Two weeks ago, the team here at Gear Patrol took a leap and opened the doors to our first two-day immersive experience called Stocked: A Product Culture Conference presented by Hill City. The event took place at Classic Car Club Manhattan, a perfect setting for an event of this kind. We had never put on anything of this scale and scope, and it certainly required some serious faith to believe that once we built it, folks would show up. They came by the hundreds, and we could not be more pleased with such an enthusiastic response. Thank you to all who attended and each brand that participated. We couldn’t have done it without you.

Day One: The Conference

On Day One, attendees were treated to an exclusive complement of inspirational panels and presentations from special guests and Gear Patrol editors that exemplified what we mean when we talk about product journalism. After an introductory panel on human design with Hill City and OXO, the content ranged from additional panels on game-changing products with The North Face to spotting the next collectible with Knob Creek and Herman Miller. Presentations included a deep dive with our editors into why a cooler made from recycled paper particles would make Gear Patrol’s list of the best products of the year and concluded with some intensely personal storytelling from adventure photographer Chris Burkard.

Day Two: The Marketplace

Day Two opened things up to the public, creating a marketplace for both commerce and product education. Visitors were treated to a highly-curated mix of products on display and for sale from brands including: Hill City, Dyson, Seiko, Sennheiser, Triumph Motorcycles, Couple Co. and Cardon. And there were also several how-to classes were taught on site by brands such as: Ladder, Le Creuset, Best Made Co., Topo Designs, Worn & Wound, Faribault Woolen Mill Co. and The James Brand.

Not to mention, free beverages were flowing from our friends at Knob Creek, Brooklyn Brewery and Partners Coffee. Hundreds of readers, followers, fans and visitors made their way through the marketplace, all learning more about these products, the craftsmanship that goes into them, and the ways they enhance everyday life.

What’s Next?
We are now excited to officially announce that this event will be the first of many more to come. So if you missed out on the festivities this year, don’t worry. Get prepared for Stocked 2020. If interested, sign up below for updates on exactly when and where the next Stocked will be happening. See you next year!