Enjoy Technologyhiker’s favorite outdoor gear for the year. I’ve had an exceptional experience with each item in 2017. The list spans new & classic designs and big & small purchases. So hopefully, it offers something for everyone.
Merino Wool T-shirts – My most used gear of 2017 is Woolx Men’s Outback Short Sleeve Tee. I wear the Outbank Tee as an undershirt at work and as a baselayer for trailruns & hikes. Merino Wool is comfortable, stays warm when wet, and does not retain odors. Plus, it is not made fro petroleum. The shirt also won Runner’s World 2017 Gear of the Year Award. $49 price before site discounts
Trail Running Jacket –The zipper of my previous running jacket broke, so I needed to get a new one. Running with the Arc’Teryx Incendo Hoody Jacket made me ask why I did not make the switch sooner. The Incendo Hoody is rain resistant and vents extremely well due to holes beneath the arms. The lower pocket is large enough to hold a wallet or a cell phone. This stylish jacket also won Outdoorgearlab’s Top Pick award. $140 price
Flannel Shirt – Maybe this says more about me, but my favorite going out shirt also doubles as my favorite camping shirt. The Outdoor Research Men’s Tangent Shirt is versatile. The flannel styling is warm. The synthetic, cotton, & wool blend looks good and dries quickly. $80 price
Outdoor Coffee – Instant coffee traditionally tasted bland. Alpine Start Instant Coffee changed that with high quality ingredients. Just add hot water for an inexpensive, quality cup of coffee. I use Alpine Start for climbing, cabin, car camping trips. I also use it at home. $9 for package of 8
Insulated Pad – Camping with young boys requires bomber strength gear, especially for air mattresses. The Z-Lite Sol is popular with both thru hikers and family campers. The S-Lite Sol is light, folds easily, and is resilient. My pad works well in the backcountry and at soccer games. $35 price
Outdoor blanket – My blankets were traditionally too light, too heavy, and soaked through. The Coalatree Adventure Blanket is light, water resistant on one side, and folds nicely. We’ve used for picnics and car camping trips. $69 price
Baseball Cap – Baseball hats have improved significantly over the years. Alpine Dam Hats – especially the Steep Ravine, dry quickly, provide good coverage, and look great. My boys and I enjoy wearing our matching hats. Plus, it is a start-up from Marin, CA and that outdoor DNA is reflected in the hats. $23 price before site discounts
Insulated Vest – One of my most versatile pieces is a down vest, but many down vests & jackets require a mortgage. My Trail Co focuses on selling affordable, lightweight gear. The My Trail Co founders also started GoLite, so the designs share a similar craftmanship. I wear My Trail down jackets & vests around the house & on outdoor adventures. $79 price
Sharing an Adventure – Schedule time for yourself to get outside. Even better, plan an outdoor adventure with you and a friend. Organizing trips for my kids, family friends, and the Cub Scouts help me share my love of the outdoors. Another friend is helping me become a better fisherman. Sharing the gift of the outdoors is priceless.
Note, I am an ambassador, invested, and/or won contests with Arc Teryx, Alpine Start, Alpine Dam, Woolx, & My Trail Co this year.