10-minute Sports Makeover
When Kim Phillips, 28, hits the trail—for work or play—she doesn’t much care what she’s wearing, just as long as she gets her time in the mountains. This Idaho native works with GPS-toting hikers and bikers all over the country but likes to keep it low-tech when it comes to her own outfitting. REI manager Anna Ransdell of Boulder, Colorado, worked with us to update Kim’s day-hike attire with fabrics, cuts, and accessories that’ll help her cover more miles—comfortably— on the trail.
Kim Before
Before
- No head or eye protection from harsh alpine sunshine
- Cotton T-shirt without layers is a recipe for discomfort in changing weather conditions.
- Oversized backpack with out supportive belt or structural reinforcements
- Ancient BPA-leaking water bottle Khaki shorts “look the part” but lack stretch, quick-drying ability, zippered pockets, and versatility.
- Paper map is out-of date and won’t hold up to heavy trail use.
- Cotton crew-height socks
- Worn-out tennis shoes let trail dirt in and offer little support.
Kim after!
After
- Polarized Smith sunglasses help cut glare on alpine lakes and latesummer snowfields.
- Short-sleeved nylon–polyester blend shirt dries in a snap and has underarm ventilation and an SPF of 30.
- REI’s Stoke 19 women’s pack has eggcrate foam to cushion, ventilate, and give shoulder and back support. Small size holds up to 10 pounds of day gear; easyaccess pockets on the hip belt are a plus.
- A 45-ounce CamelBak shifts carrying weight to your pack, lets you sip while you walk, and keeps water cool.
- Lightweight Shock Light Titanal poles adjust to heights between 80 and 125 centimeters to accommodate tall and petite hikers and different angles of terrain.
- Garmin’s waterproof Oregon 300 has a sunlight-readable touch screen, 16-hour battery life, and a built-in shaded base map.
- More stylish than firstgeneration convertibles, REI’s Rendezvous capris offer coverage on overgrown trails. Zippered pockets, four-way stretch, and a center gusset for increased range of motion.
- Organic merino hiking socks have extra heel and toe cushioning and stay warm (and dry quickly) after creek crossings.
- Low-top Vasque Briza GTX boot, with a fabric and leather upper provides ankle support on rough, rocky trails but are lighter and more comfortable than serious backcountry boots.
