Trusted Outdoor Gear: Clothing, Tools, and Essentials
I keep my pursuits simple. But some things are useful and worth sharing.
Click the links to purchase.This is an evolving list of the gear I use, trust, and reference in my work.
I will only list it if I recommend it. Check back periodically for updates.
CLOTHING
- Darn Tough Socks
Durable with a lifetime warranty. Fantastic socks and company.
- Eberlestock
Their clothing (and gear) is top-notch. Thoughtfully designed and doesn’t fall apart.
- Patagonia
I use their products for all things outdoors, and I’m never disappointed. Durable and ethical.
- SKRE Gear
My go-to hunting clothing. Durable and as good (if not better than) similar-looking brands, but less expensive. SKRE is a company owned and operated by hunters (not venture capitalists). If that changes, I won’t recommend them. Lifetime warranty.
COMMUNICATIONS
- Garmin inReach Mini
Requires monthly subscription. Works reliably. Links up to my phone and helpful for logistics and emergencies. I keep my inReach operational for most of the fall and winter, then cancel the subscription for the rest of the year.
HIKING
- Kahtoola Micro and Nano Spikes
These are helpful if you plan to hike or run on snowy or icy surfaces.
HUNTING
- Backpack: Eberlestock X1 Euro II
Functional, rugged, and well-thought-out hunting backpack. I recently upgraded to this from a single-compartment 20-liter bag. The Euro bag’s 35-liter volume is a luxury. The hip belt and frame can be removed to reduce its weight if needed.
- BlackOvis
BlackOvis makes high-quality, affordable gear and also sells gear from other popular companies geared toward hunters, such as Crispi, Sitka, and Mystery Ranch.
- Knife: Spyderco Delica 4
A strong, sharp knife made out of high-quality steel. I’ve had mine for over 20 years and sent it back to Spyderco twice to be sharpened.
- Outdoor Edge RazorLite Knife
A knife that comes with razor-sharp replaceable blades.
- Scheels
My favorite thing about Scheels is that they are employee-owned.
SURVIVAL
Some of these items are featured in my article about wilderness survival, How I Stay Alive.
- Cravats (triangular bandages)
- S.O.L. Emergency Bivy
A lightweight insurance policy that includes a blanket and built-in whistle.
- SAM Splint
You’ll be glad to have this to support limb sprains and breaks.
OTHER USEFUL ITEMS
- Paracord 550
Secure a splint, drag a deer, or secure a canoe.
- Petzl Tikka Headlamp
I’ve had it for years, and it never failed me. Lightweight and bright.
- Voile Straps
Infinitely useful for every season. Use to secure gear, from climbing sticks to dirty laundry on the outside of your backpack. I think the 15” length is the most useful, and orange is the best color because of the visibility.
- 8” Zip Ties
You can’t have too many of these in your glove box, pack, boat, or tackle box.
GEAR I TRUST / RISKTAKERS BOOKSHELF / SERVICES / MY OTHER WORK