This Year in Gear: 55 Notable Men’s Style Releases in 2017

With a deluge of new products hitting store shelves and browser windows every day, it’s easy to lose track of everything that happens in a year. So, to jog our memories a bit as the year winds to a close, we combed through our Today in Gear archives and other news briefs to reflect back on all of the notable products we discovered in 2017. The result is a new series we’re calling This Year in Gear, and we hope you’ll enjoy reviewing this snapshot of the fashion industry’s work as much as we have. Think we missed something, or just want to sound off on any trends you noticed? Let us know by dropping a comment on Facebook, Twitter or email.

Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression

One of the very first purpose-built dive watches to hit the market in 1953, the Super Sea Wolf is Zodiac’s most celebrated model — now, it’s back. The new Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression is an excellent reinterpretation of the original that’s wholly modern in construction. It features a 40mm case that houses an in-house automatic movement from Zodiac, as well as a rotating bezel made from stainless steel. The dial comes with thick, lune-coated markers, and a stainless steel bracelet means it can easily dress both up and down.

The General by Ray-Ban

Ray-Ban released The General back in 1987 as an homage to the legendary General Douglas MacArthur, one of the supreme commanders of the US Army during World War II. He was also known for wearing Ray-Bans — sort of like how Che Guevara is known for wearing a beret, or Winston Churchill is known for chewing on fat cigars. Now, MacArthur’s iconic shades are back — and they’re still just as cool.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Modern Lux

Chuck Taylors come in a dizzying number of variations, many of which are just meh. But these ones stand out. The silhouette positively oozes cosmopolitan cool. A premium leather upper and laces add a boot-like feel, a thick and sturdy outsole elevates you above city street grime. Truly a remarkable iteration of a sacred shoe design.

Nau Quintessentshell Trench

Trench coats are rarely messed with. It’s a traditional, conventional garment. But Nau thinks differently. They’ve established a reputation as a leading designer of forward-thinking, sustainable clothing, and it shows in this wonderfully modern trench coat.

Oliver Peoples x Berluti Sunglasses

Italian leather brand Berluti joined forces with luxury eyewear brand Oliver Peoples for a capsule collection consisting of three sunglasses. Oliver Peoples was originally an all-American endeavor, but it has been owned by Italian behemoth Luxottica since 2007. All this to say, the collection feels very Italian on Italian: rounded vintage-inspired shapes, subtle contrasts of materials and textures, a rich color palette. A manifestation of luxury, these frames will definitely up your eyewear game.

Everlane Elements Waterproof Jackets

According to Everlane, “there are two types of performance jackets: the kind that make you look like a rock climber, and the kind that cost a month’s rent.” The Elements line, Everlane says, is a third option. Both the jacket and the anorak have all the right stuff: a soft matte waterproof shell, heat-bonded seams, interior stash pockets and more. By the look of both jackets, though, you’d never think each costs less than $150.

Frye Chase Chelsea Boot

Since it was conceived in England in the mid-19th century, the chelsea boot has been one of the most versatile items in the modern man’s wardrobe. It is among the very few things that work well with both tailored trousers and beat-up blue jeans. Among the purest, most exemplary Chelsea boots is the Chase Chelsea, which is made in Italy with the finest Italian calf leather. And it does what Chelsea boots do best: elevate any look, no matter how dressed up or dressed down, to timeless excellence.

Todd Snyder x Lotuff Leather Men’s Day Satchel

At Todd Snyder’s runway event, this satchel, made in collaboration with New England–based Lotuff Leather, was met with such acclaim that it is now being released to the public. As you’d expect, it’s a handcrafted piece that’s guaranteed to become an heirloom.

Randolph Engineering Fusion P3 and Aviator Sunglasses

What’s one way to inoculate a pair of timeless frames with new mojo? Premium Mazzucchelli acetate hand inlays, that’s how. Randolph has updated the metal silhouettes of its Aviator and P3 shades with the dark material and the result is a balance struck between classic and contemporary.

PF Flyers All American Featuring New Balance Fresh Foam

PF Flyers knows how to do retro right: keep the philosophy of the original alive, take a few design cues too, then completely, thoroughly modernize every other aspect. The result is a faithful homage that’s as good as can be. The All American is based on a sneaker from the ’60s but features Fresh Foam tech from New Balance, a premium footbed and reinforced number 12 duck canvas — in both low- and hi-top silhouettes. PF Flyers has always been on top of the comfort and easy style game; the All American brings the brand’s heritage up to date in a big way.

