Gear doesn’t make the adventure, but it can make the adventure better. Here are the latest tools and toys you won’t want to leave home without.
Hiking
Tested: Para’Kito Mosquito Repellent Roll-On
It packed a powerful punch, and I felt better about putting the all-natural formula on my skin than the chemical alternative. Para’Kito is made with essential oils and lasted about 3 hours before needing reapplication when I used it on a hot, humid, sweaty hike. The roll-on gel was easy to apply and worked great for repelling mosquitoes and gnats, but it won’t solve the tick problem. Nonetheless, it’s worth having — especially for extra protection on target areas like your ankles. $20. us.parakito.com
—Shalini Kovach
FITS Light Performance Trail Quarter Length
Designed to reach just above your boot, the cuff acts as a guard to keep out trail debris. Below, a vented instep section increases breathability during aerobic activities. There’s extra cushioning in the heel, toe and the arch, and increased durability in high abrasion areas. Made for cooler weather, the lightweight sock is a merino wool/nylon/polyester/lycra blend. $18. fitssock.com
LifeStraw Flex
The new LifeStraw Flex is a versatile water filter that can be used in five different ways: as a personal straw, with the included soft bottle, attached to a plastic water bottle or hydration bladder, or as a gravity filter. It exceeds NSF 53 drinking water standards for reduction of lead and, like all LifeStraw products, removes 99.999999% of bacteria and 99.999% of protozoa. Price TBD. lifestraw.com
L.L. Bean 30th Anniversary Gore-Tex Cresta Hikers
This retro-chic version of L.L. Bean’s bestselling hiking boot is made of Italian leather with nylon mesh panels in red (men’s) or purple (women’s). A waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable, and a Vibram rubber outsole is lugged for reliable traction on any trail. Get the limited anniversary edition now before it’s too late! $249. llbean.com
Osprey Eja 38
A women’s version of the Exos, the Eja features a tensioned lattice that keeps the pack off your back for ventilation. Seamless layered mesh on the harness and hip belt provides cushion and comfort. The pack has a removeable floating lid and compression straps, trekking pole attachment and removable sleeping bag straps — allowing functionality but also the ability to strip weight. $180. ospreypacks.com
Climbing
Trango Catalyst 9.0mm
Unicore technology bonds the sheath and core together to produce the same fall rating as many 10-millimeter ropes. This cord is a lightweight solution for everything from hard sends to long alpine routes and outperforms other skinny ropes in the event of sheath damage. Available in 70- and 80-meter lengths with middle marks and Duo Dry protection on every rope. $260 (70 meter). trango.com
So iLL The Approach
The soul of a vintage climbing shoe and the bones of a technical approach shoe. Focusing on durability and flexible construction, So iLL took its uber-sticky Dark Matter rubber and built an all-new cupsole. On top of that, the company constructed a throwback, mid-top-style shoe that transitions perfectly from the crag to the streets and back. $199. soillholds.com
Petzl Boreo
The hard outer shell is impact and scratch resistant, with a foam liner and inner core to save weight and reinforce against lateral, front and rear impact. Wide ventilation holes make it a comfortable helmet in warmer temperatures. The Boreo comes equipped with four clips for headlamp attachment and is also compatible with the Vizion eye shield. $65. petzl.com
Mountain Hardwear Multi-Pitch 25
