Spring is the perfect opportunity to get out, shed some layers, and brighten up a bit.

By Karina Evertsen and Michelle Theall

Aventura Sasha Dress

The perfect dress for a warm spring day and when you’re on the go, the Sasha’s 60 percent poly/40 percent rayon fabric will look great whether you take it off a hook or pull it out of your suitcase. $62. www.aventuraclothing.com

Chaco Switch Flipside

Never has a flip-flop fit so snugly on your foot. The contoured foot bed and adjustable strap keep you in your shoes. Available in five versatile colors. $55. www.chacousa.com

Prana Hemp Satchel

Small enough that it won’t weigh you down but big enough to hold some cash, lip gloss, and your cell, this stylish satchel is all you need. $30. www.prana.com

Everyone needs a straw bag for spring. Put your freshly cut flowers from the farmers’ market in it, or roll up your beach towel and a good book and enjoy the day! $60. www.sandiegohat.com

Dahon Mu SL Sport Bike

This ultralightweight aluminum, foldable bike is perfect for an urban environment. It fits easily in your trunk with room to spare, or you can put it in its suitcase and hop on a plane. A few quick adjustments and—presto!—you’re ready to ride. It weighs a scant 18.9 pounds and has a genius design. We put it to the test, and it surprised us with its zippy performance and smooth ride. It’s a crowd pleaser too: everyone will be talking about it around the water cooler. $1,000. www.dahon.com

Camping

Osprey Aura 65 Pack
The Aura weighs in at only 3 pounds 10 ounces but is durable enough for a week on the trail. With adjustable straps, the women’s-cut hip belt and harness will fit you like a glove. And along with a hydration sleeve, hip pocket, and sleeping bag divider, the Aura’s other compartments allow you to separate your gear easily. $229. www.ospreypacks.com

Golite Hex 3 Shelter
Teepee-type shelters rock. The Hex sleeps three, is a snap to set up, weighs next to nothing (2.9 pounds with a pole and stakes), and can withstand some serious weather. The Hex also has a nice venting system at the top that allows air in but keeps weather out. $230. Inner tent $100. Floor $60. www.golite.com

Sierra Designs Sunshine Bag
Rated at 45 degrees F, this new 800-fill goose-down bag weighs a mere 1 pound 14 ounces. It features DriZone waterproof and breathable fabric, an ergonomically shaped foot box and hood, and a pretty design on the liner. Perfect for the warmer nights ahead under the stars. $219–$239. www.sierradesigns.com

Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite Pad
This three-season pad is a must-have on your next adventure. At 11 ounces, it won’t cost much in weight, and the egg-carton design keeps you warm and comfortable with no need to worry about unruly air leaks. $30–$35. www.thermarest.com

Climbing

La Sportiva Exum River
A perfect approach shoe that can be worn for the long haul, the Exum River stands up to the test of navigating slick river rocks and muddy terrain. The mesh upper allows water to dry quickly and your feet to breath. Even better, the sticky FriXion sole will make you feel like Spider-Woman. $100. www.sportiva.com

Black Diamond Helmet
Don’t leave home without it! The Half Dome is an updated version of an old standby. Fully adjustable to suit your needs, it has clips for your headlamp and a rigid shell that will keep you safe. $60. www.blackdiamondequipment.com

Trango SuperFly Quickdraw
69 grams of happiness! You’ll be smiling all the way up the wall each time you clip one of these puppies. Rest assured that you’re in good hands with Trango’s well-designed, safe carabiners and all its other gear as well. $18. www.trango.com

Kid Play

Incorporating an infant or a toddler into your adventure lifestyle requires some logistical wrangling, but, beyond the time management challenges, you’ll find getting outside much easier thanks to some high-tech, lightweight baby gear.

BOB Stroller Strides Fitness Stroller
This stroller wins our editor’s choice award for its simplicity, versatility, and light weight. While this BOB is perfect as a running stroller (on- or off-road) because of its rugged wheels and shocks, it’s also great for everyday use because the front wheel unlocks to swivel. $379. Got two little ones? Try the Duallie.$449. www.bobtrailers.com

Sherpani Rumba Superlight
Let’s face it: hiking with an infant or a toddler means you’re toting an extra 20 to 50 pounds on your back before you add the weight of the carrier. Weighing in at just 4 pounds 8 ounces, the Rumba Superlight saves your back and supports your child safely with a five-point harness system. $166. www.sherpanipacks.com

Kelty TC 2.0
Hit the trail or the airport with this combination daypack/child carrier. Although heavier than a basic child carrier, the TC 2.0 accommodates the other necessities that make your outing comfortable and fun. Stuff the pack with sandwiches, diapers, sippy cups, toys, keys, and your cell phone. $120. www.kelty.com

Chariot Cougar
If you bike, run, hike, and cross-country ski, you’ll appreciate the Cougar for its ability to handle all four at a moment’s notice. The Cougar is a multisport carrier—it works as a bike trailer, a baby jogger, a child backpack carrier, and even a ski trailer! The ezClick system makes it a snap to switch from one sport to another (our test family included a cyclist and a runner); and, best of all, the various parts stow away right on the carrier itself, so there’s no rooting through the garage, looking for lost parts. Chassis $375. Jogging kit $55. Cycling kit $40. www.chariotcarriers.com