Womens Fall Gear Guide 2019

This merino flannel shirt is gorgeous. It’s a soft, warm, and flattering piece that’s also durable and ready to wick sweat and regulate your temperature on the trail. It’s classy details make it stand out, with touches like sturdy elbow patches and snap closures. Runs nice and generous through the shoulders, but I sized up due to the fitted body style and was happier then with the loose fit (shown above).

With a special “extended comfort” GORE-TEX® membrane and rugged Michelin® sole, the Track GTX will keep up with just about with just about anything on your outdoor agenda. On most hikes, I’ve gotten so I prefer a lower style hiking shoe like this, and have really enjoyed wearing the 9.81 Track GTX.

Garmont is an Italy based brand that packs a lot of technology behind their footwear products, to help you #StayWild.  For sizing reference I wear a 9.5, and a size 10 is what worked best.

(Also shown in my hiking photos below!)

I love jackets from OR, because it’s something they specialize in. They are constantly testing their products in real world outdoor recreation situations, and are always striving to improve their fabrics and designs. The result is some of the best gear on the market.

I sized up in the Ferrosi Grid Jacket, since I wanted plenty of room for a warmth layer jacket underneath. It’s got a great look and fabric feel, with well placed pockets and a great fitting hood. The Ferrosi will serve me well in varied condition hiking this Fall, and I even plan to try it out on the slopes this winter as my outer shell.

Gregory is one my absolute favorite brands of backpacks, so I was excited when I saw they have a new travel suitcase – the Quadro Pro Hardcase Roller. This sucker is tough and cool, and I was probably most impressed with the interior. It’s well laid out, and has a good-sized, optional, lined “ActiveShield” section that can seal off stinky/wet/dirty clothes on your adventure travel. It’s FANTASTIC.

It’s a bit hefty (8.6 lbs), so you’ll want to watch weight limits in some cases, since some airlines are now setting a max weight for carry on luggage.  But the gain is in it’s strength, and knowing your contents will stay safe and well protected. Comes with a built in lock. Also comes in a 30″ size.

I’ve worn them for Fall hikes, with ranges in temperature from hot afternoons into cool evenings, and they adapted really well to the temperature shift. They are water repellent, and would be a great all around pant for any type of outdoor adventure.

Features include reflective patches, zippered pockets, zip expandable pant leg, silicon edging at bottom of pant leg, and attached belt to customize your fit. I wear a 12 or 14, and the XL fit just like I like (shown above). I’m 5’10”, and they were the perfect length.

The Highland Scrawl is big, but doesn’t seem unwieldy, especially worn in the spirit of a shawl around your shoulders. It’s like a softy, cozy blanket that you wrap around yourself. Plus it completes a perfect Fall outfit. Who doesn’t want a soft, cozy blanket wrapped around themselves all day?? 

I wore this to an evening meeting a week ago. By the conclusion, each of my children (seated on either side of me) had stolen an end of my scrawl and were cuddling in it. It’s that generous and  wonderful. Plus it comes in three lovely shades

This new “Pelican” color is rich and gorgeous, with heathered hues of tan and cream. Sometimes I size up on pieces like this, because I don’t like tops too fitted. But I’d say this honestly runs true to size. I would describe it as a somewhat fitted style (slightly more so than the Better Sweater jacket on me), but that provides more warmth and I can still wear a tee shirt layer underneath with it looking great.

Such an ideal mid layer, or just an “add-some-cozy warmth to your day” piece.

Made from premium materials, this is a crazy mix of being luxurious and warm (650-fill responsibly sourced down)… yet also technical enough to take with you on your outdoor adventures. That’s right folks: it’s an ADVENTURE BLANKET, and everyone needs one of those in their lives, IMHO.

Queen sized coverage, packs into the included stuff sack, and uses Nikwax-treated down to withstand morning dew or moisture so you stay cozy.

LIFALOFT™ is a special synthetic insulator built to offer warmth while staying super light weight. The jacket has a really nice, true to size, roomy fit. It is compact, so it it won’t take up much room in your bag. It’s a great choice to have along in your hiking backpack, or to take along when traveling for any unexpected chills.

Awesome pockets in back, plus a center zipper-close compartment for valuables. Very streamlined fit.  Honestly, I love Pearl Izumi quality, but get a little frustrated with their sizing. Curvy girls like to bike, too! I sized up in the Pro Merino Thermal Jersey, and even that was fairly snug (but still comfortable, and probably with the intended fit).

I guess I need to ride my bike more, and slim down a bit…

All this magic happens thanks to Julbo’s special “Reactiv photochromic” lens. It causes your lens to get lighter or darker, to match changing light conditions. And Polycarbonate makes them tough, in case you take a spill. Don’t do that.

I’ve been in this varying-light-on-the-trail predicament, and am very excited about the Aerolites! They’re also super light weight on your face, breathe well without fogging up, and are so comfortable you almost don’t notice them.

In short, these feel great. I’ve used a firmer brand in the past, but Sof Sole seems to have the same support with a little extra comfort cushion included, complements of the happy air/gel chamber in the heel. I selected this style for “low to neutral arch types”, but they do offer others depended on your foot and needs.

After my 8 year old son tried standing on mine, I had to promise him I’d look into whether they made these for kids…

This is the lovely new Samoyed Vest (also comes in a jacket style, if you prefer) from Royal Robbins, available in three colors for this Fall / Winter season. Shaggy fleece is all the rage this year, and this one is particularly soft with a lovely sheen to it. I love the nuetral colored trim that adds just a bit of classy detail and interest.

