Summer is here, which means music festival season is right around the corner! From July 14th to 15th, Birmingham will once again trek out to enjoy the Sloss Music and Arts Festival at Sloss Furnaces. We’ve put together a list of ten essentials to help you stay cool and look cool through two days of music in the great outdoors.

Empty Reusable Water Bottle:

While outside food and drink are prohibited, we encourage all festival goers to bring an empty reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is key to an enjoyable festival experience. For the ultimate in festival-friendly hydration, try the lightweight and ultra-portable Que Collapsible Water Bottle.

Day Pack:

The festival has strict rules on bag size. However, most bags under 12 x 6 x 12 will be allowed in. Find a lightweight day pack or fanny pack with comfortable straps to carry your festival essentials.

Point and Shoot Camera:

Be sure to pack your point-and-shoot cameras, disposable cameras or phones. No GoPros, recording devices or cameras with detachable lenses will be allowed in.

Sunscreen:

There is nothing worse than getting a nasty sunburn on the first day of a festival. Be sure to wear at least 30 SPF sunscreen and reapply. We love Sun Bum’s sheer and weightless Face Lotion Sunscreen and SPF 30 Lip Balm (we’re bananas for the banana flavor!). 

Blanket or Towel to Sit On: 

Take a load off and enjoy the music from the grass. Bringing a light towel, blanket or beach mat to get off your feet and relax during your festival experience. We love ENO’s Islander LED Blanket — it’s trimmed with LED lights, so you’ll never lose sight of your spot again! For the ultimate in festival relaxation, come hang out with us in The Outdoors Eno Hammock World! 

Sunglasses:

Protect your eyes! Sunny days spent entirely outside can be super hard on your eyes. Invest in a protective and stylish pair of sunnies to top off your festival outfit. If you’re looking for a sweet pair of aviators, these Serpico sunnies come with polarized lenses that also repel water, grease and dirt.

Hat or Bandana:

Stay cool and comfortable with a hat or bandana. This essential will keep moisture and sun off your face. Or you could try the versatile UV Buff, which can be worn in twelve ways. Not only is it super stylish, it’s super good at blocking UV rays and odors.

Portable Phone Charger:

We all know how important a fully charged phone is at a festival. Pick up a fully charged portable battery to charge your phone on the go. At the very least, bring a phone charger to recharge your phone at a charging station.

Comfy Shoes: 

Comfortable footwear is a definite essential for an enjoyable festival experience. When it comes to comfy and supportive summer footwear, you can’t do better than Teva. They’re durable and washable, too — two must-have qualities for outdoor festival footwear!

Good Company:

Of course, the best way to enjoy any festival is with people you love. Good people means good vibes and a great time. Want a chance to win a pair of VIP tickets and a stay at the Westin? You’ve got until July 11th to enter our online giveaway.

Have a safe weekend and enjoy these amazing artists! And should you forget something, don’t worry! We’ll be there along with Teva, Smith, The North Face, and Eno to help you out!

Text by Amy Haupt

The Micro Ratio Down Jacket holds superior loft, maintains core body warmth, and boasts water repellent down insulation.

You’re on a hike, or biking to class, or walking your dog. It’s cold out. Good thing you wore your down jacket today, right? Then you look up into the sky and see dark clouds swirling and you know you are about to get wet. Last year, you would have gone into a full sprint trying to get home before the downpour. BUT THIS YEAR, you could have the Mountain Hardwear Micro Ratio Down Jacket.

Now what do the Micro Ratio Down Jacket and rain have to do with each other? If you have ever owned a down jacket, or you are in the market for one, you’ll quickly find out that down does not survive well after getting wet. It clumps up, absorbs water, and ultimately ruins the warmth-holding abilities of the jacket. No one wants to spend their hard earned dollars for a “high quality” jacket if it can’t stand up to daily activity. We agree! You shouldn’t have to hide under a bus stop, run for your car, or carry an extra jacket at the first signs of a winter rain shower. Especially when you’ve payed top dollar for your down jacket.

So what makes the Micro Ratio Down Jacket different from other down jackets?

Q. Shield Down Technology

One of the newest technologies from Mountain Hardwear – The Q. Shield Down is a high loft down infused with Durable Water Repellent material.

The new Q. Shield Down technology from Mountain Hardwear merges the lightweight warmth-trapping ability of down with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) material through a process of infusion. Essentially this process creates a hybrid material that is Q. Shield Down. And why is that important, you ask? No longer do you have to fear the weather when you wear this jacket out. The Q. Shield Down insulated Micro Ratio Down Jacket will still maintain its loft and hold its warmth even when wet. In fact, this jacket is so versatile, you’ll want to use it from valley to summit.

