Gear review: Mid-winter

Here are some mid-winter delights.

Nemo Double Haul 70L Dual-Purpose Duffel & Tote

Granted, I haven’t tested it on the airlines, but from the feel of this rugged, water-repellent duffel, I’d actually trust airline personnel to return it without scratches or tears. Extra-long carrying handles make it easy to tote lower loads — in that mode, it expands to a whopping 105 liters — while the beefy shoulder pads, which tighten down flat when not in use, add comfort for heavier packing. It’s quite versatile; I’ve used it in to store ski gear in my car, since the wide actually stays open if you don’t zip it, and it contains plenty of pockets, inside and out, including a large mesh pocket so you can see and simply access the bottom of the pack, as well as a storage pocket that clips in and protects a laptop. Made of recycled products, it’s also a bluesign product — and I’m in love with the Lake Blue color. $199.95, nemoequipment.com.

tasc Recess Quarter Zip

This athletic-fitting quarter-zip makes an excellent base layer or stand-alone; I love the color with both jeans and leggings. And in tasc tradition, it’s super soft to wear, made with sustainable products like bamboo viscose (41%) and organic cotton (51%), with elastane for ease of movement and four-way stretch to round out the fabric content. I really like the fact that it contains UPF 50+ sun protection and wicks away moisture during high-endurance sports. And, of course, I’m a huge fan of thumbholes. $78, tascperformance.com.

Standard Issue 8×25 Waterproof Binoculars and Zero Tube 10×25 Waterproof Monocular

I got both of these for concerts and outdoor adventuring. The sightings are crystal-clear, with the highest-grade optics — Bak4 prisms and six multi-coated lenses on the standard. Both are totally waterproof and fog proof, so they’re great for SUPing, rafting and the like. Weighing just 0.74 pounds, the Standards are easy to carry anywhere — and they have a lifetime warranty. For how small the Standard is, it has a great wide point of view with maximal light transmission. If you’re looking for something more compact with great light clarity even in low-light situations, as well as sharp resolution with 10 coated pieces of glass, go for the monocular. At 110 by 40 mm and 7.2 ounces, the Zero Tube is the most packable, high-performance monocular in its class. Both adjust so I can see perfectly, whether I’m wearing glasses or not. Standard, $99.99; monocular, $179.95, nocsprovisions.com.

Amver La A Balm Eye/Lip Treatment, Radicnt Restorative Face Oil, Steor Hyrdro Anthocyanin Vitamin C Phytoactive Water and Shroom Tea Advanced Phytoactive Serum

This luxury skin care is created in small batches in Colorado and features natural botanicals, fungi and algae. It originally aimed to address ultra-dry and even allergic skin that responded poorly to other products. I’ve only found one other lip treatment that works, but this one lasts longer and firms skin so my lips don’t remain chapped ($68). I also use it around my eyes. “Radicant” means rooted, and this face oil comes with 22 plant ingredients to deliver fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants and trace minerals ($185). It leaves my face feeling smoother than usual. The Steor brightens dull skin and moisturizes beautifully. Meanwhile, the Shroom tea ($230) brightens, tightens and reduces fine lines around eyes or lips. amverskin.com.

Fabric CBD

With zero sugar and no calories, this CBD drink features hemp-derived cannabinoids that come in both THC and no-THC options. I like the Clarity version, with no-THC and 10 mg of CBG, which is thought to boost focus and a state of calm. Rhythm adds 1.5 mg of THC with 25 mg of CBD and a bit of CBG; it includes notes of hops, orange peel and lime, whereas Clarity has more of a lemongrass and lime taste. Both are fizzy, taste great and are fun to drink, as they add a little relaxation and pain reduction. The brand also offers a 10 mg of THC with 10 mg of CBD if you’re looking for something a little stronger. 12-pack, $70; 24-pack, $110. drinkfabric.com.

Guru Nanda Hydroxyapatite & Neem Whitening Toothpaste and Ready-to-go Butter on Gums Pre-Pasted Toothbrushes

This fluoride-free toothpaste tackles plaque well and is designed to strengthen enamel with ingredients like hydroxyapatite. It feels refreshing and complete, leaving my gums with a gentle, pleasant tingle. It also includes jasmine, clove, cardamom, oregano oils and vitamins to fight bacteria. These pre-pasted toothbrushes are a lot shorter than typical ones, which is nice when it comes to keeping one in my purse and car. I like having the option to pull one out and use it without water for fresh breath on the go — and the brushes are just right, not too soft or rigid. They’re made with 100% recyclable plastic, and the pick on the end works as a toothpick or gentle gum massager. Toothpaste, $4.99 for 1 oz; $9.99 for 4.2 oz; pre-pasted: $14.99 for 21 brushes; $34.99, gurunanda.com.