As its name indicates, this new climbing bag can swallow 25 liters in its main cargo hold, which you access through the zippered top lid. Daisy-chain attachments let you secure a helmet and other gear, and mesh side pockets stow shoes or a water bottle. A tuck-away hip belt adds carrying comfort. Also available in 16- and 40-liter sizes. $110 (25 liter). mountainhardwear.com
Black Diamond Vision Harness
Billed as Black Diamond’s lightest performance harness ever, the Vision has trimmed every gram possible. It weighs less than 9 ounces and packs small, yet the Vectran sailcloth material in the waistband and leg loops is amazingly strong and abrasion resistant. Elastic in the leg loops supports wearing layers for cold-weather climbing. $150. blackdiamondequipment.com
Biking
Specialized Tarmac Pro
In crafting the new Tarmac, Specialized utilized aerospace composite optimization software and the most advanced carbon material it had at its disposal. The result is a 20% reduction in frame weight. It also revamped the geometry for instantaneous response and optimal power transfer. In short, your next hill climb PR awaits. $6,000. specialized.com
Tested: Club Ride Gravity Flannel
I love the rugged texture and weight of this shirt. It’s made of a heavy polyester weave, not your soft preppy stuff, meaning extra protection when you’re riding single track in cooler weather. The cut is trim and athletic, but not inhibiting. Mesh in the underarms allows venting, and a rear zipper pocket can store your iPod or gel packets. Reflective accents on the cuffs are a nice touch for safer biking at night. I wear mine to work, to the trail and to the tavern. Available in rust or olive. $100. clubrideapparel.com
—Brad Kovach
Funkier Arona
Nobody wants to feel constricted “down there.” The Arona shorts offer support without tightness; making them comfortable for all body types. The soft silicone gripper keeps the leg in place, while the redesigned chamois is perforated with gel pockets, multi-layer foam and four-way stretch fabric for impact absorption, flexibility and reduced chafing. $60. funkierbike.com
Tested: Watershed McKenzie
This isn’t your normal bikepacking bag, which is great for those who want to go from the bike to the boat. The difference is the ZipDry closure. It makes the McKenzie 100% submersible. There’s a handle for carrying, plus two bungee-cord clamps and a Velcro loop that attach to your bike. Installation was quick and easy, though there was some jostling while under way. The McKenzie holds 15 liters, which means you might need a saddle bag, too, but for day trips and dirtbag overnighters on or near the water, this bag is a natural. $129. drybags.com
—B.K.
Thule Vital 8L
The magnetic hose return on the Vital is totally hands-free, allowing you to keep your attention on the road or trail. Jersey-style pockets at the waist allow access to nutrition or tools without having to stop. The interior holds a Hydrapak reservoir up to 2.5 liters and has designated storage for a tire pump, sock pump and more. Also available in 3- and 6-liter sizes. $140 (8 liter). thule.com
Water Sports
Tested: OluKai Nohea Moku
Water shoe or not, I’ve been wearing the Nohea Moku for months in all kinds of conditions. The stretch bootie upper is barefoot comfortable, breathable and quick drying. If you end up dunking the shoe, medial water ports drain the excess wet stuff. The non-marking rubber sole hasn’t let me slip once, and I like that the Drop-In Heel lets me slide my foot in and wear the Nohea Moku as a slip-on, or as a traditional heeled shoe. Due to the relaxed fit, OluKai recommends ordering a half size down — a good call. $95. olukai.com
—B.K.
