OWAA staff spent the year hiking, paddling, camping and wandering across the map with all kinds of gear in tow. These are some pieces we reached for again and again. These are the things that made our outdoor adventures easier, cozier or just plain more fun.
OWAA Member Books
You know that feeling when you can’t be outside but you want your mind to be? That’s what OWAA member books do best. With more than 130 titles from field guides to conservation stories to adventure nonfiction, these books are written by the very people living the outdoor beat every single day. Our staff has many of them.
Who these books are for:
The reader, the dreamer, the road-trip passenger or anyone who wants their nights to feel a little more like campfire season.
Pro Tip:
These books make a great gift. Buy a book bundle and pair it with a handwritten note about why you chose each title. It’s personal, thoughtful and affordable.
Here are the top five OWAA member books on my bookshelf:
So Said the River by Colleen Miniuk
Montana Photography Book by Andy Austin (This one makes a beautiful coffee table gift.)
My Place Among Fish: by Kris Millgate
Knowing the Trees by Ken Keffer
Where Should We Camp Next? by Stephanie & Jeremy Puglisi (Available on our OWAA book shop.)
Bajío Hopedale Sunglasses
Named after the iconic Louisiana fishing community, the Bajío Hopedale sunglasses use bio-based nylon frames and crisp polarized, blue-light-blocking lenses that cut glare so cleanly you’ll swear someone turned up the definition on real life.
These are great for fishing since they block 100% of UV rays. And they somehow work on almost every head shape without that “tight-squeeze headache.” Hidden Sun Ledge™ technology blocks sneaky top-down rays too and the recessed nose pads keep them from slipping. And yes, the built in nose pads actually work.
Who this is for: Anglers, paddlers and anyone who wants daily-driver sunglasses that perform like premium fishing optics without looking like “fishing” glasses.
Pro tip: Choose mirrored lenses if you fish bright water. The glare reduction is nice.
Rab Women’s Khroma Latok GORE-TEX Pro Bib and Rab Khroma Pro Jacket
I call this my outdoor heirloom-quality winter kit. This shell system is great if you spend a lot of time outdoors in the snow, sleet and rain. It’s an investment set that can easily last you for the next ten years. From snowshoeing, nordic skiing and downhill skiing, they are also great for sledding with kids.
The word pro often gets overused in the outdoor world, but in this case it actually means something. These bibs are engineered to perform in harsh, unpredictable conditions. They’re waterproof and breathable. And they’re super light with an ePE membrane.
An ePE membrane is a newer, lighter more eco-friendly waterproof layer in GORE-TEX that blocks wind and rain while letting sweat escape. It’s kind of like upgrading from a thick old raincoat to a high-tech shell that protects you bette but feels way less heavy and stuffy.
These bibs also have reinforced hems and adjustable internal gaiters, but my favorite thing about these is the high bib design to prevent any snow from getting in.
They’re also safe for skiing with an integrated RECCO® Reflector, so it helps search-and-rescue teams locate you quickly and requires no batteries or upkeep.
The Khroma Pro Jacket pairs perfectly with the bibs and has the same GORE-TEX PRO construction, same mobility, same bomber reliability. The hood is also helmet-compatible and seals out wind.
I’m no fashion pro, but I feel like the melba orange bibs with the blue jacket is the best-looking color pairing the Rab team has ever released. I had multiple people stop me on the trail out in Lolo Pass to ask what I was wearing.
The craftsmanship and fit make it feel custom-tailored. The durability means you could hand this down someday. And the performance is so dialed that you start planning outings because you want to wear it.
Who this is for: All types of skiers, snowshoers and winter hikers. It’s also great for guides, patrollers and winter professionals.
Pro tip: Open both your thigh vents (bibs) and pit zips (jacket) before starting a climb. This system moves heat so efficiently that pre-venting makes long, sweaty ascents noticeably more comfortable.
