It鈥檚 been a turbulent period for the outdoor recreation industry: retail stores have closed, brands have shuttered, and the Trump Administration鈥檚 shifting tariff policies have made costs unpredictable. But Mary Beth Laughton, the president and CEO of retail giant REI, is confident that the industry鈥檚 culture of innovation, collaboration, and passion will help companies weather the storm and thrive. On Friday, May 30, Laughton addressed a crowd of outdoor industry leaders at the second annual 国产吃瓜黑料 Summit in downtown Denver, Colorado, in a conversation with Luis Benitez, vice president of global government affairs for Lululemon, and the former director of the Colorado Office of Outdoor Recreation.

Laughton addressed a wide range of topics, from the current threats to public lands, the environment, and diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, to the importance of adhering to corporate values. She addressed 搁贰滨鈥檚 own challenges in 2024 and 2025, and shared her vision for the company鈥檚 future goals around advocacy and charitable giving. Laughton also shared her perspective on how the outdoor industry can be successful, despite the volatility.

Below are excerpts from key moments of the conversation.

The Current Challenges Facing Outdoor Recreation

It’s a crazy moment right now. I think we听all anticipated a certain level of change with the new administration, but the level of turmoil that we’ve all felt in the outdoor industry is something we couldn’t have predicted. Whether it’s attacks on public lands and on basic human rights, or the volatility around tariffs and consumer confidence and the stock market鈥攊t’s been a lot. I think about two things in moments of uncertainty like this. One is the need to be agile and flexible. Our team has been running a bunch of different scenarios to make sure we can meet the current climate with agility. We really don’t know how things are going to play out. The other is we need to use our values as a guidepost and a centering point. Some companies I’ve worked with have had clear values, others have not. In times of turmoil, those that don’t have clear values can lose their way and make short-term decisions that are not in the long-term interest of employees or shareholders or customers.

Meeting Current Challenges with Innovation and Urgency

I think not just about what REI can do, but what can we as an industry do to meet the current challenges? I love the words “urgency” and “innovation.” We need to have both in mind right now, because we all need to think about how we can grow the collective pie together. We can’t see the outdoor industry as a zero-sum game. We need to think of ourselves all as partners in an industry. I think of something REI can offer the industry: our 200 stores. We have community spaces in our stores where people can gather and be together. Yes, we have classes in these spaces. But they can also be places where people come together to advocate together and talk together.

Making a Public Apology

I was announced in my role the same week as the presidential inauguration. My first week I learned that REI had signed an outdoor industry letter in support of Douglas Burgum as the new secretary of the interior. I took this decision in and listened to the team’s rationale鈥攊t was to make sure we had a seat at the table with the new administration with regards to public lands. I understood the decision, but in the weeks afterward it became clear through actions were at odds with who REI really is. It also became clear what I had to do, and I thought it was important to come in and take responsibility for that decision. Our team focused on the actions we could take. It’s one thing to publicly say something, and another to take actions that reflect values. So we made a public apology. It wasn’t an easy moment for me or for the co-op, but I think we’re stronger for doing it, and I’m proud of us standing by what was right to do in the moment.

How Companies Move Forward after Making a Public Mistake

No company is perfect. REI is not perfect. What is important is that we admit mistakes in the moment. I find it hard to believe that we can maintain a certain level of trust with our employees and our customers if we can’t do that. At the same time as thinking about our mistakes, I think about all of the good that REI does. We make mistakes but we also do so much work that is good, and it’s my job to get the message out of what we’re doing well. We’ve enabled $100 million to go back to the community and partners, and we should feel great about that. So, as important as it is for brands to admit mistakes, it’s also important for them to address moments when they’re doing good things, and to celebrate those.

A New Definition of 鈥淥utdoor鈥�

During COVID, a lot of people realized the mental and physical benefits of being outside鈥攖hings that all of us in this room have known for a while. This became known by a much broader group, and many of them now have a passion for the outdoors. As an industry we need to embrace them and welcome them. At REI we need to be just as relevant for someone climbing a fourteener as for someone who is going to take a hike in their neighborhood park. We need them all to feel welcomed in our industry. That is how we’re going to find growth. We can’t look back on COVID and say 鈥渨e had this moment when all of these people came into our community but we lost them.鈥� We need to keep the momentum going, and to continue to make these people feel welcome.

Create Products with Inclusive Design

One of the coolest things we’ve done in a few years is our Active Pursuits line. We listened to our members, and asked them, What do you want to see in a product?听We heard from our trans and nonbinary members that they felt that REI was not offering enough sizing options. We took that feedback and the design team took it seriously and designed this new apparel line. It was the first non-gendered apparel line we’ve ever had. We even re-invented a sizing chart and came up with this totally new approach to sizing. There have been so many cool things about it. And the 18-34 age group is loving the product.

搁贰滨鈥檚 Tough Decisions

REI has had to make tough decisions and we have not been immune to what the outdoor industry has felt over the past few years. The highs of the COVID boom, and the strength it brought to the industry, then coming out of that forced the co-op to make tough decisions. We had to make sure inventory was where it needed to be. We had to make sure we could get back to break-even profitability. It was important for us to get bak to that, and now we have a healthy base. I’m really optimistic about where the co-op can go now: we have such strong and unique assets. We have 25 million members鈥攚e’re the largest consumer co-op in the nation. We have our Green Vest employees who I believe are our secret sauce. The experience and passion and thoughtfulness they bring to helping people out is a huge asset for us. And we have our 200 stores in the United States, and we can use those as community hubs. We also have our values. When I add all of these assets up, I’m really optimistic, even though we’ve just come through a tough period.

On 搁贰滨鈥檚 Plans for the Next Five Years

I spend a lot of time thinking about where things are headed for REI, and also the outdoor industry. I see so much potential. Trust is important. Leveraging our assets is important. Asking ourselves,听How do we have the best curated assortment of products and bring that to life in a way with storytelling that shows it’s more than just a product?听We want to continue to elevate our touch points, whether its in-store or online. We want to continue to unleash our employees who are so great at customer service. We have our 25 million members, and we have so much room to continue to engage them and get then invested in our brand.

For our industry, I keep coming back to the theme of the day: collaboration and community. We’re better together than we are apart. That’s how we grow the pie. I hope that in five years, anybody鈥攏o matter their background or level of expertise鈥攆eels welcome in the outdoor industry because they share a passion for the outdoors. And I hope that we stick to our values, even when it’s hard.

The post The Outdoor Industry Faces Challenges. 搁贰滨鈥檚 CEO Mary Beth Laughton Has Hope. appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Most of the big sales on gear fall around a holiday: Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and for outdoor enthusiasts, 搁贰滨鈥檚 anniversary. Every May, REI hosts its biggest sale of the year with steep discounts (up to 50 percent off!) on top products from favorite brands. Here’s why gearheads should get excited about one of the biggest sales of the year:

• An epic assortment of products: By our last count, there are almost 6,500 products on sale for this REI event. We鈥檙e talking mountains of gear!
• It鈥檚 11 days long: Flash sales can be stressful, but this REI sale runs from May 16th to the 26th, giving you ample time to shop.
• Affordable Co-op gear becomes even more affordable: 搁贰滨鈥檚 in-house Co-Op gear already has a reputation for affordability. During the Anniversary Sale, Co-op gear is heavily discounted, making it even more attractive for bargain hunters.
• Extra Perks For REI Members

If you鈥檙e an , you get a 20 percent off coupon for a full-price item and an REI outlet item not included in the Anniversary Sale. Browse and , and remember to use the code 鈥淎NNIV2025鈥� at checkout. REI members also get 20 percent off used gear in 搁贰滨鈥檚 Re/Supply inventory by using the code 鈥淯SED2025鈥� at checkout. Between those two additional deals, REI Members can score double-digit discounts on hundreds of additional products.

Below, we鈥檝e rounded up 26 of the best deals from 搁贰滨鈥檚 Anniversary Sale, each hand-picked by our crew of unabashed gear nerds.

Updated May 21: We鈥檝e added new deals to the list, including the Thule Motion 3 Roof Box XL, Helinox Sunset Chair, and The North Face Wawona 4 Tent. We also checked all links and prices.

