In redesigning its collars and packs, canine-lux brand Ruffwear was trying to think outside the plastic buckle. The Crag Collar ($20) uses a metal clasp called the Talon Hook that takes its design lead from outdoor brands (we’re guessing it may have been inspired by the clasps on Mountain Hardwear’s packs from the Erik Hamerschlag era, like the one below). It offers a more durable alternative to the traditional plastic clips, which can get chewed up by an anxious pup. The collar will also use Ruffwear’s Tubelok webbing to achieve a similar look and feel to tubular webbing. But unlike some webbed collars, the Crag’s fibers are locked in place to create a more durable surface—protection from when dogs scratch at their collars. —Nathan Borchelt
