Photography by 2nd Truth on location at Hyland Lake Park Reserve
There’s no better therapy than quality time spent with Mother Nature, but you never know what she might throw at you. The key to fully enjoying any outdoor experience is having the right equipment, because nothing zaps your sense of adventure like being cold, wet or lost. Here are a few of my favorite products to ensure you’re exploring with ease and comfort.
Survival Kit
One thing many people overlook until it’s actually needed is an emergency kit. This is the granddaddy of all survival kits and is intended to keep you alive for 72 hours (hence the name). It’s perfect for the outdoors but also ideal to keep at home or in your car. Uncharted Supply Co. Seventy2 Survival System, unchartedsupplyco.com, $350
Hunting Vest
Upland bird hunting is a favorite fall pastime, but finding women’s gear can be a challenge. I like this hunting vest from Filson, which allows for plenty of movement. I always add a blaze orange shirt underneath to amp up the safety factor. Filson Mesh Game Bag, filson.com, $145
Fishing Waders
Let’s be real: Fishing waders tend to make you look like you’re wearing a saggy sack instead of useful gear. Not anymore thanks to Lone Cone. This female-run business out of Idaho offers functioning yet fashionable waders for women and kids. Want to catch fish and look good doing it? Now it’s possible. Lone Cone women’s waders, lonecone.com, $100
Knit Cap
Recycled luxury meets outdoor function with the Punchy Magnolia touque. It’s my absolute favorite hat, and I’m as likely to wear it around town as I am in the hunting field. This Minnesota company recycles cashmere sweaters into unique beanies with fur poofs purchased from or donated by local hunters. Punchy Magnolia touque, punchymagnolia.com, $140
Waterproof Boots
Whether you’re going for a hike or going pheasant hunting, waterproof boots are a must. You never know when you’ll meet a puddle or a creek that you need to cross. For every pair of Oboz boots sold, a tree is planted. A company that offers a great product and supports habitat conservation deserves five stars. Oboz Women’s Bridger Mid Waterproof Boots, obozfootwear.com, $175
Heated Socks
If there’s one thing that will shorten your time outside, it’s frozen toes. You no longer need to layer on so much with these battery-heated socks from Global Vasion. They even have a thermostat you can control with your smartphone. Global Vasion rechargeable battery-heated socks, amazon.com, $43
Laura Schara is a lifelong outdoor enthusiast and cohost of the television series Minnesota Bound. You can find her blog at wildlyliving.com.