Bote Rover
The Rover is a pretty radical SUP. Its modular Rac Receiver System lets you configure it several ways in a matter of minutes, with no tools required. Add the Moro Rac (included) and up to 6-horsepower motor, or the Grab Rac, Tackle Rac and Bucket Rac (sold separately). It’s like a mini fishing skiff with the soul of a paddleboard. Price TBD. boteboard.com
Buff Aqua Gloves
Protect your hands from sun, surf, chafing and cuts. The all-over silicone palm provides an excellent grip on your paddle or rod, and the anti-microbial fabric prevents unpleasant odors. The gloves are built for maximum durability, ensuring they will last for years. Pull tabs at the wrist and middle finger allow easy-on, easy-off, even when wet. $30. buffusa.com
Scott G-Series
Scott reinvented its iconic G rods for this year with a new hollow internal ferrule and advanced multi-modulus layup. The result? They balance lighter in the hand, have much more stability through the middle for better tracking and generate higher line speeds. Available in 12 models from 7 feet, 7 inches to 9 feet and from 2- to 6-weight line. $845. scottflyrod.com
Astral Ringo
Continuing with the theme of the women’s Layla, the Ringo is made with 500-denier Cordura in colors that reflect modern outdoor gear. A rugged, protective PFD with extreme comfort, it has a tri-panel front, full coverage for a slim fit, quick release harness compatibility and easy-access pocket. Use it for whitewater, sea, tour and SUP. $150. astraldesigns
Running
Tested: Adidas Terrex Agravic GTX
Adidas isn’t a brand widely recognized for trail running shoes, but the Terrex Agravic is a game-changer. It’s one of the best shoes I’ve run in on some of the steepest, rockiest, most technical terrain around. Its aggressive tread goes head-to-head with competitive models like the La Sportiva Bushido and Salomon Speedcross, but without the bulk. The shoes have a 6.5-millimeter drop and fit snug, with a narrow toe box, but it’s one of those shoes that instantly connects with your foot for a smooth ride and sure feel. $165. adidas.com
—S.K
Columbia Titan Wind Block
This tight lets you run like the wind, even when it’s windy. Features include a sweat-wicking stretch construction with windproof paneling to provide protection from the elements, zip pocket storage and reflective logos for increased visibility. $80. columbia.com
TomTom Spark 3 Cardio
The refreshed Spark 3 Cardio has an improved heartrate monitor with a battery life of up to nine hours, plus available 3G storage for music on the Bluetooth headphones (a $60 upgrade). GPS tracking provides speed, pace, distance and location data during your sports. Multiple modes track runs, bike rides, swims, gym workouts and more. $189. tomtom.com
GoMotion Xtend Lightvest
Not a fan of headlamps or want more visibility? The Xtend Lightvest is a lightweight, reflective singlet with a 150-lumen Cree LED mounted at chest level. Buckle adjustments let you dial in the fit based on your size and outerwear. A lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack provides the power. $70. gomotiongear.com
Brooks Revel
Designed with versatility in mind, the new Revel offers support and performance on the run. The shoe’s internal bootie is designed to surround your foot in all-day comfort. The BioMoGo DNA midsole dynamically adapts to your stride for just-right softness underfoot. A 12-millimeter drop caters to heel-strikers. $100. brooksrunning.com
Camping
MSR Hubba Tour 2
Designed for self-supported adventures, the Hubba Tour 2 offers space for more storage and greater comfort — two things that make all the difference when you’re trekking for a week or more. The tent’s exoskeleton frame sets up fast, and the large hooped vestibule offers a protected area for changing wet clothes or prepping and storing gear. $650. msrgear.com
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Camper Duo
When comfort trumps minimalism, this two-person camping pad delivers outdoor luxury with two independent chambers and valves, so both of you can customize your side. Gapless connections offer a consistent sleep surface across the 50-inch-wide, 3-inch-thick mattress. Stuff sack and repair kit included. $300. thermarest.com
Alps Mountaineering Camber
The new Camber provides a comfortable, relaxed sitting position due in part to its nylon mesh center and 420-denier polyester honeycomb fabric. The chair easily folds for transport into the included shoulder carry bag. Available in citrus and red. Price TBD. alpsmountaineering.com
Sierra Designs Cloud
We like a sleeping bag that breathes. The Cloud has a zipperless flap with integrated comforter as well as a zipperless foot vent. These features make it less confining. There’s more flexibility to move around — and the top still seals out drafts with is “shoulder pocket” design. Made with 800 fill DriDown and a 15-denier shell/liner. sierradesigns.com
