Gear Guide: Speed Hiking Duo
ECCO BIOM Ultra Plus
($200; ca.shop.ecco.com)
ECCO’s versatile BIOM line of multisport footwear offers outdoor enthusiasts a range of options for fast-paced activities, from trail running to fast hiking and everything in between. The BIOM Ultra Plus features a soft yak nubuck leather upper with waterproof Gore-Tex liner, which is bonded to a direct-injected PU foam midsole and a durable and grippy rubber outsole. The BIOM Ultra platform is also available in an even lighter-weight, trail-running version with a breathable technical textile upper, reflective elements and a durable synthetic frame. While the leather version makes for a better hiking shoe than a trail runner, its durability and comfort are attractive features.
Bergans Rondane 6L
($100; catalog.bergans.us)
Bergans of Norway’s Rondane backpack is a great option for runners, skiers and cyclists looking for a pack to store water, snacks and another layer while bouncing around in the outdoors. This six-litre backpack comes with an integrated two-litre Source hydration bladder, internal and external pockets for organizing small items and a unique stability system to keep the pack anchored. This suspension system features a flexible, ventilated foam back pad and shoulder straps, two cord sternum straps, a detachable hip web strap and a Bergan’s proprietary RS3 stability straps running from the side of the pack to the ends of the torso strap. The pack is comfortable and stable on the trail, looks slick and has enough space to store the essentials (but not much else).
