Black Diamond’s innovation marches forward with these products being shown at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market this week in Denver
Camalot Z4
What? Another camming device line from Black Diamond? This seven-piece line solves an age-old problem for crack aficionados. A patent-pending RigidFlex stem performs the magic, creating a single stem cam that stays rigid in hand to aid placement but morphs into a flexible stem upon trigger release, preventing walking. Additionally, stems on the larger cams flex uniformly in all directions, while stems on the smaller sizes resist buckling under hard trigger pressure. The head widths mimic the old Camalot C3’s, but with sandblasted lobes for improved grip. Sizing starts at #0, BD’s smallest cam ever, and ranges to .75. MSRP will be $70 across all sizes.
AirNet Harness
Climbing fans know that BD athlete Adam Ondra has been eschewing outdoor projects to concentrate on training for the 2020 Olympics. Black Diamond collaborated with the phenom to create the ultimate competition harness, the AirNet. The men’s medium hits the scales at a claimed 8.3 ounces, while the women’s small is claimed to be a scant 8 ounces. The patented “net” technology combines amazing breathability with effective load distribution. An innovative Infinity Belay Loop rounds out the Olympic bound package. MSRP will be $160.
Session Approach Shoe
An approach shoe that’s equally appropriate for the crag, gym, and urban environments. A stretch fit heel allows on and off without messing with the laces and an integrated bootie hugs the foot like a sock. A breathable and stretchy knit upper keeps the comfort intact across wide temperature swings and foot movements. Tuned EVA in the midsole blends cushioning and stability, while a new Black Diamond rubber technology ensures grip at the crag or on commutes. Webbing loops for clipping finish off BD’s entry into approach shoes, which will retail for $120.
Cirrus 9 Backpack
OK, get this: An accessory pack that weighs 1 ounce and packs to the size of an egg! The lightest pack ever made starts with a super light fabric and features clever Splice Adjust shoulder straps, which employ “Chinese finger trap technology” for the most minimalist of adjustment mechanisms. This one of a kind pack can live unnoticed in the pack, ready for summit blitzes or unplanned circumstances. MSRP will be $50.