Thule Motion 3 Roof Box XL

It isn鈥檛 easy to design a high-capacity roofbox that鈥檚 also aerodynamic, but Thule nailed that with the Motion 3 Roof Box XL. The sleek box cuts through wind like the wings of an F1 racecar (okay, maybe not quite), and hauls a whopping 500 liters of gear.

Altra Women’s Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoes

The ninth installment in Altra’s beloved Lone Peak lineup, these trail runners can handle the techiest of singletrack. A toothy, high-traction outsole, shock-absorbing foam midsole, and protective inserts cope with bumps in the road, while the roomy toebox and natural, 0-drop foot positioning help the miles flow by like wispy clouds on a breezy day. If you’re in the market for a new trail runner鈥攐r you just want to buy the dip on the Lone Peak ticker鈥攏ow’s a great time to stock up, as and styles are currently 25 percent off.

Related: The Best Trail Running Shoes for Every Terrain

Helinox Sunset Chair

Packability, check. Stability, check. Comfort, double-freakin鈥�-check. There鈥檚 only one thing we typically don鈥檛 like about the , and that鈥檚 the price tag, as there are certainly cheaper chairs on the market. But you get what you pay for, and thanks to 搁贰滨鈥檚 Anniversary Sale, you can get it for 25 percent off and step up your camp chair game without wallet-induced wincing.

Don’t miss: The Best Camping Chairs of 2025

Yakima SUPDawg Paddleboard Roof Rack

Hauling a bulky stand-up paddleboard is no easy feat, but it certainly gets easier with 驰补办颈尘补鈥檚 top-rated SUPDawg rack. A combo of a padded frame and cinching straps locks your prized paddleboard down in transit. Wide load? No worries. The adjustable slider can handle broad boards up to three feet wide.

Kelty Low Loveseat

Plenty of camp furniture options cost twice as much and can’t compare to this Kelty loveseat when it comes to comfort. Just imagine cuddling up in this low-slung two-seater with your favorite adventure buddy, sinking into the suspension of the rump-cradling Loveseat, a cold one in each armrest cupholder. And for a limited time, this comfy camp couch is now 25 percent off.

REI Co-op Nalgene Sustain Graphic Wide-Mouth Water Bottle

Long-lasting, BPA-free, and easy to fill, clean, and sip in the field, it鈥檚 no wonder that Nalgenes have become the longstanding gold standard for on-the-trail hydration. Plus, it comes in various sizes and styles, including the and , , and mini-yet-still practical . All of these holy hydrators are now a whopping 50 percent off.

Thule T2 Pro XTR 2-Bike Hitch Rack

Like a quick trip to a Vegas church, Thule鈥檚 getting you hitched for cheap this Anniversary Sale. The T2 Pro XTR 2-Bike Hitch Rack flips up when not in use and securely holds steeds for you and your better half.

Nomadix Changing Poncho

Underrated. That’s the best way to describe the . Crafted from an absorbent, recycled polyester blend and equipped with a cinchable hood, sweatshirt-style handwarmer pocket, and muscle-tee arm holes, the Poncho is essentially a wearable towel. I use this religiously on surf trips, rafting adventures, paddleboard missions, you name it. Basically, anytime I’m hopping in the water, especially if a wetsuit is involved, the Changing Poncho is coming along. If you’ve never had a poncho before, or it’s time to re-up a raggedy one, now’s the time to snag one at 25 percent off.

Thule Chasm Duffel 90 L

Durable and easy to haul, Thule鈥檚 Chasm Duffel 90 L is a modern take on the classic duffel. The armor-like, 900-denier, laminated polyester fabric is rugged and recycled, providing reliable weatherproofing in transit. The Scandinavian brains behind the bag kitted it out with duffel straps that turn to a backpack harness, internal organization, external compression straps, lockable zippers, and more. Still, our favorite aspect of this heavy-duty hauler is simply the 90 liters of gear-swallowing, adventure-ready volume. Whether you鈥檙e planning a family vacation or your dream expedition, the Chasm is up for the challenge.

Yakima Exo SwingBase System

驰补办颈尘补鈥檚 lets overlanders and road trippers deck out the exterior of their rigs with racks, gear-hauling solutions, camp kitchen gear, and more. The EXO SwingBase System attachs to the hitch mount, pivoting away from the trunk so you can access gear inside your vehicle, and then you can add accessories to the SwingBase like the versatile , locking , , and more. If you鈥檙e looking to maximize the use of your hitch鈥攁nd save dough while you鈥檙e at it鈥攖his system is worth a closer look.

The North Face Wawona 4 Tent

The North Face鈥檚 classic Wawona tent line-up is on sale for 25 percent off during the Anniversary Sale. That includes the tried-and-true , one of our go-to recommendations for families, the , and the truly palatial . You can鈥檛 wrong with these sturdy, easy-to-erect, and weatherproof camping shelters.

Don’t miss: The Best Car Camping Tents of 2025

Mountain Hardwear Women’s Polartec Power Grid Full-Zip Fleece Hoody

There aren鈥檛 too many layers that we keep in the rotation year-round like this . In the summer, we deploy it as a trusty insulator, donning it for breezy summit scrambles or brisk sunset campfire hangs. In the winter, it bolsters base layers on crisp skintrack sojourns and backcountry powder days. The magic is in the patterned grid, which helps the stretchy polyester and elastane fleece wick and manage moisture and heat. Factor in the versatile full-zip style, cozy scuba hood, and pockets, and this Mountain Hardwear piece is destined to become a staple for you, too, at 25 percent off.

Thule Large SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack

If you’re never over ski season and shredding is still on the brain, step up your winter rack game with the Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack. The universal attachment system fits more than just your favorite ; it also secures to round bars, most factory options, and competitors’ products. Featuring a reliable locking system, an easy-to-use hinging design, and a six-pair capacity, it checks all the boxes we’re looking for in a ski rack.

Smartwool Active Mesh Hoodie

According to one member of our gear team, the is a contender for a coveted slot on Smartwool鈥檚 Mount Rushmore鈥攈igh praise. The lightweight, breathable merino blend is ultra-comfortable against the skin, and the perforated mesh panels along the sleeves and back breathe like a freediver coming up for air. Our favorite feature is by far the hood, which offers first-rate protection on sunny spring backcountry ski days and summer climbs, and it鈥檚 also 25 percent off during 搁贰滨鈥檚 Anniversary Sale.

Garmin inReach Mini 2

If you don鈥檛 already have a satellite communication device, 搁贰滨鈥檚 Anniversary Sale is the perfect excuse to pull the trigger on this safety essential. For a limited time, you can save $100 on Garmin鈥檚 industry-leading This remarkably compact gadget clocks in at a paltry 3.5 ounces. It also comes with an integrated loop and removable carabiner, making it easy to bring along on every human-powered adventure. Not only does the inReach allow you to send SOS alerts in the case of an emergency, but you can also communicate via text messages, allowing you to provide loved ones with peace of mind, organize pick-ups for minor injuries, schedule food drops, or check in regarding weather on expeditions.

REI Co-op Men’s Sahara Stretch Convertible Pants听

If you ask us, zip-off pants are the definition of cool. At the very least, they allow hikers, backpackers, and travelers to enjoy a cool breeze when pant legs are jettisoned. Also cool? UPF-50+ protection, a welcome slew of sizes, and a stretchy, comfy spandex-and-nylon fabric blend. But the best part is that 搁贰滨鈥檚 Co-Op Sahara Stretch Convertible Pants for and are now 50 percent off during the Anniversary Sale.

REI Co-op Rainier Jacket听

During our annual rain jacket test, consistently ranks as our favorite bargain option. The shell features a 2.5-layer construction with a DWR-treated nylon ripstop face fabric and a HydroWall membrane for waterproofing and breathability. The result? Solid weatherproofing that’s virtually unheard of at the hundred-dollar price point. Now slashed by 30 percent for and , this bargain pick is more affordable than ever.

