Tobias Wong, one of the most prolific and innovative designers I know, created this mitten way back in 2004, but I just had to include this today because the concept is as strong as ever, and I guess I just think it's funny. Anyone who lives in a cold weather location, and likes to smoke will have discovered that new laws here in the U.S. prevent people from lighting up in bars and restaurants. I'm all for this law, but for the people who have to feed their habit they would have to freeze their hands on a cold winter's night just to enjoy a smoke. Fret no more, smokers. Now you have available the smoking mitten. Two simple, well positioned holes in the mitten between the index and middle fingers now keep you warm and toasty and full of nicotine. Thank you Mr. Wong.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Smoking Accessories
- Opportunity to design innovative smoking accessories that address smoking restrictions in cold weather locations.
- Tech-infused Fashion
- Disruptive innovation opportunity to integrate technology into fashion items like mittens to cater to specific needs.
- Personalized Winter Gear
- Potential for disruptive innovation by creating customized winter gear that caters to specific activities like smoking.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Fashion
- Opportunity for fashion industry to explore new product designs that cater to niche needs like smoking in cold weather.
- Tech
- Integration of technology into fashion accessories creates opportunities for the tech industry to collaborate with fashion designers.
- Outdoor Recreation
- Opportunity for outdoor gear manufacturers to create specialized winter gear for smokers who need to smoke in cold weather.
