to produce a range of products from their original line. I own a Fjallraven hat from the days I used to live in Sweden and everywhere I go hiking with it today, I will be approached by a Swedish person. 

The Greenland Jacket (pictured above) was Fjallraven's first foray into clothing. The jacket was originally stitched together from G-1000 tent fabric which is actually still used in the jacket today. G-1000 is made from 65% cotton and 35% polyester in a tightly woven configuration and treated with Greenland Wax, a special formula of paraffin and beeswax from the North of Sweden. The wax can be added or striped in the field to change the properties of the textile according to the changing weather conditions. 

Fjallraven Kanken
 

One of Fjallraven's coolest products is the Kanken backpack from 1978. Originally built for Swedish schoolchildren, it has become one of the most well known and loved products for Fjallraven. The Kanken is the same today as the original from over 30 years ago. 

Moon Boots from Tecnica 

Tecnica is bringing the Moon Boot back. I lived in Moon Boots when I was a kid. My mom used to stuff my feet in plastic bags to stay dry, then into my Moon Boots and sent me out into the Minnesota winter. 

Cushe mork and mindy boots 

Cushe's Mork and Mindy boots from their Universal Traveller collection. Shazbot!

Scarpa bowling shoes 

SCARPA
took a retro bowling shoe and updated the look with suede and softer colors. I really want a pair of those purple ones! 
 
Jansport Heritage Series 

The Jansport Heritage Series is one of my favorite retro gear lines. A true re-issue of their original backpack, the Heritage Series reflects the history of JanSport what the company is really about. 

Keen Kaley Boot 

The Keen Kaley boot. Influenced by western wear and a throw back to 60s ski resort wear. Keen is pushing hard to create a complete line of products to be worn year round. The company believes that every season should be Keen season. 

What is your favorite piece of vintage outdoor gear? What would you like to see brought back? Is there anything you would you like to make sure does not come back into production such as Zubaz or Parachute Pants (the latter of which have actually shown up on runways this year. Scary.)?
 

 

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