Mountain Hardwear Men’s Crater Lake Hoodie听

Mountain Hardwear鈥檚 Crater Lake Hoodie for and is a well-executed rendition of an immensely underrated essential: the hooded sunshirt. Crafted from a light, stretchy, UPF-50+ blend of polyester and elastane, the featherweight hoodie is comfortable, breathable, and shields you from the sun on scorching adventures. The hood protects your neck like the Wu-Tang Clan, while thumbholes, dropped shoulders, and imperceptible seams ensure an unimpeded, chafe-free range of movement. There鈥檚 even a stash pocket on the hip, an ideal place to safeguard the $18 you鈥檒l save when you score the Crater Lake Hoodie during 搁贰滨鈥檚 Anniversary Sale.

REI Co-op Magma 15

There鈥檚 a lot to love about 搁贰滨鈥檚 sleeping bag. While the retail price is by no means cheap, it鈥檚 on the affordable side when you consider the perks. Namely, we鈥檙e happy to see it stuffed with top-of-the-line 850-fill goose down, our favorite sleeping bag insulation, which keeps weight low without reducing warmth. For the Anniversary Sale, REI took 30 percent off the Magma, making it even more reasonably priced. Furthermore, a whopping nine shapes and sizes are available, a virtually unheard-of smorgasbord of options for sleeping bags, and part of 搁贰滨鈥檚 admirable efforts to share the outdoors with anyone and everyone. So don鈥檛 sleep on this one鈥攕leep in this one.

MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe听

If you want more versatility when cooking in the backcountry, but still need a compact backpacking stove, MSR’s is the way to go. Thanks to collapsible pot supports, the petite powerhouse packs down to the size of a kiwi. A built-in igniter means you won’t be kicking yourself if you forget a lighter, the simmer function is fantastic for whipping up more complex dishes on the trail, and the stable, rigid pot supports can handle everything from slender, ultralight titanium pots to bigger camp skillets. At $85 retail, the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe already speaks to backpackers on a budget, but you can now score the stellar stove for 25 percent off at REI’s Anniversary Sale.

Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack

If you’re never over ski season and shredding is still on the brain, step up your winter rack game with the . The universal attachment system fits more than just your favorite ; it also secures round bars, most factory options, and competitors’ products. It also has a reliable locking system, an easy-to-use hinging design, and a six-pair capacity, so it checks all the boxes we’re looking for in a ski rack.

Roark Men’s Bless Up Shirt 听

Few shirts marry form and function like Roark’s . The silhouette is classic and casual鈥攑erfect for a summer concert, outdoor date night, or a post-ride happy hour. But what sets the Bless Up apart from the pack is a fabric that makes it well-suited to mountain bike rides, hikes, and long travel days, too. Namely, an almost sheer, generously perforated polyester and nylon blend that’s lightweight, airy, and mind-bogglingly comfortable in oppressive heat and humidity. As a matter of fact, I’m wearing the Bless Up as I write this story between surf sessions during a stiflingly tropical trip to mainland Mexico.

Roark Bless Up Dress听

This is made from the same tester-favorite fabric as the Bless Up button-down shirts, but in a mid-length dress style. We鈥檙e big fans of this one, too. It鈥檚 lightweight, packable, and versatile, working as a comfy cover-up on the beach or an extra outfit on an international trip.

REI Co-op Magma 30

Like the Magma 15, the Magma 30 offers the premium 850-fill goose down we鈥檙e looking for in a backpacking sleeping bag. It also comes in nine sizes, too, from 鈥渟hort narrow鈥� to 鈥渓ong wide,鈥� and is 30 percent off thanks to this savings event. The difference? It鈥檚 lighter and not quite as warm, making it a better pick for adventures in more moderate temperatures. Not to mention, it鈥檚 a touch cheaper.

LifeStraw Peak Series Squeeze Water Filter System 650ml

What’s the heaviest thing in your backpack? We bet it’s your water bottles. That’s why we dig LifeStraw鈥檚 because it lets you cut back on water weight without sacrificing hydration on the trail. The nifty squeeze bottle features a built-in, hollow-core-membrane water filter, allowing backpackers, hikers, and more to collect water throughout the day instead of hauling multiple liters from the jump. Needless to say, this just-over-pint-sized, 650-milliliter option is a game-changer for minimalists in the mountains.

LifeStraw Peak Series Squeeze Water Filter System 1L 听

This features the same practical design as the last filter we highlighted. However, the durable, collapsible bladder is a touch bigger, providing one liter of drinking water between refills.

More Gear Reviews

The Best Tents for Camping in Comfort and Style
The 7 Best Sleeping Bags for Car Camping
The Best Sleeping Pads听

The post The 26 Best Gear Deals at REI’s Anniversary Sale (Updated With 13 Editor Favorites) appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Summer is right around the corner, so here are two ways to ensure it鈥檚 the best one yet.

1. Kick off summer with the , May 31 and June 1 in Denver, Colorado. The event blends music, film, keynote speakers, outdoor brands, and great food in the ultimate celebration of adventure. Last year鈥檚 inaugural event drew nearly 20,000 people, and the festival will be even bigger and better this year, with Khruangbin and Lord Heron leading the musical lineup and legends like Diana Nyad and Alex Honnold headlining the speaker series.

2. Spend more time outside. Warm weather and long days serve up the perfect conditions for camping, hiking, paddling, and more. Make summer鈥檚 precious days count by putting more adventures on the calendar and equipping yourself with the best gear.

Below are ten products guaranteed to upgrade the season. They鈥檒l help you sleep more comfortably outdoors, elevate your camp cooking with family and friends, and maximize fun on the water. Gear up and get out there.

Camp

REI Co-op Campwell 6 Tent

Got a big crew? Get a big tent. This cabin-style tent sleeps six comfortably with a spacious interior and elevated peak height (over five feet), so everyone can spread out and relax. Clear night? Roll back the fly and enjoy stargazing through the full mesh ceiling. It鈥檚 the perfect summer home for adventure-loving families and friends.

Exped MegaMat Sleeping Pad

When it comes to sleeping well outdoors, a key consideration is what you put between you and the ground. For a solid night鈥檚 rest, you want a pad that鈥檚 thick for maximum cushion and insulated for warmth. The MegaMat delivers and then some. It offers four luxurious inches of cushion, enough insulation for winter weather when paired with a winter bag, and easy inflation/deflation. Bonus: The surface fabric is soft against skin and made with 100% recycled material.

REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag

If you鈥檝e ever felt cramped by a too-narrow mummy bag, get ready for a revelation: The relaxed rectangular fit of this cozy sleeping bag offers plenty of roll-around room for a comfortable night鈥檚 sleep. The 20-degree temperature rating can handle the chillier side of mountain summers, and the two-way zipper lets you open the bag completely or even turn it into a quilt in warmer weather.

Hest Camp Pillow

They may look similar, but not all camp pillows are created equal. This one stands apart for its ultracomfortable memory foam, dirt- and water-resistant fabric, and removable/washable cover. Take it everywhere this summer, from camping to meadow napping to festival lounging.

Cook

AeroPress XL Coffee Press

If camp coffee鈥�good camp coffee鈥攊s one of your nonnegotiables, get the XL Coffee Press from AeroPress. It can brew up to six shots of espresso or two cups of coffee at a time, keeping you on your morning game. To brew, just add your coffee grounds and water, then stir and press. It鈥檚 that simple.

REI Co-op Graphic Camp Mug

What鈥檚 a pot of coffee without a mug to match? The REI Co-op Graphic Camp Mug is made of high-quality stainless steel, features an easy-sipping lid, and is double insulated to keep your drinks hot (or cold). Plus, you can match it to your personal style with a choice of eight colors and designs.

YETI Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler

This cooler is as close as it gets to summer on wheels. It chills up to 76 cans of your favorite beverage, and the PermaFrost insulation can keep ice frozen for days. But this is a Yeti cooler, so top-notch insulation is just the start. The whole thing is tank tough, and the NeverFlat wheels and telescoping handle make it easy to maneuver through festival crowds and over rough terrain.

