We here at Utah Outside love our gear. That means we are also very picky about the gear we use. Good outdoor gear should be functional, well built, and able to withstand years of abuse. Of course we like gear that just plain looks cool too. With all the gear we test and review over the course of 12 months, some slip into the cracks of mediocrity, while other rise to the top of the heap.
So we’ve compiled our 2018 Gear of the Year. They represent everything we expect from quality outdoor gear and each piece has found a permanent place in our gear closets.
Triple Aught Design Equilibrium Series
If you’re a backcountry skier, trail runner, mountaineer, or like to snowshoe, the Equilibrium Series is exactly what you should be wearing for temperature regulation. I can honestly say that in all my years testing and reviewing gear, I have not come across a jacket that breathes yet insulates during sweaty activity as well as the Equilibrium hoodie, jacket and vest.
Smartwool PhD Ultra Light Sport Jacket
This layering shell is ultra technical. It features a DWR coating to shed rain, packs down small inside its own chest pocket, and weighs a mere 4.7oz. But what’s most impressive to me is Smartwool’s body-mapped wool and polyester blend mesh panels. They provide for tons of breathability and wicks sweat away. These panels are located under the arms where (obviously) is the sweatiest place for guys. All these features combined make this shell about as high-performance for aerobic activities I’ve seen in all my years of reviewing gear.
Klymit Versa Blanket
A blanket is just a blanket, right? Well not if you’re Klymit. The company has a history of improving upon old outdoor gear standards, and the most utilitarian of all, the blanket, is no exception. The Klymit Versatakes blankets to the next level. It’s not only warm and cozy, but it has outdoor-friendly features that elevate it to a different realm.
HydroBlu Jerry Can
Now you CAN bring the kitchen sink on a camping trip. Well, the HydroBlu Jerry Can comes really close anyway. Having clean water in my camp has never been more convenient, safe, and environmentally friendly than with the HydroBlu Jerry Can.
GearDryer Freestanding 12
Goodbye cheap, plastic boot dryers. The GearDryer takes drying outdoor gear to a whole ‘nother level. Versatility is unlimited to the amounts and types of gear you can dry. Along with the solid construction, this appliance should last for years. Put it on your entryway, your basement, your rental condo or your garage. Heck even backcountry huts should have this GearDryer. It is a new standard.
Sweet Protection Dissenter MTB Helmet
The inclusion of MIPS in the Dissenter helmet is huge, and in my opinion validates Sweet Protection’s claim of maximum bang for buck. The helmet looks good, performs good, and has every available modern technology to protect you during a crash. It even comes with a silky-smooth storage bag. All of this at a sub- $200 price is a big thumbs up in my book. Go ahead mathematicians, run the numbers. You’ll undoubtedly come to the same conclusion as this rocket scientist.
Craghoppers Nat Geo CompressLite II Jacket
When the possibilities seem endless, how do you choose one brand over another? I often go by one of my favorite gear rankings: bang for your buck. Coming in at under $100 is the Craghoppers Nat Geo CompressLite II jacket. It is just as warm and light as its high-cost brethren, and after months of testing in all conditions imaginable, I can tell you that this Craghoppers coat can definitely take a beating.
Lander Wasatch Commuter Backpack
The rigors of your daily commute are no match for the Lander Wasatch pack. The Crash Pad zone is legit, and the overall styling on this bag allows for a seamless transition from the office to the weekend road trip destination. Everyone from students to video pros will appreciate the peace of mind you get when your gear is stashed in one of Lander’s Carry System bags.
Helly Hansen Sogn Bib Shell Pant
Not a hard decision: these bibs are killer. Nearly every feature works to perfection, and most importantly they will keep you warm and dry no matter what the weather is up to. Versatile and bomber, the Helly Hansen Sogn Bib Shell pant will have a spot in my closet for years to come. The price tag might seem a little high, but as your grandpappy advised, you get what you pay for.
Danner Mountain 600 EnduroWeave Boot
After a good thrashing all spring and into summer, the Mountain 600s impressed me on every hike. They are absolutely the lightest boots I own that can handle the biggest variety of terrain. I wouldn’t be afraid to plunk down my cash for another pair when these kick the bucket, if and when that day ever comes.