Even with social distancing measures in place, you can still responsibly enjoy the outdoors. Here is the gear that will get the job done. And remember to try to support local retailers who are still doing curbside and online business.
Fly Fishing
Orvis Women’s PRO Wader and Ultralight Wading Boot
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 that holds essentials and fleece-lined hand warmer pockets seal the deal. Top them off with comfy the Ultralight boot, which feels more like a hiker and provides the grip you need on slick rocks thanks to a Vibram sole and a river-bottom-specific lug pattern. The mens’ versions are just as good. $498 waders, $169 boots; orvis.com
Gravel Grinding
Sage Titanium Storm King
This titanium frame beast will eat up gavel roads with the plush handling of a mountain bike but deliver all the speed and precision of a road ride. It’s the perfect steed for these days of social distancing when you may be limited to adventure out your door, but it’s also the perfect race bike come fall. Sage offers up a variety of build options and the bike can handle beefy tires up to 700x50mm or 650×2.4″. Internal routing allows for a seat dropper, too. Get out and explore on it. $8,630 complete, $3,500 frame only; sagetitanium.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 also 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 chew 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 and wet. Meanwhile, the sticky Vibram MegaGrip outsole breezes up scree and talus but also feels right at home when you are cruising on hardpacked 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
Bike Helmet
Thousand Climate Series
You may be riding your bike more than you are driving your car these days and a helmet is just as important as that face mask— but there’s no reason to look like a dork. Coming in three colors, the line features pluses like vegan leather straps and a special Poploc system that allows you to secure your helmet with your bike. Buy one by May 17 and the brand will donate $10 to nonprofit 1% for the Planet. $89; explorethousand.com