As a backpacker, skier or overall outdoor enthusiast, you probably have found yourself wishing you had a lighter-weight, lower impact, more easily stowable and versatile jacket (a “one-size-fits-all” kind of jacket). The Micro Ratio Down Jacket holds loft in a low profile so that it can serve as your outer shell during a cool Fall stroll through the park, OR as an incredible mid-layer in colder temperatures that you might find at alpine levels (all while resisting absorbing that pesky snow!). You can plan on this jacket holding it’s same level of warmth on a week long trip in the mountains from start to finish.

But what else is there to the Micro Ratio Down Jacket that makes it superior?

Weight-to-Warmth Ratio

Down Fill creates a layer of air to hold out the cold and hold in the warmth.

Coming in at only 12.1 oz, this jacket insulates at a 650-fill level while weighing less than a pound. That’s lighter than some T-shirts you already own! Yet even at that super light weight, the 650-fill down holds loft and contains heat at a level greater than most cold weather rated fleece. (learn about Down Fill)

Stow Away Pocket

The Women’s Micro Ratio Down Jacket

Don’t forget, down can actually compress small enough to carry in your backpack. (Have you ever tried to fold a heavy fleece small enough to fit into your pack?!) The Micro Ratio Down Jacket has the ability to pack into its own pocket – perfect for lightweight backpacking in cooler weather, or stowing away in your car or work bag for those extra cold evenings.

True-to-Size Fit

For some, it’s the technical specs that really get the gears going. For others, function must pair with fashion. And that is where the Micro Ratio Down Jacket wraps up everything into one neat package. Its true-to-form fit with dual drawstring waist hem keeps the jacket laying at a low profile. For women, this means a figured silhouette, and for men, a sleek, comfortable fit from hip to neck.

All in all, if you’re looking to hike Mt. Cheaha or take your pup on an evening jog, you’ll find what you need and what you want in the Mountain Hardwear Micro Ratio Down Jacket.

Across the nation hard-working Americans are packing up for the long weekend. Whether you are looking for some sunshine on the open waters or some nature therapy in the woods, make sure you’re prepared! Here are some key ingredients for a perfect Labor Day getaway.

THE QUICK CHECKLIST

• A Destination
• Summer Bottoms
• Breathable Top
• Comfortable Shoes
• Sun Protection – Hat, Sunscreen, Sunglasses
• Beverages
• Snacks
• 1 Planned Activity (at least)

And that’s all you need! Below are some suggestions:

PACKING RIGHT

AFTCO Original Fishing Shorts

The North Face Women’s Class V Water Shorts

Bottoms – If you are headed to the beach, lake or river, you are definitely going to want a good pair of shorts. In fact, even if you plan on spending time on a hike or just catching rays in your backyard, these will be a must. Quickly wick away moisture from perspiration or water recreation with shorts like the AFTCO Original Fishing Shorts or The North Face Women’s Class V Water Shorts.

Columbia Men’s PFG Zero Rules Polo Shirt

Tops – You’re going to need something breathable if you plan on staying in the South this Labor Day. Look for materials like Columbia’s PFG (Performance Fishing Gear) Omni Freeze which simultaneously cools and wicks moisture in hot weather. Any UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rated clothing will help protect you from powerful afternoon sunshine.

Chaco Women’s ZX/2 Yampa Sandals

Shoes – A good pair of sandals is a major comfort in the hot Southern summers. Chaco has a series of durable and attractive sandals that accommodate most preferences of styles. So if you plan on being on the water or just hanging out, remember to bring a good pair of sandals.

ACTIVITIES

SUP – SUPs (or Stand Up Paddle Boards) have been a booming product and activity for exercise buffs and adventurists alike. It is an excellent way to enjoy the water or work your upper body, core and balance. Don’t be afraid to hop on this trend! Look into our selection of Murray Boards if you are interested in “SUP’ing.” Murray Boards is a Birmingham, AL based company and the first SUP manufacturer in the state.

Murray Boards

ENO DoubleNest Hammock

Hammocking – Few things are more relaxing than floating between two trees in the wilderness. Having a hammock along on your trips allows you to toss up and rest your feet just about anywhere. Grab a book, a cool drink or just listen to the soothing sounds of nature!

