![\"Hi-Tec](\"images\/stories\/hitec_sierralite.jpg\")
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Spring is here and we here at Open Air Life are excited to get out hiking. This guide is full of gear that will make your spring hiking a little bit better. We start this guide with some great shoes for our feet. After all our feet are what will carry us all those miles that we hike. We will also be putting out a shoe guide in the coming weeks of some of the new hiking shoes coming out spring 2012. We hope this guide will encourage and excite you to get out this spring and find a new hike.<\/p>\n
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Hi-Tec Sierra Lite I WP<\/strong><\/p>\n The Sierra Lite Hiking boots are a great spring boot. They are both lightwieght and breathable, but also have the added benefit of being waterproof. Whether for a demanding day hike or a multi-day adventure, this ensure you and your feet can deal with the most strenuous requirements. These boots also have Hi-Tec’s advanced technologies, including ion-mask\u2122 waterproofing and Vibram\u00ae rubber soles for grip.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Waterproof nubuck and mesh upper<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>V-Lite design and build technology<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Ortholite footbed\/midsole for all day comfort<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Vibram outsole for durability & traction<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Ion Mask Technology<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP: $180<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/www.hi-tec.com\/us\/products\/mens-light-hiking\/1137-5496\/sierra-lite-i-wp<\/a>\/<\/p>\n A lightweight, mid-height hiker with a breathable mesh upper to keep you cool and comfortable on the trail. Support and stability from Ahnu’s neutral positioning technology, Numentum\u2122, ensures proper foot biomechanics with each step. A forefoot protection plate helps prevent bruising on rocky surfaces. The Vibram\u00ae outsole provides great traction on a variety of surfaces for under-foot security.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Breathable mesh and Leather<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Double density compression molded EVA with medal and lateral stability postings and shock dispersal plate in forefoot<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>3.5 mm cross directional lugs<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Non marking Vibram rubber outsole<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Moisture wicking mesh<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Dual density EVA provides extra shock absorption with heel and arch support<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP $120<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Women’s Sizes 6-11<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/www.ahnu.com\/womens-sequoia-mid-lightweight-hiking-shoes\/AF2278,default,pd.html<\/a><\/p>\n The Micro Crew Cushion Hike socks from Darn Tough Vermont are a tried and true veteran of the Vermont sockmakers’ line. Proven by the world’s most devoted thru-hikers and loved by all, even those who have no idea what a thru-hiker is. Whether getting the mail or making a push to the next waypoint, these socks will keep you trudging.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Made in Vermont, USA<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Unconditionally Guaranteed for Life<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Highest Density Knitting in the Industry, 1441 stitches per square inch<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Fine-gauge Merino wool yarns (21.5 micron)<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Reinforced heel and toe pockets<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Elastic arch support for snug fit<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0High density, no bulk terry loop cushioning<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Ribbed ankle support prevents slipping and bunching<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0MSRP: $18<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0http:\/\/darntough.com\/hike-trek-1467.html<\/a><\/p>\n Lorpen Jr. Light Hiker Socks<\/strong><\/p>\n Made just like the adult version, this is a great sock for kids who like to be in the outdoors and need more than just a cotton sock. \u00a0The Jr. Light Hiker is a performance sock made of 38% Merino wool, 37% acrylic, 15% Nylon, and 10% Lycra. \u00a0The additional cushioning will help your little hiker last longer on the trail and enjoy the day without blisters and wet feet. The Jr. Light Hiker sock is durable, comfortable and easy to wash.<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0MSRP: $9.99<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0http:\/\/www.lorpen.com\/lorpen-na\/product.php?id=23<\/a><\/p>\n Hillsound Armadillo Gaiters<\/strong><\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0The 4-way stretch upper panel offers a close and natual form fit and eliminates need to readjust, pull-up or over tighten.<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0PU coated Cordura 1000D as lower shell for formidable protection from cuts and abrasion.<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Replaceable polyurethane coated nylon instep strap.<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0Padded waterproof zipper placket inside provides enhanced waterproofing and eliminates pressure points.