Canadian Geographic

Gear & Tech

- —Michela Rosano

The must-have hiking gear for spring and summer

Spring or summer, serious trailblaze­rs and weekend roamers can wind up at the mercy of mountain weather whims if they’re not layered up and equipped with the right stuff. Thankfully, the companies featured here are constantly introducin­g new technologi­es to make gear lighter, more breathable and strong enough to stand up to just about anything that crosses your path.

1 Women’s Hydrofoil Jacket

A multi-purpose jacket is a must for serious hikers. This waterproof nylon offering has underarm zips for ventilatio­n and an adjustable hood with a reinforced brim, and packs small. $159, mec.ca

2 Women’s Micro Fleece Jacket

Stay warm on spring mornings or at high altitudes with this zip-up made of super-soft and breathable premium Italian Pontetorto fleece. $85, mec.ca

3 Women’s Solar Chill Long Sleeve Shirt

Hot treks with little shade require serious sun protection. Up the ante with this UPF 50, moisture-wicking long sleeve. $59.99, columbia.com

4 Merino Wool Knit Toque

Exceptiona­lly soft, regulates body temperatur­e and keeps its shape even when it’s balled up inside your backpack (a keeper for hikes in chilly spring winds). $45, tilley.com

5 Travel Light Daypack

This slim 15-litre pack is water-resistant, feather-light and perfect for quick treks into the wild, although the adjustable sternum strap and removable back pad translate to long-term comfort. $44, mec.ca

6 Women’s Constantia Pant

For technical climbs or treks through the bush, grab these abrasion-resistant pants constructe­d with breathable, stretch-woven fabric. $95, mec.ca

7 Serengeti Sport Linosa Sunglasses

With a durable polymer and rubber frame, these shades are ultra-light, but won’t get crunched in your backpack. $250, serengeti-eyewear.com

8 Garmin etrex 20x GPS

Stay on the trail with this water-resistant GPS unit, which boasts 25 hours of battery life, 3.7 GB of internal memory and a large high-res display that’s easy to read even on the brightest of days. $269.99, garmin.com

9 Women’s Terradora Waterproof Mid Hikers

There’s nothing worse than wet feet, so these hikers were designed to keep you dry and comfy with a waterproof, breathable membrane, a close fit and cushioned ankle support. $175, keenfootwe­ar.com

Check out more great hiking gear for men and women at cangeotrav­el.ca/ss18/gear.

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