2022 Fall Womens Travel and Outdoors Gear Guide

Fall 2022 Womens Gear Guide

October 20, 2022COMtnMom

Womens Gear Guide hiking Colorado

2022 Fall Womens Travel & Outdoor Gear Guide

It’s my favorite time of year! The temperatures have stayed warm in Western Colorado, and this Fall season is going way too fast. One reason I love Fall is that it’s time for my semi-annual roundup, of the best gear from all my favorite travel and outdoor brands.

Gold is the HOT NEW COLOR for the season, girls... in shoes, backpacks, vests, and more!  Here’s my 2022 Fall Womens Gear Guide, for all the best new travel and outdoor gear for the upcoming cooler weather.

Fall colors on Grand Mesa
I almost missed the colors on Grand Mesa! A few gold Aspens left at lower altitude…

2022 Fall Womens Gear Guide - best roundup of travel and outdoor apparel, gear, and must-haves for cold weather season.

La Sportiva – Coldai Down Jacket, $199

La Sportiva Coldai Down Jacket This lovely Coldai Down Jacket from La Sportiva is a beautiful jacket or warmth layer for upcoming cold weather. I was a sucker for the gorgeous colors “Atlantic” and “Mist” right off the bat! It molds to your body and is ultra lightweight and comfortable, yet warm. Nice range of movement in the shoulders and arms. This soft jacket is packable, and can be stuffed inside one of the two internal storage pockets.

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.

Gregory – Womens Pace 6 H2O Insulated Hydration Pack, $119

Gregory 3D Hyrdo 2L Reservoir Gregory Packs makes fantastic backpacks, with all sorts of design options. New this season is the womens specific fit Pace 6 H2O. This insulated hydration pack will keep your water colder 2 x longer! For someone who does alot of desert hiking, and likes a cold drink… I find this a brilliant idea.

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.

Gregory Packs womens Pace H20

Gregory Pack Pace H20 back panel

Decathalon – Quechua 3 person Pop-Up Tent, $349

Decathlon Quechua 3 person pop up tent Decathlon makes all sorts of reasonably priced outdoor sporting gear for camping, cycling, even fitness and winter sports!  This Quechua series 3 person tent is so easy to use, with lots of great features for your effortless car camping excursion. It rolls up into a compact bundle that will easily fit into a car trunk. There’s alot of bang for your buck with this well designed, quality tent and it also comes with a 5 year guarantee.

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!

Royal Robbins – Urbanesque Sherpa 1/2 Zip Fleece, $85

Royal Robbins Urbanesque Sherpa half zip It’s hard to describe how lux this pullover Royal Robbins Urbanesque Sherpa fleece truly is.

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!

Orvis – Premium Fly Tying Kit, $198

Orvis Premium Fly-Tying Kit

Orvis Premium Fly-Tying Kit with case

What a fabulous way to get started with a fly fishing hobby! Or for a current fly fishing enthusiast, who wants to try tying their own flies.

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… !

Aventura Clothing – Paragon Sweater, $109

Aventura Clothing Paragon Sweater My favorite clothing brand, Aventura Clothing (former ambassador here, so I’m a little biased) is back with some amazingly cute Fall styles!

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.

Royal Robbins Dream Trekker Flannel

Royal Robbins – Dream Trekker Relaxed Flannel, $80

Royal Robbins Dream Trekker Relaxed Flannel If you add only one flannel shirt to your Fall lineup each year… this is the shirt you need to add.

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.

 

Royal Robbins – Basalt Adventure Pant, $85

Royal Robbins Basalt Adventure pant fit Hurray and huzzah! A durable, denim looking, regular zip-up pant that are secretly stretchy!! I mean, my coworkers are pretty understanding but I think they get tired of seeing me in pants that we all know are pretty much yoga pants.

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.

 

La Sportiva – Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX Womens Boot

La Sportiva womens ultra raptor II GTX

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Hiking boots I have problem flat feet with bunions, and it’s hard for me to find footwear that I can wear comfortably for any amount of time. Hiking shoes usually work pretty well for me, as long as they aren’t too narrow or binding in the toe bed. I’ve tested many, many brands of outdoor footwear. This was my first time wearing a pair of La Sportiva, and I was instantly hooked.

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!

La Sportiva womens ultra raptor II grip

La Sportiva womens ultra raptor II

Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX Womens Boot

Kaenon – Avalon Polarized Sunglasses, $125

Kaenon Avalon Polarized Sunglasses Looking for a high quality pair of everyday sunglasses that won’t completely break the bank? Check out the new line of Kaenon Avalon Polarized sunglasses. I love these! They are more comfortable than most pairs of sunglasses I own, have feather weight frames, and are “hyper clear” with polarized lenses that includes a lifetime SR-91® Lens Warranty. The premium coating sheds water, oil and dirt. I love the look of this “Avalon” style, but they have other great frame options, too.

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.

