Halloween may be just around the corner, but there’s nothing spooky about this gear round-up…
Fall is one of my favorite transition seasons. It means searching for wild game, prepping our skis and wearing all the layers! As outdoor enthusiasts, we do it all. And this time of year, we get pretty stoked for the changing seasons for a lot of different reasons.
From hunting and fly fishing to biking, hiking and backyard hangouts, here’s some must-have gear to add to your list this season!
KUIU Divide 1200
The KUIU Divide 1200 has become one of our go-to packs this season. Whether we were hunting/scouting or simply hiking around the national forests, the features on this mid-size pack delivered time after time. It’s streamlined design wears perfectly on my shoulders, the back panel is insanely breathable and it has all the pockets I need for all the things. Translation: the 1200 cubic inches of space is perfect and allows me to carry enough gear, food, water and layers and stash other must-haves for a day outside. And, as a photographer, I also appreciated the expandable bottom storage area, which allows me to fit a collapsible tripod.
Stillhouse Black Bourbon
I’ll be honest: I am particular about my whiskey. I like it clean, smooth and delicious whether on the rocks or mixed in a speciality cocktail. And if I have the option of a Bourbon, you better believe my glass is ready. Stillhouse’s barrel-aged Black Bourbon checks every box from delicious to durable. Thanks to it’s stainless steel can, it’s ready for any adventure. We’ve taken this whiskey to the beach, to the mountains and everywhere in between over the last few months. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s worth adding to the gear list!
Yukon by Solo Stove
My backyard is my staycation zone. It’s also where our kids spend most of their time when we’re not exploring wild places, where I retreat to after a fantastic day in the backcountry and, generally speaking, where we spend a lot of time. This summer, we leveled-up our backyard with a new fire pit: the Yukon by Solo Stove. The largest option in the Solo Stove lineup, the Yukon is low-profile in some ways, and larger than life in others. Constructed from 304 stainless steel keeps it strong and durable, yet simple and streamlined. This fire pit puts off little smoke and has the option to add a cast iron grill for those food-focused fire pit nights.
W’s Routeburn Jacket by Jack Wolfskin
Jack Wolfskin’s Routeburn Jacket is a great option if you’re looking for an insulated, low-profile jacket this season. The zipper side pockets keep my cell phone safe while the zippered chest pocket is perfect for chapstick or cash/small wallet. I also love the stretchy nature of the fabric and the side fleece panels. Whether I’m on early morning bike rides or looking for a warm layer to wear under my waders on those chilly mornings, this is jacket is in my kit.
W’s Outdoor Research Coldfront Hooded Down Vest
As soon as the temperature drops, I pull out every vest I own and this year, my #1 go-to is the Outdoor Research Women’s Coldfront Down Vest. My hands love the perfectly placed, fleece-lined pockets and my environmentally-conscious mind appreciates the sustainability features, including the vest’s 53% recycled wind-stopping and water resistant ripstop exterior fabric and responsibly sourced down insulation. It’s warm, it’s cozy and it’s handling everything I throw at it this shoulder season. For those of you trying to figure out the best size for your shape/size, I’m 5’4”, 135lb and the XS gave me a fitted fit over a tank top/flannel combo.
Patagonia Micro Puff Storm Jacket
This is the jacket you didn’t know you needed until you put it on and zipped it up. If you’re looking for a warm, light (yet durable) weather-resistant puffy this fall/winter, you just found it. This jacket is geared toward backcountry touring, but this fall, I am using it for evening hikes and hanging out in camp. It features PlumaFill synthetic insulation (so it stays warm when wet) and the 100% recycled waterproof shell has stood up to bushwhacking and jumpy dog paws.
ORCA Walker Tote
When we’re traveling, I am a big fan of keeping snacks and cold bubbly waters close at hand. That means we need a small cooler option for inside our vehicles when we’re on the road. Thankfully, there’s the ORCA Walker Tote. This soft-sided cooler measures 15”x 9.5”x 15.25” and fits perfectly in the back middle seat or at my son’s feet, it’s durable and stays incredibly cold for days! And the way ORCA accents their products with a whale tail (including one of our new favorite bottles, the Hydra 22) is just fun!
Darn Tough Socks
Darn Tough socks should be included in every gear round-up. Why? Because they solid, hard working socks (i.e., Darn Toughs) are essential!
W’s Chaco Fields Waterproof Boot
I have a pair of well-loved Chaco Fields Waterproof boots and I plan to pick up another – why? Because I believe that when you find a pair of boots you love – or anything for that matter – you better buy 2! From the local bar to the local trail and points in between, I’ve worn these boots everywhere. They are comfortable, durable, and have held up to my abuse year around year…while still looking good! But sorry guys, these only come in a women’s version. The good news is if you’re as dedicated to wearing Chaco footwear year-round as I am, the Men’s Fields Chelsea Waterproof boot is a fantastic option for you!
Kane Revive
Whether you’re the type of person that isn’t quite ready to let go of summer or you really enjoy a comfortable, supportive shoe for around the house and short walks, the Kane Revive might be for you! I’ve been wearing the Revive for a couple months and fell in love almost instantly. Classified as an “active recovery shoe”, the Revive provides for great airflow and features an anatomical last design to comfortably secure your heel, arch and instep as well as great cushion, support, grip and raised footbed nodes to activate blood flow in key pressure points. It’s kind of a perfect all-around shoe for everything from post-workout wear to grocery runs.
YETI Rambler 20oz Tumbler
The Yeti Rambler 20oz Tumbler (with the magslider lid) has some gorgeous fall colors for coffee, whiskey and water sippers (ok, any beverage, really). Dishwasher safe, crazy durable, and ready for any and all adventures, the new Sandstone Pink and Sharptail Taupe are making the Rambler look extra fine this fall. I sip coffee in the morning, smoothies in the afternoon and cocktails in the evenings – all from one vessel.