Lodge Deep Camp Dutch Oven

Nothing says summer like cooking over a campfire. This cast-iron beauty is the way to do it for soups, stews, meats, and more. The deep eight-quart Dutch oven is preseasoned using a hot industrial oven so the oil is baked in, making it hand-me-down durable. That and the cast iron鈥檚 even heat distribution make the Deep Camp Dutch Oven a welcome addition to any camp kitchen.

Float

Bote Breeze Aero Bloom Inflatable Paddleboard with Paddle

Get on the water this summer with a limited-edition paddleboard from Bote. The Breeze Aero Bloom is inflatable and lightweight (just 20 pounds), so it鈥檚 easy to pack on road trips. Eco bonus: The deck pad is made with an environmentally friendly material sourced from harmful algae, removing it from the environment and returning clean water to the ecosystem.

Bote Highwater Hitchhiker

Whatever kind of paddling or boating you do, keep your valuables dry with the hip-pack-size Bote Highwater Hitchhiker. The TRU Zip zipper is fully waterproof, dustproof, airtight, and submersible, so you can focus on the water fun, not the risk of getting your stuff wet.

is the nation鈥檚 largest consumer co-op, with a growing community of 24 million members who expect and love the best-quality gear and outstanding customer service. The co-op is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.

The post Make It a Camping Summer appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

If you鈥檝e been daydreaming about all the trips you鈥檒l take come summer, it鈥檚 time to turn dreams into reality. But with so many options鈥攆rom hiking and biking to rock climbing and outdoor yoga鈥攊t can be hard to prioritize. Fortunately, there鈥檚 one place you can go to tick off your entire summer bucket list: the . Located in Denver, this two-day event blends adventure, fitness, and community with soul-soothing music from big names like Khruangbin, Sylvan Esso, and Lord Huron.

It gets better: REI just launched a sweepstakes giving away a trip for two to the 2025 国产吃瓜黑料 Festival. , then start planning your summer of adventure. To give you a head start, we鈥檝e put together this list of ten travel must-haves.

Travel Duffel

REI Co-op Big Haul 34-Inch Rolling Duffel

Finally: a duffel that comes in all-wheel drive. REI Co-op鈥檚 burly Big Haul roller bag sports oversized wheels and a sturdy chassis designed to handle cobblestones, gravel, and anything in between. Add to that a TPU-coated 400-denier shell and a set of sturdy grab handles, and you鈥檝e got a bag that鈥檚 expedition (or festival) ready.

Backpack

Cotopaxi Allpa 35 L Travel Pack

A do-it-all daypack belongs at the top of your packing list, and the Allpa 35 L really does do it all. A burly TPU-coated 840-denier nylon outer shell defies scrapes and scuffs, and the interior is fully sectioned off with zippered mesh panels. The network of pockets keeps gear impeccably organized, and a plush hipbelt makes for effortless carry.

Toiletries Bag

Peak Design Wash Pouch

Yes, your quart-size plastic bag will work as a ditty bag. But if you鈥檙e serious about travel, it鈥檚 time for this upgrade. Made of waterproof fabric, the Peak Design Wash Pouch sits upright on a counter or hangs from a towel bar via a hidden hook. Its four-liter capacity is big enough for a long trip, and the TPU-coated nylon is a breeze to clean.

Headphones

Shokz OpenRun Pro2 Headphones

These techy headphones combine bone-conduction technology with more traditional air conduction, lifting the high notes and dropping the low notes for a more immersive audio experience. The OpenRun Pro2鈥檚 noise-reduction feature filters out transit chatter, and the open-ear design keeps you alert to your surroundings whether you鈥檙e crossing busy streets in Barcelona or sneaking in a run around your Denver hotel.

Insulated Bottle

Owala FreeSip 24-Ounce Vacuum Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is tough in any time zone, but it鈥檚 even tougher when you鈥檙e switching between them. The genius of the Owala FreeSip is its push-button top, which keeps the built-in straw germ-free, all while enabling effortless sipping. That makes it much easier to keep drinking, whether you鈥檙e on buses and trains or exploring high-elevation trails. Now add vacuum insulation and a carry loop, and you鈥檝e got the perfect summer bottle.

Versatile Footwear

HOKA Transport Shoes

Travel often involves pounding concrete and standing in long lines, both of which can be hard on the joints. Fortunately, well-cushioned footwear鈥攍ike the HOKA Transport鈥攃an defend against fatigue. The Transport鈥檚 5mm heel-to-toe drop helps roll your foot forward into the next step, and its soft EVA foam absorbs impact. Another nice touch: eco-conscious materials like recycled polyester and sugarcane-based foam.

Travel-Ready Pants

REI Co-op Trailmade Pants

Breathable enough for hiking, stylish enough for sightseeing, and soft enough to wear as pajamas, the Trailmade Pants are the perfect all-in-one travel trouser. Its four pockets are each big enough for a passport, and the adjustable elastic waistband defies slippage whether you鈥檙e crushing a steep trail or dancing to a music festival encore.

Lightweight Fleece

Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody

It can be hard to find a hoodie that鈥檚 both packable enough for travel and insulated enough for chilly airplanes and cool evenings above treeline. Enter the R1 Air Full-Zip. This 100 percent recycled fleece is warm, quick-drying, and equipped with three zippered pockets. Pull it out for a cozy night around the campfire or stuff it in a pack pocket for an emergency layer on long hikes.

Packing Cubes

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set, Small/Medium/Large

Whether you鈥檙e living out of a duffel or just trying to keep your favorite socks from wandering off in your tent, packing cubes are the secret to staying organized on the go. 搁贰滨鈥檚 set is better than most because each durable nylon cube features an extendable zipper, so you can add or subtract volume as needed, and a mesh panel lets sweaty gear breathe.

Smartwatch

Garmin fenix 8 AMOLED Sapphire

How鈥檚 this for a magic trick: The fenix 8 makes the worst part of traveling鈥攖he logistics鈥攖he best part. With an intuitive display, precision mapping, turn-by-turn directions, on-the-go texting and calling, and up to 29 days of battery life, this smartwatch is designed to keep you seamlessly on track, no matter where your adventures take you.

is the nation’s largest consumer co-op, with a growing community of 24 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. More than a retailer, REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.

The post Our Favorite Travel Gear appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Will Dunn owes his life鈥攁nd maybe his marriage鈥攖o his REI Co-op Half Dome tent.

鈥淭he tent was a gift from my now-in-laws before we were in-laws,鈥� he says. 鈥淚t was my first backpacking tent, and it got us through some pretty delightful hikes鈥攁nd some pretty harrowing ones.鈥� On one trip, Dunn and his now-spouse were backpacking in Utah鈥檚 Canyonlands when a windstorm swept in out of nowhere.

鈥淲hen it hit us, it hit hard鈥攖here were rocks and sticks beating down on the sides of the tent, and we didn鈥檛 know when it would end鈥 sure was happy to have that shelter.鈥�

Dunn鈥檚 love letter to his Half Dome is one of thousands. After all, when a tent has been around since 1980鈥攁nd is built to last through decades of use鈥攊t should be no surprise that it has racked up a serious fan club among REI members. And in this case, the Half Dome didn鈥檛 just exist for 45 years鈥攖hanks to member feedback it remained at the forward edge of shelter design for its category. It still is. That鈥檚 not surprising considering that when the tent first debuted in 1980, it revolutionized backpacking for a whole generation of hikers.

The Origins of a Legend

If you wanted to buy a tent back in the late 鈥�70s, your options were pretty limited. You had your heavy synthetic dome tents, flimsy A-frame pup tents, and the old-school canvas numbers your local scouting troop probably lugged around on character-building expeditions. You could choose between a lightweight design and a livable one. Very few brands were building shelters that ticked both boxes鈥攖hat is, until decided to reinvent the tent back in 1979.

The goal: straighter walls and more livability, all in a lightweight, weatherproof package. Ambitious? Yes. But the team tackled the challenge the same way it did with any new gear project. It polled REI members, gathered feedback, and set to work creating something that really answered the needs of the hiking community.

