Kelli and Steve are not only our ace guides and outdoor enthusiasts, but they are also our resident gear-heads. Kelli recently put together a list of some gear that they are loving these days or is on their most wanted list.
The Salomon Quest Origins GTX hiking boot is a great Gore-Tex boot that gives support of a full hiking boot but feels as light weight as a running shoe. Even though it only comes in Men’s sizes, both myself (Kelli) and Bridgette (Chef) have purchased them (as well as Steve) and love them. Just follow their size guide and the fit should be right on.
Rail Riders is a great company who boasts having the “Toughest Clothes on the Planet”! Although inspired from the sea, this clothing is great for all adventurous pursuits. Steve and I are pretty keen on the Adventure Tops, so lightweight and breathable but great SPF protection for our aging skin J. Steve also loves his Bushwacker Weather Pants. Super tough, reinforced knees, butt, and back of ankles yet fashionable enough to host dinner at VVR!
As the mornings and evenings turn a bit cooler, Steve is turning to his Breakaway II Hoody from Ibex. It’s a lightweight climawool™ softshell hybrid jacket ideal for aerobic pursuits in cooler weather. A great transitional piece and I do believe it is on sale right now!
I have been hiking in Sierra Design’s Stretch Trail Pant on cooler days. They are designed to wear with a pack, sporting a stretch knit waistband that feels like a pair of tights so there is no bulk under the waist strap. I also like the water resistance patches on the knees and bottom. Plus they are stretchy, so super comfy, and have a feminine fit.
The Salsa Bucksaw is redefining boundaries with its Fat Bike design and go anywhere attitude. Steve is loving its ability to be an all season bike. Great for the shoulder seasons, riding in variable mud/snow mix without damaging trails. And its ability to float over obstacles and grip the trail with incredible traction in summer time fun. It is on our wish/drool list! For all our fellow bike geeks, you gotta check this one out!