Gear I Trust

Contents of Jesse McEntee's emergency survival kit

*Consider alternatives to “Black Friday” or purchases from companies that support your values. For example, see Patagonia’s environmental efforts around Black Friday.


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.

- 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.


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

* Some of these are paid links.