This week I feature five crowdfunding campaigns from Kickstarter and Indiegogo that have caught my eye for being unique and worth checking out. Click through to check out my list of this week’s notable Kickstarter projects.
Trayvax Contour wallet
What is it?
The Trayvax Contour is a US made metal and leather wallet that is part steampunk and part Indiana Jones.
Why do I like it?
I’m already a big fan of Trayvax. Their Summit wallet currently my favorite minimalist wallet. I love their unique design style, attention to detail and perfect construction. This new Contour wallet looks gorgeous to me. It brings together two things that I love: leather and metals. The Contour is a rugged wallet that looks as good on the trail as it does in a fancy restaurant. It’s made with 5 oz leather and a CNC machined steel base with a special scratch-proof Plasma vapor deposition coating.
Where can I find more info?
The Trayvax Contour campaign has a funding goal of $50,000 with 19 days left in the campaign. You can pre-order a wallet for $159 with an estimated delivery date of September 2016. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.
Securemate
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/initiumlabs/securmate-worlds-most-portable-security-system/description
What is it?
Securemate is a security system that is both portable and can be easily reinstalled as you travel from place to place.
Why do I like it?
I like that the system is inexpensive, wireless and is very easy to install. The sensor and controllers are mounted with 2-way stick tape so they can be repositioned or moved when needed. When the connection between the sensor and the controller is broken, an alarm will sound and a message will be sent to your phone. There are no monthly subscription fees except if you want the system to send an SMS message to your contacts if there is a security breach. The system reminds me of a more basic version of the SimpliSafe that I reviewed 7 years ago and still use today.
Where can I find more info?
The Securemate campaign has a funding goal of $30,000 with 35 days left in the campaign. You can pre-order a Securemate starter system (one controller and one sensor) for $99 with an estimated delivery date of April 2017. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Trainerbot
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1743882979/trainerbot-smart-ping-pong-robot
What is it?
Trainerbot is your personal table tennis (aka ping pong) partner that is never tired, is always ready for a game and doesn’t talk smack.
Why do I like it?
I don’t play ping pong, but if I did, I’d want a Trainerbot to help me hone my skills. This robot can be programmed using a mobile app to help you learn specific shots and to shoot anywhere on the table. The bot can hold 30 balls before needing a refill, and you can simulate games with different skill levels and create drills to practice your favorite shots.
Where can I find more info?
The Trainerbot campaign has a funding goal of $80,000 which has already been surpassed with 12 days left in the campaign. You can pre-order a Trainerbot for $329 with an estimated delivery date of March 2017. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Baubax wireless charging apparel
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/597538543/worlds-smartest-wireless-charging-apparel-baubax
What is it?
The Baubax wireless charging eco system is a collection of wearable Qi charging gear. Jackets, shorts, pants, and more that have built-in wireless chargers to charge your gear while you’re on the go.
Why do I like it?
I’m a huge fan of wireless charging, so this campaign is one that I would love to see become successful. Clothes with built-in wireless chargers sounds like a dream come true. Going for a walk? Just slip your phone in your back pocket and it will charge while you’re getting some exercise. The garments have thin charging pads that work with a rechargeable battery pack that you carry in a wallet and place in a special pocket of the garment. Wiring in the pocket connects to the charging pads where you place your gadget. The system will be compatible with devices that have wireless charging capability built in and will offer thin cases with that feature for devices like the iPhone that don’t have that feature.
Where can I find more info?
The Baubax campaign has a funding goal of $100,000 with 53 days left in the campaign. Prices for Baubax products vary depending on the item. Find the individual prices here, but as an example, men’s slim fit jeans can be pre-ordered for $89 and a women’s bomber jacket can be pre-ordered for $169. The estimated delivery date for the products is January 2017. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Pixel Ti and Ti-Dye Titanium microlights by TEC Accessories
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1868151987/pixel-ti-and-ti-dye-titanium-bright-and-rugged-mic
What is it?
The Pixel Ti and Ti-Dye Titanium microlights from TEC Accessories are tiny battery-powered flashlights that fit on your keychain or in your pocket.
Why do I like it?
I reviewed the original stainless steel version of the Pixel flashlight last year. I have a thing for tiny flashlights and although it isn’t one that you would use every day, this new version is made of titanium, so there’s that!
Where can I find more info?
The Pixel Ti and Ti-Dye Titanium microlights campaign has already surpassed their funding goal of $6,000 with 25 days left in the campaign. You can pre-order a Pixel Ti for $38 with an estimated delivery date of September 2016. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