After a few iterations, the REI design team drew up a cross-pole design with a single entryway. The vertical walls made it easy to organize gear, get dressed, and play cards without bumping nylon. That first tent, released in 1980 and dubbed the Half Dome, was already a game changer. Then David Mydans got ahold of it.

Mydans was a backpacker and climbing bum who got his start at Chouinard Equipment before REI brought him on as a product designer in 1988. He was famous for spending hours on the cutting room floor, sewing up prototypes and tearing them apart, creating gear piece by piece the old-fashioned way.

鈥淧roduct design at REI is still very hands-on, but he was really passionate about it,鈥� says David Crumrine, 搁贰滨鈥檚 current gear design lead. When he started thinking about tent design, Mydans knew he was tired of crawling over his backpacking partners to get to his sleeping bag. He also knew REI Co-op members wanted more livability. 搁贰滨鈥檚 ethos has always been to let member feedback drive innovation, and the Half Dome鈥檚 progression owes a lot to that philosophy. But for years, further improvements to the tent鈥檚 livability proved elusive. Then, around 2000, Mydans had an epiphany.

鈥淗e realized he could create a tent with two doors and two vestibules,鈥� Dunn says. (Since that fateful Canyonlands trip so many years ago, Dunn has become 搁贰滨鈥檚 staff historian and archivist.) After months of tinkering, Mydans turned his epiphany into a prototype: a two-door tent that was comfortable, lightweight, and easy to set up. He dubbed it the Half Dome 2.

Wind Testing on Highway 410

Of course, comfort and convenience weren鈥檛 the only essential criteria. If this thing was going to work for hardcore backpackers like Mydans, it also needed to be protective.

Enter wind-resistance testing 1.0. Back then, product quality and safety standards hadn鈥檛 really been established yet. REI often had to create its own to make sure new gear was up to snuff. To test wind resistance, REI fashioned a DIY 鈥渓aboratory鈥�: an employee鈥檚 green pickup truck with a giant wooden platform bolted onto it. Whenever the gear team had a new tent to test, they鈥檇 lash it to the platform and drive down a stretch of Highway 410 at 65 mph. A passenger would observe the tent and take diligent notes while the walls flapped thunderously in the wind.

鈥淭he testing was actually pretty scientific for the setup they had. They鈥檇 test a tent with the door closed, door open, guyed out, not guyed out鈥攜ou name it,鈥� Dunn says. REI did this from the mid-1970s all the way up until 1993. (The iconic green pickup is now retired; in the 鈥�90s, the co-op switched to wind tunnel analysis. Today, it relies more on computer modeling and in-depth materials testing.)

Awards and Innovation听

When the two-door Half Dome 2 launched in 2001, campers quickly fell in love with it. Then, Backpacker Magazine put the Half Dome on the map, awarding the tent a coveted after two staffers survived a blizzard in it in 2002.

Backpacker also gave the tent an Editors鈥� Choice Gold Award in 2010. That鈥檚 about the time Mydans introduced a new dual hub design that vastly improved the tent鈥檚 interior space and livability. (Again, this was a piece of member feedback the gear team took to heart and brought to life.)

Later, the tent got inducted into the Backpacker Gear Hall of Fame and earned 国产吃瓜黑料 Magazine鈥檚 Gear of the Year Award. For the editors, nominating it felt like a no-brainer.

鈥淭he Half Dome鈥et a new standard in livability and affordability for a two-person tent,鈥� Backpacker then-editor-in-chief Dennis Lewon .

But the story doesn鈥檛 end there. Over the years, REI kept pushing the envelope. As with its other products, the co-op leveraged new materials and modern technology, finding ways to do more with less weight. Ultimately, designers were able to dramatically expand the Half Dome鈥檚 interior space without making it any heavier. The tent became the centerpiece of . The fan club only grew.

鈥淭he Half Dome is the bestselling tent at REI by a large margin,鈥� says Rick Meade, a senior product manager and the brand鈥檚 former tent buyer. 鈥淲e call it the Goldilocks of tents. It鈥檚 like your all-wheel-drive SUV鈥攊t does everything well, and it鈥檚 your trusted companion for all your adventures.鈥�

A New Take on a Timeless Classic

Now, REI is once again relaunching its fan-favorite Half Dome, once again with member-requested updates.

鈥淲e did a complete nationwide study a few years back where we went to all the major regions of the U.S., getting out with co-op members in the field and doing interviews,鈥� Crumrine says. 鈥淚 remember being with a member in their house and just filling up their living room setting up their new Half Dome tent. We鈥檝e done that kind of thing with other products over the years, and we always learn so much through that cooperative research.鈥�

The new tent doesn鈥檛 just leverage those recent takeaways鈥攊t also stands on the shoulders of 45 years of member inputs and feedback. The result: an all-new Half Dome 2, Half Dome 2 Plus, and Half Dome 3.

The new tents boast best-in-class comfort, more interior volume, and better weather protection than ever before. All the tent鈥檚 outer coatings now have nonfluorinated durable water-repellent (DWR) that helps moisture bead up on the surface, and the rainfly material is more durable thanks to an all-new ripstop reinforcement. And like all REI gear, it鈥檚 and backed by the co-op鈥檚 100% satisfaction guarantee. In sum: It鈥檚 a tent by the people, for the people.

鈥淲hat I really love about the Half Dome tent is its intersection with design and community,鈥� Dunn says. 鈥淚t meets those community needs. It鈥檚 everybody鈥檚 tent.鈥�

Give Back Bonus

REI Co-op is teaming up with the National Parks Conservation Association to defend America’s favorite places. Your Half Dome tent purchase helps power this partnership. From March 25 through April 30, REI will donate 20% of proceeds from full-price Half Dome tent sales to the National Parks Conservation Association. Since 1919, the nonpartisan, nonprofit organization has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks.

is a consumer cooperative that exists to inspire and equip everyone to get outside. Everything it makes is created with the mindset and community of a co-op. From the backyard to base camp, 搁贰滨鈥檚 products are designed to be best in class for the great outdoors and the greater good.

The post The Goldilocks Tent That Changed It All, 搁贰滨鈥檚 Iconic Half Dome Turns 45 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

There are music festivals. There are film festivals. There are climbing and biking and yoga festivals. But there鈥檚 only one .

The Denver event blends everything that makes outdoor festivals so fun, and the result is much, much better than the sum of its parts. That鈥檚 why the inaugural 国产吃瓜黑料 Festival drew almost 20,000 people. It鈥檚 also why the 2025 event鈥擬ay 31 and June 1鈥攑romises to be even bigger. Celebrating outdoor adventure, community, and music and featuring an incredible lineup headlined by Khruangbin and Lord Huron, the 2025 国产吃瓜黑料 Festival is a gift to remember forever. are on sale now.

And to make this the ultimate gift, pair it with some essential festival gear. Here are our top ten picks for upgrading any outdoor festival experience.

Sun Protection

REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie

UPF 50-plus fabric, plus a hood and long sleeves for full coverage, make this supersoft shirt the choice for all-day sun. The polyester/spandex blend wicks moisture and dries quickly, so it鈥檚 perfect for running, hiking, and festival-inspired dancing.

Hydration

CamelBak Hydrobak Light Hydration Pack

What鈥檚 good for biking鈥攈ands-free hydration鈥攁lso turns out to be very good for festival roaming. Featuring a 1.5-liter reservoir and just enough room for snacks and essentials, plus an internal organizer for tools, this lightweight, low-profile pack is ideal for cycling and weekend fun of all kinds.

Sandals

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals

Who doesn鈥檛 need a good pair of sandals? Midsoles made with EVA foam give the Hurricane lightweight cushioning, hook-and-loop closures make for easy on-off, grippy tread affords superior traction, and recycled polyester webbing is durable and quick-dry. Bonus: a peppermint-based anti-odor treatment.

Blanket

Nomadix Festival Blanket

This blanket packs down small for easy carrying, but spread it out and you get 72×60 inches of soft, durable fabric to lounge on. (It鈥檚 also slip-resistant, which is great for yoga.) It鈥檚 made with Global Recycle Standard鈥揷ertified postconsumer recycled plastic. GRS also ensures good working conditions for factory labor and minimizes harmful environmental and chemical impacts.

