When it comes to gear for anything outdoorsy, REI has it all. In anticipation of spring, the major retailer added new exciting finds to its New Arrivals section. Explore OXO outdoor-friendly paring knives, comfortable running socks from Belega, a clever hand towel from Nomadix that dries in an instant and more. The best part? Every pick is below $30 and starts at only $5. Not bad for our first foray into spring!
Best Overall REI New Arrivals Under $30
Tailwind Nutrition High-Carb Fuel Pack
REI
Ideal for long runs and bike rides, this high-carb fuel pack is an easy add-to-cart item at $5. It has a ratio of 2 parts glucose to 1 part fructose, so you can get electrolytes and energy without impacting your stomach, according to the brand. It comes in two flavors that are great for winter or spring: lemonade and ginger and lime.
Matador FlatPak Soap Bar Case
REI
Bar soap is perfect for camping and traveling, but things can get gross fast. No one wants a sudsy, clumpy, wet bar of soap going into their suitcase. Sure, you can put it in a plastic bag, but once you’re home, you’re going to have a gloopy mess to contend with. This nifty invention solves that issue entirely. The case is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about your bag’s contents getting wet or soapy, but it also lets your bar of soap breathe—that way, it’ll be dry and ready for you to store it when you get home.
OXO Outdoor 3.5-Inch Paring Knife with Locking Sheath
REI
OXO makes some of the best kitchen tools, and this option is excellent for camping. Since it’s a paring knife, it’s petite enough to take on the go. You’ll still get a stainless steel blade sharp enough to cut through food packaging, produce, hearty sandwiches and more. When you’re done with it, use the locking sheath to protect yourself from the blade.
Sea to Summit AirLite Towel
REI
A popular new item that already has a 4.7-star rating, the Sea to Summit AirLite Towel is designed to be small enough to fit in a pocket and air-dry quickly. Built to absorb three times its weight in water, it’s handy to use around a camp kitchen; to absorb sweat on a walk, run, or bike ride; or to protect your neck and other exposed areas from the sun.
Balega Enduro Quarter Socks
REI
Your favorite new running socks just dropped at REI. They have a medium cushion, so they’ll cradle your feet comfortably and keep them warm during the transition from winter to spring. They’ll also fit comfortably in sneakers thanks to their slim design. Grab them in three colors: black, white or ink blue.
Sea to Summit Camp Dinnerware Set with Mesh Sack, 6-Piece
REI
This set has everything you need to enjoy balanced meals on camping trips or hikes. It comes with six pieces: a bowl, plate, cup, spoon, fork, knife and mesh storage bag. A carabiner clips the utensils together so they never get lost.
Nomadix Hand Towel
REI
Multiple shoppers report using this towel for the gym—how brilliant! Odor-resistant and water-absorbent, you’ll use it on machines, under your feet or on mats to mop up sweat or clean your equipment (not both at once, of course). It’s sun-resistant with an ultraviolet protection factor of 50+, great for walks and runs, too.
Kavu Slurp Sling Bottle Holder
REI
Hydration is incredibly important, even if you’re sitting on the couch all day. On the move, it’s even more essential, whether you’re on a quick trail walk or a weeklong camping trip. A reusable water bottle ensures you always have water, but you can keep it hands-free with this sling bottle holder from Kavu. It holds bottles up to 32 ounces and has built-in insulation to keep your drinks cold or hot.
Coghlan’s Rain Poncho
REI
You know what they say about the incoming season: “April showers bring May flowers!” Keep yourself protected with this rain poncho that can easily fit into a backpack. It’s excellent for spring walks and hikes, though it’s also great to have on hand if you plan to travel this time of year.
Kavu Canvas Spectator Waist Pack
REI
Waist packs like this model from Kavu mean you can bring everything you need, like earbuds, ID cards, money, keys, sunscreen and snacks, without weighing yourself down. The pack sits right on your hips for easy access and closes securely with a zipper. Two separate pockets keep you organized, including a larger back pocket and a smaller one closer to the front of the pack.
