Explorer's Passage - Men's Equipment List
Duffel Bags
PatagoniaBlack Hole 60L Duffel
PatagoniaBlack Hole 60L Duffel
Ryan's notes
"This is one of the most popular duffel bags. It isn't waterproof but is very water resistant. The 60L size is the maximum size allowed for carry-on luggage. The included shoulder straps make it able to be carried like a backpack."
Osprey PacksTransporter 65L Duffel
Osprey PacksTransporter 65L Duffel
Ryan's notes
"Similar to the Patagonia this bag has a cleaner look for storing away the backpack straps, the backpack straps are more comfortable and it features a few more handles which I love."
HaglofsLava 50L Duffel
HaglofsLava 50L Duffel
Ryan's notes
"Biggest difference in this duffel is that the stuff sack it comes with actually turns into a separate compartment for dirty, wet, or used clothing."
FjallravenNo. 6 50L Duffel
FjallravenNo. 6 50L Duffel
Ryan's notes
"The Fjallraven duffel is different because the fabric is their signature G-1000. This fabric is very tough, looks more classic and isn't as sporty as the other three on this list. It has great handles and attention to detail."
Rain Jackets
Black DiamondStormline Stretch Rain Shell Jacket - Men's
Black DiamondStormline Stretch Rain Shell Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"A great rain jacket with some stretch that comes in at a great price. Fully taped seams and zippers."
HaglofsL.I.M. III Jacket - Men's
HaglofsL.I.M. III Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Similar to the Black Diamond jacket but different in that it weighs only 8 oz. You can stuff the jacket into it's own sleeve and it packs down to the size of your fist! You can have this in your pack and not even know it is there. Great for extremely windy days too. Gore-Tex Paclite."
BackcountryTrail Weight Rain Jacket - Men's
BackcountryTrail Weight Rain Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This is Backcountry's own rain jacket. It is 2.5 layer. It is a great weight and packs down small."
PatagoniaTorrentshell Pullover Jacket - Men's
PatagoniaTorrentshell Pullover Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Another great option. This is a different style since it is a pullover. It has Patagonia's H2No."
Rain Pants
HaglofsL.I.M. III Pant - Men's
HaglofsL.I.M. III Pant - Men's
Ryan's notes
"The same fabric as the jacket. L.I.M. stands for Less Is More and they really mean it. Extremely lightweight, durable and fully waterproof. Top to bottom two way zippers that allow you to remove the pants or put them on without taking off your muddy boots. You can also use the zippers for vents or to access your pockets under your pants."
Black DiamondStormline Stretch Rain Pant - Men's
Black DiamondStormline Stretch Rain Pant - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Price, fit and comfort are what shine on this pant. The stretch makes a huge difference when hiking and the waistband is super comfortable, especially when putting these over pants. No side zippers but for the price these are great."
PatagoniaTorrentshell Pant - Men's
PatagoniaTorrentshell Pant - Men's
Mountain HardwearStretch Ozonic Pant - Men's
Mountain HardwearStretch Ozonic Pant - Men's
Hiking Boots & Shoes
ObozBridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot - Men's
ObozBridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Oboz makes some of the best hiking shoes. It stands for Outside Bozeman. They have great insoles and superior traction. Waterproof and leather they will stand up to any hike. The Bridger is a little stiffer of a boot which is great for really rocky terrain or for longer hikes where you need more support when carrying a heavy pack."
ObozSawtooth Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot - Men's
ObozSawtooth Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This shoe is very similar to the Bridger without the full-length shank. This makes the shoe not as stiff but it also makes it more comfortable for everyday wear and shorter hikes where you won't be carrying a heavier pack."
AltraLone Peak 3.5 Trail Running Shoe - Men's
AltraLone Peak 3.5 Trail Running Shoe - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This is the same as the the taller version without the waterproofing. It is also the number one shoe used on the PCT(Pacific Crest Trail) That should be enough to convince you that this shoe is a great option. I also use this one for all of my trail running."
Accessories
SmartwoolPerformance Outdoor Light Crew Sock
SmartwoolPerformance Outdoor Light Crew Sock
Ryan's notes
"I only listed one sock because these are the best. Any length in the Smartwool socks will work depending on your adventure. Just make sure that you are buying the PhD version, these fit much better than any other sock, they don't stink, they regulate heat and they have extra cushion in the heal and toe. Perfect for any adventure."
BuffUV Buff - Solid
BuffUV Buff - Solid
Ryan's notes
"These are so versatile that you will definitely need one or two. You can use them in so many variations that they will probably always be on you. I use mine even for a sleeping mask when it's a full moon."
Hydration
Skratch LabsExercise Hydration Mix - 20 Pack
Skratch LabsExercise Hydration Mix - 20 Pack
Ryan's notes
"I love Skratch Labs, they are from Colorado and everything that they use in their products is 100% natural. It doesn't have a ton of flavor, like Gatorade, but that is because it doesn't have all the other stuff inside it that is bad for you."