Versatile Pants

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

One thing that鈥檚 certain about the 国产吃瓜黑料 Festival? You鈥檒l want to stay until the last song. Stay comfortable day and night with these convertible pants, which have side zips that let you switch from shorts to pants and back without removing your shoes. Plus they have UPF 50+ sun protection, breathable and water-repellent fabric, and plenty of pockets.

Sunglasses

goodr OGs Polarized Sunglasses

The 国产吃瓜黑料 Festival is still a long way off, but you don鈥檛 need a meteorologist to tell you this: Odds are good it will be sunny, as Colorado usually is in early summer. These classic shades are a must, with 100% UVA and UVB protection, glare-reducing lenses, and a no-slip fit.

Festival Bag

REI Co-op Stuff Travel Waist Pack

Wear this compact bag on your waist or slung over your shoulder. Either way, the minimalist pack holds your essentials and keeps them dry with a nonfluorinated durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. Eco-bonus: Solid colors are made with recycled ripstop nylon.

Hat

Cotopaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat

Everyone needs a ball cap. Why this one? It has UPF 50-plus sun protection, is made with 100% recycled polyester, and looks great on everyone.

Rain Jacket

REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket

Want to give the gift of more time outdoors? Put a bow on this 2.5-layer recycled ripstop nylon shell. It鈥檚 waterproof and breathable, windproof up to 60 mph, and packs down into its own pocket. This gift says it鈥檚 always time to go outside. Eco-bonus: The nonfluorinated durable water-repellent (DWR) finish helps moisture bead up on the surface.

Sunscreen

Thinksport Clear Zinc SPF 50 Sunscreen

Here鈥檚 a stocking stuffer for everyone on your list: effective sunscreen that doesn鈥檛 contain harmful chemicals. Whether you鈥檙e spending a weekend at an outdoor festival or just heading outside, you鈥檒l appreciate this non-nano sunscreen, which effectively blocks UVA and UVB rays, is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and is not greasy.

is the nation’s largest consumer co-op, with a growing community of 24 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. More than a retailer, REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.鈥�

The post Our Favorite Festival Gear appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Last week I spent six hours skiing in the Vermont rain, and it actually didn鈥檛 suck鈥搇argely because I was swaddled in invisible toxic chemicals, known as PFAS or 鈥渇orever chemicals.鈥� I鈥檓 speaking of the key ingredient found on and in nearly every piece of outerwear with any kind of water repellency: the chemicals that keep us dry through any weather.

But PFAS are not just in our Gore-Tex shells. They鈥檙e in countless consumer products, providing heat, oil, stain, and grease resistance. These chemicals are hugely effective鈥揳nd they also pose serious human health concerns. So much so that听a flood of new bans are coming across the country in a wide range of categories.

In 2024, , says , a national alliance of environmental health organizations and coalitions. Many are already in effect for categories like food packaging, carpets, and ski wax, which have been outlined by state in the chart below.听These looming 听bans have sent industries around the world scrambling to find alternative solutions. It also means that we will soon have to adjust our expectations on how we need to care for things like rain jackets, if we want them to perform, says sustainability consultant Ammi Borenstein, founder of , an agency specializing in sustainability strategy and management.

What Are Forever Chemicals?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. It鈥檚 a mouthful, which is why PFAS are colloquially called 鈥渇orever chemicals.鈥� The nickname refers to the fact that these tenacious chemicals survive essentially forever. They won’t break down听in the environment for a thousand years or more, which is precisely why they鈥檙e so effective at what they do: at creating听a leak-proof barrier against all things liquidy.

PFAS, a family of more than 13,000 unique chemicals, were invented in the 1930s by DuPont de Nemours, Inc., as the company听was working to develop a non-stick frying pan. The world soon discovered the magic of these forever chemicals. Their Herculean bonding power means that they can render humble fabrics impenetrable to weather. They prevent red wine from staining your sofa and puppy poop from ruining your carpet. They keep grease from seeping through paper plates and take-out containers. They make mascara waterproof and are found in things like butter wrappers, lotions and sunscreens, (), and menstrual products. PFAS are听on your , and have been found in both tap and well water. A estimates that an alarming 45 percent of our country’s tap water contains PFAS.

Forever chemicals are basically everywhere and many Americans on a daily basis.听So it should come as no surprise that, according to compiled by The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the damn things are also floating inside the veins of every one of us.

So, just how freaked out should we be?

Why Are Forever Chemicals Dangerous?

Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a host of serious health problems: a听 published in eBioMedicine听found associations between PFAS exposure and thyroid cancer, and studies have linked exposure to kidney cancer as well.

Two of the most notorious forever chemicals听are PFOA and PFOS, which have historically been used in nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, and many waterproof textiles. Both have been and were phased out of manufacturing in the U.S. in the mid 2000s. But thousands of other PFAS are still in production, and we are only now starting to understand where they show up. Which, at the risk of being redundant, is everywhere.

PFAS exposure from everyday items varies significantly. 鈥淚f we’re talking about eating food off paper plates that contain PFAS, for instance, your exposure risks are pretty high because PFAS can absorb into food from plates,鈥� says Borenstein, who points to a 2022 published on Science Direct.

But what about wearing a jacket?

Dr. Stuart Harrad, professor of environmental chemistry at University of Birmingham in the U.K., studies PFAS exposure through skin. In a听听(Environmental Research) he and his collaborators found that 鈥淧FAS can indeed transfer from environmental media (like indoor dust) into skin fluids (like sweat and oils) and become available for absorption through the skin into the bloodstream.鈥�

鈥淚 would be concerned about the potential dermal exposure if PFAS in clothing comes in direct contact with the skin,鈥� he told me. 鈥淗owever, as we don鈥檛 know what PFAS are present in such clothing, we cannot say with any certainty what the health effects might be and whether these might occur at the dermal exposure levels that might arise from wearing such clothing.鈥�

In other words, PFAS in your yoga pants or long johns鈥攐r any fabric that directly touches your skin鈥�could absorb directly into your bloodstream. But Harrad sees less of an exposure risk with clothing that is not next-to-skin, like jackets. He says that because of the unknowns, as well as the environmental implications of creating waste, he is 鈥渓oathe to advise people to throw away existing wearable items鈥� but contends that PFAS use in 鈥渁ny new products should be prohibited.鈥�

We do know, however, that forever chemicals have profound impacts on the people who work in and live near the factories that make and handle them in their raw, unfinished state. Take, for instance the community of Parkersburg, West Virginia, where the DuPont factory (now called Chemours) first created PFOA and remains one of the area’s largest employers.

In the C8 Project, one of the , with nearly 70,000 participants in the area surrounding the plant, researchers found that PFOA was associated with six diseases: kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, pre-eclampsia, and ulcerative colitis. While the chemical companies make obscene amounts of money, factory workers throughout the supply chain touch and inhale PFAS every day and thousands of families living downstream from the facilities drink contaminated water and breathe poisonous air.

After a decades-long quest for justice (chronicled in the excellent 2019 film ), attorney Robert Bilott won a $670 million settlement against DuPont for more than 3,500 personal injury cases.

Widespread PFAS Bans Are Coming Soon

While PFAS are not yet regulated at a federal level, state lawmakers across the country have put them in their crosshairs. 鈥淪tates are transforming the marketplace by adopting policies that mandate the phase out of dangerous听 forever chemicals in products,鈥� says Sarah Doll, national director of Safer States.

Starting in 2025, California will forbid the sale of most textiles with PFAS; New York will restrict them in apparel; and Colorado will ban them in upholstered furniture and ski wax. Similar laws are pending or approved in many other states.

Outdoor Brands at the Forefront of the PFAS-Free Movement

Much of the outdoor industry has been seeking safe alternatives to PFAS for years, as we reported on back in 2015, but it’s been a long process. Early iterations of PFAS-free outerwear were plagued by lackluster performance. But the brands who stayed the course have now landed on new chemistries that they claim perform well, such as footwear maker, KEEN, which has been PFAS-free since 2018. 鈥淧FAS are for recreating outside,鈥� contends Kirsten Blackburn, director of KEEN Effect, the company鈥檚 sustainability and impact team.

