GEAR ROOM GREGORY WOMEN’S KALMIA 60 PACK
Backpacking has come a long way. When I first went backpacking in Costa Rica over 20 years ago, my pack was heavy and hot. The Kalmia backpacking pack, on the other hand, is the most comfortable multi-day pack I’ve ever worn. The FreeFloat 360 suspension system adapts to your hips and shoulders and pivots with your body as you hike on down the trail. (Watch the video on their website.) And the suspended, ventilated back panel keeps your back from turning into a waterfall of sweat. There are so many other cool features that I love about this pack, including the o d or- c ont rol l i ng fabric treatment, molded loop zipper pullers,
TECNICA MAGMA TRAIL RUNNING/HIKING SHOE
customizable hip belt and torso length, multiple access points to the main pack compartment including a full side zipper, internal hydration sleeve, and lots of storage space in zippered and mesh compartments throughout the pack, including hip belt storage for snacks and a water bottle holster that you can reach while hiking. Gregory has also made 14 of their hiking, backpacking, and ever yday adventure packs in plus sizes for men and women in the 2x to 6x range. MSRP: $279.99. Gregorypacks.com (Shallan Knowles)
Like more and more hikers these days, I wear my trail running shoes whether I’m running or hiking trails. But some more rugged trails call for a beefier shoe to avoid slipping, f a l l i ng , and foot injuries. Hells Canyon and the Selkirk Crest come to mind. Tecnica’s all-new MAGMA was
made to fit this niche. These shoes are light, breathable, tough, and mega Vibram grippy all over, even on the toe and up the sides of the shoe. In fact, the unique tread pattern was inspired by endure MTB tires, and an 8mm drop makes for some sweet running performance. MSRP: $140. Blizzard-tecnica.com/us/en (Wil Wheaton)
BLENDERS FLOATING SUNGLASSES
The benefit of floating sunglasses are pretty obvious to anyone who spends much time on the beach, boat, or out paddling. But eliminating the risk of losing your shades in the drink might not be worth it if said floatable sunnies make you look like a creep. Fortunately
Blenders’ Float20 sunglasses come in three stylish options with three color patterns for each style. The ultralightweight and durable frames offer 100% U VA / U V B protection. MSRP: $48 Blenderseyewear.com (Derrick Knowles)
- Board, Paddle, Bag, Electric P ump Package Full
$499 Tubes, Apparel, Sunglasses, Wake Boards, Slalom Skis, Surf Boards Paddle Boards, Kayaks, Play Pads, Accessories, and More (509) 534 - 4554 2925 S Regal - Spo, Wa 22
OUTTHEREOUTDOORS.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2021
