Here we go again! My fourth annual top ten favourite pieces of women's outdoor gear from 2018 is out! These pieces I have used, abused and tested to be bomber pieces that I can't live without. Here's what made the list this year:
1. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Trail Runners
These trail runners are bomber. I use them to teach Phys Ed and Outdoor ed on a daily basis as well as use them for approach shoes for climbing, travelling, and on lighter hiking endeavors. I used to use them for trail running but have switched to using the La Sportiva Bushidos. I put them through the wringer and they always seem to past the test of time. Super supportive, grippy, and durable.
2. Level Six Venus Longsleeve Rash Top
Spending several weeks of each summer paddling sea kayaks, canoes and whitewater kayaks, I am in need of clothing that can get wet but also protects me from sun exposure. Enter in the Level Six Venus Longsleeve Rash Top. The form fitting fabric allows you to stay cool and protected at the same time. I love this piece and high recommended it for anyone who paddles.
3. Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi Jacket
I can't believe it has taken me four years to add this staple piece of gear onto this list. This softshell jacket is amazing. I wear it year round while hiking, teaching, climbing, paddling, and backpacking. It's my 'go-to' layer for almost anything. I own four of them and recommend them to everyone. A must-have.
4. DPS Nina Alchemist 99
I upgraded my backcountry ski kit in 2017 and fell in love with the DPS Alchemist Ninas. Hands down the most fun I have ever had on skis, these alpine sticks really can do it all: ski powder, groomers and even soft ice. I love the feeling of control these skis offer as well as their playful nature. I chose the 99s as I live in the east where our powder stashes aren't too deep and at the 99 width they are still very light for the uptrack.
5. Salomon Women's IceGlory Ski Pant
Looking for a resort ski pant that fits well, looks good and comes in a variety of colours? Look no further than the Salomon IceGlory Pant. I have worn these pants for 2 seasons and love the fit thanks to the adjustable velcro waist strap and motionfit fabric. I liked my first pair so much I bought a second pair. Still available from most stores it looks like Salomon may have re-named them to the Icemania pant for 2019.
6. Osprey Exos 58
After loving my Exos 38 pack, I decided to upgrade my mid-size pack to the Exos 58. This is by far the most comfortable loaded pack I have ever owned (and I have numerous back and knee issues). I can fit way more gear in the pack than I thought it could hold and love the way the weight is carried while on my back. I can totally see why people love it for thru-hiking. In 2018 Osprey came out with a women's version called the Eja 58. I own the 2017 version which is lighter than the 2018 and has hip belt pockets.
7. Uthermic Coldscreen
I had the opportunity to try a lotion that is aimed at keep digits warm in cold environments. This heat-producing moisturizer kept my hands from getting into the frozen-white-numb zone all last winter. You need to follow the instructions carefully as outlined in my review here. Recommended for anyone who struggles to keep their hands warm in the winter.
8. Patagonia Women's Down Sweater Hoody
I have tried several light down jackets but I keep coming back to this tried and true standby. The Patagonia Down Sweater jacket is popular and for good reason - durable, warm, and comfortable. Yes some other competitor's jackets are less heavy but this jacket will outlast those flimsy lightweights. I love using this piece as a stand alone or as a layer while skiing resorts.
9. Outdoor Research Overdrive Convertible Gloves
This little gloves have become a 'go-to' on my aerobic pursuits in cooler weather. They have become a staple while hiking, cross country skiing, and running in the winter. I love the fact you can covert them from a thin glove to a windproof mitt which comes in handy when the wind starts to howl. I love how easy it is to tuck in the mitten part when just using the glove. Great design.
10. Tubbs Women's Flex VRT Snowshoes
Looking for a snowshoe that can grip almost like a crampon? Then check out the Tubbs Flex VRTs. They are the most aggressive snowshoes I have ever used: They can handle any icy, steep Adirondack trail. They have a very easy-to-use slip on harness system that you can ben in and out of in seconds. On top of that they offer a very natural stride while in use...no awkward steps. Check out my full review of these snowshoes here.
