Gear up with the new necessities for the season.
The Traeger Ranger pellet grill will upgrade your hiking gear collection.
Enjoying family time in the water or woods is one of the best parts of summer, and having the right gear ensures you have a safe and hassle-free trip. We’ve asked our Best of Virginia 2020 winners to guide us to great products for a super summer vacation.
“Summer trends include the Yeti Hondo Base Camp Chair. It’s one of the most comfortable and durable pieces of outdoor furniture you will find,” says Glen Harper of Green Top Sporting Goods in Ashland. Match the chair with a Traeger Ranger pellet grill, which Harper says is the go-to portable grill this year. “The Ranger allows you to pack your wood-fired flavor wherever adventure takes you,” he says.
Kayaks are also increasingly popular. “We see more and more kayaks headed out to the water for recreation and fishing,” Harper says. New features include elevated seat positions, multiple rod holders, enclosed storage, and a retractable pedal-power propeller.
Whether you’re on the river, at a music festival, or just hanging out in the backyard, “Eagle Nest Outfitters’ Doublenest Hammocks have been a summertime staple for years,” says Bobbie Short of Walkabout Outfitter in Harrisonburg. For provisions, Short recommends the Icemule Jaunt Cooler. “Whether it’s a sling or a backpack, these hands-free coolers are the perfect way to keep your lunch and drinks cool on a summertime outing.” Add Suncloud Sunglasses (“the perfect polarized sunglasses—great price and a lifetime warranty”) and a pair of Chaco Zcloud Sandals with pillowtop cushioning, and you’re set for summer!