<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0MSRP: $65.00<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0http:\/\/hillsound.com\/2products\/armadillo.php<\/p>\n Piggyback Rider<\/span><\/p>\n The Piggyback Rider\u00ae is a mutually enjoyable, effortless way to carry a child (2\u00bd+ years) on your back. It<\/p>\n functions like a backpack, utilizing a shoulder-mounted foot-bar to distribute the child\u2019s weight at your core, enabling a more natural and upright walking posture. The child stands safely on the wide textured foot-bar, holding integrated shoulder handles and secured to the adult by a safety harness. \u00a0Built from industry leading climbing components and overengineered for safety, the Piggyback Rider\u00ae is unlike any kid carrier you\u2019ve ever seen.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Compact, durable and light weight<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Streamlined unisex design<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>One size, fully adjustable<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Supports a child up to 60 lbs, 2\u00bd+ years<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Smallest child carrier backpack ever<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Integrated comfort and safety features<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Four secure hand holds<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Safety harness tethered to carrier (not shown)<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Padded shoulder straps with sternum strap<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP: $79.95<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/piggybackrider.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n The Treadlite 22 daypack lets you come prepared, featuring 22 liters of storage space and the steel frame to support it. Omni-Shield\u00ae advanced repellency keeps the pack\u2019s contents dry, while the all-new Backdraft\u2122 Aerating Suspension utilizes lightweight frames with a tensioned backpanel to lift the pack\u2019s load slightly off your back, allowing fresh air to pass through. The Treadlite\u2019s Silverback\u2122 reflective lining provides a bright interior so you can see your gear better for grabbing things on the fly. A large main opening includes inner bungee holds and mesh organization pockets to keep all your small items organized. An ergonomic hip belt takes the weight off your shoulders and features pockets on each side for energy bars and GPS units. Ample compression and stabilizing straps keep your load right where it should be.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Fabric: 70D SilverBack\u2122 nylon diamond ripstop, stretch woven, 150D SilverBack\u2122 lining<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Omni-Shield advanced repellency<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Backdraft\u2122 aerating suspension<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Techlite Velocity L.O.A.D. shoulder straps<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>SilverBack reflective interior<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>3L hydration compatible<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Rugged Tarmaq\u00ae bottom<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Sternum strap with rescue whistle<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Steel frame<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Stretch woven front pocket and side water bottle pockets<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Trekking pole attachments<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Dimensions: M-L: 22\u201d x 12\u201d x 8\u201d, S-M: 21\u201d x 12\u201d x 8\u201d<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP: $129.00<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/www.columbia.com\/Treadlite%E2%84%A2-22\/UU9069,default,pd.html<\/a><\/p>\n The Steady Tool is built for the weekend adventurer, it combines the utility of a multi-tool and the functionality of a tripod for compact digital cameras (up to 340 grams) and smart phones (up to 170 grams). It comes equipped with an adjustable cell phone and screw-in camera mount and two foldable legs that serve as a tripod. The rest of the tool is all Gerber ingenuity \u2013 a fine edge blade, a serrated blade, three screwdrivers, a bottle opener, pliers and wire cutters.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>12 Components<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Tripod Functionality<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Camera\/Cell Phone Mount<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Cell Phone Attachment<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Max Phone\/Camera Weight: 170 grams\/340 grams<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Fine Edge Blade<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Serrated Blade<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Micro Flat, Square Cross & Medium Flat Screwdrivers<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Bottle Opener<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Needlenose Pliers<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Wire Cutters<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Stainless Steel Components<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP: $64<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/www.gerbergear.com\/Outdoor\/Tools\/Steady-Tool_31-001043<\/a><\/p>\n Our VS-1 is the multi-function outdoor watch that does it all and is now better than ever. The VS-1 is water-resistant to a depth of 50M\/165FT and the virtually scratchproof sapphire crystal is standard. Easily and intuitively select from multiple modes on the new, hi-res dot-matrix display. The new user-change battery hatch permits you to change the battery yourself, quickly and easily.