Aero Tech Designs hails from Pennsylvania, where they design and make most of their goods. They have five U.S. factories and put an emphasis on using domestically sourced materials as much as possible, too. They do custom, but their stock designs caught our eye, particularly this camo-inspired cycling print. An urban camo color scheme is also available (shown below) along with myriad other designs. And you really need to check out their website to see the Zombie kit with matching cycling cap…
WEEVIL OUTDOOR
Weevil Outdoor had some fun bike lifestyle T-shirts, but their newest offering was the Yuksak. It’s basically a stuff sack made of high density, water-resistant coated packcloth to shove your sweaty post-ride clothes, socks, shoes, etc., into for the ride home. What makes it special is the outside pocket that holds a packet of moisture absorbing crystals to pull odor and sweat away from your gear so it doesn’t turn rancid. A mesh window lets the funk transfer from inside the bag to the moisture absorbing satchel. Retail is $32 for the standard version shown, and there’s also a commuter version with a shoulder strap.
WICKED GIRL
Wicked Girl Jerseys also comes from Pennsylvania and offers a vibrant collection of women’s jerseys in short sleeve, tank top and other styles. The graphics looked great in person, and features like rear pockets, mesh panels and soft fabrics make the $50-$55 price point a steal.
Honey Stinger
Honey Stinger’s line is, for the moment, the same, but a few changes in the oven. Their “Honey” flavor waffle will soon get the gluten free treatment, joining Maple, Cinnamon and Salted Caramel flavors. They also hinted that some or all of the kid’s sized portions could be leaving the line soon as they were really geared toward grocery and big box stores but weren’t getting the necessary traction.
B-Line Energy
B-Line had an interesting take on sports nutrition with their all natural, real food “gel”. Each flavor is made of just five ingredients, using maple syrup, honey and/or molasses as the base, then adding dried fruit powders for flavors and extra nutrition. Those ingredients offer natural electrolytes and minerals, and things like chia seeds or shredded coconut add a little substance. Both of the flavors shown are delicious (and a little sweet, definitely have some water on hand) and available now. They also had a test batch of chocolate espresso on hand that was amazing; we’re hoping that one gets to market ASAP. The product is made in North Carolina and needs no preservatives thanks to the natural antibacterial properties of honey. Each pouch is resealable, letting you put a little in your pre-ride oatmeal (delicious) and taking the rest with you. $17.50 for a box of five pouches.
