Everything! The best part of my job (other than testing gear) is observing how the women鈥檚 side of the outdoor industry is evolving. Just when I think gear can’t get any more stylish or technically advanced, another Outdoor Retailer show arrives. Companies are making more feminine, functional, and environmentally friendly gear than ever before. Here鈥檚 a quick preview of a few items I can’t wait to get my hands on.
Patagonia Kamala Cross-Back
Patagonia Kamala Cross-BackIcebreaker鈥檚 new women鈥檚 underwear (), made from their lightest-weight merino-Lyrca fabric, comes in two lines: The Siren, in classic underwear styles, and the Sprite, which offers sportier options like the Racerback Tank ($55) and the Sprite Hot Pant ($35).
And no summer is really complete without adding at least one fantastic dress to your wardrobe. Patagonia鈥檚 full-length Kamala Cross-Back ($79; ) might as well be it. It’s made from an organic cotton-Tencel blend and has a flattering cross back.
For travelers, Aventura鈥檚 organic cotton 2 in 1 Dress ($67; ) offers a simple solution to over-packing: it鈥檚 a skirt and a dress. As a skirt, it gathers into a wide, hip-hugging waistband, perfect after a day in the water. As a dress it’s fancy enough to wear out, with horizontal bust pleats, an empire waist, and an A-line drape.聽聽聽 聽
I’m not the only one who’s excited to see Princeton Tec鈥檚 new Spectrum () headlamp, which allows you to mix and match colors and designs to create your own Fuel ($35) or Remix ($45) lamp. If you happen to be at the show, Princeton Tec is unveiling the lamp on Saturday from 4-6. Magic words: Free beer.