By Gary M. Kaye
Chief Content Officer, Tech50+ (www.tech50plus.com)
Whether it’s going on a camping trip, or just puttering around the yard, there’s a still lot of time left to enjoy the summer. We have recommendations from yard tools and camping gear to clothing and footwear to help you get the most of your summer fun
Battery Powered Yard Tools
Lawn Mower – Clear the air and your yard with the Stihl RMA 410 C battery-powered lawn mower. Say ‘hello’ to the clean, convenient power of the RMA 410 C battery-powered lawn mower. Featuring 36-volt Lithium-Ion battery technology and quality STIHL engineering, this lawn mower is perfect for homeowners looking for lightweight, no-mess, no-hassle mowing for small to medium sized properties. The RMA 410 C features a brushless, commercial-grade 900-watt electric motor that provides 50 percent more power than previous model and uses either the STIHL AP 180 or STIHL AP 300 batteries. Much quieter than gasoline-powered lawn mowers, it is the ideal mower for noise-sensitive areas. And when you’re done, just fold the handle down for easy storage. http://www.stihlusa.com/products/lawn-mowers/homeowner-lawn-mowers/rma410/ Price: $379.95
String trimmer/weed wacker – Trim tough overgrowth and edge borders easily and comfortably with this Black and Decker trimmer/edger. Choose from two speeds, convert from trimming to edging in seconds, and advance the line without bumping. Manage the SMARTECH battery remotely via app and use it as a portable charger to charge your mobile devices for ultimate convenience. EASYFEED™ advances your line with the push of a button™ – no bumping required.
http://www.blackanddecker.com/products/lawn-and-garden/lawn/string-trimmers/smartech-20v-max-easyfeed-string-trimmer/lste525bt. Price: $181 at Amazon.
Hedge Trimmer – These powerful Black and Decker clippers also use the smart 20V Lithium Ion battery. Features include:
http://www.blackanddecker.com/en-us/product-repository/products/2016/04/25/15/39/lht321bt Price: $132.83 at Amazon.com
Seeing is Believing –
Tifosi Reader Sunglasses – Tifosi has come up with a great solution to a nagging problem for those of us who only need glasses to read, or see things like the screen on a GPS while we’re biking. The Tifosi Veloce Reader sunglasses are a lot like bifocals, with a small panel at the bottom of the lens so you can see a screen or dashboard display clearly, while not impacting your distance vision. They are available with magnification of 1.5, 2.0 or 2.5. http://www.tifosioptics.com/products/1040800138/ Price: $49.95
You Can Take It With You – Packs
Ebags – Weekend computer bag - TLS Professional Weekender – It’s a tough challenge to find one bag that will carry all your computer gear and enough clothes for a quick overnight getaway. This backpack from EBags does it all. Among its features: TSA recognized Travel Sentry Approved design fits laptops 2” x 12.5” W x 14" to 18” H and tablets 9” H x 10.5” W, includes a 3.5" x 13.25" x 20" clothing compartment and fits into the overheads of regional jets. It easily converts from backpack to briefcase and includes vertical and horizontal luggage handle pass-thru panels. It has a well-padded vented Airmesh back panel and contoured backpack straps with removable adjustable shock-load sternum strap. The Convertible design enables it to be comfortably carried as a backpack, briefcase or across the body. Price: $150.
Kelty – Backpack - Catalyst 80/76 - The Catalyst 80 backpack is designed to ensure every day is as comfortable as the last when you’re on longer adventures. With PerfectFIT™ suspension, you can instantly adjust this 80L capacity pack to find a custom fit- – while it’s on your body. That means hauling big-time gear in the top-loading compartment – with a convenient 10L detachable daypack – is way less daunting that it sounds.
Features:
Top loading, top lid, main packbag access zipper, Stretch mesh belt pockets, Stretch mesh water bottle pockets, Ice axe/trekking pole loops, Hydration compatible, Carry handle, Side access sleeping bag, compartment, Front clothing compartment converts to a removable daypack https://kelty.com/catalyst-80/ Price: $199.95
Platypus – Hydration pack – Duthie A.M. 10.0 – The quintessential all-mountain pack, the Duthie A.M. 10.0 offers smart storage and enough capacity for half a day on the mountain. A carry system of a full-face helmet and armor is handy for ascending, while the FloatAir back panel keeps you cool in heavy-pedal situations. The pack features: 3.0L Big Zip LP Reservoir, FloatAir Back Panel, 7 liters of gear storage, Carry system for pads and a full-face helmet, Internal tool organization, Integrated rain cover. www.platy.com Price: $139.95
SealLine Blocker & BlockerLite Dry Sacks – If you like to go boating, kayaking, or canoeing, this is an efficient packing system to keep all your stuff dry, no matter what. The ultimate in waterproof protection combined with our PackTight flat-sided packing system, Blocker Dry Sacks utilize durable 70D polyurethane-coated nylon, lightweight welded-seam construction, and a unique “block” shape to maximize packing efficiency for the most rugged adventures. BlockerLite Dry sacks use ultra-lightweight materials - 20D silicone/polyurethane-cated nylon. It has a roll-top with wrinkle-free, double-sealing technology www.seallinegear.com Price: from $15.95 to $26.95.
