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Whether you’re hiking through fall foliage, setting up camp or exploring scenic lakes and trails, having the right gear is crucial for a successful and enjoyable adventure.
This guide highlights some new outdoor gear — from water filtration options and technical apparel to camping mattresses, sleeping bags, boots, trail shoes and must-have gadgets, these new products can help keep you comfortable, protected and prepared for your outdoor journeys this season.
Gadgets & Camping Gear
Image by Suzanne Downing
1. Evergreen Toughbox SE56 Micro EDC Drybox
This TOUGHBOX SE56 Evergreen case helps you keep your essentials safe and secure while you’re outdoors. It’s made in the U.S., and it’s 100 percent polycarbonate — meaning it’s rugged and strong. You can take it along with you hiking, kayaking, camping and on your beach days. It’s also waterproof and dustproof so you won’t have to worry about an accidental drop in the water or dust accumulating inside while you’re out on the trails.
The inside is padded with a rubber insert to give your valuables extra cushioning, making it ideal for carrying items like your watch, wallet, earbuds and keys. The keylock hatch keeps everything secure, so you won’t have to worry about anything falling out.
Who this case is for: Anyone who needs a rugged, waterproof and dustproof case to protect their essentials during hiking, kayaking, camping or beach/lake trips.
Image courtesy of Biolite
2. Biolite 100W USB-C Portable Power Bank
The BioLite Charge 100 Max is a powerful 25,000mAh portable power bank designed to keep all your devices charged on the go. It’s great for camping, hiking and traveling in general. You can charge up to five devices simultaneously, and it has a magnetic wireless deck. It also has a 100W USB-C port for fast laptop charging and USB-A ports for other electronics. You can get seven full charges for a smartphone, three for a tablet, and 36 charges for earbuds. It actually will power a computer, phone and AirPods all at once.
Who this power bank is for: People who need a high-capacity power bank to charge multiple devices — including laptops, smartphones, watches and earbuds, during extended camping, hiking or travel trips.
Image by Joe Downing
3. Nocs Field Tube 8×32 Monocular
This Nocs Provisions Field Tube is a great monocular if you enjoy looking for wildlife on your fall hikes. It’s waterproof and fog proof, too, so you get a clear view each and every. And it’s small — fitting into the palm of your hand and packing away nicely.
When you’re birding you’ll be able to see a lot of details as engineers designed this monocular with a seven-piece optical system that helps you see images in very sharp focus. And since it can handle light rain, a splash or even an accidental dunk under water, you won’t have to worry about damaging it.
I found the oversized focus wheel easy to use one-handed. I also loved the texture on the outside of this monocular as it gives you a nice non-slip grip. It’s easy to carry with the wrist strap that comes with it. Nocs also has a line of smaller binoculars — like the Nocs Standard Issue 8×25 waterproof binoculars — that are great for kids and still offer high quality viewing. These are great to help promote enjoying nature with your little ones.
Who these are for: Best for hikers and birdwatchers who want a compact, waterproof, and fog-proof monocular for clear, detailed wildlife viewing, or parents looking for durable, high-quality binoculars to share nature experiences with their kids.
Image by Suzanne Downing
4. Fender x Teufel ROCKSTER GO 2 speaker
On a full battery charge, this Fender x Teufel ROCKSTER GO 2 speaker can play music all day with its 28-hour battery life. The sound of the deep base is notably nice — with two aluminum drivers and a passive bass radiator (meaning it’s built with sound quality in mind). It’s portable, rugged and waterproof (IP67 rated) so it’s great for using it outdoors. The strap is a nice touch for towing the speaker around, too. It uses Bluetooth and it’s easy to pair wirelessly.
Who this speaker is for: Music lovers who need a portable, rugged and waterproof speaker with long battery life and excellent bass for outdoor adventures.
Image by Suzanne Downing
5. Epic Nalgene OG Water Bottle (with filters)
This Epic Water Bottle with a built-in filtration system has an eco-friendly Nalgene design. It comes with two filter options — one for everyday tap water and one for filtering outdoor water like water from a camp hose or a nearby stream.