Kaenon Avalon polarized sunglasses
Kaenon Avalon polarized sunglasses in “Tokyo Tortoise” frame color and Grey lens

Outdoor Research – Women’s SuperStrand LT Vest, $149

Outdoor Research SuperStrand Vest Meet my new favorite vest, the Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Vest ! The new insulative technology VerticalX™ SuperStrand is a down-alternative. It’s OR’s lightest, softest, most compressible synthetic down that is comparible to 700-800 fill power down. Its outer ripstop nylon fabric is durable, and has the best warmth-to-weight ratio. When you’re not wearing it… it’s the perfect vest to always have along in your bag!

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.

Appalachian Gear Co – Alpaca Infinity Scarf, $41

Appalachian Gear Co Infinity Scarf Appalachian Gear Co makes lightweight performance garments of the highest quality, made from fine 100% alpaca fiber. Alpaca wool has amazing properties like moisture wicking, breathability, and bacteria resistant (no stink). Appalachian Gear says “the quality of alpaca fiber we are using is finer, more insulating, and stronger than merino.” This small business makes all of the fabric that goes into their products right in their facility in Charlotte, N.C., in small batches.

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.

Royal Robbins – Sutter Sweater, $85

Royal Robbins Womens Sutter Sweater The Royal Robbins Sutter Sweater is as beautiful as it is soft and comfortable!

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!

Branwyn – Performance Merino Hipster ($38) & Bra ($52)

Branwyn performance merino hipsterBranwyn performance merino bra Once in awhile, I receive a complementary sample for a gear review and like the product so much… I immediately go online and make an additional purchase. That’s what happened with the Branwyn performance merino hipster. They aren’t cheap, but the “performance” claim is for real, and unlike any other undergarment I’ve tried.

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.

Sunday Afternoons – Artisan Series Trucker Cap, $30

Fall 2022 womens gear guide I love wearing hats, and wear Sunday Afternoons trucker hats more often than not. They are super comfortable due to technical features like bluesign® certified brim and wicking sweatband, StretchBack Sizing™, and mesh ventilation.

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.

Sunday Afternoons trucker hat

Tailwind Nutrition – Active Hydration Drink Mix

Tailwind Active Hydration Drink Mix Tailwind Nutrition is a cool brand that makes “endurance fuel”, and can convert your plain old water into a performance drink.

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.

Lug – Soprano Tote, $110

Lug Soprano Tote bagLug Soprano Tote interior I’ve granted this amazingly designed bag my highest honor: being my daily work bag!

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!

Vim & Vigr – Compression Socks, $36-38

Vim and Vigr Compression Socks I love VIM & VIGR compression socks! They live up to the description, “the easiest step you’ll take towards everyday wellness”.

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!

Smartwool – Intraknit Thermal Merino Crew, $125

Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino Crew Smartwool has been a front runner in utilizing merino wool for outdoor clothing, due to the many benefits of this natural fiber. Their new series of Intraknit garments includes body mapped mesh venting, strategically placed mesh that increases breathability and comfort. These pieces are great investments to make in your cold weather gear, as they are high quality and will last for years.

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.

Mountain Hardwear – Unisex HiCamp Sherpa Mitt, $35

Mountain Hardwear HiCamp Sherpa Mitt Look at these cute sherpa mittens! New this season, Mountain Hardwear released the HiCamp Sherpa Mitt. These are a fun, easy-on easy-off option for hand warming on camping trips or dog walks. They also include Stimulus™ conductive material on the thumb, so you can use your touch screen phone.

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

Wallaroo Hats – Gabi, $53

Wallaroo Hat ponytail Gabby Stylish sunhat, with a cute ponytail cutout?  It’s the perfect ponytail sunhat! That’s the Wallaroo Hat Company’s Gabi. As a girl who loves wearing a trucker cap, but also realizes sometimes I need more sun protection – this is the perfect solution.

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 – KotaUL Ultralight Travel & Adventure Backpack, $250

Outdoor Vitals Kotaul UL Backpack Outdoor Vitals Kotaul Ultralight Travel Adventure Backpack So many thoughtful features in this travel and adventure bag that does it all!

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.

 

Kuhl – Womens Freeflex Move Travel Pant, $89

Kuhl womens freeflex move pant Kuhl has an excellent selection of womens travel pants, including comfortable options like the Freeflex Move Travel Pant. These lightweight pants are made from Kuhl’s wicking, and quick-dry, innovative FREEFLEX fabric. They are incredibly soft, and somehow have stretch without spandex, so they really do keep their shape all day long. That makes them perfect for travel, hiking, or anything your active lifestyle brings.

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.

 

Old Ranch – Organic Cotton Pajamas, $35-39

Old Ranch pajamas Old Ranch is Aventura Clothing’s sister brand, and each year they continue to add great apparel options. This winter… cute pajamas! These Old Ranch pajamas are a nice weight, with a “just right” medium warmth factor. The drawstring waist is comfortable for sleeping, and I love this starry night pattern. They’re made from a lovely soft brushed jersey and organic cotton.

