Gear We Love: Issue #128

Goodies for your active lifestyle

1. Rab Veil 6L Lightweight Running Vest

If you’re a mountain runner, the Veil 6L Lightweight Running Vest from Rab might just become your new best friend. New for spring/summer ‘23, the Veil boasts multiple storage options, water bladder compatibility, and a fabulous fit.

The multi-directional Mono Mesh Chassis, with stretch side panels, and engineered with Ripstop construction, creates enhanced support, reduced bounce, and a supportive fit. Weighing in at only 11 ounces (with the two included 500mL soft flasks), the Veil is fully adjustable and has a customizable sternum fit system for full freedom of movement.

This vest also maintains impressive storage capacity starting with the internal back panel sleeve which can hold a 2L hydration bladder. Upper back and dual access lower stretch stash pockets, plus two upper flat stretch pockets and two lower vest front stretch stash pockets keep multiple items secure while giving you easy access. We also love the rear bungee pole holder for easy on-the-go storage.

Go ahead and give it a try on your toughest runs in the rockiest terrains— you’ll see Rab has thought of just about everything. Bonus: the Veil is a fluorocarbon-free product, from a socially and environmentally conscious and certified Climate Neutral Company.

MSRP: $150.00 • rab.equipment/us

2. Petzl Iko® Core Headlamp

Petzl has introduced a whole new level of innovation in its IKO® CORE rechargeable headlamp and we couldn’t be more excited about its unique design and versatile functionality.

The most obvious distinction from a traditional headlamp is the IKO® CORE’s all-new super-light AIRFIT® headband which uses significantly less contact area than the usual strap. In other words, you barely feel it on your head – and it doesn’t absorb rain or sweat, either. Bliss, right?

But the cool stuff doesn’t stop there. This versatile headlamp easily transforms into a freestanding lantern. Slip the included light diffuser over the lamp to give a soft glow in camp.

The Petzl IKO® CORE’s slender lamp body offers optimum light positioning and comes with Petzl’s CORE rechargeable battery (which delivers 500 lumens of brightness) but also allows for standard AAAs to be used (350 lumens).

As a final sweet touch, this nifty gadget folds up neatly and compactly into its lightweight storage pouch, small enough to tuck into your pocket.

The IKO® CORE headlamp weighs in at a mere 79 grams, and is compatible with all Petzl helmets.

MSRP:$99.95 • petzl.com

3. Therm-A-Rest Neoair Xlite™ Nxt Sleeping Pad

Therm-a-Rest has boosted its best- selling NeoAir XLite™ sleeping pad with a serious upgrade this season, dialing up the comfort and down the noise.

NeoAir XLite™ NXT improves on its predecessor – already renowned for being an exceptional all-season ultralight air sleeping pad – by refining the way its innovative design (Triangular Core Matrix™) integrates with its warmth-generating technology (ThermaCapture™) to drop the crinkly noise (also something it was well known for) down by a whopping 83%.

The NeoAir XLite™ NXT is easy to inflate and deflate using the innovative WingLock™ Valve. This valve also makes it easy to let out air as needed to make those comfort- critical micro-adjustments when you’re laying down on the pad.

This latest model also boasts a comfier profile, adding half an inch to now measure in at three inches (7.6 cm) thick, but at no cost to weight (12.5 ounces/354 grams for the regular size). A solid 4.5 R-value is ideal for year-round temps and it packs down to the size of a one-liter bottle. Think of all the solid sleep you’ll be getting in the wilds with that extra quiet and comfort! Four size options available (regular short, regular, regular wide, and large). Pump sack, stuff sack and field repair kit included.

MSRP:$199.95–$239.95 • thermarest.com

4. Gregory Maya 20 Women’s Day Pack

The Maya 20 is the perfect pack choice for any day hike, whether short or epic, and all year ‘round.

Its new BioSync suspension system features an elasticized shoulder harness and hip belt that offer a unique body-hugging feel. These crucial pack parts stretch and flex as you move, making for a dynamic and comfortable carry.

Moreover, the contour foam backpanel is easily adjustable, offering 3.5 inches of flexibility so you can dial in your ideal fit. Its cool contour foam design also allows for plenty of breathability, as does the perforated foam that makes up the shoulder harness.

Convenient features include zippered pockets on the hipbelt large enough for your phone, roomy mesh side pockets, and an independent zippered pocket and SpeedClip hanger for your hydration reservoir.

We’re especially glad to note that by using recycled materials and a “data driven life cycle analysis tool,” Gregory has reduced the Maya 20’s carbon footprint by 26%.

Choose from a range of colors and sizes, including a plus size, which speaks to Gregory’s commitment to inclusivity in the outdoors. A men’s version – the Miko – is also available.

MSRP: $129.95 • gregorypacks.com

5. Outdoor Research Helium Men’s Down Jacket

Outdoor Research hit the sweet spot jackpot with its Helium Men’s Down Jacket, which offers up the perfect balance of durability and lightness.

Coming in at just 12.6 ounces (358 grams), this airy performance jacket nevertheless stands up to all the adventure you can throw at it.

Notably, this down jacket’s 41% recycled wind and water resistant shell features Diamond Fuse technology by Pertex which improves abrasion resistance and stability even over extensive wear and washing.

We love how its 800+ fill down insulation – which complies with the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) – stays protected within the shell due to this revolutionary technology. No nicks or tears = no down sneaking out!

Convenient extras include an interior stash pocket (great for gloves, sunglasses, and more); a hidden key clip in hand pocket; and an adjustable drawcord hem for a snug fit. The jacket compresses nicely for easy packing.

Choose from a variety of colors. Also available in women’s version.

MSRP: $229.00 • outdoorresearch.com

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Read other gear we love here.