Killspencer Dog Collection

You don only the finest clothes and accessories. Shouldn’t your best friend get a piece of that too? Killspencer’s new line of dog products features premium bull hide leather and heavy-duty nylon webbing. True, your pup loves you unconditionally — but if they could say thank you, you know they would.

Koio Collective Canvas Sneakers

The Koio Canvas is made in Italy and has a classic profile and modern colorways that make it easy to wear with both shorts and suits. Their versatility means dad can wear them to the office and out on the town.

Western Rise DryWeight Merino Henley

Merino wool has been evangelized enough. You get it. This Henley is made of the stuff, plus some moisture-wicking Tencel for good measure. Wear it during a night on the town, or for two shower-less weeks deep in the wilderness.

Grenson Sneaker 1

In 1866, William Green began making shoes by hand in a Northamptonshire loft. Fast forward 151 years, and his brand, Grenson, is still building high-quality, long-lasting footwear. This year, Grenson announced its first-ever sneaker. The Sneaker 1 is styled after the tennis footwear of the 1970s and constructed with premium leather stitched to a white rubber sole using the Goodyear Welt method the brand has implemented in all of its shoes since the 1800s.

Ministry of Supply Going Places Shorts

The secret ingredient supporting Ministry of Supply’s every-occasion shorts is its Going Places fabric, an abrasion- and wrinkle-resistant polyester warp knit that wicks moisture and stretches, which is good for, well, everything. The shorts allow for more movement — even with a tailored fit — and Ministry of Supply has fine-tuned the length to hit the sweet spot: right above the knee. Use code GEARPATROL17 at checkout and get the perfect summer shorts for 15% off.

Needessentials Primaloft Insulator Jacket

Needessentials is a relatively new company built on a radical concept: no advertising, no packaging, no brand ambassadors and no logos. This unconventional approach allows them to focus exclusively on making world-class surf and mountain gear, and to sell it much cheaper than traditional brands’ products. Here’s a lightweight jacket made of synthetic, water-resistant Primaloft insulation, with a quilted interior and exterior, elastic cuffs and more.

Lucchese Jonah Boots

Handmade in Texas, the Lucchese Jonah boot is a modern take on the classic roper boot. It features an inside zip, which allows for a slimmer profile (perfect for tapered jeans). Available in dark brown calf leather, black cherry calf leather and espresso Maracca suede calf leather, it’ll look just as good on the city streets as it will on a country road. — John Zientek

KFC Fried Chicken USA Sweatshirt

I can’t believe I’m saying this: KFC’s new line of merchandise is actually cool. (Maybe not the $20,000 sandwich-shaped meteorite, though.) Along with this retro-style crewneck sweatshirt, there are t-shirts, art prints, pins, socks and more. For the proper look, get some chicken grease and gravy stains on ’em.

Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants

The Rivet Pants are an update to previous Western Rise legwear, now in a slimmer profile and quite comfortable, thanks to a light form factor and a little bit of stretch; super tough, thanks to the nylon canvas material (they feel like they could take a more serious beating than I’m capable of givin’); versatile enough that I’ve worn them on an overnight international flight, through the next day, then paired them with a blazer for dinner.

Filson x US Forest Service Collection

You really can’t go wrong with U.S. Forest Sevice and Smokey Bear collaborations. Especially when it’s with Filson.

Stutterheim X Alpha Industries Collection

Combine military style with high-end Swedish rainwear, and good things are bound to happen.

A.P.C. Transmission Hardcover by Jean Touitou

In celebration of A.P.C.’s 30-year anniversary, Jean Touitou, the founder and creative director of A.P.C., created this gorgeous retrospective on the iconic French fashion label.

Wings + Horns Polartec Alpha Bomber Jacket

On the surface, this bomber looks calm and ready to drop bombs. Surely some of that confidence is owed to its Polartec Alpha insulation. Just don’t stain it with your mom’s spaghetti.

Tanner Goods x Alden Cap Toe Boot

Alden, a century-old artisan shoemaker in New England, teamed up with Tanner Goods to produce two exclusive boots. Both are handmade with waxed suede and rugged Goodyear rubber soles.

Voyej Superlative Collection

Indonesia-based leather goods brand Voyej’s Superlative Collection includes three wallets, a card holder and a bracelet. Each is made from Tochigi Saddle leather from Japan, features suede linings (where applicable) and ranges in price from $30 to $225. The distinctive leather is incredibly uniform, and will only look better as the years pass.