The Everywhere Filter (white one) uses a CoreXchange Technology that filters tap and outdoor water — making it great for backpacking, camping and floating the river. Since it reduces 70+ contaminants and removes 99.99 percent of particulates (like microplastics), you’ll have clean water to drink. The EveryTap Filter (blue) is great for faucet water and also removes more than 70 contaminants so you can improve the taste of your water on road trips. (Think, filling up from a hotel sink or rest stop water fountain.) You can easily swap between these filters by unlocking the filter lid and switching the internal filter cartridges.
Who this water bottle is for: Outdoor adventurers who need a durable, eco-friendly water bottle with a versatile filtration system for clean water on the go.
Image by Ryan Tipps
6. Suunto Race S
The Race S is Suunto’s most advanced watch to date and has been one of the most positively reviewed devices that the brand has ever delivered. It packs top-notch GPS accuracy and an improved heart-rate sensor into a surprisingly small package, which looks and feels better than just about any other wearable on the market today.
This watch has a targeted appeal toward runners, skiers and other adventurers who have slimmer wrists or simply want a lighter-weight sport watch, and it is sure to be seen more at ultrarunning events where Suunto has been reinvesting its marketing efforts. This watch is particularly notable because of how it manages long battery life even with a vibrant AMOLED screen — this kind of display is normally seen as the Achilles heel of battery quality. You can read a full ActionHub review here.
Who is this sports watch for: Trail runners who have smaller wrists or simply prefer a smaller form factor — and are looking for a watch that delivers the most bang for its buck.
Image courtesy of Vitaloop
7. Vitaloop FlexGuard Multistage Water Filtration System
A great option for dispersed (primitive) campers and backpackers, this Vitaloop FlexGuard Multistage Water Filtration System is for purifying water from rivers and streams during hikes or filtering lake water when you’re camping. As long as you have a water source nearby, you can get clean water to drink. It’s designed so you can simply dip the water bottle right into the water source, too.
With an innovative filtration technology, this system removes 99.9999 percent of contaminants — including viruses and microplastics. And it also preserves essential minerals for fresh-tasting water. The main benefit is quick filtration (in just 45 seconds) from an electronic pump for safe drinking water. This water bottle is ideal for adventurers, travelers — especially international — and anyone needing reliable, portable hydration.
Who this filtration system is for: Dispersed campers, backcountry hikers, thru hikers and international travelers seeking fast, reliable water filtration in remote areas.
Image courtesy of Rab
8. Women’s Rab Solar Eco 3 Sleeping Bag
This women’s Rab Solar Eco 3 sleeping bag is designed for high performance in freezing, damp conditions — making this an excellent choice for mountain adventures. The Stratus synthetic insulation, made from 100 percent recycled PET bottles, gives you exceptional warmth while also being lightweight and fast-drying. It also has a windproof shell. The Atmos fabric is water resistant. And there is plenty of room to move around in the wide mummy shape.
Who this sleeping bag is for: Best for female campers and backpackers looking for a warm, versatile sleeping bag that performs well in both warm and cold conditions.
Image by Bay Roan Creative
9. Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket 2.0
The updated version of Rumpl’s Original Puffy Blanket kept all of the aspects of its category-creating predecessor, though with some small yet meaningful tweaks to make it a better product. For example, the new blanket has an updated cape clip for an easier-to-attach, low-profile system. It also includes a roll-top stuff sack to make packing less of a hassle, and the colorways and branding have been revamped.
Performance-wise, the new Puffy worked perfectly, and even held up to being inadvertently dragged across a splintery deck — the blanket’s exterior has a highly functional VersaWeave Ripstop material. I also spread it out in the dirt to organize my camp gear, and it was easy to clean without having to put it in the washing machine. Also, the corner loops were endlessly useful, including for stringing the blanket up as sun protection, staking it down at the campsite or helping it dry after being cleaned. You can read our full ActionHub review here.
Who this blanket is for: Anyone who wants to stay cozy down to 45 degrees and appreciates a soft and loft-restoring feel to a camp blanket.