Need other ideas? Check out my top 10 lists from 2017, 2016, and 2015.
1. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Trail Runners
These trail runners are bomber. I use them to teach Phys Ed and Outdoor ed on a daily basis as well as use them for approach shoes for climbing, travelling, and on lighter hiking endeavors. I used to use them for trail running but have switched to using the La Sportiva Bushidos. I put them through the wringer and they always seem to past the test of time. Super supportive, grippy, and durable.
2. Level Six Venus Longsleeve Rash Top
Spending several weeks of each summer paddling sea kayaks, canoes and whitewater kayaks, I am in need of clothing that can get wet but also protects me from sun exposure. Enter in the Level Six Venus Longsleeve Rash Top. The form fitting fabric allows you to stay cool and protected at the same time. I love this piece and high recommended it for anyone who paddles.
3. Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi Jacket
I can't believe it has taken me four years to add this staple piece of gear onto this list. This softshell jacket is amazing. I wear it year round while hiking, teaching, climbing, paddling, and backpacking. It's my 'go-to' layer for almost anything. I own four of them and recommend them to everyone. A must-have.
4. DPS Nina Alchemist 99
I upgraded my backcountry ski kit in 2017 and fell in love with the DPS Alchemist Ninas. Hands down the most fun I have ever had on skis, these alpine sticks really can do it all: ski powder, groomers and even soft ice. I love the feeling of control these skis offer as well as their playful nature. I chose the 99s as I live in the east where our powder stashes aren't too deep and at the 99 width they are still very light for the uptrack.
5. Salomon Women's IceGlory Ski Pant
Looking for a resort ski pant that fits well, looks good and comes in a variety of colours? Look no further than the Salomon IceGlory Pant. I have worn these pants for 2 seasons and love the fit thanks to the adjustable velcro waist strap and motionfit fabric. I liked my first pair so much I bought a second pair. Still available from most stores it looks like Salomon may have re-named them to the Icemania pant for 2019.
6. Osprey Exos 58
After loving my Exos 38 pack, I decided to upgrade my mid-size pack to the Exos 58. This is by far the most comfortable loaded pack I have ever owned (and I have numerous back and knee issues). I can fit way more gear in the pack than I thought it could hold and love the way the weight is carried while on my back. I can totally see why people love it for thru-hiking. In 2018 Osprey came out with a women's version called the Eja 58. I own the 2017 version which is lighter than the 2018 and has hip belt pockets.
7. Uthermic Coldscreen
I had the opportunity to try a lotion that is aimed at keep digits warm in cold environments. This heat-producing moisturizer kept my hands from getting into the frozen-white-numb zone all last winter. You need to follow the instructions carefully as outlined in my review here. Recommended for anyone who struggles to keep their hands warm in the winter.
8. Patagonia Women's Down Sweater Hoody
I have tried several light down jackets but I keep coming back to this tried and true standby. The Patagonia Down Sweater jacket is popular and for good reason - durable, warm, and comfortable. Yes some other competitor's jackets are less heavy but this jacket will outlast those flimsy lightweights. I love using this piece as a stand alone or as a layer while skiing resorts.
9. Outdoor Research Overdrive Convertible Gloves
This little gloves have become a 'go-to' on my aerobic pursuits in cooler weather. They have become a staple while hiking, cross country skiing, and running in the winter. I love the fact you can covert them from a thin glove to a windproof mitt which comes in handy when the wind starts to howl. I love how easy it is to tuck in the mitten part when just using the glove. Great design.
10. Tubbs Women's Flex VRT Snowshoes
Looking for a snowshoe that can grip almost like a crampon? Then check out the Tubbs Flex VRTs. They are the most aggressive snowshoes I have ever used: They can handle any icy, steep Adirondack trail. They have a very easy-to-use slip on harness system that you can ben in and out of in seconds. On top of that they offer a very natural stride while in use...no awkward steps. Check out my full review of these snowshoes here.
Need other ideas? Check out my top 10 lists from 2017, 2016, and 2015.