Summer Gear
Camping Gear
What to bring camping really depends upon how long and how far out you’re going. If you’re spending the night at a drive-up campsite, pack all you can fit in your car. If your destination is the backcountry, keeping weight at a minimum is critical. No matter where you camp, be sure to include on your checklist the following: tent, sleeping bag, light source, fire starter, warm clothing, sunscreen, first aid kit, knife and plenty of food and water. Camp stoves are great for feeding big groups, while backpackers enjoy the convenience and practicality of lightweight and foldable camp cookware.
Summer Clothing
Lightweight and breathable is the key to staying cool when the temperatures hit their peak during summer. Manufacturers are creating all kinds of sweat-wicking and fast-drying fabrics to keep us cool but also looking cool as well. A well-crafted pair of sandals is worth the investment, especially if you plan on walking in them all day. Light colors reflect sunlight better than dark so keep that in mind when choosing your next beach outfit. Don’t forget to swing by the swimsuit racks for the latest trends as well.
Hiking Gear
Hiking is all about your feet so make sure your boots fit properly. Once you have your boots fitted, choose a pack that’s right for you, something small and lightweight for short hikes and something a bit larger than can hold additional food, water, maps and safety equipment if you plan on being out all day. Trekking poles will help take the pressure off your legs on steeper climbs, and if you have to traverse rock faces on the trail, don’t forget a rope and even a pair of gloves if your fingers aren’t used to rock climbing.
Biking Gear
Biking trails can vary greatly from silky smooth pavement to rough, washed out paths, and your bike should match what you ride most often. Your local dealer will help you find the best make depending on where you ride most. Clips mounted on the handle bars allow you to lock in your phone or global positioning system (GPS) so you’ll always know where you’re going. Mounts for a GoPro camera also give you a cool recap of your ride from your own perspective. Never forget the helmet no matter what surface you are riding, and cycling gloves will help keep your hands blister free.
Fishing Gear
Everyone loves a day on the water so while you’re out there why not try reeling in a few fish as well. Trolling or bobber fishing makes it easy on kids, while more advanced fishermen will look at casting banks, docks and weed lines. If trout is your goal, then give fly-fishing a serious try. While it might be difficult at first, landing a fish on a fly rod is a really cool accomplishment. Catch and release practices help make fisheries better for the next generation, so treat the fish with as little harm as possible before releasing.
Mountain Climbing Gear
Getting up a rock face using your own brute strength is a passion for many in the west. Each climber will tell you the key to a great day climbing is a comfortable and sturdy harness, trustworthy safety rope and a good partner. It’s never a good idea to go cheap when you’re dangling from the side of a cliff. Rocks and debris can tumble down at anytime so a helmet is also a strong recommendation. Kids can learn at climbing gyms where all the safety equipment is already in place.
