2021 Fall Womens Gear Guide

Fall 2021 Women’s Gear Guide

November 5, 2021COMtnMom

Colorado Fall Colors

This Fall is going too fast! Cooling temperatures, gorgeous leaves, pumpkin spice treats, and soft cozy fleece. So much to love! Things are slowly starting to get closer to normal with production and shipping, and many of my favorite vendors are out with some awesome new products for this season. Welcome to my semi-annual roundup, the Fall 2021 women’s gear guide!

 

I apologize this came later in the season than I planned. After all our precautions, my family ended up getting COVID this past month. It was not fun. We’re on the mend now. Hoping this passes for us all soon, and that you and your loved ones are staying well!

2021 Fall Womens Travel & Outdoors Gear Guide

aspen trees in fall colorado

Mountain Hardwear ~ Stretchdown™Light Pullover, $240

mountain hardware stretchdown pullover The Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown™ Light Pullover is such an impressive combination of cozy down, durable fabric for rugged outdoor adventures, and stretchy fabric that moves with you.

I love the regular fit and it runs true to size (not snug/athletic), and it comes in four awesome color choices. Stretchdown™ weaves pockets of down insulation, and the soft flexible fabric makes it a great option for athletic endeavors outdoors. I often chose to wear my Stretchdown™ jacket from last year for it’s lightweight, comfortable warmth. I love this pullover style, and can’t wait to wear it during some snowy fun in the mountains.

Orvis ~ Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit, $229 – 398

Orvis Cleawater fly rod
Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod outfit
The sparkling Colorado mountain streams have been calling my name for some time, and at last I’m going to tackle fly fishing! (See what I did there?) I’ve known a few inspiring outdoors women who were expert fly fisherman, who even do fly typing. The sport fascinates me, and if it has called your name, too… the Orvis Clearwater® Fly Rod Outfit is the perfect place to start.

Orvis is a leader in fly fishing equipment and gear, it’s kindof their main jam. The Clearwater is an excellent rod, which will “cover any angler”. It comes with a protective gray rod tube for storage and transporting. Designed in Vermond, the high quality Clearwater rod is also backed with a 25-year guarantee. When you order the “outfit”, it will also include a fly reel, with fly line and backing.

Can. Not. Wait. Because of illness this Fall, I’ve missed the boat this season. But I’ll be YouTubing all the “Fly Fishing for Beginners” videos, and trying it out next Spring! I’ll be happy to share photos and updates on my experience then.

LUG ~ Carousel VL Crossbody, $99

Lug Carousel VL crossbody I confess that I struggle to give up leather. I love leather goods, and until now I was a pretty firm believer that “vegan leather” just didn’t look as pretty, durable, or rich. Until now. Check out the wonderful Lug Carousel VL (vegan leather) Crossbody.

The Carousel from Lug is part of their new, extremely lux-quality PETA-Approved Vegan Leather line of bags, which will leave you duly impressed! This compact crossbody is soft, supple, and gorgeous… and truly has the beautiful look of leather. The design of the Carousel is perfect, and I’m enjoying the well laid out areas for my wallet, front zip for lipstick and quick-grab essentials, a soft slip pocket to keep my phone protected and easily found, and a interior key fob I use for keys. There are smaller organization pouches inside, and an additional zip close slip pocked in back. It also comes with two strap options, a shorter over-the-shoulder strap in the vegan leather material.

I am a bag fiend, and this is the best bag I’ve found in YEARS. Love, love, love it! Check out all Lug’s fabulous Vegan Leather bags in multiple sizes, colors, and styles.

ROYAL ROBBINS ~ Westlands Funnel Neck, $85

Royal Robbins westlands-funnel-neck New this season from Royal Robbins is the tunic length Westlands Funnel Neck sweater. What makes it special? It’s made from a lower impact “SeaWool” merino blend that Royal Robbins makes. This blends merino wool and SeaWool recycled polyester, and the resulting material offers features like odor-resistance and thermal comfort, plus durability.

Comes in this lovely sand dollar hue, or two different shades of gray.

AVENTURA CLOTHING ~ Ari Jogger, $72

aventura clothing ari jogger If you need a perfect, cozy jogger pant for this cool weather season, the Aventura Clothing Ari Jogger is for you. They’re made from a thick, stretchy fabric that is smooth on the outside, and FURRY FLEECE on the inside! Super cozy and comfortable.

