13 Shoulder Season Gear Items That Will Get You Outside and Enjoying Autumn Adventures in 2020
Cooler weather calls for cozy campfires, crisp autumn leaves and the first dusting of snow on high mountain peaks. Are you equipped to get outside and explore?
Hiking Boots
Men’s GORE-TEX Salomon Boots
When it comes to rainy autumn hikes, we gravitate towards the waterproofing of GORE-TEX. These boots include all the features you expect from a sturdy trekking shoe: an 11-mm drop and multi-directional, dual-rubber grip; a gusseted tongue and protective toecap; mesh lining for breathability despite the impenetrable GORE-TEX and a comfortable, supported foam heel.
Cost: $200
Women’s Targhee II Waterproof Mid KEEN Boots
Aggressive terrain is no match for the sturdy build of these boots. With a mid-rise for increased ankle support and stability, these boots feature waterproof nubuck leather uppers, removeable dual density EVA footbeds and excellent arch support that cradles the contours of the foot. Plus, KEEN.Dry waterproof technology keeps you warm and comfortable.
Cost: $190
Backpack
Osprey Syncro Pack – Unisex
This 12-litre pack is extremely comfortable and versatile. The compartment isn’t big, which keeps you from overpacking. It’s ideal for a short autumn day hike or epic mountain bike ride—and it’ll stay clean and dry with the included rain cover. Ventilated and breathable, it comes with a dedicated hydration compartment and a magnetic clip to keep the water tube and bite valve within easy reach.
Cost: $179.95
Crampons
Avventura Outdoors Trail Crampons
For those early icy and snowy days in November, toss lightweight crampons in your backpack—even if you don’t think you’ll need them. The added security of metal chains that slip over your boots mirror the chains that massive trucks use in sudden winter conditions. Don’t get caught in bad weather without a pair!
Cost: $34.95
Women’s Base Layers:
Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck Top
This base layer is fair-trade certified and made with at least 50 per cent recycled materials. The soft polyester is treated for odor control and features raglan shoulder seams, elastic thumb loops and low-bulk comfort. Warmth, breathability and moisture-wicking technology make this a versatile base layer.
Cost: $85
Capilene Midweight Bottom
Pair your long-sleeve zip-neck top with these leggings. Made from 100 per cent recycled content, the flatlock seam construction minimizes chafing and gusseted crotch allows flexible movement on active autumn adventures.
Cost: $75
Men’s Base Layers:
Smartwool Merino 150 Top
With 87 per cent Merino wool and 13 per cent nylon, this long-sleeve crew will keep you warm on cold adventures. Natural wool woven with synthetic fibres keeps you dry while holding warmth and controlling odor.
Cost: $109.95
MEC T1 Long Johns
Oversized and stretchy, the moisture-wicking fabric is a blend of 92 per cent polyester and eight per cent spandex. It has undergone antimicrobial treatment and has a UPF 40 rating.
Cost: $24.95
Women’s MEC Synergy Jacket
This is the jacket you need for the rest of 2020. Durable, lightweight, windproof and GORE-TEX waterproof, the fully taped seams protects you whether you’re on the top of a mountain, bouldering on a cliff or paddling to an island.
Cost: $399.95
Men’s Arc’teryx Fraser Jacket
GORE-TEX with C-knit lining makes this a comfortable, completely waterproof jacket you can wear year-round. Hike, paddle and camp in the pouring rain while staying dry. Editor David Webb gave it his stamp of approval in this review.
Cost: $549.95
Extras
Garmin Pro Solar Watch
GPS, compass, weather, communication device and a fitness tracker in one: This watch is the ultimate outdoor adventurers’ companion. Powered by solar panels, this sleek, unisex smartwatch functions in the backcountry, plays your music, receives texts and comes loaded with maps.
Cost: $1,569.99
Super-Wool Hiker Socks
Whatever you do, don’t wear cotton socks on wet, rainy autumn hikes. Instead, opt for a synthetic/natural blend, like these affordable merino wool, nylon and LYCRA® hiking socks.
Cost: $10.95
YETI Insulated Rambler with Lid
Pour your warm autumn beverage into a durable, reusable mug that will last in the great (chilly) outdoors. Double-wall vacuum-insulated protection keeps the contents warm for as long as your adventure.
Cost: $34.99
Rumpl Blanket
The original puffy blanket is a lightweight, packable, warm and insulated blanket that’s good for the environment. Made from 100 per cent recycled materials, it’s perfect to pack in your adventure vehicle for shorter fall days.
Cost: $130
P.S. Need more autumn and winter gear?
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