We wish these were the limited edition Freshest Gear Hattori, but slime green is a standard color from Saucony. The company classifies them a training tool for shorter distances once or twice a week to build foot and calf muscles. Unlike Vibram Five Fingers your toes are kept together in the Hattori like a regular shoe. Since they weight only 4.4 oz, many Hattori adopters have set some personal records for your mile and 5K times. So keep a pair in the trunk incase a co-worker challenges you to a footrace in the parking lot. Retail $80
Duct tape and Ziploc bags are extremely useful in certain situations. Many of us have probably combined them to temporarily waterproof our portable devices. The problem is it’s pretty much impossible to access your device through the layers of duct tape. H20 Friendly, based in San Diego, has developed a way to internally waterproof the Apple iPod Shuffle (3rd and 4th generation). Now you can surf, swim, paddle board, and snowboard without having to worry about water damage or bulky cases. I can’t wait to test this out during my next lap swim session. Retail $139.99 (includes 1-year waterproof warranty)
Thanks to a quick strap attachment, the Element Portable can be slung over your shoulder like a messenger bag. This makes enjoying a quick meal while stargazing or watching the sunrise so much easier. Just throwing a few McDonald’s McMuffins in your pack isn’t going to score any points with the ladies. Available March 28, 2011. Retail $150
Ever get that itch to text while snowboarding and there isn’t any cell service? The Spot Connect can do a whole lot more than just send text messages via the Globalstar Satellite Network, it can also track your coordinates on Google Maps, update Facebook and Twitter, and send SOS messages in a emergency. The Spot Connect device syncs with your smartphone by Bluetooth and everything is controlled through an app. Although it is another gadget to carry in your pack (weight 3.7 ounces), it could save your ass on your next adventure. Retail $170 (plus $100 per year subscription)
Man’s best friend deserves a well made bed. Maybe not to the extent of a Tempurpedic but definitely one that uses a Bow Wow Beds’ cover. These quality bed covers are made in Florence, Kentucky, from 100% pure duck canvas fabric. For a few dollars more you can customize one with your pet’s name and select from 20 different colors. Retail $10-55, depending on size
Another perfect example of the less is more ideology. The Fujifilm Finepix X100 features a fixed 23mm focal length lens and handsome magnesium alloy chassis. Don’t mistake this for a retro inspired point-and-shoot, the X100 is simple but squarely targeted at the advanced user. The rear end features a 2.8″ LCD screen, which is large enough for capturing 720p HD videos. A nice leather case and weekend road trip please. Retail $1,000 estimate (Spring 2011)
Available in brushed stainless steel and weighs only 1.5 ounces. Key chain bottle openers are soooo college. Retail $13.95