The Ari Joggers are a nice, generous length. I’m a size 12 or 14, and sized up to XL… so they fit baggy, but I like them like that. The XL goes to my ankles (I’m 5’10”) and has a cute cuff design. Comes in grey or black.

Excellent, high quality pants!

GORDINI ~ Womens Gore-tex® Down Glove, $99

Next up, Gordini’s Womens Gore-tex Down Gloves. I think the name says it all, and I am very excited to try them on the ski slopes next month. Gore-tex and down are the ultimate combination for a winter sport glove. Gore-tex makes them waterproof and windproof, but still breathable. These Gordini gloves combine that with 600-fill GooseDown insulation to maximum warmth… no cold fingers on the mountain!

Gordini Gloves was founded in Canada in 1956, and is kindof a big deal. They were one of the first brands to use Gore-Tex in gloves!  And gloves have continued to be their specialty… so it’s the go-to brand for your winter glove needs.

 

OUTDOOR RESEARCH ~ Helium Insulated Hoodie, $199

OR Helium Hoodie I had my daughter test out the Outdoor Research Helium Insulated Hoodie, and it looks fantastic on her! It’s so shiny! She typically always wears a down jacket, but has been reaching more and more for the Helium Hoodie whenever we head out to hike or walk the dogs.  It’s lightweight, but still very warm, with a water and wind resistance fabric. She’s worn it in light rain, and still stayed warm and dry.

The Helium Hoodie has insulative warmth of VerticalX™ ECO SR insulation – which is insulation made from the recycled polyester of REPREVE® and bio-based Sorona®. I think this type of eco-friendly insulation from OR is fantastic, and makes this an excellent choice for a high quality warmth layer that will last a long time.

SUNDAY AFTERNOONS~ Snowmelt Merino Beanie, $36

sunday afternoon snowmelt merino beanie Sunday Afternoons is your go-to maker and designer of all things headwear! This season they’re offering the Snowmelt merino beanie hat. This cute cable knit hat is made from super insulative Everwool™ 100% extra fine merino wool, and also has a soft microfleece ear band for a little extra comfort and warmth. I like wool, but am sensitive to the itchy feel… so I really like that interior fleece band, and find this hat very comfortable and cute.

All Sunday Afternoon products are backed with a lifetime guarantee.

VIM & VIGR ~ Compression Socks, $36

Vim and Vigr compression socks The new “Falling Leaves” print VIM & VIGR Compression socks are super cute! I’m a fan of VIM & VIGR for their whimsical styles, and practical and helpful socks. If you’ve even been curious about the benefits of wearing compression socks, they are the best brand to try.

Compression socks are very comfortable and help with circulation when you are on your feet alot, or even for travel. I always wear my VIM & VIGR socks on travel day, and absolutely notice a difference in less foot/ankle swelling or discomfort… especially when worn during long flights. In the past, I tried their nylon compression socks – but I think I like this cotton style even more. They also come in a higher, medical grade compression strength if preferred.

LUG ~ Trolley Cosmetic Case, $60

lug trolley cosmetic case You will absolutely love the Lug Trolley Cosmetic Case! I’ve never seen a travel cosmetic case quite this size, but it’s such a cool design that makes so much sense. There is a place for absolutely everything on this gem of a bag! EVERY side has a compartment. There are plenty of places to store your brushes or other small items, and smaller sized bottles can stand up. I really love this cosmetic case, it brings me joy!

Sooo many lovely prints and colors (nearly 30!!), that it’s very tough to choose your favorite. Also comes in an awesome, smaller “Mini Trolley” size . Would make an amazing gift!

LUG ~ Delta 15″ Laptop Case, $55

lug delta laptop case Terrific for both home use and travel, I was thrilled to discover the Lug Delta 15″ Laptop Case (and of course, this Minnie Mouse inspired print cinced the deal!) My new HP envy laptop is pretty wide, with a right number keypad, but it still slips nicely into the Delta.

Favorite features include the grab handle on one end, and separate zip compartment with organization pouches to keep power cords, a mouse, and any other needed work items. But the most ingenious part of Delta’s laptop case design? Flip it over for built in mousepad surface. Brilliant!

High quality, nice fabric with a sheen to it, very much recommend this as the only laptop case you’ll ever need. Also comes in a neutral black, and a couple other prints. But the Disney one is the cutest!  *o*

 

COSTA ~ Caldera Polarized Sunglasses, $219

costa caldera Costa Caldera polarized sunglasses have a frame made from 100% recycled fishing nets, a “tangible solution to help reduce plastic pollution.” Such a nifty way to be eco-friendly, for a brand that specializes in eyewear for use on the water!