Skratch LabsHigh-Sodium Hydration Drink Mix - 8-Pack
Skratch LabsHigh-Sodium Hydration Drink Mix - 8-Pack
Ryan's notes
"This similar to the Exercise Mix only with a little kick. Add this to your water if you are feeling a little sluggish while out on the trail."
PlatypusPlaty SoftBottle
PlatypusPlaty SoftBottle
Ryan's notes
"Platypus makes great water bottles, this one can hold up to 1L and when it is empty you can collapse it down to nothing."
CamelBakPodium Big Chill Water Bottle - 25oz
CamelBakPodium Big Chill Water Bottle - 25oz
Ryan's notes
"Lightweight and insulated. This won't keep your drinks as cold as a HydroFlask or a Yeti but you won't have the weight of those bottles either."
Hiking Pants
FjallravenHigh Coast Hike Long Trouser - Men's
FjallravenHigh Coast Hike Long Trouser - Men's
Ryan's notes
"The best hiking pant hands down. This fabric is extremely lightweight and stretchy. It has zippered pockets in the front, and one zippered rear pocket. The belt on this pant goes all the way around which is different from the Prana Pants."
prAnaStretch Zion Pant - Men's
prAnaStretch Zion Pant - Men's
Ryan's notes
"The most popular hiking pant. The fabric is a little heavier than the Fjallraven but still lightweight and stretchy. Both of the fabrics from Fjallraven and Prana have a DWR(Durable Water Repellency) finish to them so they will shed light rain and dry quickly. With the exception of a cargo pocket. The cargo pocket has a zippered closer as well. The bottom of the pants can be rolled up and snapped in place to provide some venting on hot days."
prAnaBrion Pant - Men's
prAnaBrion Pant - Men's
Ryan's notes
"The exact same fabric as the Stretch Zion. I like these a little more than the Stretch Zion just because they are a little cleaner. The don't have all of the pockets and features that the Stretch Zion's but they look better if you are going to museums and dinner."
HaglofsRugged II Mountain Pant - Men's
HaglofsRugged II Mountain Pant - Men's
Ryan's notes
"The most durable, flexible, and rugged pants that we have. If you are going to variable terrain. Haglofs is a Swedish brand and they make some of the other products that are on this list. I stand behind their products and design, this version is a little more loose fitting than the High Coast Hike and the Brion. "
Sleeping Bag Liner
Big AgnesSynthetic Sleeping Bag Liner
Big AgnesSynthetic Sleeping Bag Liner
Ryan's notes
"Sleeping bag liners are great for when you are not able to shower and clean yourself off before getting into your sleeping bag. The also offer a little more comfort. They allow you to clean your bag without having to wash and care for your entire sleeping bag."
Big AgnesSleeping Bag Liner
Big AgnesSleeping Bag Liner
Ryan's notes
"Same as the previous notes."
ALPS MountaineeringMummy Liner
ALPS MountaineeringMummy Liner
Ryan's notes
"Same as the previous notes."
Sea To SummitPremium Blend Silk/Cotton Sleeping Bag Liner
Sea To SummitPremium Blend Silk/Cotton Sleeping Bag Liner
Ryan's notes
"Same as the previous notes."
Day Pack
Osprey PacksManta AG 28L Backpack
Osprey PacksManta AG 28L Backpack
Ryan's notes
"This is my favorite pack. It is the most expensive one on this list but I think it is also the best. Key features: lifetime warranty, included hydration bladder, AG(Anti-Gravity) Suspension system which really helps make the pack feel light. Rain cover is also included and stores away in the bottom of the pack with an easy access zipper."
FjallravenKaipak 28L Backpack
FjallravenKaipak 28L Backpack
Ryan's notes
"Fjallraven again makes a classic looking, Instagram worthy pack. It carries the load comfortably and the fabric is very durable."
PatagoniaBlack Hole 32L Backpack
PatagoniaBlack Hole 32L Backpack
Ryan's notes
"The same fabric as the duffel which is highly water resistant and durable. It looks like it would be a heavy fabric but it is surprisingly lightweight."
HaglofsVina 30L Backpack
HaglofsVina 30L Backpack
Ryan's notes
"Very comfortable with great compression to make the pack smaller and carry better. The suspension system is great for ventilation and will allow your back to get some much needed airflow."
Insulated Jackets
PatagoniaNano-Air Insulated Hooded Jacket - Men's
PatagoniaNano-Air Insulated Hooded Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Everything you need to know about this jacket you can read in the Arc'teryx Atom LT description. They are almost identical. I personally feel like the Arc'teryx looks a little classier and has a better fit."
PatagoniaDown Sweater Hooded Jacket - Men's
PatagoniaDown Sweater Hooded Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Patagonia's version of the down jacket. I like that the collar of this one comes up really high and has a nice fleece lining."
Fleece Jackets
Black DiamondCoEfficient Fleece Hooded Jacket - Men's
Black DiamondCoEfficient Fleece Hooded Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This jacket is very similar to the Arc'teyx Delta LT with the added bonus of a zippered chest pocket."