Paka Women’s Alpaca Hoodie
Made from a supersoft Royal Alpaca blend, this women’s hoodie is breathable, temperature-regulating and polished enough to wear from trail to town. And it’s signed by the artist who wove it, which is a detail I love. It also has a slightly longer back that adds coverage, especially if you’re pairing it with leggings.
Who this is for:
Women who run cold, love natural fibers or want a single hoodie to wear from airports to alpine mornings.
Pro tip: Size up if you want roomy, relaxed fit.
Buzz Centris Folding eBike
I’d say this is the funnest gear on this list. And you don’t need a bike rack on your car or a truck to travel with it. It’s fairly heavy, though, at around 68 pounds so you may need an extra hand to lift it into your car. (It’s much easier with two people.) The trade off, though, of needing an extra hand is that you can store it easier and take it out easier. You can also go up to 20 mph, so it doubles as a “take everywhere” commuter bike and adventure bike. It rides really well on groomed trails and has thick 4 inch tires. It’s also pretty versatile for different adult height ranges since hit has a step-through frame. The suspension (60mm in front) is good to for a bike in this price point (under $700) and makes bumps from pavement and forest roads and trails comfortable.
Who this is for:
RV travelers, van lifers, urban commuters, campground goers or anyone who wants an e-bike without needing large amounts of storage space.
Pro tip: Keep a small pump and multi-tool in the storage bag as those wide tires love proper pressure.
RUX 70L Collapsible Gear Box
This gear box is unique. Think of it more as a gear “room” you can carry. You can stuff it with camping equipment, camera gear, winter layers and even folding paddles, fishing rods and helmets. It packs like a gear box, but carries like a tote or backpack. It also collapses flat when you don’t need it. It’s waterproof and the frame doesn’t warp even when fully loaded to its 50-lb limit.
Who this is for: Overlanders, van lifers, weekend warriors, road-trip families and Type-A organizers (or their opposite: the perpetually chaotic).
Pro tip: Load it with all your “grab-and-go” essentials (stove, headlamp, med kit) and keep it ready by the door.
Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio
I’ve used the Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio and Rocky Talkie’s traditional radios here in my home state of Montana. They’ve never once failed or died unexpectedly. The shatterproof screen, thermoplastic body and bomber carabiner-and-leash system make it nearly unlosable (if you attach it to your pack).
The battery lasts about 4 days for me on a charge, even in the cold. And it’s easy to use since it only has five buttons. It typically works 35+ miles in ideal conditions in flat lands but if you’re traveling in the mountain the range is about 1-5 miles in mountain terrain. I tested this while driving from my home out to the forest and it cut out about the 2.5 mile marker. This set is good for hiking and keeping in touch with your crew if you get split up, especially where cell service is low or non-existent.
Who this is for: Ski partners, climbing teams, hunters, guides or families and friends who like being able to find each other while hiking.
Pro tip: Pair it with the waterproof hand mic if you often wear gloves or ski with a pack.
Merrell MTL Adapt Matryx Trail Running Shoes
These are a surprise favorite (comfy) trail running shoe. They have Merrell’s FloatPro+™ midsole and the Vibram® MegaGrip outsole, you get a cushioned, shoe that’s also responsive. The padded collar also hugs your ankle without rubbing (if you know you know). These are nice in rocky and technical terrain.
Who this is for: Trail runners and hikers who like a nimble shoe with grip.
Pro Tip: They shine on rugged terrain so save them in your running rotation for your hardest trails.
Zenbivy Light Bed (Light Sleeping Bag System)
If traditional mummy bags make you feel like a burrito wrapped too tight, Zenbivy may be for you. This Zenbivy Light Bed works with alpine overnighters and road-trip car camping. It’s also great for side sleepers (like me). And the quilt-and-sheet system gives you the warmth of a premium bag with the comfort of an actual bed. I’ve used Zenbivy sleep systems for the past eight years.
This light bed is warm, ultralight, compressible and non-claustrophobic. You can sprawl like a starfish and be comfy. Zenbivy also has a good origin story.