Costa lenses are pretty amazing. This style comes with your choice of two colors of polarized glass lenses – blue or gray. Glass lenses are a bit heavier, but give you the absolute best clarity and are scratch resistant. Costa’s glass lenses are 20% thinner and 22% lighter than average polarized glass

OLD RANCH ~ Gardner 1/4 Zip Fleece, $59

Here’s a super soft fleece to snuggle into – introducing the Old Ranch Gardner 1/4 Zip! I get lots of complements on this top, and it’s both soft and stretchy. Runs true to size, with a roomy fit. Old Ranch is a relatively new brand, started by my all-time favorite Aventura Clothing. They aren’t available for purchase directly online, but are being featured by more and more retailers.

I was very excited to see Old Ranch womens clothing at our brand new Dillard’s department store that just opened! Look for a retailer near you by using their store locator. Affordable prices, very cute styles!

AVENTURA CLOTHING ~ Hazelton Crew Neck, $75

Aventura Clothing Hazelton Crew Neck The Aventura Clothing Hazelton Crew Neck is a dark horse that I may not have selected on my own, but I ended up loving it. The devil is in the details with the Hazelton Crew Neck, like the cute side zipper and spot on fit. The fabric closes the deal with a thick ribbed knit that is very soft, has a classy high quality appearance, and keeps it’s shape nicely.

Also comes in a light cream color, and other slightly varied styles like a zip neck pullover.

 

KAHTOOLA ~ EXOspikes Traction Set, $59

Kahtoola exospikes For trail running or hiking on slippery terrain, consider the Kahtoola EXOspikes.  These footwear traction sets clamp on to your hiking shoes, and deliver extra protection and performance. They are good in ice, snow, mud, or rocks.

Kahtoola has sold gaitors and footwear traction for awhile now, but the EXOspikes are a new design that utilize an “industry-first TPU Traction Matrix an industry-first TPU Traction Matrix”, making them good for cross-terrain performance but lighter weight than steel.

LIV BAR ~ Nutrition Bars, $29-36 for 12 bars

Live bar nutrition bar flavors
Typically, I’d say you’ve tried one healthy nutrition bar… you’ve tried them all. But Liv Bar is truly different, and I’m very happy to have found them.

Best described as a “grain and seed bar”, here’s the good stuff about Liv Bars. They are organic, and free of all kindsof things – gluten free, soy free, dairy free, corn free, GMO free. They are made from

Warning: When you open a bar, they don’t look like much. They are flat, appear dry, and are not appear very appetizing. However, your first bite is a pleasant surprise. They are VERY tasty, satisfying, and you just plain feel good after eating one. And I promise  you, there’s none of that choking down the last couple of bites, like with some other bars. It’s liberating! Coconut, Ginger, Blueberries, Coffe, Cherries… the list of good ingredients goes on and on.

When my “Crowd Pleaser” variety sampler box of 12 is gone, I will be purchasing more. That’s the highest praise I can give, when I turn from a reviewer into a customer.

 ORVIS ~ Jacquard Tunic Sweatshirt, $98

orvis jacquard tunic sweatshirt Love the legging compatible length, yet still flattering shape of the Orvis Jacquard Tunic Sweatshirt. Orvis clothing has become one of my favorite brands, and this tunic with pockets is spot on for this season. It’s warm, cute, and a no-brainer to pull on with leggings for the day… allowing you to get ready quickly and easily, while still looking like you attempted to wear an “outfit”.  🙂

OLD RANCH ~ Colville Vest, $79

Old Ranch Colville Vest This one’s definitely like a treasure hunt! Use the online “Old Ranch Store Locator” for a retailer near you, and then go search for this soft, cozy, and cute Colville Vest. The picture doesn’t do it justice. I love the buffalo plaid fleece, and how this amazingly soft fabric cuddles your neck when you wear this Old Ranch vest. It’s lined with jersey knit, and is super warm and cozy.

Yo ho, yo ho… the cabin life for me!

LEDLENSER ~ ML6 Lantern, $79

Ledlenser_ML6_lantern The nifty, compact yet powerful Ledlenser ML6 Lantern packs a powerful punch in a small package. This rechargeable lantern can be used to give off 750 lumens of light… and even be used as a power bank for your devices via USB.

