Gear Guide: Memorial Day Weekend
Gear for the gateway weekend to summer
Outfitted
Memorial Day weekend always seems like the unofficial launch of summer. I myself am heading out and about on my first camping excursion of the season for some nature-inspired peace of mind. But don’t bust out those tank tops and flip flops just yet. Anything can happen as far as weather is concerned, so you need to be prepared. Here’s a list of new items I’ll be taking along as I try and force summer to happen this weekend whether she shows her face or not.
1. Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pant
Equipped with ample stretch, these pants from Kuhl will flex with you but rebound to maintain their form. Side snaps allow you to roll them up when the weather gets warmer and the lightweight, moisture managing fabric is quick drying so they can even be used for chilly-day paddleboarding. A great go-to for a range of activities, the pants also incorporate UPF 50+ protection. $89, kuhl.com. Kuhl products are carried at Independence Run and Hike in Carbondale.
2. Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoody
Even though some sun is in the forecast, nights will be chilly this weekend as we’re not out of the winter woods yet. This breathable softshell will stand in as an ultralight, ultra packable midlayer that will keep the wind at bay and will add extra insulation in a pinch. I love it’s light, slim fit making it easy to layer while maintaining a bit of cozyness with strategically placed fleece in the pockets and back panels. Available in women’s and men’s colors and sizes. $130, mountainhardwear.com. Mountain Hardwear products are carried at Summit Canyon Mountaineering in Glenwood Springs.
3. Kelty Essential Camping Chair
All winter long I look forward to once again sitting around the campfire once the snow melts, and a sturdy, comfy chair is essential to that picture. This camp chair from Kelty is named just that, Essential. Built with adjustable arm rests and an insulated beverage holder, the chair’s padding design is really comfortable and it all conveniently rolls up into a padded tote storage bag with a hefty shoulder strap. $75, kelty.com. Kelty products are carried at Bristlecone Mountain Sports in Basalt.
4. Landmark Project Smokey the Bear Tee and Enamel Mug
With the beginning of summer unfortunately comes the threat of wildfire. As you start to once again enjoy campfires, spread the message of prevention. The Landmark Project has a variety of US Forest Service licensed Smokey Bear products to help keep fire safety at the forefront of everyone’s mind. This shirt and mug are two of my recent favs that bring about a sense of American nostalgia with fire prevention’s historic mascot. Landmark Project also donates a portion of all Smokey Bear product purchases to wildfire prevention education. Tee is $35, mug is $20. TheLandmarkProject.com.
5. Costa May Sunglasses
Inspired by the New Jersey beaches of Cape May, these sunnies from Costa are rich in history of East Coast American flair. A regular fit with a refined large square polarized lens shapes an acetate frame meant to convey intelligent and sophisticated styling reminiscent of coastal Victorian houses as well as the colors and patterns of the sea. Hopefully the holiday weekend will be full of sunshine making these stylish shades a necessity. $237, costadelmar.com. Costa products are carried at Bristlecone Mountain Sports in Basalt.
Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.
