Another week, another 5 cool things but this week, those things come in the form of a bag from USWE with unique shoulder straps, funky kit straps from Granite, PNW’s new Range Gen 3 bar, and some waterproof shocks from Dexshell, ideal for winter riding. Let’s get stuck in.

PNW Range Gen 3 handlebar

£51

2021 pnw range handlebar gen 3 5ct.jpg
2021 pnw range handlebar gen 3 5ct (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

First up, we’ve got the PNW Range Gen 3 handlebar making its way through the office. It comes with an 800mm width and a new 35mm diameter option if you’re looking for a stiffer cockpit. It’s made using 2014 aluminium as PNW says it resembles carbon fibre’s ability to absorb chatter.

Along with all of those neat features there’s an impressive array of colours on offer.

USWE Shred 16 Daypack

£160

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2021 uswe shred 16 5ct (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

The coolest feature of USWE’s bags is that they come with the brand’s interesting No Dancing Monkey straps and that’s no different with the Shred 16. Here, it’s paired with a Snug-Me harness system with integrated straps that expand across the chest during physical exertion. That system is claimed to keep the pack snug but compliant fit.

Those straps are specially designed to spread the weight of the pack evenly over the shoulders and the straps come kitted with quick-click attachments so you can quickly add modular pockets. Along with that, it comes with a host of handy features such as a helmet holder, space for a hydration bladder, a zipped top pocket big enough to store goggles and a hidden rain cover.

Granite Designs Rockband

£10

2021 granite design rockband 5ct.jpg
2021 granite design rockband 5ct (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

My favourite fact about the Granite Designs Rockbands is that they’re sewn together by a ragtag crew made up of the brand’s Cheif Designer’s Mum and her mates because, well, they’re just that good at it.

Aside from the especially rad colours, what makes these straps special is a neat sub-strap that keeps everything extra secure.

DexShell Ultra Dri Sports Socks

£34

2021 dexshell ultra dri socks 5ct.jpg
2021 dexshell ultra dri socks 5ct (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Dexshell’s Ultra Dri Sports Socks are waterproof socks designed to cope with the rigours of mountain biking. They’re built with a Porelle membrane that’s designed to be waterproof while breathable and a drirelease wool blend inner with merino offers up the sock’s moisture management. Finally, these socks are built with a Dexlok seal to stop water from finding its way through the cuff.

Amplifi Track 17 backpack

£100

2021 amplifi track 17 backpack 5ct.jpg
2021 amplifi track 17 backpack 5ct (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Rounding off this week’s 5 cool things is Amplifi’s Track 17 Stealth Black backpack. It’s designed to be compact with an auto-compression hip belt that promises a perfect fit and great load distribution.

It comes littered with pockets and pouches to hold such things as goggles, a helmet, body protection, a hydration bladder and all of the tools you’ll need out on the trail.

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