Good Night, Sleep Tight
Kelty BackpackingTent – TN-2 – Lightweight two-person backpacking tent. Compactness and lightness are the most important qualities in the backpacking world. That’s why the TN2 tent was awarded the 2014 Backpacker Magazine Editors’ Choice and the 2016 Outside Magazine Gear of the Year awards. It’s loaded with useful features like shorter, 14-inch aluminum poles for easier packing, innovative hug-clip technology for simple setup, and a roll-up Stargazing Fly™ for nighttime enjoyment. You’ll also enjoy spacious floor space along with an oversized D-style door for convenient access. No wonder you’ll want to spend more nights on the trail. https://kelty.com/tn2/ Price: $249.95
MSR FreeLite 2 Tent – MSR’s lightest freestanding, full-featured backpacking tent for two offers three-season protection and superior livability at 2 lbs 6 oz. The FreeLite 2 features a 29-sq.-ft. floor, a spacious 30-cubic-foot interior, and an expanded mesh interior for increased ventilation. Two large 14.5-cubic-foot vestibules provide extra protection over the doors while allowing for unobstructed views. All FreeLite tents feature high-performance DuraShield-coated 10D nylon walls and 15D nylon floors for added weight savings while taped seams and reinforced stress points offer lasting protection. Large doors provide easy access to spacious interiors for comfort and convenience on longer backcountry trips. Micromesh canopies offer maximum ventilation and moisture control along with bug-free protection. www.msrgear.com. Price: $439.95
Sleeping Bag – Kelty Tru Comfort 20 – Rated for temperature drops close to 20°F, the Tru Comfort 20°F Sleeping Bag offers a warm and comfortable place to sleep during your outdoor trips. This oversized mummy style sleeping bag maintains warm all-body contact while allowing plenty of room for comfortable movement. Beyond its attractive color, this sleeping bag is stuffed with ThermaPro Insulation, to provides a cozy barrier against the cold. The 2-layer blanket lets you customize the thickness of your enclosure to match the temperature outside. Two flaps close from opposite sides to seal in body heat when the temperature drops. The anti-snag zipper has a draft tube that prevents heat leakage through the seams and the thermal-comfort hood is fully insulated to keep your head and neck warm. A draft collar provides additional insulation for your chest and neck. https://kelty.com/. Price:$139.95
Sleeping Pad – Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Max SV. The NeoAir® XLite™ MAX SV mattress offers superior three-season warmth and packability with the convenience of our new SpeedValve™ design. Using simple physics, the special valve allows you to inflate ther insulated mattress twice as fast as traditional valves, with a fraction of the effort. Features comfort, warmth and stability thanks to patent-pending Triangular Core Matrix™ construction and reflective ThermaCapture™ Barrier technology. Auto-reversing valve deflates the ultralight mattress almost instantly. Stuff sack and repair kit included. www.thermarest-speedvalve.com. Price: $159.95
ENO Hammock – You don’t have to be a slacker to enjoy sleeping in a hammock. These double width ENO hammocks from Eagle’s Nest Outfitters are comfy enough to share; Atlas straps mean hammock sets up in a few minutes without tying any knots. Double Nest Hammock https://www.eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/product/DOUBLENEST.html Price: $69.95 Atlas Straps - https://www.eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/product/AST001.html Price:$29.95
Clothes Make the Man – and the Woman
Shirts
Ibex Men's Indie Hoody: Once upon a time wool was a scratchy material that you really didn’t want up against your skin. Today’s Merino wool has longer, softer fibers that don’t scratch and don’t pill. This shift features All-season Merino jersey half zip hoody, Semi-Fit
11" zip neck with locking zipper pull and chin guard, Back length from top of shoulder–28 1/2" (size L), Thumbholes, Raglan sleeves, Pewter heather contrast hood facing,
flatlock seams http://shop.ibex.com/merino-wool-clothing/mens-long-sleeve-shirts/ms-indie-hoody. Price:$120
Ibex Men's Night Session Shirt: Made from soft Merino wool, this shirt is made from lightweight overdyed heather Merino wool, it has a regular fit, Button-front, Back length from top of shoulder – 29" (size L), Chest patch pockets with button flaps, and Yoke seam details. http://shop.ibex.com/merino-wool-clothing/mens-short-sleeve-shirts/ms-night-session-shirt. Price:$130
Royal Robbins - Expedition Stretch Long Sleeve. This quick-drying button down is an essential for all outdoor dwellers. With performance features like UPF 50+ protection and engineered back ventilation, the Expedition will become as indispensable as your pack on the trails. It has a two-way mechanical stretch fabric to move with you. Price: $72.
