Fall 2022 Womens Gear Guide

It’s an athletic fit that runs quite small, I had to size up in order to be able to zip it shut. It has a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating, but due to it’s slim profile it will also fit nicely under an outer shell.

I’m thoroughly enjoying hiking with my Pace, as it’s an ideal size for a day hike. It’s a smaller hydration pack design, but with a little more storage room than normal… to easily fit a jacket, phone, keys, small medical kit, and trail snacks. I also love the comfortable fit and ventilated back panel to help you keep cool.

In my opinion, Gregory has the best hydration reservoirs around. You can’t beat the ease of filling and emptying them with the 3D shape, quick dry hanger, quick disconnect straw, and built in handle. The Pace 6 comes with a 2 liter 3D Hydro reservoir.

The Quechua pop-up tent resists wind up to 30 mph, is waterproof, and includes two entry doors. The patented “fresh and black technology” exterior fabric delivers 99% darkness even in daylight hours, and keeps the interior cooler for improved sleep. Due to the umbrella structure used, it has near vertical walls. Meaning it really fits 3 people!

And maybe the best part? The pop-up tent style is super quick and easy to pitch! Since we have a camper, my children have not done much tent camping. But I think this will be the perfect tent for a few “mother and son” camping adventures!

Sometimes lush looking fleece pullovers suffer from the fact that the OUTSIDE is softer than the INSIDE. Not so with the Urbanesque Sherpa. The interior is also lined with a soft brushed fabric that feels like cozy bliss. A kangaroo pocket contributes to making this a fleece pullover dream. It’s both a place to warm your hands, plus includes the signature Royal Robbins hidden, secure zip pocket for a phone or other valuables you don’t want to drop.

Runs true to size, with a generous and comfortable fit.

Oh, and it’s gorgeous, too!

Fly fishing gear is Orvis’ specialty. They are a leader in the industry, with an established reputation for premium gear of all kinds – waders, rod, reels, lines, and apparel.

This Premium Fly Tying Kit has everything you need, from the tools to materials for fly tying. It includes directions on how to tie several different basic and guide patterns, plus an instructional DVD with tutorials for each and basic tool instructions. It includes materials for 16 patterns, 10 flies each, for a total of 160 flies. I’m so excited to get started… !

The uber soft Paragon Sweater has zero itch and is incredibly cozy. The funnel neck collar is a warm but not binding addition, adds some additional style, and makes the Paragon a joy to wear. I’m not crazy about tops getting shorter lately… but this sweater is just right! It hits just at the hip, and it super cute and flattering.

When an effortless, stylish sweater just happens to feel like you are relaxing around the house in your most comfy lounge clothes… well, then I’d say you’re living your best life.

The Royal Robbins Dream Trekker Relaxed Flannel has been aptly named. It’s truly a dream! They have a Dream Trekker “regular” as well, but I really love the generous fit of the relaxed version. It’s an excellent length, without looking sloppy. Made from smooth, incredibly soft eco-concious cotton/TENCEL modal blend fabric that is genius, and a nice mid-weight that’s neither too warm nor cool for Fall weather. And two discrete side zip pockets for convenience. Pockets!! Easily stash sunglasses, keys, or lip balm.

I was very, very excited when I first tried on the Royal Robbins Basalt Adventure Pant.

The “two toned knit” is soft yet durable and holds it shape throughout a day of wear. They are stretchy, wrinkle and odor resistant, and breathable. They look just as good in the office as they do on a trail. I’m telling ya… they’re the perfect pant!

And they’re LONG!! Bless it.

Runs true to size. I’m 5’10” and the 32″ inseam hits just right at the top of my shoes.

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX Womens hiking boots are the perfect combination of being supportive, yet still pliable and comfortable for your foot. Offered in a women-specific design, the molded cushioned insole of this boot delivers unbeatable comfort. The nubeck leather upper also makes them a pleasure to wear, and they have a terrific grip. Gore-Tex lining makes them waterproof. When hiking, you can really feel the difference of how the Transkinetic EVO heel stabilizer and high collar holds your foot and ankle, providing excellent support.

Time will tell how long the Ultra Raptor II will last me, but they are high quality materials and construction and I have no doubt they’ll be durable for a long time. They’re my new favorite hiking boots!

