Gear I Use
No fluff, no sponsored lists I don't believe in. These are the exact products I've tested on real adventures — the ones that earned a permanent spot in my kit.
I'm not a gear head. I don't obsess over specs or upgrade every season. What I care about is: does it work when I need it, is it worth the money, and does it hold up when things get real? Everything on this page has passed that test. Some of it I've had for years. Some of it I wish I'd found sooner. All of it I'd buy again. This page is under construction more updates coming soon.
Explore
BOTEThe board that started everything. Inflatable means I can take it anywhere — in my car, on a road trip, to any lake or river I find. Stable enough for a complete beginner, durable enough to still be going strong after years of use.
It packs into a backpack. I've taken it to four states.
MerrellI've put these through creek crossings, muddy switchbacks, and 10-mile days. My feet have never blistered, never been soaked, and never been unhappy. The ankle support is real without feeling stiff.
Broke in within two hikes. That almost never happens.
OspreyThe perfect size for a full day out — big enough for layers, snacks, a first aid kit, and a water bladder, small enough that it doesn't feel like I'm hauling a house. The hip belt actually fits a woman's frame.
The hip belt transfers weight off my shoulders on long days.
GoPro HeroWaterproof, shockproof, and small enough to clip anywhere. I use it on the paddle board, on hikes, and strapped to my chest on rappelling trips. The footage quality is genuinely impressive for something this small.
It's survived being dropped, dunked, and forgotten in the rain.
StanleyCold water stays cold for 24 hours. Hot coffee stays hot for 12. I take this on every single adventure, every single day. It's been dropped off a kayak, sat in a hot car, and still looks fine.
I've had mine for two years and it still performs like new.
Sunday AfternoonsI spent years not protecting my face and neck on outdoor adventures. This hat changed that. Wide brim, UPF 50 protection, packable, and it actually stays on in wind. I own two.
Packable enough to stuff in any bag. Stays on in a breeze.
Adventure Medical KitsSmall enough to live in my daypack permanently. Has everything I've actually needed — blister treatment, wound care, pain relief, and an emergency whistle. I've used it more times than I expected.
Lightweight and organized. I know exactly where everything is.
A Note on Affiliate Links
Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I personally own and use. Your trust means everything to me, and I'd never point you toward something I don't believe in.
I'm happy to answer questions about fit, use cases, or whether something is right for a beginner. Send me a message anytime.