Uniqlo Easy Care Custom Shirts

Uniqlo

Yup. Uniqlo now sells custom shirts for $30 as an online exclusive. Choose fit, collar, color and measurements.

Red Wing Heritage Premium Leather Wallets and Accessories

Red Wing

Red Wing Heritage launched a line of premium leather goods featuring a range of leather from its own S.B. Foot Tanning Co. The collection includes wallets (six styles available in three types of leather), belts (available in eight types of leather), gloves (lined and unlined), coasters and a dopp kit. The accessories are fairly priced, and range from $29 (for coasters) to $190 (for the trucker wallet). It’s the the same quality you’ve come to with Red Wing Heritage boots, but in EDC and accessories you’ll use every day for years to come.

Tanner Goods Utility Gloves

Made in Japan, they come in finished leather or unpolished suede; color options include saddle brown and jet black. Inside, a knit wool lining provides cozy warmth, and a brass snap closure ensures a snug fit.

The North Face NSE Traction Chukka Lite WP II

The North Face continues its push into the style realm with two new winterized shoes. Emulating a down bootie, the Chukka features Primaloft insulation, a water-resistant nylon upper and a grippy rubber sole. The NSE Traction Lite Moc II has many of the same features, but in a slip-on, more casual shape. — Michael Finn

Cole Haan x BillyKirk Made in America Collection

One of our favorite leather-goods makers teamed up with Cole Haan for limited collection of tasteful products. The release included a black belt, Dopp kit and weekender, but the product that stood out the most was the handcrafted boot. Available in either black or natural Horween leather, this lightweight boot features a lug outsole, tonal leather welts and the flexibility and cushioning that Cole Haan is known for. — John Zientek

Patagonia Recycled Cashmere Sweater

Patagonia’s recycled cashmere collection features a host of wardrobe essentials made from cashmere factory scraps (blended with 5 percent wool). The crewneck sweater is a highlight of the collection, and features set-in sleeves and a ribbed hem and cuffs. It comes in blue, khaki and gray. It has no exterior branding to speak of. What’s more, it’s sustainable cashmere that’ll look good in any setting.

GoRuck Simple Windbreaker

The Simple Windbreaker may be light, but it’s also tough.

GrandExpløre Waterproof Alpine Hiker Boot

When Cole Haan makes an urban hiking boot, that’s when you know #gorpcore is a legitimate trend, not just another fad. Of all the fashionable hikers we’ve seen in the past few months (we’ve lost count), these are among the prettiest. The premium suede upper is waterproof, the sole is cushy yet rugged, and the brass back clip is a lovely nod to the metal crampons used in true alpine boots.

Wilson & Willy’s Half Raglan Trench

This textured version of the trench is made in the USA from an oxblood Japanese wool fabric. It features back panel raglan sleeve construction, double-needle stitching and genuine horn buttons. It’s highly versatile: throw it on over your favorite sweatshirt and jeans, or pair it with a button-down and slacks. It’s a great mid-weight piece of outerwear for any occasion.

Buck Mason Double Weave Vintage Two Pocket

Buck Mason’s work shirt is ideal for fall, capable of being worn as a undershirt or an insulating outer layer. It’s 100 percent cotton and double woven, so it’s strong and soft, and is available in several colors, including black, dark blue (Atlantic) and elm. — Tucker Bowe

Corridor Overshirts

Drawing from the tradition of French workshirts, Corridor’s line of overshirts features a patch pockets, corozo buttons and a standard collar. The shirts are cut from Japanese fabric and come in a range of colors: indigo, olive, rose, black and natural. For $250, they’re definitely an investment, but the style is timeless and you’ll be able to pair it with most things in your closet.

Levi’s x Outerknown Collection

Outerknown has teamed up with Levi’s to create a line of denim that is more sustainable and better for the planet. The jeans feature Levi’s Water-less fabric that saves more than 65 percent of the water used in the dye process (compared to conventional dying) and up to 50 percent less water than traditional finishing. The jeans are made from 100 percent Supima cotton, and the components of the garment — fabric, thread, pocketing, labels — are designed for recyclability and a future closed-loop recycling projects. The jeans come in indigo and black, and are cut in Levi’s 511 slim fit silhouette. Now the collection features two jeans ($128) and a trucker jacket ($185), but it will be fleshed out with more products in coming weeks.

American Giant Duffel

American Giant has applied its no-nonsense approach to clothing to the minimalist duffel bag. The focus is on quality materials and design, not reinventing the wheel. This bag is made from durable cotton duck canvas, features load-bearing seams and zippers and is big enough to carry everything you need for two days. If you need a well-made multi-function duffel, check this one out first.