I love that Kaenon came out with this “Essentials Collection” at a lower price point. The NEW Kaenon Essentials line is handcrafted in Japan, starts at $100, and features the same superior quality SR-91 lenses the brand is known for in its Italian-made $175-$250 line.

Fit is perfect! Runs true to size, and is flattering with plenty of room for a thick top underneath yet fitted enough to slip underneath another jacket for added warmth.

This vest is an amazing piece of gear that can be used in all four seasons. And that GOLD….! Love.

I’ve got one of their hoodies, which is a go-to warmth layer I add to my backpack. But this year I tried out their Alpaca infinity scarf, and it’s delightful! Reasonably priced, so I may need to order another one… because it also comes in a gorgeous indigo or gold color.

What a lovely gift this would make. Or an excellent, warm staple you treat yourself to, by adding it to your winter wardrobe.

The Sutter Sweater is made from a warm wool alternative – which I love, due to my skin being so sensitive to itch from any wool content. Made from an acrylic and recycled polyester blend, it’s a great tunic length that looks fantastic with leggings. It does have an open-stitch pattern that is gorgeous, so I wear a tank underneath. Runs true to size.

Very, very pretty!

Why merino underwear?

• Keeps you dry
• Banishes stink
• Keeps your temperature just right

Once you try these, you’ll believe it. I have one pair of Branwyn from a year ago, and they are still like new. They also make a series of bras, like the new essential busty bra I’m hoping to try next.

Sizing is a little hit and miss, but the stretch of the merino material is forgiving. I’m currently a size 14 bottoms, and found I can wear either a L or XL. I actually like the bikini style a little better than the hipster.  The size L hipsters had small leg openings, for some reason? And the XL bikinis I received have a really wide crotch area, which is odd. However, it’s a testimony to how great these merino wool undergarments are, that I still wear and like ALL of the styles and even two different sized bottoms I have from them.

Give them a try, you’ll like them.

I absolutely love their artist series designs! I own several, and get complements on them all the time. I check their website on a regular basis, to see if there are any new designs I need in my life. There usually are.

These are ingredient packets you can take with you on-the-go, and then easily add to your water. They’ve got mixes to add flavor, nutrients, electrolytes, energy, or recovery… whatever you need. It’s a quick & easy solution to have in your backpack! I’d say my favorite it the “endurance” line, which works awesome when you are biking and need energy… but can’t really stomach eating mid-ride.

Their new product is Active Hydration Drink for active pursuits, their lightest mix yet that is intended to help maximize hydration. It includes electrolytes, collagen, and Vitamin C and comes in four different flavors.

It’s hard to know where to start in describing this pretty workhorse bag, the Lug Soprano Tote. The shoulder straps are a great length, and include “grippy” material at the top so they don’t slip off your shoulder. Shorter grab handles are also attached, for optional use.

The organization of a Lug designed bag can’t be beat, and the Soprano Tote may be one of the best I’ve seen yet. I love the clear vinyl slip pocket, two soft lined pockets ideal for glasses, sunglasses, or other easily scratched items. The outer, zip close slip pocket works well for my iPad. The slightly smaller slip pocket on the other side is the perfect size for a phone. Side end pockets work perfectly for my water bottle and car keys, for easy retrieval.

While I’m finding it ideal for a daily work bag… the Soprano Tote is also PERFECT for travel.  It includes a trolley sleeve (to keep your tote in place on top of your roller bag, four gunmetal feet on the bottom, and a zip close, RFID-protected outer pocket with credit card slots. Love, love, love this bag!

Benefits include increased circulation in your legs, therapeutic pressure from the ankle up, and reduced swelling, achiness, and fatigue. If you work on your feet… these are a must have. I sometimes pull them on at night for some soothing relief after a long day. They also aid in recovery of sore muscles after a run or workout.

Travel tip: wear Vim & Vigr compression socks when you fly, for less swelling in your legs, feet, and ankles. (I’ve tried this, and it works!)

Their socks come in two compression levels. They offer mild-moderate compression (15-20 mmHg) – appropriate for all-day, everyday wear or a higher medical-grade compression level of 20-30 mmHg. I find the softer cotton styles a little more comfortable than the nylon. Highly recommended!

