So, I did a thing… I signed our family up for the #52hikechallenge for 2021. 52 hikes in 52 weeks! With all the planning and actual hiking, I wanted to share with you some clutch finds that have made our hikes more enjoyable!
Minus 33 Mini Crew Socks
Starting at the most important place, the feet, I wanted to share with you a great brand, Minus 33. Their lightweight merino wool socks are a go-to for short and long hikes. Made in the U.S.A, Minus 33 combines 64% Merino wool with Nylon and Spandex to create a sock that stays in place, doesn’t rub and aids in a little compression for optimal circulation. I love that I can throw them in the washer AND dryer! Available in different weights and styles, these are sure to please.
The Minus 33 Mini Crew Sock, as well as their other socks, are vented at the top to allow for your feet the breathe during your activity of choice. Minus 33 joined the sock game in 2019, but are already running over their competition in fit, style and price point.
Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pants
With the kids out of car seats and strollers, it is time for our luggage overall to become smaller and travel pieces do more for us. The Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pants have been a great pant for traveling via car and airplane, but most importantly, they have become a new favorite hiking pant.
Created with a durable 4 way stretch, the Skyline Traveler pant moves with you from the trailhead to scrambling up the slippery boulders and even plays well with long flights. An adjustable waist band allows for a more personalized fit. There are 5 pockets, one at the thigh zips close to keep your valuables close at hand but secured. A 3″ gusset is at the bottom of the leg allowing you to open the pant for your boots or taper down if hiking in high brush to prevent ticks and scratches. Easy to wash and quick dry makes these a great option for multi day backpacking trips or traveling where a washer and dryer isn’t readily available. The Skyline Traveler Pants are available in 3 colors. I sized up to 6 because of the slim fit and I am happy I did.
Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino Tank
Hiking in the early mornings, through the mountains and over multiple days requires quality layers that will hold up,
stay in place and not stink. Merino wool is great for all those options and more that’s why I was excited by the Capilene Cool Merino Tank from Patagonia. This lightweight tank is great as a base layer for early starts and because of the loose fit and thicker shoulder straps, it works well under a backpack or hydration pack.
The temperature regulation of the merino wool and recycled polyester blend of the Capilene Cool Merion Wool tank is incredibly helpful when we are out in the foothills of Boise and there is absolutely no shade to hide in. We can experience all 4 seasons in one day well into June here so wearing clothes that can handle the cold and the heat are optimal. The Capilene Cool tank comes in three colors and a variety of cuts, including long sleeve and a traditional t-shirt. I have the Stingray Mauve color and it is a little see through so be sure to wear your cutest support system for the girls under it.
Minus 33 Woolervino 1/4 Zip Hoodie
First things first with the Woolervino 1/4 Zip Hoodie- THUMB HOLES! If that doesn’t immediately sell you on this lightweight and versatile long sleeve, I guess we can go through the awesome specs of it as well. Comprised of 84% Merino wool, this hoodie works with your base layer to keep you warm when the weather is cold and cool when the weather heats up. The Woolverino is created with Core Spun Technology to ensure it will hold up on the trail and keep you looking great.
I hate wearing sunscreen and will opt for clothing to cover me rather than sticky sprays anytime I can. The Woolverino is rated at 20UPF and the fabric is woven tight enough to prevent some bug bites. The fit and feel is great with a longer tail to cover yours and the softest wool shirt I have ever owned. When not in use, the Woolverino Hoodie can easily be stuffed into your pack. The Woolverino 1/4 Zip Hoodie will be a great addition to your hiking, biking and skiing all year round!
Mammut Duncan Mid GTX Hiking Shoes
Mammut Georganic 3D Technology creates a cut tailored to the foot, giving the shoe a comfortable fit, whether you’re
hiking technical terrain or a quick daylong adventure. Instead of a tongue that slides around while you’re walking, the boot has more of a sock like fit, with one side that opens and adjusts for your foot.
An anatomical last and asymmetric lacing add the finishing touches to the shoe’s design, making it stand out just a little more than your average hiking boot, but also something you can easily wear all day long between hiking adventures and other excursions in town. Mid boots are great options for folks who are concerned about ankle stability, yet don’t want a full-on high ankle cuff on a hiking boot.
Women’s Exposure/2™ Gore-Tex Paclite® Plus Jacket
Whether you are on a gear weight limit or you want a go-to jacket that doesn’t take up much room but will perform in weather, the Women’s Exposure/2™ Gore-Tex Paclite® Plus Jacket is the one for you. It can pack down into its own pocket. I have even packed it down and into my sunglass soft case.
One of my favorite features of the Women’s Exposure/2™ Gore-Tex Paclite® Plus Jacket is the drop tail hem. While running, biking or hiking in wetter weather, I always develop a trail of mud or “street water” up my back. The drop tail hem gives just enough coverage and protection over the buttock without compromising fit.
The large pockets on the front provide ample space for your hands – gloves or no
gloves-, a phone and keys. If you need, they can be left unzipped and used as vents. Although I haven’t had a need for this feature yet. The breathability of the Women’s Exposure/2™ Gore-Tex Paclite® Plus Jacket is so well done, that even in our latest round of humidity and thunderstorms, I didn’t feel muggy on the inside. I wish I was joking when I write that this jacket is my everyday jacket. I take it with me EVERYWHERE and it has stood against rain, mud, children’s sticky hands and snotty noses, crammed into a bag and throw into the trunk of a car. It is worth the investment.
The 52 Hike Challenge can be joined on Strava! I hope to see your adventures on there soon.
Safe Travels!