Who this is for: Campers and backcountry hikers who toss and turn, side sleepers or anyone who wants comfort without carrying a heavy sleep system.
Pro tip: Pair it with the Zenbivy mattress for full “sleeping at home” energy.
Glerups Wool Slippers (Leather Sole)
These are the unofficial footwear of my remote OWAA home “office”. Made from natural wool that warms and wicks moisture, Glerups are nice to slip into after ski days, trail runs, long drives or cold mornings shuffling around camp. They mold to your feet over time (and are best without socks), and they don’t get too hot. The leather sole is quiet, durable and perfect for cabin life or van life. They’re sort of addictive. They also have this slipper with a rubber sole for more indoor/outdoor use.
Glerups also has a unique origin story. Nanny Glerup and her husband, Ove, embraced the idea of living self-sufficiently on their rural Danish farm in the 1970s. As their flock of Gotland sheep expanded (a hardy, curly-fleeced breed known for its soft yet durable wool) so did their supply of wool. That eventually led to their slipper production.
Who this is for: Anyone who loves comfort, and especially outdoor folks who appreciate natural fibers and staying warm without sweating.
Pro tip: Size down if you’re between sizes. Wool loosens slightly as it forms to your foot.
Teton Mesa Canvas Tent
The Mesa Canvas Tent is one of those tents you buy once and use for the next ten years or so. It’s great for base camps. Think staying multiple days or weeks. It also doubles as a storm-proof canvas shelter as it feels like a tiny cabin in bad weather. Inside, it’s roomy enough for cots, kids, dogs, extra gear and chairs. A 6ft person can stand comfortably inside and the large doors and ventilation make it work for every season.
Check out the Teton Sports founder’s story here.
Who this is for: Basecamp lovers, hunters, overlanders, family campers and anyone who wants a “home away from home” tent.
Pro tip: Invest in a good ground tarp. It’ll extend the tent’s life dramatically.
Fresh Roasted Coffee – Guatemala Huehuetenango FTO
If you like a good French press style coffee, this coffee comes out smooth. It’s rich without the bitterness common in camp brews. The Huehuetenango origin (my personal favorite) has a chocolatey sweetness with just enough fruit to be interesting. It’s also organic, fair-trade and roasted fresh. This coffee works for any coffee loving outdoor person.
Who this is for: Camp coffee snobs, road-trippers, early-morning anglers and anyone whose day starts with a cup of Joe outside.
Pro Tip: Grind it coarsely right before you leave. The flavor payoff is huge.
Women’s Astral High Noon Hemp Hoodie
You may know Astral for their water gear, but their apparel may surprise you. I adore this hemp-blend hoodie because it breathes well yet still takes the chill off. And the fabric gets softer every wash without losing durability.
Who this is for: People who want a sustainable, breathable midlayer for active days outside.
Pro tip: Hemp resists odor naturally so it’s great for multi-day trips without needing to wash it.
BRANWYN Merino Wool Baselayer Leggings
These leggings move with you. The merino-blend POWRspun™ fabric gives you compression, warmth, breathability and a sculpted fit that stays put during hiking, running, yoga and everyday wear. They’re odor-resistant, soft, and designed for performance without plastic-feeling synthetics. Beware that they do stretch. and the brand is transparent about “slight sheerness” in deep bends, but for most outdoor activities, they’re flawless.
Who this is for: Women who want high-performance, natural-fiber base layers for cool-weather adventure.
Pro tip: Size up if between sizes as they are very fitted.
Gregory Alpaca Wheeled Duffel 40L
This bag is great to haul around the airport without having a full-sized roller. And it’s small enough to carry on a plane. The outside material is tough. It reminds me of Patagonia’s black hole line. The wheels are smooth and it’s waterproof so you can protect your gear without bulk. There are also inside straps to keep clothes separate from muddy or wet equipment. The grab handles make it easy to yank from truck beds, boat docks or airport carousels.