Image courtesy of Sea to Summit
10. Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Sleeping Pad
This Sea to Summit Ether Light XT insulated sleeping pad has air sprung cells and is perfect if you’re a side sleeper. This pad conforms to your body, so you’re not wobbling on it. It also comes with an air sack so it’s easy to inflate. There’s also a layer of Thermolite insulation that reflects your body heat back to you to help keep you warm.
The 3.2 R-Value is perfect for fall use. There’s also a pillow locking system that works with Sea to Summit’s pillows. This pad is also lightweight, with the regular size weighing in at just 17.3 ounces.
Who this sleeping bag is for: Side sleepers who need a lightweight, insulated sleeping pad with body support and warmth.
Image courtesy of Sea to Summit
11. Sea to Summit Ascent Down Sleeping Bag
The Sea to Summit Ascent down sleeping bag offers excellent versatility for different climates, making it ideal for a range of outdoor adventures. In colder conditions, its cinch-down hood, draft-tube zippers, and 750+ Ultra-Dry Goose Down provide superior warmth, while the non-PFAS treatment keeps insulation dry.
In warmer settings, the Free-Flow Zip System allows for customizable ventilation, and the bag can be fully unzipped to use as a quilt or camp blanket. It also features snaps at the shoulders and a footbox zipper for added flexibility. Best for campers who need adaptable temperature control across various weather conditions.
Who this sleeping bag is for: Campers who need adaptable temperature control across various weather conditions.
Image by Suzanne Downing
12. Helinox Chair Two & Seat Warmer
Weighing less than three pounds, this Helinox Chair Two gives you a high back for added support. It’s easy to pack in the zippered case and easy to put together with the lightweight frame that snaps together. It’s great for camping. The High Back Seat Warmer helps keep the draft away and helps radiate your body heat back to you — especially nice on chilly evenings outdoors.
Who this chair is for: Anyone looking for a lightweight, comfortable and easy-to-pack chair with added warmth for cool nights outside.
Image by Suzanne Downing
13. Bote EasyRider SUP & Kayak Hybrid ($649)
Out of the box, this Bote EasyRider Aero 10’4” Native Tides Inflatable Paddle Board comes with everything you need (except for an ankle leash) to hit the water. With the included hand pump, it took me 365 pumps to fill the board to the recommended PSI. I recommend an electric pump if you have one, but the hand pump (with a bit of elbow grease) did the job.
I love the design, too. The paddle is easy to use — making it quick to change from an SUP paddle to a kayak paddle. The seat is very comfortable and easy to attach and detach. This board is smooth on the water and wider than expected, so you have plenty of room. It can hold up to 250 pounds and has bungee straps to hold your extra gear. If you’re a beginner, this board is a great first SUP and kayak hybrid option out of the box.
Who this SUP is for: Best for beginners who want a versatile, inflatable paddleboard and kayak hybrid for smooth water adventures.
Footwear, Vests & Sunglasses
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14. Bajio Hopedale Sunglasses
If you spend a lot of time out on the water, these Hopedale sunglasses from Bajio may be a good addition to your outdoor gear. These sunglasses are made with a bio-based nylon frame and have polarized lenses. And they are very comfortable on. The grips on the nose pad is noticeably different than other comparable sunglasses. The polarizing lenses also block blue light and give you extra clarity through water. These also make a good everyday sunglasses for outdoor adventures.
Who these sunglasses are for: Water enthusiasts who want polarized sunglasses that provide extra clarity and comfort for outdoor activities.
Image by Joe Downing
15. KURU ATOM Lumi boots
These KURU ATOM Lumi boots for women are perfect for light fall outdoor adventures. And they are so cozy! Built with KURUSOLE’s innovative technology, you’ll notice these boots flex with you when you walk. They cradle your heels to relieve pain and protect your natural cushioning system. You can wear them all-day at camp and on light hikes as they have very grippy soles. The plush faux shearling lining also keeps your feet warm on cool days. Since they’re waterproof, you can even wear them in the rain. They’re great for fall and winter.
Who these boots are for: Best for women seeking cozy, waterproof boots with excellent grip for light outdoor adventures in cooler weather.
Image by Suzanne Downing
16. Saucony Triumph 22 GTX running shoes
These Saucony Triumph 22 GTX running shoes are a good option for runners tackling well-maintained trails or urban routes with occasional off-road paths. They have a higher, plush PWRRUN+ cushioned sole — very noticeable and nice — and they have really good shock absorption (and comfort) over long distances.
