Black Diamond Carbon Z Trekking Poles Providing stability on a variety of terrains , a good pair of trekking poles are a must-have item if you spend any amount of time in the woods . In other words , don ’ t let a good hike get spoiled with a fall . We ran across Black Diamond ’ s Carbon Z Trekking Poles , which are some of the best available . The three-piece shafts are designed with a narrow diameter aluminum shaft that are adjustable for your height . They ’ re solidly built and extremely light . They come with a cork handle grip , which is comfortable even when wet . They break down into an easily packable size that fits in a day pack , and they come with shock absorbing tips that don ’ t clang and rattle , at the same time provide some gripping power on hard surfaces . $ 189.95 blackdiamondequipment . com
L . L . Bean Ultralight Down Sweater Vest This spring when the temperature drops and the sun is shining , a down sweater vest is the perfect solution for not overheating , yet staying warm . L . L . Bean ’ s Women ’ s 850 Ultralight Down Sweater Vest fits the bill perfectly . It ’ s both stylish and functional . Let ’ s face it , the warmth and comfort of down is hard to beat and while you might find a less expensive sweater vest you ’ ll have a hard time finding one that ’ s nicer than L . L . Bean ’ s . The Ultralight 850 weighs 10 ounces ( shall we say it ’ s light as a feather ?), has a nylon and polyester lining with narrow quilt lines and folds nicely into it its own pocket . It comes in a variety of colors so your personal style is never compromised . $ 159 llbean . com
Hydro Flask Water Bottle If you ’ re looking for an alternative to plastic check out Hydro Flask ’ s line of water bottles . They ’ ve taken the water bottle concept to a new level . The stainless steel Hydro Flask is a dual functioning water bottle . It keeps water cold for 24 hours and drinks hot for up to six hours . They come in a variety of sizes , most of which will fit into a day pack . They even make growler size bottles for those who want to tap into their favorite blend of barley and hops . We tested the 32 ounce wide mouth with a straw lid , which simply means you flip the straw up and drink . It ’ s handy when you ’ re on the go . Hydro Flask also sells a flex cap option for a Mason jar effect . There are 12 different color options to suit your personal style . More importantly , this is a water bottle on steroids that delivers on all fronts . $ 44.95 hydroflask . com
NRS Desperado Wetshoe When you decide to go kayaking you ’ ll invariably need a pair of wet shoes . Look at NRS ’ s Desperado Wetshoes . They ’ ve been getting great reviews from the watersports crowds for good reason . The 3mm traction soles are designed with a gripping tread that gives you stability and grip-ability on unstable surfaces while the neoprene upper ( 3mm ) provides comfort and warmth . The neoprene Hydro- Cuff helps with ankle support and comfort . Speaking of comfort , the Desperados come with a soft , fleece-like liner that dries quickly and feels good on your feet . The roomy toe box , rubber support bands on the side and the protective rubber toe and heel ads to their comfort factor . At the end of the day the grab tab makes it easier to remove the boots . What you get for the price , the NRS Desperado Wetshoes are a no-brainer for anyone who spends time in a kayak . $ 49.95 nrs . com
Keen Uneek 02 We found a pair of shoes that are more like a sandal ( or vice versa ), which makes Keen ’ s Uneek 02 ideal for boating and kicking around town in the summer . They ’ re designed with parachute cord rope on the uppers giving them a sandal like look and feel . The neoprene heel is padded and surprisingly comfortable , which makes them ideal for wearing all day . They tighten with a drawstring and synch cord . The sole is like you ’ d find with a pair of running shoes . They ’ re designed that should you get them wet they ’ ll dry easily . Call them a sandal , or a shoe ; either way you ’ ll like them . $ 90 keen . com
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