I can’t wait to try this new Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew on the ski slopes this season! It has the mesh venting I described, and is made from a Merino Sport yarn that combines the power of Merino with the durability and fast dry times of polyester. It’s lightweight and soft, with a slim fit. I recommend sizing up a size.

I love the “Corozo Nut” fleece print! These would also make a great gift idea for the outloor lover in your life.

The Gabi ponytail sunhat is foldable in a taco shape, so you can pack it along for your beach vacation. A velcro strap can adjust the fit. It’s made from durable, lightweight Flexi-Weave… the perfect travel and adventure hat!

Outdoor Vitals has released the KotaUL Ultralight Travel and Adventure Backpack. This versatile pack is designed for multiple purposes. So you only need one comfortable backpack for both your back country adventures or streamlined travel. You can take the KotaUL “from the terminal straight to the trail with blinking twice”.

Outdoor Vitals uses a special Spectra ripstop fabric for durability while also reducing weight. The KotaUL includes a 22 inch frame for added comfort during long wear times. It transfers the weight from your shoulders to your hips, or you can remove the frame and just adjust the hip-belt for desired comfort.

Side pockets are roomy enough for large water bottles, and I like the option to zip them closed for security. A raised and padded laptop sleeve will keep your computer from touching the ground. There are a nice amount of organization and separate zip pouches to store all your gear.

I’ve not seen such an innovative backpack in awhile, and love that this was built for both travel and backpacking. Looking forward to some adventures with the KotaUL, and will update with more comments once I have.

They come in several great colors, and your choice of inseam. For reference, I am a size 14 and tried both the L and XL… but was most happy with the L. The XL was just too baggy, even in the waist. And I love that you can get them in a longer length! The option to cinch and roll the cuffs make them even more versatile.

Side note: My husband is a huge fan of Kuhl pants as well! He likes them because they’re comfortable and versatile… I like them cause they look really cool on him.  Check out their selection of mens travel pants to see some great options for your guy.

Check out the fun galaxy print Starry Night Pajama Top and Pajama Pant! They also come in an adorable snowmobiling penguin print.

Kate’s Real Food bars are made from 100% certified organic ingredients. They are tasty on-the-go energy bars made from flavorful and interesting ingredients like dark chocolate, cherry, flax seed, peanut butter or almond butter, mango, and coconut. They’re also non-GMO, gluten-free, and made with honey. I love the “snack bites” smaller sized option.

Kate’s Real Food bars are now found in 4,000+ retail locations across the country, including Whole Foods, REI, H-E-B, Amazon.com, and more.

Kate’s Real Food bars have also been discovered by Delta Airlines, who will now be serving them as snack options. Watch for them on your next Delta flight!

Just slip the harness of durable, aggressive MICROspikes over your own footwear, and the 12 stainless steel spikes will help you take your outdoor adventures to the next level. Includes a tote sack for easy on/off. Another great unisex gift idea for an outdoor enthusiast!

If you want it to fit just like the model, not super roomy – then I’d say it’s true to size. I prefer a big baggier fit for fleece pullovers, and would probably size up.

My Decadent Chocolate pair also look fantastic with tunic sweaters for work, running errands, or meeting a friend for a pumpkin latte.

These are ones to watch… I see they’ve been picked up by lots of great retailers like Dillard’s, Scheels, and several other outdoor stores.

Grab a pair before they’re gone! Come in both Black and Decadent Chocolate (which I love). Fit is true to size. I wear size 14, and the L fits grand.

The containment set includes (from largest to smallest):

• Isolate Laundry Sac (33 L)
• Reveal Clean/Dirty Cube (8 L)
• Gear Pouch (7 L)

The laundry sac helps you keep your dirty items from the clean, or can even be used when you head to the laundromat while traveling – with a zip pocket for keys, hotel key, or other essentials. The small gear pouch would work to hold any damp or potentially leaky items.

Take your packing to the next level with this Eagle Creek set.

The Hot Chilly’s Micro-Elite Chamois Crewneck is a technical base layer with thumbholes and seams away from your shoulders for comfort. It’s ranked as “8 out of 10” warmth factor, made from veeerrry soft blend of enhanced polyester and spandex. The smooth face makes it easy to glide on additional layers, while the napped inside is very cozy for extra warmth and softness. Includes bio-silver odor blocking.

