The cooler temperatures, dramatic displays of fall foliage and shrinking crowds makes autumn an optimal time for outdoor adventure.
But brisk mornings, ever changing cloud conditions and chilly nights are far more fun to navigate when you're properly geared up.
Here are a few of my favorite fall items that help keep me warm and cozy when out exploring the abundance that autumn has to offer.
1/3 Zip Alpha Direct Pullover by Vado Apparel
Fall is all about good layering pieces, and the Vado 1/3 Zip Hoodie ticks the mid-layer boxes.
It's warm, breathable, packable, lightweight, insulating, fitted but not restrictive, and easy to unzip for extra air flow when your body starts heating up.
Made from soft, fuzzy Alpha Direct fabric, this hoodie has great warmth-to-weight ratio, is comfortable to hike and sleep in, and makes for a stylish top layer when out and about.
On frigid nights, pair it with a rain jacket, puffy jacket or soft shell to trap in heat. You’ll be surprised at the insulating power of this pullover.
Made in Framingham, MA. $138
Ultralight Rain Mitts by High Tail Designs
Freezing cold fingers can turn an epic day upside down — making it hard to hold your hiking poles, open your snack bar wrapper, or concentrate on anything else but blowing warm breath on your hands.
Thankfully, the High Tail Designs rain mitts make for an easy item to pack along. They’re so small and light that you'll forget you have them, but so effective you'll be glad you do.
These Dyneema over-mitts are highly water-resistant. So while they're sure to keep your hands dry when it's pouring rain, they also make for a great barrier against all elements, like biting wind, cold temperatures and falling snow.
Made in Philadelphia, PA. $79
Down Socks by Goosefeet Gear
Cold feet make it hard to sleep, and we all know that rest and recovery are essential. That's why Goosefeet Gear down socks are an amazing addition to any fall gear list.
They boast 850 goose fill but still weigh in at only ~2 oz. Packing down smaller than a deck of cards, they’ll keep your tootsies toasty on the coldest of nights.
Made from a DWR treated, but delicate nylon face fabric, these lifesavers aren't meant for walking around in, but GFG makes a protective overbooty that turns them into camp slippers in no time flat. Or, you could always just slip them carefully into your hiking shoes ; )
Made in Gainesville, GA. $75
Torrid Jacket by Enlightened Equipment
Perhaps one of the most gratifying things to do at the top of a windy summit, or at the end of a big day, is put on your puffy jacket and pull over the hood. Aaaah!
Filled with an extremely effective CLIMASHIELD™ APEX synthetic insulation, the EE Torrid jacket is warm, as well as wind and water resistant, making it a great choice for the ever changing conditions of an autumn adventure.
Highly packable, lightweight, durable and comfortable, the Torrid jacket also makes for a great insulating mid layer when worn beneath a rain jacket or poncho.
Made in Winona, Minnesota. $185
Overnight Oats by DeliciOats
Food is the fuel which keeps us warm, safe and energized while out wandering in the wilds, and also helps us sleep and recover better once the day is done.
DeliciOats is a delicious, nutritious overnight oat mix that has been specifically designed to have a great ratio of fats, proteins and carbs, to cover all your macronutrient needs. They’re packed with whole foods and available in five fabulous flavors, like Cherry Chocolate and Blueberry Vanilla.
DeliciOats are easy to make; just add water to the pouch the night before, then wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast the next day. Or, if a cold-soaked breakfast on a brisk morning isn't your jam, fear not! DeliciOats can easily be made with hot water for a warm feast, and enjoyed any time of the day!
Made in West Jordan, Utah. $9
We'd like to know, what are some of your favorite fall adventure essentials? What backpacking and hiking gear do you pack when temps start to plummet? Drop them in the comments below!
Ali Becker is a freelance adventure writer and narrative storyteller who shares compelling conversations about personal transformations, overcoming limitations, wellness education and adventurous situations. You can follow her rambling adventures on social at @thisisalibecker.
