Investing in Your Adventure: Why You Should Be Thinking About Outdoor Gear
Adventure seekers know few limitations — and much like their desire to be fearless daredevils while conquering great heights and the unknown, they shouldn’t be limited by their gear, either.
From the right sun protection to the proper footwear, your gear is essential to your success, whether it’s a routine camping trip at your favorite campground or a month-long thru-hike in unfamiliar territory.
Here’s a look at why investing in the right gear will lay a foundation to set you up for success in the great outdoors.
Why Invest in Your Gear?
Like many things, when it comes to outdoor gear, you get what you pay for. Sure, that budget-priced sleeping bag might look enticing at first glance, but will it keep you warm at night and hold up to your high expectations? The answers are likely both “no.”
Now, this doesn’t mean you have to spend big bucks on your gear; after all, there are a variety of outdoor brands that offer quality gear at a price that won’t break the bank. And you can likely find gently-used gear from others in the outdoor community at gear swaps. Not to mention that the lifespan of your gear, in most cases, increases with its quality.
Is Seasonal Gear Worth It?
The short answer is “yes.” Think about the tires on your vehicle. Do you sport a foursome of winter tires in the summer season? Well, no. The same rule should apply to your outdoor gear. From tents and sleeping bags to clothing and footwear, a variety of outdoor gear is designed with seasons, climates and temperatures in mind.
For example, many of today’s adventure-ready trail running shorts are designed with a sweat-activated cooling technology, ultra-wicking materials and UPF 40 material to block out the sun, making them ideal for summer adventures.
Of course, while braving the elements, these shorts would undoubtedly make for a much better choice in the summer than thermal fleece winter-proof joggers or snow pants designed for cold climates.
Does Better Gear Mean Better Performance?
Let’s be honest — you can’t solely rely on your running shoes to help you pass the finish line. And you can’t hope an expensive all-terrain bike can get you to the top of a mountain without the proper effort.
But wearing the right gear that’s designed for the right activity will only help to increase your performance, whether you are running, biking, swimming or hiking.
Where Should You Store Your Outdoor Gear?
Owning the best gear doesn’t mean much if you don’t properly care for these items when they aren’t being used. Of course, the last thing you want is to open a box of gear and find that the contents have been destroyed right before a big trip.
Thus, in order to keep your outdoor gear looking and functioning at its best, make sure to properly store these items away when you aren’t using them. This rule applies to just about everything else in your outdoor arsenal. Additionally, proper storage also includes transporting your gear, too.
When traveling by car to your next destination, make it a point to utilize a cargo box on the roof of your vehicle to keep your belongings organized and protected. Many types of cargo boxes have a hard shell to keep your gear protected from the elements, ensuring that these items won’t be damaged en route to your destination.
Be Limitless — Outdoors and with Your Gear
Don’t be limited by your limited selection of outdoor gear. Before your next adventure, make it a point to invest in the right gear for your needs. You’ll be glad you did — now and for years to come. Because investing in the right gear tends to keep the adventure going.