The shoes also have a Gore-Tex lining, so you can splash through puddles and your feet will stay dry and the shoes will still breathe. The FORMfit system also adapts to the shape of your foot for a personalized fit. The soles are higher than other running shoes I’ve had, so you will be standing a bit taller in these. If you want a shoe that transitions from road running to light trail running, these would be a great choice.
Who these running shoes are for: Runners who need a cushioned, waterproof shoe that transitions well between road and light trail running.
Image by Suzanne Downing
17. Merrell Moab Speed 2 Reflective GTX hiking shoes
Merrell engineers gave these Moab Speed 2 GTX shoes a 30 percent increase in underfoot foam — meaning you get more cushioning compared to previous models. For hiking, you’ll easily notice the extra comfort and support that’s noticeable after a long hike. Think reduced foot fatigue. These shoes are also pretty thick and rugged so they help protect your feet from sharp rocks and sticks. They also have a full-length rock plate, so you get a solid layer built into the bottom of the shoe that runs from the heel to the toe. This helps protect your feet from sharp rocks and rough terrain underneath you.
These shoes are ideal on all types of trails.
Who these hiking shoes are good for: Hikers who need extra cushioning and foot protection on all types of trails.
Image by Ryan Tipps
18. Black Diamond Distance 4 Hydration Vest
I was lured in to the Distance 4 by its claims to properly secure a set of trekking poles while still making them accessible — and, sure enough, this is something this vest does very well! The strap that slings over your shoulder and affixes the poles across your back is thoughtfully delivered for those of us who like to pile on the miles (especially compared to the brand I normally trail run with).
And Black Diamond does a nice job elevating this vest a few other ways as well, like it’s well placed zipper pocket, comfortable flask setup, and ample storage along the sides and rear of the vest. And I don’t have to be a world-class Cirque du Soleil performer to reach any of it.
This is the second generation of this vest, and it just goes to show that some things do get better with age.
Who is this running vest for: Trail runners who need something light and fast, yet still able to securely carry their trekking poles.
Image by Suzanne Downing
19. Hoka Tecton X3 trail running shoes
For serious trail runners, these Hoka Tecton X3 trail running shoes are ideal for navigating through tough terrain with speed. These shoes have e carbon-plated propulsion system — helping you propel forward efficiently — making these shoes a good option for racing or long-distance runs on challenging trails. The gaiter-like extended knit collar (ankle sleeve) give you added ankle support, too, while preventing dirt and debris from getting in your shoe. The dual-layer PEBA midsole gives you nice cushioning and responsiveness, so you’ll have a comfortable run without sacrificing energy return.
These shoes could elevate your performance on race day or during your intense training sessions.
Who these trail running shoes are good for: Trail runners who want enhanced speed, support and propulsion on challenging terrain.
Image by Suzanne Downing
20. Swiftwick Pursuit Merino Wool Socks
These Pursuit Quarter Crew High Swiftwick socks keep your feet dry and are great for fall hiking socks. They’re made of a 60 percent Merino wool blend with a medium cushion. One of the best things about these socks are they aren’t bulky, so you can wear them with sneakers and boots comfortably. They are also comfortable around the ankles — not too tight.
It’s a best seller with 4.8 stars. You can also choose from a mountain stitched design and solid colors.
Who these socks are for: Hikers looking for non-bulky, comfortable and moisture-wicking socks for fall outings.
Travel and Outerwear
Image courtesy of DB
21. DB Ramverk Carry-on Suitcase
If you do a lot of traveling to get to your outdoor destinations, this DB Ramverk Carry-on suitcase is a nice lightweight option weighing in right around seven pounds. And the wheels are so smooth — made with ultra silent Japanese Hinomoto 360° wheels. This carry on also has numerical (TSA approved) locks and a separate 16-inch laptop compartment, so you can stow your computer and work on the go. The trolly handle is also a smooth telescopic style and easy to use. The divider system inside the suitcase is great for separating your gear from your clothes.