Who this is for: Travelers, photographers, guides and weekend warriors who want an easy to roll bag for rough conditions.
Pro tip: Pack heavy items near the wheel end for the smoothest rolling.
Aged & Ore Bottle Flight (Silicone-Wrapped Travel Bottles)
A hit with Chez Chesak, OWAA’s executive director, this travel-friendly set has four silicone-wrapped glass bottles, each with measurement markers, labeling windows and a protective EVA case. It fits easily into your daypack or carry-on. And it’s TSA-compliant, classy and perfect for sharing spirits around the campfire without lugging full bottles.
Who this is for: Camp mixologists, whiskey enthusiasts or anyone who wants to bring “a taste of home” on adventures.
Pro tip: Keep at least one bottle filled with water or juice so non-drinkers (or early risers) have something fun to sip around the fire, too.
Bonus recommendations: OWAA Supporting Group Gear
OWAA has a number of organizations that support our non-profit. Below are the supporting organizations that also have outdoor gear.
Henry Repeating Arms
- Henry Lever Action .22 (“H001”) – classic entry rifle, among their most widely sold.
- Golden Boy .22 – iconic octagon-barrel lever gun that often appears on top-seller lists.
- Big Boy Series (.357/.44/.45 Colt) – centerfire lever rifles popular for hunting and cowboy-action shooting.
Lowa Boots
LOWA’s top sellers. (The Renegade boots are my favorite. I’m on my second pair over 6 years.)
- Renegade GTX Mid – their signature best-selling hiking boot. (Staff overall pick.)
- Renegade GTX Lo – low-cut version for lighter hiking/travel.
- Zephyr GTX Mid TF – very popular for tactical / mixed use.
MyTopo– Custom maps
They sell downloadable & printed custom maps.
- Custom USGS Topographic Maps (centered on your hunt/fish/hike area).
- Satellite & Aerial Photo Maps for e-scouting and land navigation.
- Public/Private Land Ownership & Hunting Maps (property boundaries, unit overlays).
Seaguar
Fishing line & leaders
Seaguar literally invented fluorocarbon line; their “freshwater lines and leaders” collection highlights these staples.
- Blue Label Fluorocarbon Leaders – go-to premium leader material.
- InvizX Fluorocarbon Mainline – widely recommended all-around fluoro.
- Tatsu Fluorocarbon – high-end, super-supple flagship line.
Star brite
Marine/RV cleaners & protectants
Top sellers:
- Premium Marine Polish with PTEF – heavily recommended hull polish.
- Mildew Stain Remover – top-rated cleaner on multiple retail sites.
- Instant Hull Cleaner / Hull Cleaner Gel – core boat-care products.
Mountaineers Books
Outdoor books, guidebooks, skills manuals
- Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills – classic bible of climbing.
- Regional “Day Hiking” series (e.g., Day Hiking Mount Rainier).
- Avalanche & snow safety / ski touring titles (e.g., Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain).
ENO (Eagles Nest Outfitters)
Hammocks & camp accessories
ENO’s own “best sellers” highlight these products.
- DoubleNest Hammock – their flagship two-person hammock.
- Atlas Suspension Straps – best-selling strap system.
- Guardian Bug Net – very common add-on for backpackers.
Power-Pole
Shallow-water anchors (boat fishing gear)
- Blade Series Hydraulic Anchors – premium shallow-water anchors.
- Sportsman II Anchors – more budget-friendly hydraulic line.Power-Pole
- ONE Pump System – new pump that powers dual anchors from one unit.Power-Pole
Teren
Mens travel / outdoor apparel
- Lightweight Traveler Pants – repeatedly highlighted in “best travel pant” gear guides.
- Daily Driver Pants – everyday/adventure pant near top of best-selling list.
- Cloudland Shell Jacket – widely reviewed as their hero outerwear piece.
Smokies Life
Books & gifts for Great Smoky Mountains NP
Their store and gift-guide pieces call out consistent top sellers.
Into the Mist (photo/coffee-table book on the Smokies).