Tailgating – College Football is back! Game Day traditions run deep here in the state of Alabama, and tailgating with friends and family is a cornerstone. So no matter who you root for, be sure to safely enjoy the College Football Season Kickoff this Labor Day weekend.

Once you’ve checked off the essentials for a great time – have a wonderful, well-deserved and worry free Labor Day!

All items available at Alabama Outdoors. Selection varies by location. See store for details.

New class schedules, new textbooks, new and old friends… AND you need a new backpack!?! The search for a new backpack can be a challenge when you haven’t had the time to look into the details. We’ve compiled a quick list of features to help you find the perfect pack!

ESSENTIAL FEATURES

The North Face Women’s Borealis

Compartments – You’ll definitely want to seek out packs that offer multiple zippered compartments if you plan on keeping yourself organized for school. Be on the lookout for smaller organization pouches to hold pens, pencils, and electronics as well as holsters for essentials like water bottles and sunglasses.

The Mountain Hardwear Agama

Ventilation – A ventilation system, often a breathable mesh backing, allows heat and perspiration to escape by separating the backpack from your back. During the hot summers in the South, always choose a pack with this great addition!

The North Face Recon

Internal Sleeve – Just about every student is using laptops and tablets for taking notes, conducting research and writing essays. Though internal pockets come standard in many backpacks, be sure the pack you choose contains this padded sleeve to protect your precious cargo. (Bonus: The North Face Recon hosts two internal sleeves: one designed for laptops and another specifically for tablets!)

EXTRA FEATURES

The North Face Surge II

Electronics Charger – It seems like everyone is toting around smartphones and tablets these days, but what happens when your charge dives into the red? Forget the hassle of tracking down a wall plug and upgrade to an internal battery pack charger! Look into The North Face Surge II Charged Day Pack so you can stay connected.

Patagonia Arbor Pack 26L

Water Resistant – Not as many backpacks as we would like harbor in this excellent feature. Water resistant material surrounding your expensive textbooks and electronics seems like a must, but it has yet to become standard in backpacks.The Patagonia Arbor Pack 26L offers a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) outer material and a sleek, old-school design.

The North Face Big Shot II

Fresh, Fabulous & Fun Colors – No longer do you have to settle for a monochromatic or black only backpack. Brands like Patagonia and The North Face are offering trendy new color schemes ranging from retro throw-backs to neutral earth tones.

Patagonia Chacabuco

So whether you like to go simple, stylish, or technical, these are a few features to consider when planning your next backpack purchase. Happy shopping!

April is underway (more than half), so let’s call it Spring and never look back! We had our share of cold nights and rainy days leading up to now, but it makes Spring 2014 that much sweeter!

It’s time to:

• Pull the hiking shoes out of your closet and head to the mountain for a day hike.
• Grab a GoPro and head out to the rope swing for a great afternoon with friends.
• Strap on those Chacos you’ve been wearing all winter (even though it was too cold) and put them to good use on the trail.
• Text a few of your good buddies, grab your ENO hammocks and hang by the river all afternoon.

No matter how you spend your days it’s important to remember two things:

1. Be outside as much as possible.
2. Don’t forget to “RELAX”

Two Trees + an ENO Hammock + Straps = Math.

Whether you’re exhausted from a long bike ride or just looking to find some shade & read a book, the ENO hammock is a great way to relax and enjoy Alabama this year.  Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) has created some of the best, most lightweight and functional products offered in the market today. They have recently expanded their product offering beyond hammocks, but this remains their #1 item.

We interviewed a student at the University of Alabama about his ENO experience:

Grey Price.

Q: How long have you had an ENO Hammock?

GP: I’ve had my hammock for about a year, when I got to Alabama I knew I would want/need one to explore the river and places around town. It’s a great way for me to get out, explore and enjoy nature.

Q: Favorite spot to hang your ENO?

GP: Anywhere near a river or stream… although we took them out to the beach one time and that was pretty cool.

Q: Solo or Group style?

GP: Solo is pretty great sometimes, but nothing beats going with a group. Stacking our ENOS or finding as many trees as possible to hang from!

Q: How has ENO changed the way you spend your time?

GP: Having an ENO really gave me more of an outlet to go explore and be outside. It made me want to be outside more. Studying, Hanging out with friends, camping trips, it’s been a great tool and excuse for me to get out and enjoy the outdoors.

So why are you still here? Head on over to Alabama Outdoors and check ’em out or shop our hammocks online. You can be in a tree in no time… see you out there.

Free Pair of FITS Socks

Friday April 26th through Sunday May 5th, Receive a Free Pair of FITS Socks with the purchase of any pair of shoes priced $100 or more!*

Why FITS?