But there is a caveat: everyone agrees that PFAS-free outdoor gear will require more regular care and maintenance to keep it performing at its best.

鈥淲ith diligent aftercare like washing and re-treating, these alternatives do not compromise on performance,鈥� says Corey Simpson, Patagonia’s communications manager. Patagonia, which started tackling the complex PFAS problem in 2006, has already eliminated PFAS from its fabrics, laminates, and coatings, and by 2025 all apparel (including zippers, buttons, patches, and threads) will be completely PFAS-free. 听鈥淒uring our research and development of these alternatives we found that the cleaner these fabrics are, the better the PFAS-free听alternatives perform. So, easy-peasy, just wash and dry your gear more frequently.鈥澨�

Fj盲llr盲ven did away with PFAS in all its textiles back in 2015. 鈥淭he important question consumers need to ask, is what level of water repellency does one need?鈥� says Kaytlin Moeller, regional sustainability director at Fenix Outdoor, parent company to Fj盲llr盲ven. 鈥淲e know that DWR with PFAS provides better waterproofing on gear than DWR made without PFAS, but is waterproof really necessary for the intended use? Actions like proper garment care, following washing guidelines, and using alternative waterproofing, like waxing when the fabric allows, can provide the necessary level of water repellency without introducing hazardous chemicals into the environment.鈥�

Care and Maintenance of PFAS-Free Outdoor Gear

For those of us who have come to expect our rain gear to keep us dry year after year with no maintenance, this new PFAS-free reality might be a hard pill to swallow. But Hannah North, manager of , a Bend, Oregon retailer specializing in repairing and consigning outdoor gear, says that the only place you鈥檒l feel the difference is in the laundry room. PFAS-free outerwear will require more hands-on care, she says, but if treated properly, most people won鈥檛 notice a performance difference.

鈥淢ost people don鈥檛 wash their outerwear enough, period,鈥� says North. 鈥淎nd with these new PFAS-free chemistries, it will become even more important. We tell customers to wash their outerwear, regardless of whether it has PFAS or not, after every three to five significant uses and to every three to five washes.鈥� (A 鈥渟ignificant use鈥� is roughly a full day of use outdoors.) It鈥檚 an easy, at-home process.

鈥淲e recommend products, which are water-based, PFAS-free, and very effective for re-waterproofing,鈥�听says North. 鈥淲aterproof clothing should never be washed with normal detergent, which will leave a residue on the fabric that hinders water repellency.鈥�

How to Avoid Forever Chemicals in Everyday Life

While it鈥檚 almost impossible to avoid PFAS altogether, there are some concrete steps you can take to minimize your exposure to them.

1. Be skeptical when you see 鈥淧FOA-free鈥� on something like a nonstick pan. It probably means that they just use a different kind of PFAS. Remember that PFAS is a massive family of chemicals. PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) is just one specific chemical in this family. Instead look for 鈥淧FAS-free鈥� or 鈥渃ertified nontoxic.鈥�
2. Ditch old Teflon cookware. Opt for ceramic instead.
3. Avoid fast food. The packaging wrapping that Big Mac is full of PFAS rubbing up against鈥攁nd . Same with microwave popcorn and paper plates. When you do get takeout, transfer it out of the container as soon as possible because heat and time increase the likelihood of food absorption.
4. Store leftovers in glass containers, .
5. Avoid bottled water which and nanoplastics. Opt for filtered tap water instead.
6. Check your dental floss. This by Mamavation, a consumer health and wellness watchdog website, found that floss products have the 鈥渉ighest levels of organic fluorine we have ever seen in any consumer study.鈥� (Organic fluorine is a chemical marker for the PFAS family of chemicals.) In the lab tests, 33 percent of the tested flosses (ranging from slippery filament and waxed versions to silk and bamboo ones) came back positive for the PFAS marker.

Most importantly, take heart. The omnipresence of PFAS can make the problem feel overwhelming.听But researchers听are learning more each day, the media is investigating, big brands across industries are shifting away from forever chemicals, and governments are starting to act.

鈥淎 few years ago we were looking at a massive, never-ending flow of these chemicals,鈥� Borenstein says. 鈥淣ow outdoor brands, companies all over the world, and importantly, lawmakers have woken up to their harmful effects. The widespread bans will start to turn off the tap. Then we鈥檒l need to look at mitigation of the PFAS that already exist and reducing the toxic load on our bodies and in our environment.鈥�

In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) just recently around PFAS. It is investing in new research, and now requires companies to disclose the presence of certain chemicals in products. It is also developing new methods to measure PFAS in the environment and policies to hold polluters accountable.听鈥�, increased engagement from the EPA, increased consumer awareness, effective PFAS free advocates鈥攁ll of these things suggest we could see national legislation banning PFAS in the near future,” says Blackburn.

To that, I say: Bring it on.

Doing right by the planet can make you happier, healthier, and鈥攜es鈥攚ealthier. 国产吃瓜黑料鈥檚 head of sustainability, Kristin Hostetter, explores small lifestyle tweaks that can make a big impact. Write to her at climateneutral-ish@outsideinc.com.

The post The Best Rain Jackets in the World Will Soon Be Illegal鈥攚ith Good Reason appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

It鈥檚 an absolutely thrilling time to be a runner, if I may say so without sounding too much like a complete shoe geek. We are in a golden era of running shoes. Besides exciting advancements in the foams and carbon-fiber plates of supershoes, there’s been an insurgence of brands entering the trail shoe market. Companies such as NNormal, Speedland, Norda, LOWA, Tecnica, Helly Hansen, and Lululemon have all debuted new trail shoes in the past few years.

This month, REI joined the club, introducing their Swiftland Multi-Trail running shoe. Typically I approach brand-new shoes from non-running shoe brands with a sense of skepticism. While REI does have credibility in the outdoor industry and the ability to access consumer product insight and buying patterns, I wondered if the brand could successfully design a top-tier trail running shoe that can compete with established running shoe brands. That鈥檚 not an easy task.

But holding their own with big-name brands isn鈥檛 enough for REI. Bennet Grimes, REI Senior Product Manager, said their guiding philosophy is 鈥渢o push the industry forward when it comes to building footwear, with carbon footprint at the center of how we build product.鈥� This meant thinking through every component of the shoe and also focusing on designing the lighest shoe possible because reducing the shipping weight has a significant impact on carbon footprint.

With this philosophy in mind, Grimes and his team sought out like-minded partners to help build a trail shoe that featured recycled or bio-based materials in every single component. One such partner was Bloom, which cleans lakes and waterways of harmful algae blooms and recycles them into various compounds. REI worked with Bloom to create an EVA foam blend for the midsole that鈥檚 made with 10% algae. They also used Bloom to create an insole made with 30% algae.

For the upper, Grimes and his team chose a knit made up of 90% recycled PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), aka plastic bottles. 鈥淸Using a knit] allowed us to really dial in the amount of recycled content and waste,鈥� says Grimes. 鈥淲e have almost no waste in production because we get to knit the exact shape of the shoe instead of cutting it out of cookie-cutter patterns.

Other recycled components include 100% recycled PET laces and webbing, 75% recycled PET collar lining, and 70% recycled PET collar foam and reinforcements.

REI Swiftland MT Performance Review

While I found the shoes鈥� eco creds impressive, I was anxious to see how it performed on the trail. I took the shoes out for a spin in foresty rocky trails outside Philadelphia and hard-packed trails in my hometown of Santa Barbara, CA鈥攁t paces ranging from nine- down to six-minute miles.

What stood out most to me about the Swiftland MT was its midsole. It鈥檚 not so soft that it鈥檚 mushy, but also not firm; it鈥檚 not super bouncy, but it still responds when you apply pressure on push-off. It鈥檚 this perfect medium, I think, that will appeal to a wide range of runners who don鈥檛 run ultra-long distances or at a super-speedy pace. I found its sweet spot to be easy training runs up to six miles. For anything longer, I鈥檇 personally prefer a softer ride.

