Summer has arrived. Now more than ever, we need to get outside and play. Here is the essential gear you need for summer adventure in Southern Appalachia.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Topo Luxe, $140
The 4-inch thick mattress is built using Therm-a-Rest’s patented Triangular Core Matrix technology – two stacked layers of triangular baffles that create a stable sleep surface while minimizing heat loss. In addition, the TwinLock Valve makes setting up and breaking down a breeze with a new, larger valve that inflates three times faster than the brands classic valve. Topo Luxe weighs in at 1lb 7oz (size regular) and has an R-value of 3.7.
SmartWool Run Light Elite Crew Socks, $22
With an overall height of 8.5″, this wool sock is made to run through just about anything. Length aside, it still hugs your feet with the softness of responsibly-sourced ZQ Merino wool and the precision of Smartwool’s 4 Degree™ elite fit system—bringing you a dialed, performance-oriented fit.
Therm-a-Rest Questar Sleeping Bag, $239
The Questar design combines the thermal efficiency of a mummy bag with a roomier fit allows campers to sleep comfortably in any position. All three bags feature 650-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down™ that absorbs 90% less water and dries three times faster. SynergyLink Connectors help secure the sleeping bag to the pad, while design features like zoned insulation and box baffled construction maximizes warmth. The 32F/0C bag weighs 2lb 3oz (regular).
Dakota Grizzly Booker shirt, $45
The 100% Cotton micro herringbone twill shirt features a clean, two-pocket styling, re-enforced neck taping, and tailored cuff turn back. The embossed sleeve clip and the mitered & turned lower placket give it the craftsman’s touch that you’d expect from Dakota Grizzly.
myCharge Adventure H20 6K Portable Charger, $40
This waterproof portable charger is ideal for providing power boosts and extending the life of your tablet, cell phone, Bluetooth speaker, e-reader or any other standard USB devices delivering 6,700mAh and 2.4A of shared output power for up to 4x extra battery
prAna Agua Shirt, $65
The Agua is a lightweight, breathable organic cotton woven chambray slub stripe with a set-in chest pocket. It looks as good as it feels, and it feels even better knowing its sustainable sourced and made from 100% organic cotton.
Yunizon Armon sunglasses $159
The Yunizon shades offer different designs to accommodate different head widths and cheekbones. they also offer broader nose pads with enhanced grip, zero slippage, and max comfort
Men’s Merino 150 Base Layer Long Sleeve -$85
Spring skiing or summer camping? The year-round Merino 150 base layer long sleeve is game for either thanks to the body temp regulating and no-stink properties of Merino. Featuring Core Spun technology, Smartwool has wrapped Merino around a nylon core for added durability while still keeping the comfort of ultra-soft Merino next to skin. Smooth flatlock seams help minimize chafing and offset shoulder and side seams to lie smoothly beneath pack straps.
Metolius Basic Bouldering Pad
A stripped-down version of the Session II, the Basic Pad is a great entry level pad or addition to the quiver. This pad is everything but basic with features like suitcase-style carry handles, and waist belt and padded shoulder straps for a comfortable carry. Four inches of sandwich foam make for maximum impact absorption and an angled hinge eliminates the “gutter.” The single aluminum closure buckle is guaranteed for life and the pad weighs in at 7.4 lbs.
Mountain Khaki All Peak Pant, $84
Made with organic cotton, the All PeakPant is durable but lightweight, and offers just the right amount of stretch for ease of movement. The Trail Pant is a unique blend of durability and mobility.
Watershed Drybags’ Westwater Backpack, $220
Engineered with military specs for optimal durability and dependability, the Westwater is 100% submersible and will withstand any adventure Its removable padded backpack straps, a waist belt and durable top lug handle give you options for hauling comfortably to and from camp.
Mountain Equipment Solar Eclipse Zip T, $120: This superlight fleece moves moisture away from the skin incredibly quickly with its Pontetorto Technostretch 103 fleece fabric. The half zip style offers ventilation suited for everything raging from hard rock climbing, speed alpinism and trail running.
Nathan Waist pack, $60
This minimalist waist pack includes a 20oz leak-free soft flask that is easily stored in the back of the pack. The step-through design fits comfortably around your waist and is completely bounce-free. It’s the lightest and most liberating hydration option out there.
Swiftwick Pursuit Socks, $16
These all-season natural merino wool socks are cushioned to support muscles and absorb impact and wick moisture without feeling soggy. They provide year-round temperature and moisture control and are built to handle our wet, rugged Appalachian trails.
Igloo Trailmate Journey, $280
The Trailmate Journey is the easiest transportable cooler on the market, with rugged wheels that can handle rocky trails. It has a 70-quartcapacity and can keep 112 12-ounce beverage cans cold with Ultratherm® Technology built into the body and lid. That means it can keep a lot of beverages cold.
Ramble Down Blanket, $259
The Ramble Down Blanket combines the packability and warmth of down with a spacious cut and soft-touch fabrics to help your camp feel like home. The 650-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down staves off morning dew and other moisture to keep you cozy and warm. The quilted design and soft-touch materials keeps your night outdoors soft and comfy The Ramble Down has queen-sized coverage for two campers with room to spare. Certification that ensures that the waterfowl in the down supply chain are treated humanely.
Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter, $28
Small and lightweight, this micro filter is easy to carry on any adventure. Its fiber membrane is strong and durable, able to filter 100,000 gallons of water. It also has a high flow rate compared to other filters we’ve tested. It can be used along with the included Sawyer 1-liter squeeze pouch or standard 28 mm bottles for use practically anywhere, and it lasts indefinitely with no cartridges to replace.
Maloja Montaccio Fleece $149
This lightweight technical multisport fleece provides breathable, versatile fit thanks to its cross-stretch design> It’s breathable and comfortable, with good compressibility and a water-repellent finish. Weighing in at only 38 grams, it belongs in every adventurer’s pack.
5.11’s RUSH100 Backpack, $199
The RUSH 100 is a super burly, highly customizable 60-liter backpack that’s designed to handle the heaviest of loads. It’s extremely versatile, with detachable modular side pouches, adjustable shoulder straps, and removable and customizable waist belt.
Men’s Breeze LT GTX Low, $160
The Breeze Lite Low GORE-TEX® is a streamlined hiking shoe for fast and light trail adventures. Save on weight, while taking full advantage of best-in-class traction and waterproofing.
