Enjoy the Glory of the Outdoors During Shoulder Season

If you refuse to let rain, mud, and even snow ruin your outdoor adventures, welcome to the shoulder season! Right now, many parts of the country are experiencing peak spring shoulder season conditions. It’s time to dust off your bike, layer up with rain gear, or strap on your hiking gaiters—and get after it. But to make sure you can appreciate the transition from one season to the next in all its glory, you’ll want gear you can trust to keep you prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way.

Hiking Gaiters

Layer Like a Pro

One of the key strategies for outdoor adventure during the shoulder season is layering. A versatile layering system allows you to adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day. Start with a breathable, moisture-wicking base layer to help keep sweat off your skin.

If you want to bring this layer to the next level of versatility, make it a lightweight, breathable sun shirt with UPF protection. You’ll always have this sun-protective layer if it gets too warm with your mid-layer or windproof shell on top. The difference in weather conditions between lower and upper elevations can vary wildly, especially during the shoulder season.

Pack It In, Pack It Out

Whether you’re heading out on a casual day hike or a weekend backpacking trip, having the right gear in your pack is crucial for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. Pack essentials such as water bottles or a hydration bladder, high-energy snacks, a first-aid kit, navigation tools (map, compass, or GPS device), and a multi-tool or knife.

Don’t forget a highly packable rain jacket and top-performing hiking gaiters that ward off rain, dirt, rocks, and debris. Depending on where you’re going, you may also need a lightweight emergency shelter like a bivy and a fire-starting kit for unexpected changes in weather or emergencies.

Get Down with Insulated Outerwear

Even if you aren’t gaining a lot of vertical feet on your next outing, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. One minute, the sun is shining and you’re working up a sweat. The next, you’re getting pelted with rain or hail, and it’s freezing. An insulated outer layer will provide additional warmth when you need it.

Ultra-packable down and synthetic jackets are ideal for layering. Look for technical features such as compressible synthetic down with warm-when-wet performance capability, ripstop nylon fabric to shield against abrasion and wind, and an adjustable hood.

Protect Your Head

From hard-core waterproof rain hats to warm-weather beanies, you always want to have a technical hat that’s ready for any occasion. A breathable merino or fleece beanie helps regulate your body temperature and is key for days when the chilly weather rolls in. It doesn’t take up much room either. If rain is the forecast, consider a cap or hat that’s fully seam-taped for complete waterproofing.

The shoulder season is an excellent opportunity to get out and explore nature’s beauty and its ever-changing conditions. Before heading out, browse for the perfect mens or womens sun shirt, update your puffy jacket situation, discover innovative features in the latest hiking gaiters, and so much more.

About Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research has been making trusted gear to help you thrive outside since 1981. Whether you’re hiking, backpacking, skiing, trail running, or mountain biking, you can expect durable designs made to withstand the toughest terrain and conditions. Outdoor Research creates reliable and award-winning apparel, accessories, and gear to enhance all your favorite outdoor experiences. Every product undergoes meticulous research and testing to exceed your expectations. Backed by their Infinite Guarantee®, Outdoor Research takes pride in designing solutions to keep you warm, dry, and protected from the elements. From cozy fleece pullovers and packable down jackets to their best-selling rain gear, you’ll find products for every season. Best of all, Outdoor Research celebrates outdoor achievements at every level—whether it’s their ambassadors, non-profit partners, or employees—to create space for everyone who loves the outdoors.

Enjoy this shoulder season with gear you can count on from Outdoor Research at https://www.outdoorresearch.com/

Original Source: https://bit.ly/3Q4GKBt