The full-length rock plate underfoot combined with the durable midsole protects against poke-through from sharp stones. The outsole, a proprietary 20% recycled rubber blend called TerraGrip Run, features longer rectangular lugs that I found delivered a smooth ride and adequate traction on paved paths, dirt roads, and groomed trails. Once the footing got a little loose, however, I wanted more bite.

Context is everything when it comes to trail shoes: They are much more terrain-specific than road shoes. What runs well on smooth, well-groomed trails may be disastrous on twisting technical trails. Case in point, the Swiftland MT is undoubtedly not a shoe for the latter. In addition to the lack of traction on technical terrain, I found the knit upper鈥攚hile extremely welcoming to slip on鈥攏ot great at lateral or rotational footholds.

During a fast descent down tightly woven switchbacks, I felt like I had lost control of the shoe, as my foot kept sliding around with every twist and turn. Once the trail flattened out and the terrain eased, however, what felt sloppy and dangerous was now comfortable, secure, and pleasant.

Grimes acknowledged that Swiftland MT was not designed for your hard-charging, technical-terrain-tactician trail runner. 鈥淭his trail shoe is likely to be some people’s first trail shoe ever,鈥� he says. 鈥淵ou鈥檙e not going to go peak bagging in these.鈥� After my testing, I鈥檇 say Grimes and his team hit the nail on the head with what they wanted from the shoe. The REI Swiftland MT, if kept within mellow terrain boundaries, is a comfortable and competent, beginner-friendly trail shoe and an impressive debut for REI.

Grimes also told me, 鈥淲e wanted to build this foundational trail shoe with technologies that you’re going to see in our future products.鈥� I鈥檓 excited to find out what comes next: I鈥檇 love to see a high-performance REI trail shoe.

Price: $130
Weight: 10 oz (men); 9.3 oz (women)
Stack Height: 27mm/19mm (midsole only)
Drop: 8mm drop

The post We Put 搁贰滨鈥檚 Algae-Powered, Recycled-Material Trail-Running Shoe to the Test appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

If you’re into outdoor gear and haven’t shopped at before, buckle up: it’s one of the biggest and widest-ranging sales of the year outside of the holidays. Below, you’ll find some of our favorite picks from this year’s bargain bonanza, all of which we’ve tested and reviewed at听国产吃瓜黑料. We hope you score something good and that it helps you spend more time outdoors this year!

Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots | $230 $172 (25 percent off)

The thick, durable sole allows you to put a lot of miles on these boots, and provides plenty of traction on wet trails.

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Hydro Flask Cooler Cup | $25 $19 (25 percent off)听

This camp essential does it all and does them well: it is both a drinking vessel and a koozie, and was designed to handle both hot and cold beverages. Now your beer, wine, coffee, or tea will always have a companion.

Altra Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoes | $150 $114 (25 percent off)听听

The Lone Peaks have been a staff favorite for a while, thanks to the roomy toebox and thin midsole that allows you to respond to the trail.

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Prana Men’s Stretch Zion Pants | $95 $71 (25 percent off)听

One of our favorite hiking pants of all time鈥攁nd they look good enough to wear in town.

Black Diamond Spot Headlamp | $50 $35 (25 percent off)

Beaming 300 lumens, we love that this lightweight headlamp illuminates the trails during dawn patrol runs and after-dusk adventures.

Dometic GO Hydration Water Faucet | $100 $80 (20 percent off)听

This rechargeable water faucet, complete with an LED light, takes your camp kitchen setup to the next level by allowing you to easily refill your water bottle or wash dishes.

Keen Newport H2 Sandals | $60 $45 (25 percent off)听

The grippy soles of these sandals help kids scramble and climb on almost any surface they encounter. Better yet: toss them in the washing machine for easy clean-up.

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad | $350-$400 $262-$300 (25 percent off)听

This sleeping pad for two is designed for comfort and durability by surrounding the air chamber with memory foam. Simply put by our tester, “You will not find better support anywhere, indoors or out.”

Ignik Gas Growler Deluxe | $150 $112 (25 percent off)听

This five-pound tank is one of our favorite reusable propane tanks for car camping: the capacity is five times more than typical canisters, providing plenty of fuel for cooking elaborate meals at camp. The tough canvas carrying case makes transport easy without taking up a ton of room in your rig.

Garmin InReach Mini 2 | $400 $350 (12 percent off)听

Ideal for those who spend a lot of time in the backcountry and out of cell service, this two-way satellite communicator boasts an average battery life of up to 14 days and is water- and impact-resistant.

La Sportiva Bushido II Trail Running Shoes | $155 $116 (25 percent off)听

The snug fit, durable lug soles, excellent traction, and underfoot stiffness鈥攅ven after 315 miles of abuse鈥攎akes this shoe a winner on high alpine trails.

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MSR PocketRocket 2 Mini Stove Kit | $105 $79 (25 percent off)听

This backcountry cooking setup is compact, lightweight, and durable, making it one of our favorite backpacking cooking systems. It was already affordable at $105, so this is a killer deal.

Gregory Paragon 68/Maven 65 Pack | $280 $210 (25 percent off)听

Winner of the 国产吃瓜黑料 Gear of the Year Award in 2020, the Gregory Paragon 68 (men’s) and Maven 65 (women’s) packs have one of the most effective trampoline-style suspension systems we鈥檝e ever seen. Plus, it offers tons of storage while remaining incredibly light.

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the rest of the sale through May 29.

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Starting in 2023, REI is set to sharply expand its employee medical coverage. The co-op announced today that, beginning January 1, every REI employee鈥攂arring those who have existing coverage through other employers鈥攚ill be eligible for health care under the new which provides comprehensive insurance through Aetna.

The coverage will be available even to part-time staffers, no matter how many hours they work per week. At national companies with workforces in the thousands, that kind of offering is exceedingly rare. (REI employs about 15,000 people across the U.S.) Enrollment will be available after just three months of employment, where previously the company required staff to work at least 20 hours a week over a 12-month evaluation period to qualify for any kind of coverage.

鈥淏asically, we just believe that everyone should have access to health care and this is something we can offer to every REI employee,鈥� Halley Knigge, 搁贰滨鈥檚 director of communications, told 国产吃瓜黑料.

Knigge said that, earlier this year, feedback from an employee pay and benefits survey included a call for access to health care enrollment sooner after the date of hire, and with fewer restrictions. In July, REI CEO Eric Artz sent an internal letter to all REI employees, stating, 鈥淵our feedback on our benefits program was clear鈥攜ou highly value our medical benefits but want access to them faster and with fewer restrictions. We agree.鈥�

Knigge said that while many of 搁贰滨鈥檚 employees build long-term careers at the retailer, others鈥攊ncluding students and retirees鈥攚ant to work limited hours but still need health coverage as part of their employment.

鈥淲e have a lot of employees who want to work at REI but who want to work fewer hours than the previous 20 hours needed to qualify for health care,鈥� Knigge said. 鈥淣ow, no matter how few hours people work, they have access to coverage.鈥�

The REI Access Plan offers comprehensive medical coverage, including free preventive care with in-network providers and access to a Health Savings Account (HSA). The new plan is extended only to employees, not their dependents. Employees must work 20 hours or more per week to qualify for health care plans that extend to dependents.

Employees enrolled in the REI Access Plan can expect to pay around $700 a year in premiums, with REI paying about $6,800, according to the . The in-network individual deductible for the plan is $1,800, including prescription drug costs. Once the deductible is met, employees pay 20 percent of the cost of physician visits, emergency room visits, and other medical services, with REI covering the other 80 percent. The in-network out-of-pocket maximum is $3,600, though there is no out-of-pocket maximum for out-of-network services.

The health care offering is part of a $50 million expenditure REI has made this year to bring across-the-board pay raises and healthcare coverage to employees, Knigge said.

鈥淥ur employees are REI, so anything we can do to increase benefits and opportunities is in line with what we鈥檙e about,鈥� Knigge added. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about people, not hours.鈥�

Enrollment for the new program begins this month.

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