Advertisement

Stepping Out

Equipment to make your onshore exploration a bit more comfortable. "Gear" from our October 2011 issue.

microburst.jpg

The Microburst jacket ($150) from Atlantis is good for onshore excursions when a sudden rainstorm rolls through. The microfleece lined collar, stowable hood and chin and neck chafe guard will keep you comfortable, and the 2.5-layer waterproof and breathable shell will keep you dry. Weighing in at only 12 ounces, the Microburst stows away easily in a backpack, ready to go when you need it. Atlantis WeatherGear, 781-631-5371

sperrys.jpg

When stepping ashore, the SON-r Bungee ($90) from Sperry Top-Sider will be a welcome companion for climbing over slippery rocks or wading through the shallows. Designed with Sperry’s patented SON-r technology, carefully positioned pods on the shoe’s outsole work with interior pads to give the wearer an almost barefoot feel, providing a sense of what’s
underfoot while still retaining the comfort of shoes. The SON-r Bungee’s Hydro-grip rubber outsole provides traction on wet surfaces, and the antimicrobial lining and mesh material help the shoes dry quickly. Sperry Top-Sider, 800-247-6575;

pants.jpg

Versatility is important when trying to pack light for a shoreside excursion, and Airgill convertible pants ($80, shown) and Backcountry long-sleeve shirts ($80) from Columbia Sportswear are just the ticket. Columbia’s Omni-Freeze keeps you cool and Omni-Shade protects you from the sun. Zip-off legs transform the pants to shorts when the morning chill burns off in the heat of the midday sun. The Backcountry shirt also features Columbia’s Omni-Shade technology for sun protection, and roll-up sleeves have a button tab to keep them out of the way when things heat up. Both the shirt and pants are quick drying, so a dunk in the shallows won’t mean a soaked afternoon. Columbia Sportswear, 800-265-7067

camelbak.jpg

A good day pack is a must when heading ashore, and the H.A.W.G. ($129) from CamelBak fi ts the bill. Weighing a touch more than two pounds, the H.A.W.G. is able to carry about 100 fluid ounces of liquid in a bladder that’s completely free of Bisphenol A (BPA) used in making polycabonate bottles and considered by some scientists to be hazardous to one’s health), freeing you from cumbersome water bottles. It has designated pockets for carrying delicate items, such as a digital camera, and room for a jacket, food, a trail guide, binoculars and other gear. A built-in rain cover protects your belongings when the skies open up. CamelBak, 800-767-8725

kaenon.jpg

One of the most essential items to have during long days on the water is a quality pair of shades, and the Burny ($229) from Kaenon is a stylish solution. The Burny’s patented lightweight, impact-resistant SR- 91 polarized lenses provide 100 percent ultraviolet protection and great image clarity while you scan the shoreline for the entrance to a cove or watch birds ashore, and its retro-meets-performance style and classic look make a good fit whether you’re at sea or at the yacht club. The Burny is also available with prescription lenses. Kaenon.
Advertisement
Advertisement