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 – Organic Energy Bars, $29 for 12 pack

Kates Real Food bars almond butter

Kates Real Food bars

So happy I’ve discovered this brand of Kate’s “real food” energy bars! And I love the backstory of founder Kate baking her own energy bars from quality ingredients, to fuel her adventures in the Rocky Mountains.

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!

Kahtoola – MICROspikes, $75

Kahtoola Microspikes Planning some winter adventures on ice and snow? Make sure you’ve got your Kahtoola MICROspikes footwear traction along for added traction and safety. This is a great concept that lets you wear your own warm, waterproof winter boots… but adapt them for rugged conditions when needed in icy, mountainous terrain.

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!

Mountain Hardwear – HiCamp Fleece Pullover, $130

Mountain Hardwear HiCamp Fleece Pullover New from Mountain Hardwear’s HiCamp fleece collection, it’s the HiCamp Fleece Pullover. I would describe this more like a jacket – a true outdoor, durable warmth garment to wear in cooler temps (vs. a “lounge around the house” fleece). The material is quick thick, with two zippered hand pockets and a durable fabric patch over the elbows. Only downside is the sleeves seemed to run a touch short. But I’m tall, so if you are average height it will probably be just right for you.

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.

 

Aventura Clothing – Dog-Walker Legging, $75

Aventura Clothing Dog Walker Legging I love when Aventura Clothing comes out with fleece-lined bottoms!  The aptly named Dog-Walker Legging is your go-to for cooler walks this Fall and Winter. These lovely, soft ankle length leggings are warm and fleece lined, yet are not bulky. Although thick, they’re still flattering and have side pocket that are perfect for your phone and poop bags. Am I taking the name too literally? I mean… they called it, they’re perfect for dog walking!

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.

Eagle Creek – Pack-it Containment Set, $55

Eagle Creek Pack-it Containment Set Eagle Creek are masters of travel bags and gear. New to their travel organization PACK-IT™ SETS collection – the PACK-IT™ Containment Set. These are very light weight, and have been treated with an anti-microbial agent to combat odor. Main body fabrics are 100% post-consumer recycled and bluesign® certified.

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.

Hot Chilly’s – Micro-Elite Chamois Base Layers, $70

Hot Chillys Womens Micro Elite Chamois CrewneckHot Chillys Womens Micro Elite Chamois tight Is is just me , or are these WHITE Hot Chilly’s base layers a fun and refreshing option, over the same old black…?

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).

La Sportiva – Excelsior Ski Pant, $179

La Sportiva Excelsior Ski Pant More from the awesome La Sportiva brand… it’s the Womens Excelsior Pant!

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 – Item, $8-10

phoneloops phone strap These fun Phone Loops were recently placed on my radar, and I thought I’d give them a shout out. I’m kindof over “pop-its”, but still like have an option to more securely hold my phone.

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.

Chums – Floating Phone Protector & Fjord Bottle Sling, $20-22

 

Chums Fjord Bottle SlingChums Floating waterproof case Next, a couple of fun gear items from Chums! (And more great gift ideas…)

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.

 

Seirus – Heatwave Plus St Ascent Glove, $119

Seirus heatwave plus st ascent glove womens Hooo boy, these Serius gloves are nice!!

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.

 

Woolloomooloo – Merino Wool Shoes, $150

Woolloomooloo merino shoes

Woolloomooloo Belmont Merino Wool shoe Did you know they make shoes from merino wool?  Woolloomooloo creates premium, Australian merino wool shoes that take “athleisure style to a whole new level of comfort”! No socks needed, and your shoes stay dry and comfortable. These are fantastic,  and I love them! Super comfortable, and the cute neutral styles can be worn for anything from the office to walking your dog.

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

Sena Technologies – R2X Smart Cycling Helmet, $229

Sena Technologies R2X Smart Cycling Helmet Sena Technologies have a cool new collaboration with Amazon Alexa, in their new R2X Smart Cycling Helmet. The concept of a “smart” helmet was new to me… but I love it!

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.

Orvis – Outdoor Quilted Snap Sweatshirt, $119

Orvis Outdoor Quilted Snap Sweatshirt Orvis has a wonderfully soft quilted fabric, and I love the styling on this Outdoor Quilted Snap Sweatshirt. The kangaroo pocket is well placed and not bulky, and as always with Orvis – construction and quality are top notch!

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.

Kleen Kanteen – Insulated TKPro Thermos, $45

Kleen Kanteen Insulated TKPro Did you know in the early 2000s, you couldn’t buy a reusable, stainless steel water bottle in the U.S.? Kleen Kanteen were the forerunners in changing that, and they sold the first BPA free stainless steel bottles in 2004. Now reusable bottles and coffee mugs are everywhere!

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.

I received free samples of the items mentioned in this post for the purposes of review. All opinions are my own.

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