One of my favorite parts of attending Outdoor Retailer shows is discovering new companies that make cool gear. This year my favorite discovery was UCO, who have made it their mission to light up your camp, keep you warm, and help you cook in true minimalist style.
Anyone who camps or backpacks needs a good light source. UCO headlamps feature a very unique design, with almost a steampunk style to them. They run the full gamut in lumens and sizes, and are budget friendly. I really like the functionality of the headstraps; the stretch-fit system is way less of a headache than the ratchet system on most headlamps. Another standout feature is the variable power system. Users can charge via USB, or go with battery power.
As for warmth, who doesn’t love a good campfire? UCO had a full display of fire starting solutions at their booth, including the aptly-named Titan Stormproof matches. Strike one of these monsters and you will get a burn time of thirty seconds, and there isn’t much that can put them out. UCO’s rep told me that at the outdoor demo they submerged the Titan matches in water, threw dirt on them, and buried them under rocks to no avail. For anyone who has ever tried lighting a fire in damp conditions (a potential emergency situation that I have personally experienced), the Titan Stormproof matches could be a must-have in your pack.
While UCO’s display was small, their offerings were many. Aside from the Titan matches, the company also makes an array of Sweet Fire fire starters derived from sugarcane byproduct. Some versions even feature the same unstoppable burning agents from the Stormproof line. The largest in the lineup burns for up to 15 minutes!
Additionally, the company offers solid fuel stoves (the Esbit stove and pot are a great backpacker’s combo) and innovative camp grills. If you need to round out your gear collection with some innovative essentials, UCO has you covered. To check out their new offerings, hit their website at www.ucogear.com.