Mission Trajectory

Mission Trajectory 

Have you ever had a random idea that suddenly made everything click?

For me, one of those moments happened late one night while listening to The Planets by Gustav Holst. It's one of my favorite pieces of classical music and I’d listened to it many times before, but that night it hit differently. Each movement felt like its own world - vivid, moving and bold. And it got me thinking: What if I designed a product line inspired by each of these planets? What if the music could guide the feel, performance and aesthetic of physical products?

That idea lit a spark.

What followed was a deep dive into how I could build something truly unique, something that blends my love for the outdoors, design, and music. I began writing and sketching my vision. This is Mission Trajectory - my vision for where things are heading and the collections I’m currently building.

MERCURY - The Running Line

Mercury is the smallest and fastest planet. The movement in Holst’s composition is quick, sharp, and agile—and that’s exactly the spirit behind the running collection. Built for speed, simplicity, and efficiency, this line will include:

• A technical t-shirt and long sleeve

• A running hoodie (made with Polartec PowerAir that reduces microplastic shedding)

• A lightweight, functional running hip pack

This is gear for training, racing, and logging miles on the road or trail - durable, breathable, and built to move.

VENUS - The Trail Running Line

Venus is all about flow and heat, with lush textures and layers in the music that reminded me of those long days in the sun on winding trail runs. The Venus collection is your trail-ready system:

• Lightweight sun hoodie

• Quarter-zip fleece

• Polartec Alpha insulated jacket

• Trail running vest backpack (to be determined)

It’s made for elevation gain, early starts, and late finishes—the kind of gear you don’t have to think twice about.

MARS - The Climbing + Hiking Line

Mars has power. The composition is bold and aggressive - just like the grit and strength needed on a climb or big hike. The Mars collection will include:

• Chalk bags and a chalk bucket

• A rugged hiking/climbing backpack

Simple, tough, and ready for the crag or backcountry trails.

JUPITER - Everyday Carry / City-to-Mountain Line

Jupiter is the biggest and boldest, but also the most joyful movement. It made me think of versatility—products you can take anywhere, every day. The Jupiter collection will feature:

• A roll-top backpack

• A zippered backpack

Whether you're biking to work, heading to the gym, or chasing the weekend into the hills, this line blends everyday utility with outdoor durability. More to come on this collection.

URANUS - The Ski Line

Uranus evokes magic and wonder, like the feeling of dropping into an untouched ski line. This line will be for skiers - products designed for days in the backcountry, uphill laps and deep winter days. More to come here as it takes shape.

NEPTUNE - The Ice Climbing Line

This will be the evolution of my original Alto Gear line - products for cold, ice climbing adventures. Neptune feels like the far edge of what's possible, and that’s how I want this line to feel too. There’s something beautiful and harsh about ice climbing gear, and I want to build pieces that match that energy.

Why I’m Sharing This

Summit Design Works has always been about intention—making every product by hand, in small batches, with care and purpose. This new collection concept is no different. It’s deeply personal, but also something I hope connects with you.

I wanted to share this “roadmap” not just as a preview of what’s coming, but as an open look into where I’m going with this business. Transparency matters. I’m building these collections one piece at a time, testing and refining everything. Some pieces are nearly ready. Others are still in sketchbooks or half-sewn prototypes in my workroom. But this is the path - and I’m excited to walk it.

If you’ve been following along, supporting the journey, or rocking any of my early pieces: thank you. It means more than you know. And if you're new here - welcome. We’re just getting started.

– Ben
Founder, Summit Design Works