We Attended the Switchback Outdoor Expo in Nashville. Here Are Our Favorite Items.

The Switchback outdoor expo and conference in Nashville showcased the latest gear in hiking, backpacking, camping, apparel, and footwear — including these eight gems.

 

 

Suunto Run

The Suunto Run is a purpose-built watch that supports runners through every phase: training, racing, and recovery.

Featherlight at 36 grams, it delivers a minimalist fit, run-specific features, high-accuracy GPS, wrist-based heart rate tracking, and up to 20 hours of battery life.

With 34 sport modes, sleep tracking, and 24/7 activity monitoring, it’s a versatile pick for athletes who don’t want to break the bank. $249. us.suunto.com

 

Gossamer Piku Sling 

Petite yet mighty, the Piku Sling pulls triple duty as a hip pack, shoulder bag, or bike-mounted handlebar pouch.

Utilizing recycled ripstop and tough stretch-mesh, it features a front zip pocket, roll-top main compartment, and smart details like a magnetic closure, removable foam sit pad, and O-rings for attaching accessories.

A top compression strap and reflective accents complete the adventure-ready pack. $75. gossamergear.com

 

 

Heat It 

Is there anything your smartphone can’t do? With the Heat It plug-in and app, you can stop bug bites from itching in seconds.

Just connect the device to your phone, select a treatment mode, and apply. Powered by your phone’s battery, the plug-in briefly heats the skin, soothing the itch without chemicals.

This doctor-approved method, known as local hyperthermia, is medically backed and Terrain-tested. It really works! $40. heat-it.com

 

Paka Sol Hoodie

Sleek meets strong in this sustainably made hoodie from Paka.

Crafted from 81% Tencel (sourced from renewable wood pulp) and alpaca fiber, it’s exceptionally soft, breathable, and durable — plus naturally hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant.

Designed to help you perform while staying protected with UPF 30+, a three-panel hood to guard your neck and face, and hidden thumbholes to shield your hands from the sun. $95. pakaapparel.com

 

 

LifeStraw Escape

When your whole campsite needs clean water, the 5.25-gallon LifeStraw Escape can deliver.

This high-flow, hand-pump purifier filters over 1 liter per minute with no electricity or gravity needed. Made from BPA-free, FDA-approved materials, it is reusable, easy to clean, and reduces reliance on single-use plastic.

Bonus: For every LifeStraw product purchased, a school child receives safe water for a year. $330. lifestraw.com

 

Neve

Tired of blasé applesauce pouches? Your body is, too.

Neve (pronounced ne-vay) was created by a registered dietitian and endurance athlete to deliver clean, nutrient-dense fuel in a resealable pouch.

Each smoothie packs in real ingredients — like bananas, coconut, apples, and antioxidant-rich boysenberries — providing the calories your adventure demands.

Flavors include Tart Cherry Cacao and Boysenberry Beet. $27 per six-pack or $4.50 each. eatneve.com

 

White Duck 6’x8’ Rover Scout Tent 

This modern take on the classic scout tent comes with a twist: a built-in stove jack for using a wood or propane tent stove.

Built for all-season use with waterproof, UV-resistant, and breathable canvas, this A-Frame has a seven-foot center height and weighs up to 48 pounds.

Mesh windows and roof vents keep air flowing, while the intuitive pole system makes setup a breeze. $490. whiteduckoutdoors.com

 

 

Teva Aventrail R2T 

Sometimes, you just need to run — even in sandals.

The new Teva Aventrail R2T blends the freedom of a sandal with the propulsion of a trail runner.

Lightweight and ultra-breathable, it boasts a cushioned midsole, secure strapping system made of recycled materials, and grippy lugged outsole suitable for everything from sidewalks to singletrack.

Available in men’s and women’s sizes in your choice of colors. $120. teva.com

Author: Brad Kovach is the publisher of Terrain.

Top image: Courtesy of Teva.