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This story is part of our end-of-year series This Year in Gear, rounding up the most notable releases of 2023. For more stories like this, click here.
I’m not the first to say it, and I won’t be the last: it’s not the equipment that makes the adventure, it’s the friends you share it with — and the memories you make. The early morning departures, dizzying unknowns and inspiring vistas are what keep us coming back for more, each and every time. But there is something special about finding just the right piece of gear to help you reach that higher summit. Bomb that black diamond faster. Camp longer, and farther out.
We’ve scoured the internet, camped out, hiked around, hit all kinds of trails and found the gear that maybe we could do without — but we sure don’t want to. We’re betting you won’t either.
Adidas Terrex took one of its most popular hiking shoes and released it in a low silhouette. The brand-new hiker from Adidas Terrex offers more versatility and comfort for those with sensitive ankles — and completely solves the design issues of its predecessor, transforming the shoes into a pair our outdoors editor refuses to take off.
The latest update to this highly technical jacket features two different kinds of Gore-Tex for maximum toughness, weight savings and breathability. A helmet-compatible hood, pit zips and a RECCO reflector squeeze into its 11.6-ounce (women’s)/13.1-ounce (men’s) form factor.
Velocio’s new do-it-all pant is outfitted with Italian-milled Cordura fabric and a PFC-free DWR treatment for ultimate durability and protection against the elements. It’s designed for off-road cycling but perfectly qualified to tackle adventures off the bike.
Forloh prides itself on crafting 100 percent “Made in the U.S.” technical outdoor gear, and its early 2023 release continued its commitment. The Expedition Parka is a 3-layer, fully seam-sealed and waterproof garment featuring the first-ever 800+ fill USA down.
Topo’s latest iteration of its Dirt Collection is made with organic cotton, small-batch dyed with GreenScreen certified dyes and infused with functional features like BDU button-closure fronts and stretch materials.
Smartwool is making new socks out of old ones gathered from its sock takeback program. The Second Cut edition of its popular hiking crew sock is made with a 50-50 blend of sock waste and responsibly sourced merino wool.
The quirky Swedish brand’s new go-anywhere shell actually comes in four colors for men and women. The name owes to its ability to pack down to about the size of an orange. Made from recycled and recyclable polyester, it’s waterproof, breathable and ultralight: a men’s large weighs less than 7 ounces.
This wild collaboration between Burton Mine77 and Merrell defies understanding — and will easily be the most unique footwear wherever you go. (Of course, with Gore-Tex, it’s ready for inclement weather, too.)
In celebrating its 30th anniversary, MH released a limited-edition collection honoring its heritage, which included this mega-warm, ultra-chunky unisex puffer filled with 650-fill RDS-certified down.
This highly successful collab between two of the most popular running brands on the planet sold out in days; it features a custom-engineered mesh design inspired by topographic maps, a double heel pull and smart speed lace system.
Part of Vuori’s first-ever outerwear line, the Steadfast is a medium-weight, full-zip jacket ready for any adventure. Built with responsibly sourced down, this water-resistant hooded jacket is ideal for fall and spring adventures.
Part of Roark’s first women’s collection, this jumpsuit isn’t all looks — it’s also amphibious. Quick-dry, four-way stretch fabric with mesh pockets and a relaxed fit can easily transition from land to sea.
This light, breathable, beach-ready shoe features an engineered knit upper that’s super comfortable and a crush-back heel so you can easily slip into it after surfing — or any time you want. The price is nice, too.
This technical down layer, weighing in at 7.4 ounces, made with 100 percent recycled fabrics and 100 percent upcycled 750-fill down, is ready for long, cold days on the mountain.
This limited-edition version of Danner’s popular hiker boasts an external heel lock system and leather and textile uppers lined with Gore-Tex. Derived from trail running shoes, Danner’s DT6 last features an 8mm offset and a wider, more natural shape in front for additional comfort.
ADIDAS
Arc’teryx
