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Best Gear for an Epic Mountain Adventure
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WALK THIS WAY
Whether you’re navigating wintry backwoods terrain, looking for a quad-burning workout or simply out to enjoy a scenic stroll through the fluffy stuff, Crescent Moon’s EVA all-foam snowshoes fit the bill. The rocker design makes them super easy to walk in, and the foam beds (the same material used in running shoes) also act as an insulator so your feet won’t freeze. $159, Amazon
BE THE LIGHT
When you’re tight on space in your pack, multitasking is key. Save space on your next trek with the Tagvo USB-rechargeable beanie that’s not only a warm knit hat, but also features a built-in headlamp with two modes—white light or flashing red and blue lights—so you can see and be seen in the dark. Washable. $9, Amazon
CHOP, CHOP
You don’t have to be a lumberjack the likes of Paul Bunyan to know the value of a good axe when you’re mountain-bound. This sleek 17.5-inch Gerber Freescape hatchet features a durable forged-steel head and composite handle, making it easy to use without a lot of hand strain. Babe the Blue Ox not included. $45.50, Amazon
SPARK IT UP
Building a fire on a cold mountain night can make the difference between a comfortable campsite and the possibility of frostbite or hypothermia. If you can rub two sticks together to start a fire, well—more power to ya. For the rest of us, we’ll rely on the Zippo Emergency Fire Kit, which includes five lightweight paraffin wax-coated cotton tinders, a Zippo flint-wheel lighter and a water-resistant, floatable case. $9, Amazon
WILDERNESS STYLE
Winter rule No. 1? Don’t leave home without a hat. This chocolate-brown Stetson “Pawnee” fur-felt cowboy hat is a classic, durable, American-made style with a brown leather concho-adorned band. Bonus: a fabric moisture-wicking sweatband to keep you feeling as cool as you look. $156-$203, depending on the seller, Amazon
THE HEAT IS ON
If there’s one thing we don’t want to sacrifice—like, ever—it’s a hot-cooked meal. So, the MSR PocketRocket 2 folding-canister backpacking stove is a must in our adventure kit. Easy to use and able to boil a liter of water in less than four minutes, it’s ultra lightweight (2.6 oz.), compact (2 x 2 x 3 in.) and works with a variety of pot sizes. Dinner is served. $45, Amazon
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
You don’t have to have been a badge-wearing Boy Scout to follow the motto “Be Prepared.” And if you ever find yourself suddenly stranded, injured or in danger—especially in the winter months—you’ll be thankful for having the foresight to pack a Ready America two-person cold-weather survival kit in your car. The three-day supply (pre-loaded in a backpack) includes water and food approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, plus a radio, flashlight, phone charger, shovel, blanket, compass and more. $85, Amazon
CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?
When you’re going seriously off the grid, don’t leave home without the Garmin inReach Explorer+, a device that offers 100 percent global Iridium satellite coverage (satellite subscription required) and two-way text messaging from anywhere. Your loved ones will appreciate its ability to track and share your location, and you’ll sleep better knowing it can alert a 24/7 search-and-rescue center. Looking for preloaded topo maps, GPS routing, a digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer? Yeah it’s got all that, too. $450, Amazon
A BOUQUET OF TOOLS
So you’re heading into the backcountry. You’re probably gonna need pliers. And wire cutters. And a wire crimper and stripper. You’ll need knives—serrated and plain. And a saw, scissors and a cutting hook. Better throw in can and bottle openers. Plus: files, screwdrivers and a ruler(just in case). But here’s the good news: The Leatherman Charge Plus TTi Multitool puts 19 tools in one easily accessible piece of gear. $170, Amazon
COOL IN CAMO
Winter dressing is all about the layers, and this relaxed-fit North Face Apex Elevation jacket makes the perfect insulated shell. Windproof and waterproof, it comes with a hood, chest and hand pockets, and a cinch cord at the bottom hem to block wind. Plus, internal gaiter cuffs keep the snow out, so you stay warm. Lifetime warranty. $80-$375, depending on color/seller, Amazon