Vans x Finisterre Collab

Vans and British surf brand Finisterre are situated on different oceans but sharee the same penchant for adventure. Their recent collaboration is proof. One shoe is a wool-lined chukka ideal for winter, another a lightweight high-top made for far-flung travels, the third a new take on surf classic. All place set a high bar for style, because neither company would have it any other way.

Civic The Oscar Sweater

The newest release from Taylor Stitch’s commuter-focused brand Civic is an understated sweater dubbed the Oscar. Knitted from a blend of Merino wool and highly-breathable Coolmax, it’s designed to keep your temperature perfectly regulated on the morning ride to work. With raglan sleeves and a ribbed collar and cuffs, the Oscar won’t look out of place in the office or a meeting with clients. It’s a versatile wardrobe staple — built to perform — that won’t break the bank. — John Zientek

Mission Workshop Bridgeman Pea Coat

Mission Workshop’s new jacket offers the traditional looks of a peacoat with 3-layer softshell fabric from Schoeller that’s windproof, highly water resistant, breathable, insulating and stretches in four directions. It epitomizes what the brand’s Advanced Project series is all about: making products designed with zero compromises.

The North Face Black Series

The North Face may be one of the biggest outdoor gear companies on the planet, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t experiment with small, sometimes secretive, side projects. The Black Series used to fit into that category — as part of the brand’s lesser-known Urban Exploration project, the Black Series marries the outdoor function of some of its most successful pieces with a style that leans heavily on cues picked up from Japanese streetwear. The catch? The collection was only available in a few brick and mortar stores located around the world (the only North American location was in San Francisco). But “was” is the key word here — because the Black Series is now available online, for a limited time, of course.

Ginew Crow Wing Jean

After the recent news that the White Oak plant in North Carolina will be closing, American selvedge denim will soon be a thing of the past. If you want to invest in a pair now, Oregon-based Ginew just released a new jean that is completely sourced and constructed in America. Each pair features 2017 Cone Mills White Oak 13.75 ounce selvedge denim, custom hardware, and a hunter deerskin patch. — John Zientek

Ray-Bans Aviator 1937
Ray-Bans newest limited edition looks to bring back the details of its first aviator sunglasses, launched way back in the 1930s. It includes vintage-inspired details like the original drop-shaped green crystal G-15 lenses set against gold-tone frames, as well as mother of pearl accents on the nose pads and temple tips. — Andrew Connor

Shockoe Atelier Selvedge Duck Canvas Pants

Available in olive and khaki colorways, these pants are made from 11 ounce selvedge duck canvas from Collect Mills. The silhouette is flattering on many body types — a mid-high rise, generous seat and thighs and a slightly taped leg — and the construction is top notch. The pants feature tonal stitching, leather backed rivets and buttons, lined back pockets and reinforced front pockets. If you’re looking to get something other than denim this season, these are your pants. — John Zientek

Tanner Goods Rough Out Collection

From the leather masters at Tanner Goods comes four all-new leather accessories: slim card sleeve, glasses case, zip wallet and bifold wallet. Each is crafted with premium unfinished leather, affording a roughed-up and raw look that’ll develop a rich, golden patina.

American Giant Coach’s Jacket and Anorak

American Giant’s new Coach’s Jacket and Anorak. Both styles are made from wind- and water-resistant nylon, feature reinforced elbow patches and include elevated details like ripper-tipped drawcords. The Anorak retails for $79 and the Coach’s Jacket retails for $89, so you don’t have to break the bank to have a piece of stylish outerwear as the seasons change.

Helm Boots Lane Boot

In 2012, after three years of manufacturing in Istanbul, Helm Boots returned to the U.S., bringing with them a hard-earned mastery of fine leather boot making. Handcrafted in Maine and Arkansas, their leather boots are the embodiment of Americana style: rugged, utilitarian, refined. The Lane Boot is a military-inspired silhouette, with traditional details like Horween premium leather upper and an oil-treated sole; subtle modern features, like a suede heel and white midsole, give the boot city sensibility.

Viberg Slip-On

For many years, Viberg has been well-regarded for making ludicrously luxurious boots; years from now, they may also be well-regarded for their slip-ons. These are the first slip-ons they’ve made. They’re constructed much like a chelsea boot, with a single piece of suede, minus the ankle. Available this Friday.

