“Head out on the highway, looking for adventure and whatever comes our way” – Steppenwolf, Born to be Wild.
Move over pocket-ripping and bulky multi-tools!
Portland, Oregon-based Leatherman Tools has recently launched an industry first; their vision of a fully-functional multi-tool that can be worn around the wrist in the form of the Leatherman Tread.
The Tread is crafted from high-strength, corrosion-resistant 17-4 stainless steel links that include two to three functional tools each. In total, the Leatherman Tread includes 25 usable features ranging from box wrenches to screwdrivers that are all available at a moment’s notice.
Currently, the Letterman Tread is being marketed in 2 formats as a bracelet or wristband (2 colors- silver and black) and as a watch strap (again 2 colors silver and black). Although you may not have all the functionality you see with a normal multi-purpose tool like the pliers or blade, the company has launched a pretty badass heavy-metal product for those looking for a new take on the common multitool. The tools themselves are located in the links which make up the bracelet and they are all curved inwards so that there are no nasty marks or snags left on your clothing at any point.
In addition to servicing a cold beer, the Tread also provides the outdoor enthusiast with a hex key, quarter-inch socket squares, a variation of screwdrivers, a sharp cutter, a pick that’s capable of opening a broken smartphone and wrenches. Flip the strap over and each link is labeled in case you forget which tool you’re dealing with.
Although the ergonomics are clearly nowhere near that of a traditional tool, try wearing a traditional toolbox around your wrist. Additionally, users have the ability to customize the slotted fasteners for rearranging links, adding new ones, or just simply adjusting for wrist size.
Depending on the version you buy, the Tread will set you back anywhere between $150-$200. I trust Leatherman completely when it comes to their tools; they have done a fantastic job with the Tread giving it a utilitarian look with very few chinks in the armor. Although the Tread will never really replace a multi-purpose tool by any means, it is definitely a novelty product and a guaranteed conversation starter.
Find out more over at Leatherman.