I don’t know what else to say… this one sells itself!  I got racy and selected this pale pink “shadow” color. It’s so beautiful!

It’s natural properties means it’s anti-microbial and wicks moisture. It’s 30% cotton, and has a soft hand. Fits true to size, and I’m partial to this pretty New Moon shade with a salmon colored stripe woven in.  Fit is spot on, and is true to size (thank you, Mountain Khakis!)

With a roomy fit and trendy quilted design, this vest will look great over your favorite flannel shirt this Fall. I love the soft look and feel of the fabric, and this beautiful and nuetral shade of blue.  The pockets are lined with a cozy, soft material. Fit is true to size, or maybe even a bit big.

I can’t get enough vests in my life, and this one will be a staple I’ll keep it in rotation for years to come.

Becasue… behold the Clear Creek 20 WSD in cheery Caribe Blue! I love this medium sized day pack, which has just the right amount of features in a ripstop fabric and comfortable fit. It’s got a 3L hydration sleeve to add your favorite water bladder.  Nice airmesh back panel to keep you cool, the shoulder straps feel great, and I appreciated how wide the chest strap can adjust to. For the price, I feel you get some real bang for your buck with the Clear Creek, and a high level of quality.

Best of all, it comes with Mountainsmith’s “Forged for Life Guarantee”, a lifetime warranty.

They use all natural ingredients to sooth an upset stomach, like ginger and mint.  Inside the cute tin are individually wrapped drops. I keep them in my purse. My daughter keeps a tin beside her bed at night.

I recommend carrying a tin of Tummydrops, it’s a great piece of “gear” to have handy on your travel and outdoor adventures!

I prefer a loose fit, and am between sizes in pants. I think I could have gone either way with these, but am happy with the looser size-up in the Cruiser Cords. They are wonderful and super cute.

It’s rare for me to find pants I don’t want to immediately shed after work, to change into yoga pants instead. But these are so comfortable, I don’t need to do that. High praise! For that same reason, they would be excellent for travel.

Toad & Co as a brand is very conscious of sustainability, and supporting clothing industry practices and fabrics that are friendly for the planet.  The Epiq fabric (they also have a zip hoodie and a dress) comes in four really cool colors, and is made from eco-friendly hemp and organic cotton. I wasn’t sure about the feel when it first arrived because it seemed a little stiff.  But after washing, it became much softer and quite comfy.

What a cool, versatile boot this is. The LaCrosse Grange Boots are functional, waterproof, and can serve as a great sloppy outdoor chores or rainy walk in the woods boot. And they look great with a cute plaid skirt or leggings for work!

Self described as “the top of the rubber food chain”, these deluxe boots have a practical tread and much higher level of comfort than other rubber work boots I’ve owned. I typically wear a size 9 or 9.5, and the Grange size 9 fit great.

Your mission, should you accept it, is to pick one of the really fun colors like plum or celestial blue.

I love bags that can be used and worn different ways. This one works as a mid-sized fold-over cross body purse, or as a larger over the shoulder hobo or tote bag. Terrific versatility! Between that and the great anti-theft features like RFID protection, zipper locks, and a chair loop wire lock it will definitely be my bag of choice for upcoming travel.  Also comes in black and a pretty sterling, but this copper color is so rich and gorgeous.  Get the copper.

I’m really enjoying this compact, unique and efficient design, and bring it will me everywhere – whether I’m heading to work, or just running errands.

Guaranteed not to leak or spill. Check out their artist series, or Rocky Mountain designs.

This reversible top is not traditional sweatshirt material. It is a double layer of a nice, cozy cotton material that has been lightly quilted. It drapes beautifully and is very flattering. It’s got an awesome kangaroo pocket on both sides, so no matter which way you wear it you have a pocket.  I love the cowl neck because it is cozy without being constricting (like a turtleneck can be).

It’s wrinkle free, and an amazing travel piece.

The Enduro socks come in many colors that are so playful and fun, and I think the price point is great for such awesome quality. Plus, they’re made in South Africa and you’ll get a sticker with a smiling face of the woman who inspected the quality of your pair of Balega socks.  Very cool.

It has a beautiful drape, is a fine gauge mid-weight, wonderful pockets, and zero itch. Zero itch, people! I’m so sensitive to any amount of wool content in clothing… even merino wool, which is supposed to be more fine. This sweater has almost a silky feel to it, and I had to double check the tag to believe it really had merino wool content (55% merino wool, 45% cotton).

So, yeah. Winner, winner, chicken dinner! You get the awesome benefits of a merino wool sweater, without sacrificing any comfort. It’s even machine washable. This cardigan would be an elegant and classic addition to any wardrobe.

Small, practical, and effective. With Camelback quality for a comfortable fit, easy grab angled design, and a reflective strip. The water bottle that comes with it is from their special Podium series, which has a Mud Cap to keep dirt and dust out of your drink.

Great price for a great little pack!

Stria is a special, technical fabric that offers additional warmth and four way stretch while also being made from eco-friendly materials. And most importantly, it’s nice and soft next to your skin.  My family does not ski, snowshoe, or go sledding without our Turtle Fur tubulars!

Materials and workmanship of Sunday Afternoon hats is guaranteed for life.

These are slick and very helpful! Tech Taco Organizers come in a pack of 3 for $9.95.

MyRume offers lots of fun patterns and colors. Prices are very reasonable, and they have many varied products ideal for on-the-go or travel like collapsible totes, and in-bag pouches for organization.

Sometimes I size up with prAna, but the Milani Hoodie runs true to size and has a flattering fit.  I got mauve, which is pretty, but I can’t stop thinking about this beautiful vintage blue heather shade!