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Keen Targhee Mid II
These were a surprise contender with our testers. The Targhee is the perfect choice for those with a wider foot. The signature Keen rubber toe guard gives optimal protection on loose terrain, and the waterproof barrier keeps your feet dry. A great aspect of this shoe is the durable yet lightweight construction, making it an all-around hiker. The Targhee II is available in a low-cut version too. Note that the sizes run slightly small. $120. www.keenfootwear.com
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The North Face Dhaulagiri GTX
Tonya Riggs put these waterproof puppies to the test while training for her upcoming Annapurna climb, and she had no complaints. Some of her favorite features were the ample space in the toe box for good circulation and warm feet as well as the lateral support that prevents ankle rotation. The sticky soles provide great traction on mixed terrain, and the laces stay in place. “I felt as though I was wearing my 10-year-old favorites,” says Tonya. “They are perfect for trekking and hiking.” $160. www.thenorthface.com |
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Merrell Chameleon Wrap
Mixed trail conditions with running water and mud are exactly what this shoe was designed for. Our favorite feature is the well-designed heel support that keeps your foot securely in place on both the uphill and the downhill back to the trailhead. This low-cut waterproof day hiker works for the approach up to your local crag or just for kicking around town. $120. www.merrell.com |
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Vasque Breeze GTX XCR
The Breeze got a thumbs-up right out of the box. If you’re headed out for a quick day hike or are packing lightly for a couple of days, this is one to check out. It’s available with or without Gore-Tex, depending on your needs for water protection. We found that the waterproof version with the leather upper did its job really effectively. The cushioning in the midsole is substantial, and the outsole has all the traction you should need. $110 to $150. www.vasque.com |
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Outdoor Research Women’s Reflexa Jacket
The Reflexa Jacket has it all: the stretchy ripstop fabric moves with you as well as being waterproof, windproof, and lightweight. The side zippers from waist to armpit provide generous ventilation, and the easy-access, stash-away hood allows for quick adjustments. This take-anywhere shell will stuff into your pack, leaving plenty of room to spare. $150. www.outdoorresearch.com |
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Mountain Hardwear Women’s Corsica Convertible Pant
Here is an outdoor pant that fits many functions and still flatters the figure. The 100 percent nylon fabric has a durable water-repellent finish and UPF 50 to block the sun’s rays. The ultrasoft micro-chamois-lined waist is silky against your skin, and the zip-off pant lets you show some leg should the temperature rise. $100. www.mountainhardwear.com |
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Mountain Hardwear Skyledge 2.1
The three-season two-person Skyledge 2.1 packs in at just over 4 pounds. We love this tent because the two-door entry makes midnight emergency exits effortless and the mostly mesh structure gives a clear view of the stars. When blustery conditions strike, have no fear: just throw on the fly. The roomy vestibules provide more than enough storage for your gear, and the construction guarantees watertight protection and maximum shelter from the elements. $325. www.mountainhardwear.com |
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Sierra Designs Anu 2
The Anu 2 is a roomy two-person tent that provides supreme protection from stormy conditions and enough headroom to shimmy into your PJs. One of our favorite features of this three-season tent is the state-of-the-art Quick Pitch Swivel Hub, which keeps the two poles connected during assembly, enabling record-breaking setup time with minimal struggle. As if that weren’t enough, they’ve lined the doors and the zipper pulls with reflective binding tape to make pitching in the dark a breeze. $199. www.sierradesigns.com |
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Therm-a-Rest LuxuryCamp
Get a good night’s rest on the self-inflating Luxury Camp by Therm-a-Rest. The 2.5 inches of thickness and the contoured surface provide amazing comfort. At just over 3 pounds, this pad is perfect for you devoted campers who like a little more cushion and insulation between you and the ground while still not taking up too much room in your pack. $100. www.thermarest.com |
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Travel Spice Kit
Fifteen different herbs and seasonings are neatly packed into this convenient take-along container. Sneak it into your cooking supplies on your next adventure and turn your grub into a gourmet meal. Check out the website for specific herbs and spices included in the kit. $24. www.grapevinetrading.com |
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Sea to Summit Pocket Towel
This go-anywhere, good-for-everything towel will come in handy on your next outdoor excursion. Whether you’re doing your camp dishes or taking a dip, it’s quick drying and ultra-absorbent. Comes in two sizes. $15-23. www.seatosummit.com |
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GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso Maker
After you try a shot from this stovetop espresso maker created just for camping, you may never want to have coffee like a cowboy again. The compact container withstands a beating and allows unlimited brewing. Kiss your percolator good-bye; you’ll be enjoying a caffeine kick in 90 seconds flat. $35. www.gsioutdoors.com |
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Bodum Shiuma Frother
Prefer a cappuccino? This lightweight, battery-operated, handheld device lets you top your java with frothy goodness. Simply flip the switch, and a rapidly rotating whisk turns your milk into delicious foam in seconds. No steaming necessary. $20. www.gsioutdoors.com |
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Mountain Safety Research Reactor Stove
Introducing the crème de la crème of camp cooking. This system is feather light and boils water in just three minutes. The stove and an 8-ounce fuel canister fit right inside the 1.7-liter pot, and the handle locks the lid on for secure transport. The radiant burner keeps on cooking despite the windiest of conditions. Who could ask for more? $150. www.msrgear.com |
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Freeplay Indigo Lantern
The Freeplay Indigo lantern is perfect for lounging around the campsite after dark. It houses seven ultrabright LEDs that never burn out. The dimmer switch adjusts easily from bright area light to dim night light settings, and it features a rechargeable battery, which powers it for up to 70 hours. If it runs down, just wind the crank for 60 seconds and you’re back in business. $38. www.freeplayenergy.com |
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Sea to Summit iPOoEd!
This clever camp trowel is sure to aid you in your efforts to Leave No Trace. It’s durable, lightweight, and folds over to half its size so it fits nicely in your pocket, and the handle is hollow so you can easily store your toilet paper right inside. $17. www.seatosummit.com |
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Black Diamond Spot Headlamp
The Spot headlamp is our all-around favorite light to break through the darkness. A switch on the top changes from four lighting levels for three bright settings and one strobe. The elastic band fits to your head without pulling your hair. $40. www.bdel.com |