Who this suitcase is for: Travelers looking for a lightweight, smooth-rolling carry-on with excellent organizational features for outdoor trips.
Image by Ryan Tipps
22. Turtle Fur Double-Layer Neck Warmer
When I’m not spending late fall or early winter putting miles under my feet during ultra races, I’m happily volunteering at them! Well, the level of happiness sometimes depends on the weather, and Turtle Fur’s epically cozy neck warmer is something that’s going to serve me well after hours and hours at an aid station.
The Double-Layer Neck Warmer is a step up from the brand’s classic Neck Warmer, lined with what they call their Comfort Luxe fabric, a wonderfully soft blend of recycled materials. Yet despite its weight (3.4 ounces) and warmth, it also feels very breathable and dries quickly when you need it to.
Coming in at 10-by-10 inches, it can easily sit around just your neck or pull up to cover your chin and mouth. And while I don’t hit the slopes in winter very much, this neck warmer would be great for those days when you want to play in the snow non-stop.
Who this neck warmer is for: Anyone who’s going to feel the bite of a crisp fall morning or a winter wind while out hiking, skiing, snowshoeing or, even, working an aid station.
Image by Belong Designs
23. Belong Designs Rocky Mountain Pants
Rarely have I come across a pair of pants that have felt this intentionally versatile — they work perfectly out on the trails but also feel right at home while chilling at coffeeshop. The Rocky Mountain Pants are light and breathable and can cinch at the ankle for those times when you find yourself veering off into some of the bug-ridden brush. Plus they’re made of ripstop material, so I didn’t stress about the material getting chewed up when I went to grab that errant disc golf toss in the thicket.
These pants have subtle and effective pockets making them adaptable to a variety of situations.
Who these pants are for: Those who want to feel comfortable and stylish in a variety of circumstances, from traveling to being in town to embracing the outdoors.
Image by Joe Downing
24. Womens Rab Cirrus Flex Insulated Vest
This Rab Cirrus Flex Vest is warm and cozy. And the sides have stretch, so it has a nice slimming effect while allowing you to move freely outside. The vest is filled with a synthetic “PrimaLoft Silver: Rise” material made using 100 percent recycled material. It also handles damp and cold conditions well, so it’s great for the fall and winter. It also fits true to size and has oversized pockets that can easily fit your phone and keys.
Last year, Rab started including “material facts” for their products, so if you’re into sustainability, you’ll enjoy seeing what the vest is actually made of (like the Fluorocarbon PFC Content).
Who this vest is for: Women seeking a warm, stretchy and eco-friendly vest for outdoor activities in cool weather.
Image by Joe Downing
25. Mammut Taiss Light Hooded Jacket
This Mammut Taiss Light ML hooded jacket for women is a great Fall option for your outdoor activities. It’s incredibly stretchy with a medium-strength four-way stretch so you can move easily when you’re active outside. This zip up jacket is also a great mid layer to keep you warm on cool fall nights. The pockets are purposefully high to accommodate your climbing harness and the thumb holes and tight-fitting (helmet-compatible) makes this a good functional option for climbers.
Who this jacket is for: Climbers needing a stretchy, functional mid-layer jacket that accommodates a harness and helmet.
Image by Suzanne Downing
26. Artilect Quandary Peak Hoodie
This Women’s Artilect Quandary Peak Hoodie is a technical piece designed for year-round adventures. It’s made with a soft (and warm) Nuyarn Fleece fabric which blends responsibly sourced Merino wool with Nylon to create a high-performance material. This fabric dries 5 times faster than regular Merino, and provides excellent moisture-wicking and thermoregulation — meaning you’ll stay dry while hiking and trail running even when you sweat. It also has natural odor resistance and the hoodie features an under-helmet hood.
Who this hoodie is for: Active people wanting a lightweight, durable and versatile wool blend midlayer for changeable weather conditions.
Suzanne Downing is an outdoor writer and photographer in Montana with an environmental science journalism background. Her work can be found in Outdoors Unlimited, Bugle Magazine, Missoulian, Byline Magazine, Communique, MTPR online, UM Native News, National Wildlife Federation campaigns and more.
Managing Editor Ryan Tipps contributed to this article.
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