UCO Stormproof Sweetfire Strikable Fire Starter
“An entirely new take on tinder.” The team at UCO isn’t joking. This eco-friendly marvel is made from a renewable sugarcane waste product called bagasse, with a stormproof tip and integrated windproof/waterproof match head. An individual point will burn up to 7 minutes, enough to get a fire started when you really need it. $10 (20 pack). ucogear.com
Snow Sports
Arc’teryx Airah
The women’s Airah combines waterproof Gore-Tex performance with air-permeable Polartec Alpha insulation. The result is a warm jacket for rest and descent phases that also manages heat and humidity on ascents. About 30% lighter than conventional layering systems, and far more packable, this single-layer solution has a helmet-compatible hood, pit zips and powder skirt. $600. arcteryx.com
Salomon QST Stella 106
Like you, this ski craves the powder but can still handle reliably on the tracked hardpack that crowds leave behind. Its inverted 3D wood core filters out vibration and optimizes power in varied conditions, and the flax and carbon fiber reinforcement provides a smooth ride with minimal weight. $700. salomon.com
GNU Free Spirit
Aptly named, the Free Spirit is a women’s board built for all kinds of terrain and no boundaries. Short and wide, it floats well on deep powder but also displays nimbleness in chutes and tree runs. The C3 Camber is aggressive, with edges that grip icy hills. The sustainably-harvested wood core is poppy and lightweight. $500. gnu.com
Ultimate Direction SkiMo 28
It’s one of the most full-featured packs out there, with access from the top, bottom, side and back. Avalanche gear has a special compartment with probe sleeve. Back-access lets you cushion your back with clothing layers, which you might want close for warmth. And, since this is an Ultimate Direction vest, front storage holds hydration, fuel, camera, clinometer — you name it — all within reach. $200. ultimatedirection.com
Smith Squad XL
Meet the largest cylindrical goggle in the Smith line. The massive lens is made from molded carbonic-x material, so it’s tough but still has Fog-X and ChromaPop lens innovation for crystal clear vision. The semi-rimless frame is matched with a new, larger strap; complete with an integrated strap connection point that delivers the function you need without extra moving parts. $130. smithoptics.com
Lifestyle
Tested: Ecoths Hayes Hoodie
Imagine your favorite Baja hoodie went off to college and came back a polished adult. That’s the Hayes Hoodie. The organic cotton/cotton yarn-dye is soft and lightweight — and way less itchy than that old Baja. The four-button Henley neckline adds a touch of sophistication. I dig the weathered look and beachy undertones, and the flat hand pockets are a big improvement over the kangaroo pouch. Available in gravel (shown) and vintage indigo. $89. ecoths.com
—B.K.
Craghoppers Dofri Shirt
This heavier, wool-rich, oxford style is perfect for chopping wood, hanging out after a day of skiing or hitting the trail on a perfect fall afternoon. A twist on a classic look creates a durable and warm shirt that can easily take the place of a jacket in cooler weather. Two chest pockets and one additional hidden zippered pocket offer stowage. $100. craghoppers.com
Tested: DU/ER No Sweat Pants
“Life changing” might be a big word for a pair of pants, but these britches have changed the way I look at my wardrobe. Why have I been a captive to coarse denim jeans and poor-fitting khakis when I could’ve been decked out in ridiculous comfort all along? The No Sweat fabric is soft and supple, with a touch of stretch, and includes a naturally anti-bacterial fiber to combat germs. The seat gusset offers improved range of motion, and the relaxed fit has extra room in the thighs like a piece of athletic apparel. I’m hooked. $120. shopduer.com
—B.K.
Kelty Spur
The ambidextrous shoulder sling and three-point harness on this bag make it versatile on the trail or in the city. An external shove-it pocket can be used to stash your phone or wallet, and a cinch water bottle sleeve is great for quick access on the go. The large zippered compartment can hold a journal, jacket, dog leash, water bowl and a snack — and its fashion forward design is great for a walk, ride or spur-of-the-moment stop at a bar in town. $50. kelty.com
Popticals Popair
These aviator-inspired shades have a sporty wraparound design and world-class optics — plus a hidden secret. Like all Popticals sunglasses, they quickly fold down to a small size, so you can keep safe from damage in their custom case. Carry them right in your pocket, close at hand for every adventure. $190. popticals.com
Authors: Brad Kovach is the editor/publisher of Terrain Magazine; Shalini Kovach is a regular contributor to Terrain and the founder of Terrain Trail Runners.
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