Beckett Simonon Domingo Duffel Bag

Every man should invest in a weekender that will age well. As years pass and your seats in coach become seats in first class, a beautiful leather bag will never look out of place. This full-grain oxblood leather duffel from Beckett Simonon fits the bill, and at $359, it’s hard to pass up. – John Zientek, Associate Staff Writer

Frost River Heritage Black Summit Expedition Pack

Handmade in Duluth, Minnesota, this rugged canvas backpack is nearly identical to the kind worn by wilderness adventurers centuries ago, as seen in the buckle-closure lid, drawstring main compartment, large side pockets, leather details and more.

Clarks Originals Trigenic Evo Sneakers

Clarks Originals — the British company best known for its iconic Desert Boots and Wallabees shoes — dropped a new lifestyle sneaker called the Trigenic Evo, the successor to last year’s Trigenic Flex. While the new shoes feature a futuristic silhouette, the driving design principle, known as the ‘Hygienic’ concept, dates back to 1883. The three-part Vibram sole brings ease of movement and the asymmetrical last mimics the shape of the foot to provide maximum comfort to wearers. Available now.

Vollebak 100 Year Hoodie

You’ve heard about durable fabric before; brands have been incorporating Dyneema into motorcycle apparel for years for added abrasion resistance. But have you ever heard of color-changing durable fabric? Vollebak’s 100 Year Hoodie features this material, a soft and breathable 100 percent Kevlar fleece. It’s highly resistant to rips and abrasion, and it’s also able to withstand extreme temperatures. The designers at Vollebak opted to leave the fabric undyed, showcasing the fiber’s pale yellow hue, but due to the nature of the material, when it’s exposed to sunlight it will darken, giving the garment an aged look within days. Different shades, marks and lines will appear over time, giving the garment a wholly unique appearance. This hoodie will stand the test of time, and its appearance will reflect every passing year.

Feit Runner Collection

The Runner boasts a seamless one-piece construction and a sleek appearance that belies the shoe’s running roots. It takes cues from Nike’s Cortez and classic Brooks models, yet stands out thanks to a handcrafted leather body and minimalist palette. The vegetable-tanned half-cordovan leather forms to the wearer’s foot, so even if you don’t wear The Runner while actually running, they’ll get better over time.

Korchmar Centennial Collection

For their Centennial Collection, American luggage maker Korchmar goes presidential. The collection’s seven bags pay tribute to past Commanders-in-Chief. From the Taft (a weekender bag) to the Roosevelt (a luxurious leather laptop case), each piece will give wearers a refined style like the steadfast leaders they’re named after. The bags rely on classic silhouettes and superb materials to make an understated style statement. Among the collection’s seven bags, there’s something for every business and travel need.

Todd Snyder and Timex Reissue Classic Watches in Exclusive Colorways

The Reissue Collection is the latest offering of classic watches from Todd Snyder’s ongoing collaboration with Timex. The New York–based designer is offering a range of watches in a variety of colorways. The best-selling Military watch ($138) is now offered in black, white and gray faces, and the popular Mod watch is offered with a new cream-and-olive face. The collaboration also features a modernized version of the Ironman watch (a digital piece first launched in 1984).

Pilgrim Surf Supply Salathe Climbing Pant

As part of its fall collection, Pilgrim Surf Supply has created a modern update of the iconic Gramicci climbing pant. Dubbed the Salathe Climbing Pant, the style includes classic climbing pant features: an elastic waist and webbing belt, back bucket pockets and a gusseted crotch. The Gramicci Original G pant is cut in a straight leg fit; the Salathe pant differs, featuring a relaxed silhouette with a dropped crotch and a slightly tapered wide leg. Available in heavy twill ($215) and corduroy ($225), the pants are on preorder now, expected to ship by the end of the month. But if you don’t want to drop two Benjamins on these, you could always buy the original for just $25.

Your Favorite Levi’s 501s, Now More Durable and Flexible

The Levi’s 501 has been the quintessential jean since its creation in 1873. The construction hasn’t changed much in over a century, and the silhouette is versatile and timeless. This week, Levi’s released an updated iteration of the 501 for its skateboarding line, designed to be more durable and flexible.

It’s the same 501 shape you know — a straight leg, button fly pant that sits at the waist — but the fabric has 17 percent Cordura for added durability and 23 percent Lycra for stretch. The back pockets are double-layered, and the pants are reinforced with rivets and bar tack stitches. Though designed with skateboarding in mind, these pants are ideal for anyone who requires a bit more from their jeans.

Additional editorial contributions were made by Andrew Connor, Bryan Campbell, Michael Finn, Nick Caruso, John Zientek and Grant Tillery/em>

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