Gear Shed: Late-August Picks

As summer winds down, ML staff and partners want you to keep the stoke strong with the latest apparel and gear.

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

The Beta AR Jacket (AR: All Round) is created to deliver performance versatility with packable, breathable and durable waterproof protection across the spectrum of alpine environments and activities. The GORE-TEX Pro technology delivers maximum durability, the helmet-compatible DropHood has an internal collar for added protection and an embedded RECCO reflector improves searchability in emergency situations. This is the finest embodiment of high-performance weather protection and materials, emphasizing versatility for multiple activities. www.arcteryx.com

Blu Wave Neptune Series

The Neptune Series foil boards feature a sandwich construction of carbon-Innegra and PVC, resulting in a durable, lightweight board. The Neptune 7.2 is a downwind and light-wind wing foil board, ideal for the Great Lakes. If you’re in Ontario, reach out to Blu Wave in Wasaga Beach for lessons, demos and help choosing the right gear. www.bluwave.ca

Fjällräven Keb Agile Trousers

The Keb Agile Trousers (for men and women) are all-around trekking trousers for adventures where freedom of movement, durability and protection are paramount. Made of a double-woven stretch fabric that dries quickly, the trousers boast zippered leg pockets and knees reinforced with G-1000 Lite Stretch. The low-profile design, tapered legs and articulated knees will make these a go-to favourite. www.fjallraven.com 

Jack Wolfskin Barrier Longsleeve Shirt

Take on your next trek in a versatile Barrier Longsleeve Shirt. Jack Wolfskin’s own TEXASHIELD PRO fabric creates a soft but effective barrier that helps ward off mosquitoes without any chemical applications. An adjustable collar and roll-up sleeves regulate hot conditions to keep you in comfort, while three pockets stow your phone and other essentials. Also available for women. www.jackwolfskin.com

Landyachtz Rally Cat FG

The Rally Cat FG (fibreglass) board is handmade in Vancouver, at the headquarters of an innovative, homegrown company that’s been building bikes and boards since 1997. Designed as the ultimate cruiser with generous rocker and molded fenders, the Rally Cat is comfortable, and maneuverable—and allows for huge wheels. A new fiberglass-and-fir layup makes it unbelievably light, thin and strong. www.landyachtz.com 

Norco Fluid VLT

Get in more rides and make the most of every minute with the lightweight Fluid VLT. Featuring the next-level Bosch Performance Line SX drive system and 140 mm of precision-tuned suspension, this e-bike with uncompromising components has integrated mixed wheels for optimum weight balance and handling. Buy Norco and other rad bikes in Ontario at www.littleeds.com

Ortovox PEAK 55 Backpack

The Peak 55 is multifunctional for alpine explorers who need a durable, versatile and comfortable pack for multi-day missions and expeditions. Built for heavy loads, the pack has a clever storage option for each piece of key gear, and contact surfaces are lined with Swisswool fleece that absorbs moisture and dries quickly. This is the ultimate in mountain-ready comfort and functionality. www.ortovox.com

Rally Trail Blazer

Crafted for post-adventure enjoyment, Rally Trail Blazer is the original Rally ale. It’s brewed with artisanal sea salts sourced from Newfoundland and Labrador’s glacier-filled waters, and blackcurrant for refreshment at the finish line. Go ahead, you’ve earned it. www.drinkrally.ca 

Shokz OpenSwim Pro Headphones

From water to land, OpenSwim Pro’s IP68 waterproof rating, easy controls, firm but comfy fit and crystal audio will enhance your amphibious, all-terrain game. These headphones operate via Bluetooth but boast an MP3 mode (with a whopping 32 gb of storage) if you want to unplug, ditch your phone and rock your playlists while swimming, trail running or hiking where there’s a spotty signal. (Underwater use—the headphones are rated to a depth of 4 metres—is limited to MP3 mode due to Bluetooth signal disruption by water.) Plus: The signature open-ear design gives you awareness of your surroundings so you can easily perceive potential hazards during outdoor activities, whether running/biking in town or on extended swim sessions. And the OpenSwim Pro is engineered for a secure fit with flexible, ergo-shaped ear hooks and headband that stays in place whether you’re running, jumping or diving. And how about the sound? It is dynamic and bass-rich, thanks to Shokz’ PremiumPitch 2.0+ bone conduction technology. Switch seamlessly between sound modes for Bluetooth or MP3 playback and calls, ensuring perfect audio wherever you go. www.shokz.com

Smartwool Women’s Ultralite Mountain Bike 3/4 Sleeve Tee

The Women’s Ultralite Mountain Bike 3/4 Sleeve Tee is designed with both the hard-charging or mellow-trippin’ mountain biker in mind. A regular fit allows for unrestrained movement, reflective elements boost safety in dim light and a longer back hem offers extra coverage. It’s also made with responsibly sourced merino wool and TENCEL performance fabric for breathability, moisture management and odour resistance. www.smartwool.ca

YETI Rambler French Press

Is there anything better than fresh-brewed, piping-hot coffee at the campsite? The 1L Rambler French Press features a ceramic lining reminiscent of those sturdy old mugs at the cottage and the GroundsControl filter ensures no more grounds in your pour. Plus you can pretty much run it over with a truck and it will still pour a hot, well-filtered cup of java in a heartbeat. www.yeti.ca

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