PatagoniaR1 Hooded Fleece Pullover - 1/2-Zip - Men's
PatagoniaR1 Hooded Fleece Pullover - 1/2-Zip - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This is a great option because it works in so many different situations. The large zipper is awesome because it helps to vent on highly aerobic exercises."
HoudiniPower Houdi Fleece Jacket - Men's
HoudiniPower Houdi Fleece Jacket - Men's
Ryan's notes
"I love the fit of this fleece. If you are looking for a jacket that is going to be used as a midlayer this is the one. I love the hood which is slim enough to fit under your outer layer."
Fleece Pants/Jeans
PatagoniaTerrebonne Joggers - Men's
PatagoniaTerrebonne Joggers - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Joggers are great since they are super comfortable for lounging around but aren't tight and restricting like tights."
prAnaTravis Jogger - Men's
prAnaTravis Jogger - Men's
Ryan's notes
"I use these for yoga which is great since they cuff on the bottom keeps them in place. They are also great for lounging around camp."
HurleyDri-Fit Jogger Pant - Men's
HurleyDri-Fit Jogger Pant - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This jogger is made by Hurley bit it has Nike's Dri-Fit tech included and it is super comfortable. It is also tighter at the bottom and works great for the same as the other two pants."
DU/ERPerformance Denim Slim Jean - Men's
DU/ERPerformance Denim Slim Jean - Men's
Ryan's notes
"These are my favorite pair of jeans. The stretch is incredible, the fit is perfect and the color is spot on."
Knee-Length Shorts
prAnaBrion Short - Men's
prAnaBrion Short - Men's
Ryan's notes
"One of my favorite summer shorts. The fabric is the same as the Stretch Zion, which means they have the same DWR finish. This is a cleaner look compared to the Stretch Zion version."
Mountain HardwearHardwear AP 9in Short - Men's
Mountain HardwearHardwear AP 9in Short - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Similar to the Prana Brion Shorts with one more zipper. The cut and fit of these is also a little slimmer."
HurleyPhantom 20in Walkshort - Men's
HurleyPhantom 20in Walkshort - Men's
Ryan's notes
"If you don't have a pair of Hybrid shorts this is a great time to grab a pair. They will easily become your favorite pair for shorts. Lighter weight than most hiking pants and they can be used as a swim suit. That means one less thing to pack for vacation. "
O'NeillLoaded Heather Hybrid Short - Men's
O'NeillLoaded Heather Hybrid Short - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Same idea as the Hurley shorts. I just wanted to add another pair for you to choose from. Seriously, these are so innovative and comfortable that you definitely need to get a pair of these types of shorts."
Men's Shirts
SmartwoolMerino 150 Pattern Short-Sleeve T-Shirt - Men's
SmartwoolMerino 150 Pattern Short-Sleeve T-Shirt - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Wool is my favorite fabric and this lightweight wool shirt is my #1 hiking shirt. The 150 refers to the weight of the shirt and it is extremely lightweight and comfortable. Wool is the best fabric for travel since it doesn't stink and you won't have to worry about washing it after each use. Synthetics on the other hand always smell funky, even after a good wash sometimes."
IcebreakerTech Lite Short-Sleeve Crew Shirt - Men's
IcebreakerTech Lite Short-Sleeve Crew Shirt - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This is very similar to the Smartwool 150 but from a different brand."
SmartwoolMerino 150 Pattern Long-Sleeve - Men's
SmartwoolMerino 150 Pattern Long-Sleeve - Men's
Ryan's notes
"This works great as a baselayer if you are colder temps, if you are really going to be in cold climates I would change to the 250 which is my go-to for snowboarding in winter. The 150 is great if you want some coverage for your arms in warmer climates."
IcebreakerSphere Long-Sleeve Crewe Shirt - Men's
IcebreakerSphere Long-Sleeve Crewe Shirt - Men's
Ryan's notes
"Same as the Smartwool."
Men's Swim
VisslaNight Crawler Board Short - Men's
VisslaNight Crawler Board Short - Men's
Ryan's notes
"These board shorts are made from recycled coconut husks with some polyester for stretch. They are stylish, comfortable and stretchy."
Hippy TreeJupiter Board Short - Men's
Hippy TreeJupiter Board Short - Men's
Ryan's notes
"A little on the more traditional side with some cool colors."
Howler BrothersVaquero Board Short - Men's
Howler BrothersVaquero Board Short - Men's
Ryan's notes
"The come in three different colorways and I think they are all cool. If you haven't upgraded your swim collection in a while these will be a great addition."
FahertyClassic Board Short - Men's
FahertyClassic Board Short - Men's
Ryan's notes
"A little longer than the others in their cut but with great stretch and the patterns are beautifully printed."
Men's Hats
Outdoor ResearchSunbriolet Sun Hat
Outdoor ResearchSunbriolet Sun Hat
Ryan's notes
"A lightweight sunhat that lays flat in your pack. It also offers great breathability."