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Compass<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Barometer<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Altimeter (M. or FT.) w. recall<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Chronograph w. recall<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Ski mode<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Sail mode<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>AM\/PM or 24HR Time display<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Dual Alarms<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Dual Time Zones<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Temperature (\u00b0C or \u00b0F)<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>ELD Backlit, Dot-Matrix display<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Ultra scratch-resistant Sapphire crystal<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP: $255.00<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/www.momentumwatch.com\/pages\/products\/list-of-products\/digital-altimeter.php<\/a><\/p>\n The Corklite has the first grip designed from the ground up specifically for trekking and touring. An edgeless outer shape offers a variety of comfortable, secure gripping options. SpeedLock is a completely new system using unique design features to achieve the high locking force and adjustment security that is up to 10 times stronger than other external locks. The simple and easy to use mechanism adjusts quickly and securely even when wearing gloves or when used in rain, ice or snow. The Soft Antishock System – Lite (SAS-L) is integrated into the lower shaft of the pole, reducing the packing\/swing size by 50mm. The optimized packing size increases your freedom of movement in trekking or when transporting your poles.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>AERGON Cor-Tec Grip<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>SpeedLock<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Performance Basket<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Carbide Tip<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Ultra Sonic Finish<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Weight: 16.8 oz<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Length: 62-135 cm<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP: $139.95<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/www.leki.com\/trekking\/trekkingPole.php?pID=93<\/a><\/p>\n A versatile rain shell designed for long distance treks in the mountains, but equally at home on summer Alpine climbs. Built to cope with the harshest of wet weather, the Trojan features a mountain hood and two large chest pockets for hands or gear. \u00a0A great addition to anyone’s spring arsonel of gear to take on any unexpected storms.<\/p>\n Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Fabric: eVent\u00ae Super Lightweight 3 Layer<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Highly waterproof and exceptionally breathable eVent\u00ae Super Lightweight 3 Layer<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Microtaped seams throughout to increase breathable surface area<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Articulated arms for reach high movement and tailored specifically to reduce hem lift<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Fully adjustable helmet compatible mountain hood with three point adjustment and wired peak<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Internal tab to lock down and roll away the hood in windy conditions<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Two deep A-line hand pockets with YKK Aqua Guard zips positioned well clear of backpack or climbing harness belt<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Full length exposed YKK Aqua Guard front zip with internal storm flap and rain drain<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Adjustable cuffs with grab tabs for ease of use with gloves or mitts<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>Adjustable hem to prevent spindrift entry and heat loss<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>MSRP: $449.00<\/p>\n \u2022 <\/span>http:\/\/www.montane.co.uk\/products\/women\/shell\/athena-jacket\/836<\/a><\/p>\n![\"ahnu_sequoia\"](\"images\/stories\/ahnu_sequoia.jpg\")
Ahnu Sequia Mid<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"darnTough_microcrew\"](\"images\/stories\/darnTough_microcrew.jpg\")
Darn Tough Vermont Micro Crew Cushion Hiking Socks<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"lorpen_kid\"](\"images\/stories\/lorpen_kid.jpg\")
<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"hillsound_armadillo.jpg\"](\"images\/stories\/hillsound_armadillo.jpg.jpg\")
For the rugged everyday adventurer and weekend warrior who need comfortable, waterproof protection, the Armadillo Gaiter offers the lightweight security required to conquer the trails. The Flexia upper creates a form fit to hug your leg with no extra fabric to flap in the wind or snag in the brush. With a YKK zipper you\u2019ll avoid messy debris from coming inside the gaiter and enjoy quick and easy on\/off access. If you are a lady and bloack seems a bit boring, the makers of Hillsound have listened and made the women’s style in a sexy yet still functional black and red.<\/p>\n![\"piggyback_rider\"](\"images\/stories\/piggyback_rider.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Columbiatreadlite\"](\"images\/stories\/Columbiatreadlite.jpg\")
Columbia Treadlite 22L<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"gerber_Steady\"](\"images\/stories\/gerber_Steady.jpg\")
Gerber Steady Multitool<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"momentum_vs1\"](\"images\/stories\/momentum_vs1.jpg\")
Momentum VS-1<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"leki_corklite\"](\"images\/stories\/leki_corklite.jpg\")
Leki Corklite<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"montane_trojan\"](\"images\/stories\/montane_trojan.jpg\")
Montane’s Trojan and Athena Jacket<\/strong><\/p>\n
![\"rab_scimitar\"](\"images\/stories\/rab_scimitar.jpg\")
Rab Scimitar Jacket<\/strong><\/p>\n