The top 11 innovations in recreation this year

Skis that fold in half, wool that glows, and a smokeless fire.

CAT7 Connect Bat

Most bats approved for college and high-school leagues feature only an inch-wide sweet spot—that ideal location where the ball will rocket off fastest. Marucci machined this one with walls of varying thickness; each section, including the large center of percussion in the middle of the barrel, is calibrated to give the ball just the right trampoline effect. A vibration dampener keeps the impact from stinging your hands. $350.