The ML6 was smaller than I expected, not much bigger than a flashlight. I love it! It’s a perfect size to bring along camping or hiking, without taking up much room at all. It’s dual purpose of able to charge other devices can really come in handy.

I’ve been a fan of headlamps for years, but I feel like I’ve just grown up and discovered the magic of a compact lantern. 🙂

APPALACHIAN GEAR CO ~ ALL-PACA™ FLEECE HOODIE, $153

Appalachian Gear Company All-paca Watuga Hoodie Made from alpaca wool, the All-Paca Fleece Hoodie is a signature piece made with great care by Appalachian Gear Company. These are made from 100% Alpaca Fiber, and are all the rave with hikers!  They initially import their custom-spun yarn from trusted partners in Peru – supporting fair trade in North and South America. Then the fabric and garment is constructed in the USA, supporting small businesses.

This hoodie is compact, with a very small footprint when rolled up – perfect to have on hand as an extra layer of warmth in your backpack.

Sizing seems true to size, and even has room for one or more layers beneath due to it’s soft and stretchy nature. Alpaca wool dries very quickly, and insulates even when wet.

HELLY HANSEN ~ Aurora Shield Fleece Jacket, $179

HellyHansen_AuroraShieldFleeceJacket_FW21 The new Helly Hansen Aurora Shield Fleece Jacket was just released this season! You can wear it as a Fall jacket, and then use as a midlayer under a shell for winter. The Aurora Shield technical fleece has a DWR finish, and 4-way stretch for comfort and movement during outdoor adventures. I like the sound of this new fabric, described as “blurring the lines between a fleece and a softshell jacket.” The woven face is supposed to allow for natural water resistance, better performance than traditional knitted fleece, and better protection against nature’s elements.

Sounds versatile, and I know that Helly Hansen has notoriously nice quality. Watch the Helly Hansen website for availability of the Women’s Aurora Shield Fleece Jacket soon, in late November.

MUCK BOOTS ~ Muckster II Mid Boot, $119

muck boot muskster mid I finally got to try a pair of Muck Boots famous garden and outdoor work boots, the Muckster Mid II. Easy to wear (and to clean, if you get up to any muckky business), they slide on and mold nicely to your foot. I wear a 9 1/5, but sized down to 9 due to whole sizing. At first I was worried they were snug, but the material does mold softly around your foot making them very comfortable.

Love the turn down option of the cuff, which reversed to flannel plaid. These are great boots to have around for any rainy days or muddy tasks that come your way.

Colorado Fall Stio Sweetwater fleece

STIO ~ Sweetwater Fleece Hoodie, $169

Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoodie I’ve been eyeing the classic Stio Sweetwater Fleece Hoodie for quite some time, and finally took the plunge and purchased one. Stio’s Sweetwater line is the finest sweater fleece around, and they offer a few different styles and great colors. It’s thick, soft, and fantastic quality construction. I like the thumbhole sleeves, and droptail hemline in back. And also, I’m kindof a sucker for the embroidered pine cone logo on the sleeve.

Sizing was a little tricky for me, as it’s slightly athlethic fit and I wanted it roomy. I opted to size up with an XL, and I like it. The size L probably would have been more fitted and flattering… but I opt for comfort, every time!

Stio is a premium outdoor brand, and their prices are steep. But everything I’ve tried from them is amazing quality, and some of my favorite go-to clothing is from Stio.

PRANA ~ Kanab Pant, $79

prana Kanab pant The prAna Kanab Pants hooked me the second I breezed by the REI rack featuring a gorgeous, apricot colored pair. I wasn’t brave enough to buy that color, but I do love the more neutral shade I purchased.

These pants are incredibly comfortable, with a very soft, stretchy, but durable fabric. I’ve worn prAna pants made from their Zion fabric for years, which is great. But this fabric is even softer and more comfortable, and still seems as tough. And holy cow, you can’t beat that waistband!

I struggled with sizing a little on these, too. I’m a size 12 or 14 and the size L fit nicely and looked great, but was fitted. Again I opted for roomy, and got an XL. They are nice, but almost too big and don’t stay up that great, plus it makes the front pockets gap a little. If I get another pair (ok, when) I will probably go with a L. But really – they are wonderful pants, I recommend them!

 

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I received many of these products for free or at a reduced cost, for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.

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