These are “body fit”, and I definite recommend sizing up – even just for comfort. I often wear a  size L, and it feels almost like a compression top. Great design and fabric, though! Can also get the matching Micro-Elite Chamois Tight, which has somewhat of a low rise, but ran more true to size for me (size L worked well).

This warm soft-shell pant is ideal for skiing, but would be amazing for any winter adventures due to the comfortable stretchy fabric and plethora of handy pockets. They are made from soft-shell fabric that is breathable and eco-friendly, with lots of easily accessible storage pockets. The waistband is adjustable, and the material is a comfortable 4-way stretch. Made with Bluesign® certified fabrics, a DWR coating, and reflective details.

The Excelsior Pant is well made with high quality materials, is very eye-catching, and has so many cool features built in. Plus, the colors are gorgeous!

But alas, they run really small. Again, I’m size 14 and the XL (the largest size available) are quite snug. Still hoping they work with just a baselayer on the slopes this year! If you are a smaller size… definitely check the La Sportiva Excelsior Pant out.

Phone Loops are pretty flexible in that they work for any style or size phone. They actually come as a strip, with adhesive patches on each end so you can adjust to the proper fit when installing it. It was a little tricky getting mine in place, but it holds pretty securely once your phone is popped back into its case.

They are cheap, and come in lots of fun colors and designs. Although super cute, be aware the ribbon style do not stretch. For that reason, I kindof prefer the silicon phone loops with more give.

The Chums Floating Phone Protector is an excellent waterproof case to have available in your gear stash, and will come in handy for many adventures. Chums has some fun designs in this case, which is also touch-screen compatible with a waterproof closure.

I love this Chums Fjord Bottle Sling, and wish I’d had one on our recent tour of Antelope Slot Canyon where we were only allowed to have a water bottle along. Great for short walks where you don’t feel like wearing a backpack, but should have some water along. I’m all about “hauling hydration with me on every adventure”! My 32 oz. Hydroflask was a bit too wide, but it fits most stand sized water bottles, with an easy glide in and out.

The Seirus Heatwave Plus Ascent Glove come in both a mens and womens size, with two colorway options. They’ve got a premium feel outer leather and softshell glove, with a “DryHand” insert that is waterproof and breathable to keep your hands dry.

Seirus has a technology they call Heatwave, a kinetic heat return system that reflects your body’s own radiated heat back for more warmth. They use it as a liner for these gloves, but now also use it in their impressive Heatwave Base Layers line. The womens Heatwave Reversible Long Sleeve Crew has Heatwave™ for more warmth & rapid wicking, with a really soft interior feel. Fit is ‘classic’ (not quite as fitted), and I’d say it runs true to size.

I tried the Belmont style. They slip on and off really easily, and this Fall come in some really FUN new colors!

The Sena R2X helmet has premium features for comfort and safety while cycling, along with built-in Alexa, speakers, and a mike. It uses an integrated communication system adapted from Sena‘s award-winning motorcycle helmet/headset line.

Do you like using earbuds and listening to music while you bike? The R2X pairs with your phone, app, and even other helmets… so the Sena R2X is a safer solution for you. It allows cyclists to use Bluetooth music from your phone, but still safely hear peripheral sounds like traffic. My husband and I are even able to connect our R2X helmets and talk back and forth. Which is a much better solution than me trying to yell at him…. when he is way ahead of me… lol.

The sleeves ran a little short for me, but I am tall with a longer reach than most. I don’t usually say this for Orvis womens apparel, but if you want this sweatshirt to fit roomy I would recommend sizing up.

Here’s a sleek and alluring new coffee toting option from Kleen Kanteen – the Insulated TKPro Thermos. It uses a TK Closure™ internal thread design that helps keeps beverages hot or cold longer. This insulated TKPro thermos uses double-wall stainless steel, comes in different sizes, and my favorite feature… has a 10 oz lid that doubles as an insulated coffee cup! This is a cool option that enables you to share some of your cup ‘o joe more easily.

Kleen Kanteen is a cool brand that I try to seek out. They are a smaller, family and employee owned company that is also a “1% back to the planet” member.