Weeks of social distancing have made us all a bit stir crazy. Never fear, these new iterations of classic outdoor gear will get you on the paths, trails, lakes, and streams close to home where you can safely and responsibly let out some steam.
Fly Fishing
Orvis Women’s PRO Wader
Fly fishing is the perfect social distancing activity: Everyone wants their own personal space on the water away from other anglers. Breathable and super-tough, these waders can handle a wide range of temperatures on the water as well as rambling around off trail to find the right spot. Best of all, they come in a wide range of sizes for a fit that feels a bit stylish. A waterproof front pocket to hold essentials and fleece-lined hand warmer pockets seal the deal. The mens’ version is just as good. $498; orvis.com
Gravel Grinding
Diamondback Haanjo 7C Carbon
This multi-tasker of a ride can handle anything from a casual cyclocross race to a training ride to a day-long spin up into the hills—ideal for these times when you may be limited to adventure out your door. The carbon frame and fork are light, tough, and put you in the perfect position to comfortably hammer out long miles on pavement, gravel, and dirt. Endurance geometry and a relaxed headtube angle make it easy to spend long hours cranking this steed and a componentry package that includes HED Tomcat tubeless rims that can handle a range of tires make it even more versatile. $3,000; diamondback.com
Paddling
Oru Kayak Inlet
If you face limited storage in your house and vehicle, kayaking seems out of the question. Hold it right there, because Oru specializes in “origami kayaks,” which pack down to fit in tight spots and fold out to get you on the water. Take the new Inlet: This beginner’s flat water boat weighs just 20 pounds and will hold 275 pounds of paddler plus gear, and it all breaks down into a neat 42”-by-19”-by-10” traveling box. $899; orukayak.com
Hydration
Nomader Bottle
There are plenty of water bottles out there, but the smart, packable Nomader puts a new spin on the outdoor essential. This soft, BPA-free bottle rolls up to fist size when empty, making it simple to stash in a pack or in your crowded cupboard. A locking screw top makes it easy to drink out of on the go and prevents spills while it’s in your pack. We are looking forward to taking it backpacking when we get back out in the woods. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty. $25; nomader.com
Trail Running
The North Face Ultra Traction Futurelight
Futurelight is The North Face’s answer to Gore-Tex, a lightweight, super-breathable membrane that the brand spent a long time developing and claims is lighter and more effective. Put it to the test yourself in these spry, 10.6-ounce trail runners with a lug pattern that features alternating heights between 3.5 mm and 4 mm that will eat up slick rocks and roots. They are the perfect vehicle to run off your cabin fever no matter the conditions out there. $155; thenorthface.com
Hiking
Vasque Breeze All-Terrain GTX
The new classic when it comes to a hiker needs to be a boot that has all the beef of a traditional backpacking shoe but none of the bulk, weight, and break-in time. Voila. Weighing in at two pounds, 11 ounces, this surprisingly light boot can tackle the nastiest of trails thanks to a leather upper and Gore-Tex membrane that sheds slop. Meanwhile, the sticky Vibram MegaGrip outsole breezes up scree and talus but also feels right at home when you are cruising on hard-packed dirt. It’s a boot that will stand up to big trips but feels just fine out on a casual hike. $190; vasque.com
Speed Hiking
Camelbak Octane 25
Even as we recover, the COVID-19 era has forced us to seek out responsible adventures that are close to home and far from other people. This light (one-pound, six-ounce) hydration pack proves the perfect companion whether you are hiking, bushwhacking, or off on an adventure run. The bladder holds 70 ounces of water and the pack can haul a jacket, lunch, and other essentials. $145; camelbak.com