Scott eVest -Camp Shirt, With seven pockets for your gadgets and daily essentials, the SeV Camp Shirt provides convenient access to everything you need while on the go. Cool and comfortable, the relaxed fit SeV Camp Shirt is a warm weather wardrobe staple for techies, busy parents and travelers. Two large chest pockets have magnetic closures and mid-size pockets within them to help organize your sunglasses, cell phone and other gear. Zippered Crossdraw pockets located within both side seams provide additional secure storage for your wallet, keys, passport and more. And, don't forget to use the small, zippered Mad Money pocket located under the bottom snap on the inside left to hold change, cash or other small daily essentials. Made of 100 percent cotton seersucker, the Camp Shirt is lightweight and breathable. Price: $80.
Royal Robbins – Field Guide Vest This classic 17-pocket utility vest is a must for fisherman. It features back ventilation and a padded neck and shoulder with UPF 30+. The 2-ply nylon fabric is lightweight, quick drying, and wrinkle and odor resistant. Price: $95.
Scott eVest - Of course, Scott e-Vest got its name and its fame by designing vests with lots of pockets for techies to safely carry all their gear. Featherweight Vest for Men (and Women), 14 pockets – their lightest weight vest, comes in colors that won't absorb heat. Quickly access your smartphone or digital camera in the two exterior chest pockets, and keep your credit cards or passports secure from skimmers in the RFID blocking pocket. Price: $140.
Scott eVest –Convertible Travel Pants (for men). With 10 pockets and compartments – including three zippered pockets and deep pockets to safely stow your essentials – the Convertible Travel Pants are practical and functional. The lightweight, quick-drying, 100 percent nylon fabric is Teflon® treated for water and stain resistance. Easily convert pants into shorts with hidden leg zippers, which you won't feel or see until you need them. Price:$95.
Helly Hansen Odin Enroute Minimalist Jacket – Super lightweight Helly Tech Professional for all lightweight mountain pursuits. The Odin Minimalist Jacket, weighing in at just under seven ounces, is the perfect emergency jacket to keep in your backpack on trips this spring and summer for unforeseen weather. This jacket is waterproof, windproof and breathable. www.hellyhansen.com. Price: $220 USD
Muck Boots – One of Muck’s most versatile style, these 100 percent waterproof shoes have been updated with a new height and outsole pattern. The Muckster II is easy to slip-on and quick to kick-off, makes it a great “leave by the back door” boot. Best of all, they feature 4mm Neoprene and the traditional Muck Airmesh lining. Available in a low camp shoe style or ankle boot. Price:$110.
Keen – KEEN Versatrail (Mens and Womens) meets the evolving needs of KEEN fans looking for a shoe to fit into their hybrid lives. From a day hike to a backcountry weekend camping trip, the Versatrail offers breathability, support and shock absorption while weighing in at under 12 oz. Price: $120
Keen Sandals – From the water to the trail, the Maupin's (Men's and Women's) enhanced traction is at home on those slick spots. The Maupin is a supportive water sandal, built to take you anywhere. Price: $90
Water, Water, Everywhere
Lifestraw – Water filtration bottle – LifeStraw Go incorporates award-winning technology into a refillable water bottle so you can carry safe drinking water with you on the go. It filters up to 1,000 liters (264 gallons) of water. Removes 99.9999 percent of waterborne bacteria (>LOG 6 reduction), including E-Coli. Removes 99.9 percent of waterborne protozoan parasites (>LOG 3 reduction), including Giardia & Cryptosporidium. The Lifestraw Reduces turbidity, filtering down to 0.2 microns. Does NOT use iodine or iodinized resin. http://lifestraw.eartheasy.com/products/lifestraw-go. Price: $29.95
Avex Freeflow water bottle – This is an insulated double wall Capacitor Stainless™ steel water bottle. The FreeFlow’s rapid-pour, leak-proof AUTOSEAL® locking lid with its easy-to-clean DropDown™ lid feature fits all sizes of Capacitor Stainless™ steel bodies. The powder coated, dishwasher-safe double wall design keeping your water cool and drinkable all year round that will change the way you think about hydration. Volume: 24 oz.
http://www.avexoutdoor.com/freeflow-autoseal-ss-water-bottle-24oz.html Price: $30
Melitta Coffee System - For some of us, a morning out camping needs to start with a hot cup of coffee. This inexpensive system from Melitta makes it easy to start your day off right. A new cone design enables you to see into the cone so you won’t overfill. It comes with a startup supply of Melitta coffee filters as well. https://shoponline.melitta.com/product/pour-over-travel-mug-set-red/single-serve-pour-over-coffee-makers Price: $9
Gary Kaye is the creator of Tech50+ (www.tech50plus.com), the leading website covering technology from the Baby Boomer perspective. Kaye has been covering high tech for more than 30 years with outlets including NBC, ABC, CNN and Fox Business. He is a regular contributor to AARP and other websites on issues regarding the nexus of technology, seniors and baby boomers.