- The Cades Cove Story – very popular history title.
- Smokies trail guides, maps & calendars – recurring best-selling formats.
USA Clay Target League
They run a full online store for teams & fans.
- USA Clay Target League Hats (red/white/blue patch hat, etc.).
- League Hoodies & Joggers (e.g., Desert Camo Hoodie, heather ¼-zip).
- Event Pins & Window Clings (season pins are a big recurring item).
OWAA Supporting groups selling outdoor services / experiences
ROW Adventures – guided whitewater & adventure travel
They sell guided trips directly; their own “Best of Rafting” page calls these out.
- Middle Fork of the Salmon Rafting Trips – billed as their premier wilderness trip.
- Rogue River Lodge-to-Lodge Rafting – “gateway” classic in Oregon.
- Salmon River Canyons / “Family Magic” Trips – signature family-friendly best-of.
World Nomads – adventure travel insurance
They don’t sell gear, but do sell trip-coverage products.
- Standard Plan – baseline coverage for most travelers.
- Explorer (or Epic) Plan – higher-limit, higher-risk adventure coverage.
- Annual Plan – multi-trip yearly coverage.
XGRiD Campers – off-road campers & trailers (sales + some rentals)
They’re an RV dealership for overland rigs.
Representative “top” offerings by prominence in their inventory:
- Opus OP15 / OP13 Hybrid Caravans – featured overland trailers.XGRiD Campers
- Imperial Outdoors X195 / OB-120 Trailers – highlighted new inventory.XGRiD Campers
- Australian Off Road (Sierra / Quantum) Trailers – premium off-road line.XGRiD Campers
Natural Bridge Caverns – ticketed tours & adventure park
They sell combo and individual tours directly.
- Discovery Tour – classic guided walk through the original chambers.
- Hidden Wonders Tour – newer, immersive lighted cavern tour.
- Adventure / Discovery Adventure Tours – more technical “crawl & climb” style tours.
Parks Canada – park passes, camping & permits
They directly sell passes, permits, and reservations.
- Parks Canada Discovery Pass – annual pass to 80+ sites (flagship product).
- Single-Location Annual / Seasonal Passes – park-specific passes.
- Camping & Lockage/Mooring Permits – via reservation system.
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission – licenses
They sell licenses that enable hunting/fishing (outdoor access service).
- Resident & Nonresident Fishing Licenses.
- Hunting Licenses & Tags.
- Lifetime & Senior Licenses (e.g., 65+ Resident Lifetime Fishing).
Tennessee State Parks – camping & lodging
Reservations are sold directly online.
- Campsite Reservations (tents & RV).
- Cabins & Lodge Rooms at state park resorts.
- Shelter / Pavilion Rentals for events.
Infinite Outdoors – membership & private-land access
They sell memberships and property bookings in an “Airbnb-for-hunters/anglers” model.
- Access Membership – free tier for public-land tools.
- Access+ Membership – paid membership unlocking private-land bookings.
- DIY Hunt / Fish Property Bookings via their app.
JET Hospitality – glamping, hotels & RV stays
They operate multiple “lifestyle lodging” properties at outdoor destinations.
Representative “hero” offerings:
- Pacific Dunes Resort (WA) – Beachfront hotel, RV and glamping.
- Teton Peaks Resort (ID) –Cabins/hotel with Grand Teton views.
- Cottonwood Camp (MT) – Fishing, camping and glamping on the Bighorn.
Small Craft Sales – online marketplace for small boats
They sell listings and facilitate buying/selling SUPs, drift boats, etc.
Think of their “top sellers” as categories rather than one SKU:
- Inflatable SUPs & kayaks.
- Rafts & drift boats for anglers/rafters.
- Skiffs / small motorboats & specialty craft.
USA Clay Target League – league participation (service side)
In addition to merch, they sell participation in their youth clay-target leagues.
- High School League Team Fees.
- College League Team Fees.
- Associated training/safety materials & events.