In this article we’ll check out some various clothing pieces I found in the booths at Crankworx Whistler 2022. 7mesh is ready for fall, with a fully waterproof shell that can strap to your frame and a new grid-style WTV fabric. Fasthouse was showing Tyler McCaul’s signature kneepads, and Etnies has honored Emil Johansson with a signature shoe, and announced two vegan-friendly shoes (including Brandon Semenuk’s pro model).
7mesh new clothing:
On display at the 7mesh booth was their new WTV Chilco Anorak, which is coming soon as part of their Fall/Winter 2022 line. The new proprietary WTV fabric 7mesh has developed gets its acronym from ‘Wind Thermal Ventilation’. The inside of the fabric is a lofted grid pattern (see title shot), something that has been done before, but 7mesh has added a wind blocking outer face fabric to the equation.
The WTV Anorak’s outer fabric does allow some air to get through the jacket, which quickly warms up between your body and the puffy squares inside. Once that air warms up enough, it (along with moisture) can vent through the grid lines to keep you from overheating.
7mesh will be offering men’s and women’s models of the Chilco Anorak. Men’s sizes range from XS-XXL and women’s sizes go XS-XL. Men will get three color options, while ladies get two. The Chilco Anorak sells for $200, and will be officially launching on August 29th.
After the success of their on-bike packable Northwoods Windshell jacket, 7mesh took the next step and decided to offer the Copilot – a fully waterproof jacket with the same packability or on-bike storage option. Made from Gore-Tex Paclite Plus and built with taped seams and a waterproof zipper, this shell will fend off the rain, not just puddle splashes.
Men’s and women’s models retail for $280. Men’s sizes go from XS-XXL, women’s sizes are XS-XL, and guys and dolls get three color options each. The Copilot waterproof shell will be available this fall.
Fasthouse Hooper Knee Pads:
The Fasthouse booth had their recently released Hooper knee pads on display, which were designed with input from freeride superstar Tyler McCaul. Though they offer a fairly slim fit, the Hooper provides Level 2 knee protection and is intended for anything from trail rides to bike park laps.
Even without adjustable hem straps, both guys working the Fasthouse booth said the Hooper pads do an amazing job of staying in place while you ride. Their wide silicone-printed hems apparently work well enough on their own.
The knee padding in the Hooper is made from reactive SAS-TEC foam that feels soft but hardens upon impact. Below the knee cap is a little extra padding to protect the top of your shin, an area that’s prone to painful pedal strikes.
The Hooper knee pads sell for $120. Sizes S-XL are available in black only. Youth sizes should be coming sometime next year.
Etnies shoes:
After breaking into the MTB world not long ago, skateboarding legends Etnies had a few new shoes on display at Crankworx. The first model I checked out was Emil Johansson’s signature model, the Johansson Pro, which is due for Spring 2023. This shoe features a mid-height collar, but is designed to work with or without ankle braces. The collar itself provides a little protection for your ankles.
The sole uses Etnies’ Formula G rubber, and the Geo-Hex tread pattern is designed to provide consistent grip and feel regardless of how your foot is positioned on the pedal. The shoe also features an EVA midsole, and reinforcements to the quarter panel and toe box. Critical areas of the shoe are further reinforced with action nubuck and TPU panels.
The Johansson Pro will be sold in black and cement colors (as pictured), with sizes ranging from 5-14.
Although my love of cheese would prevent me from ever going vegan, I appreciate anyone (and any brand) who’s doing their part to keep our planet as healthy as possible. Etnies had these two vegan shoes at their booth; the orange model up front is the Brandon Semenuk signature model, and the one behind is the Culvert. The shoes are pretty much identical to the existing non-vegan models, but any leather has been replaced with a durable synthetic leather. The vegan shoes should both be available in October or November.
