Courtesy of Patagonia
Patagonia Nine Trails Pack 20L
Buy Now: $129, patagonia.com
Knowing that any grocery sack can haul a water bottle and jacket, Patagonia focused on maximizing comfort: A layer of perforated foam in the back panel solves the sweaty-back syndrome by venting heat and moisture, and thermo-moldable mesh eliminates pressure points by conforming to your back’s every curve and gully. A women-specific 18L version features narrower straps and fits shorter torsos.
Courtesy of Rumpl
Rumpl Down Puffy Throw Blanket
Buy Now: $199, rumpl.com
Packed, it’s the size of a one-liter water bottle and makes a comfy travel pillow. But unfurl this down-filled throw, and it becomes a cloud of instant warmth that’s as welcome on the back patio as it is on chilly planes.
Courtesy of Tecnica
Tecnica Forge Leather GTX
Buy Now: $250, tecnicausa.com
Blisters, begone: The market’s first heat-moldable hiking boot feels broken-in from Day One, thanks to a custom-fit process that warms the boots in a special oven before installing them on your feet. The result is a supremely comfortable boot that’s supportive enough for rugged paths, regardless of weather. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole provides sticky traction on uneven terrain, and the Gore-Tex membrane seals out rain.
Courtesy of Roka
ROKA Rio Ti
Buy Now: $260 ($300 for polarized lenses), roka.com
Titanium makes these aviators lighter than most metal-rimmed sunglasses: Weighing just 18 grams, the Rio Ti is unobtrusive enough for hiking, running, and cycling. The nose pads feature a patented material (inspired by sticky gecko feet) that keeps these frames from slipping down even the most sunscreen-slathered nose. And premium nylon lenses by Carl Zeiss Vision provide sharp, contrast-enhancing views.
Courtesy of Marmot
Marmot EVODry Eclipse Jacket
Buy Now: $250, marmot.com
Most water-repellent fabric treatments are awful for the environment, yet Earth-friendly alternatives haven’t held up in hard rain. Enter Marmot’s new EVODry technology, which uses sustainably-produced recycled nylon that will actually keep you dry even in extended downpours and drenching white water. Plus, this lightweight, 13.4-ounce jacket packs down small for easy stowage.
Courtesy of Nikon
Nikon D7500
Buy Now: From $1,250, nikonusa.com
This rugged, weather-sealed DSLR excels in extreme outdoor environments—such as Greenland’s Sermilik Fjord. Capture whale sightings on 4k Ultra HD video, snap tundra wildflowers in all their subtle shadings, and roam for hours without a recharge. (The battery life lasts for 950 frames.)
Courtesy of Somewear
Somewear Global Hotspot
Buy Now: $450, somewearlabs.com
This palm-sized, waterproof transmitter uses the Somewear App to turn your smartphone into a satellite messenger. A single battery charge sends out 1,000 SMS texts or emails, no matter how far you venture off the grid.
Courtesy of DUER
DUER Performance Denim Relaxed Fit
Buy Now: $129 (men’s) & $119 (women’s), shopduer.com
Comfy like cotton denim, only stretchier and 30 percent lighter, these jeans use CoolMax fibers to wick sweat in hot weather and hold their shape through weeklong wear.
Courtesy of NEMO
NEMO Stargaze Recliner Chair
Buy Now: $170-$220, nemoequipment.com
Like an old-fashioned porch swing—only portable—this folding chair lets you contemplate the universe and all its shooting stars. Plus, it’s as small as a fireplace log when packed.
Courtesy of Cusa Tea
Cusa Tea
Buy Now: $10, Ten packets per box, cusatea.com
An all-organic instant tea that actually delivers the full flavor nuances of brewed loose-leaf, Cusa turns off-flavored hotel tap water into a tasty summer cooler and becomes a cup of comfort at any temperature. And when backpacking? No need to pack out used tea bags.
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