FITS socks feature unique construction that gives your foot the perfect fit. Wool blends are selected to ensure comfort and durability for running, hiking and other outdoor activities. Your feet connect your body to the rest of the world – take care of them!

Full Contact Fit

Have you ever wondered how a flat pair of socks can fit your foot? They can’t! When you take a pair of FITS socks out of the packaging, they look just like feet. This sculpted design ensures that the sock is comfortable and stays put. No movement or slipping reduces blisters. It’s called the “Full Contact Fit!”

The Full Contact Cuff gently hugs your leg. This prevents the sock from sliding down your leg, creating slack in the ankle area. When you’re out on the trail, you won’t be constantly tugging at the tops of your socks to keep them in position.

The Dynamic Toe Cup allows for a close, comfortable fit with no bunching or extra material. Top stitching is soft and positioned so that there are no hot spots. The toe cup allows the toes to perform their job and keeps the sock out of their way. No unlacing shoes mid-run for an adjustment.

The Heel Lock is constructed with Y-shaped stitching. This creates a deep heel pocket that anchors the entire sock – no slipping! This ensures that the sock maintains its shape and stays put.

The Perfect Fit

Finding your perfect fit is important and easy with the FIT Finder. The sculpted design of the sock perfectly conforms to your foot, even if you’re between sizes. Color coded top stitching on the toe box and inside the cuff make storing your socks a breeze, and the fit is guaranteed by FITS!

SHOP FITS SOCKS NOW

*Excludes Chaco Sandals. In store only, not available online. Not valid with any other offer or discount, including Buy 3 Get 1 Free socks. Certain exclusions apply. See store for details.

The Patagonia Houdini is my go to piece for an all weather running jacket. DWR Water resistant, a bomb proof wind breaker, highly breathable, extremely light, a built in clip loop for attaching to your hydration pack, this synch down hooded jacket has proven it’s self over and over again for my high mileage days outdoors when the weather turns to the fowl side. Oh, and did I mention it’s light? The jacket weighs in at only 4oz. The Houdini also packs into it’s own pocket for portability on the go. Everything you need and nothing more.

Stop by Alabama Outdoors today for the gear you need tomorrow.

Experience Matters. We are Alabama Outdoors.

Having a hard time finding last minute stocking stuffers? We’ve selected some of our most popular items right here to help you out!

If you still need ideas, stop by one of our eight locations state-wide. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect gift for your loved ones!

Black Diamond Storm Headlamp

When you need bright, reliable light in the worst conditions, the fully waterproof Black Diamond Storm offers up 100 lumens of illumination for spotting rap anchors or lighting up the trail. In addition to versatile proximity, distance and strobe modes, the Storm’s 2 red LEDs preserve night vision and activate without cycling through white mode. We also included a lock mode to stop accidental battery drain when the lamp is stored in your pack.

SOL Scout Survival Kit

Priorities in a survival situation: escape the elements, stay warm, and signal rescuers so you’re easy to find. The Scout has you covered on all fronts: a heat-reflective 2-person blanket provides warmth and shelter from wind, rain, and snow, while the one-handed Fire Lite striker and waterproof tinder produce multiple campfires. A 100dB rescue whistle and signal mirror with retro-reflective aiming aid make it easy for you to signal your position to rescuers, and a compass, duct-tape and fishing/sewing kit round out the package. A professional-grade RF-welded waterproof bag keeps contents dry in any conditions.

FITS Light Hiker Crew Wool Socks

The Light Hiker is cushioned from heel to toe and contours to your foot, keeping you comfortable utilizing Merino Wool’s natural ability to wick moisture and regulate temperature while trailblazing. Great for hiking of everyday wear and Made in the USA!

SMITH SERPICO Polarized Sunglasses

Uncompromising in its design and style, the Serpico delivers a bold look with the combination of a 9×3 toric lens and classic aviator silhouette. Carbonic TLT Lenses Metal Frame Construction Adjustable Silicone Nose Pads 9×3 Toric Lens Curvature Frame Measurements 65-14-119 Medium Fit / Large Coverage.

LIGHT MY FIRE Outdoor MealKit

This kit is perfect for your backpack, boat, picnic basket, even your lunch box. The MealKit contains everything you need to prepare and eat a meal anywhere: plate, bowl, a Spill-free Cup with lid (300 ml), a combined colander and cutting board, a Spork, and a small waterproof container for all those things that just have to stay dry. The Spork is made of tough, heat-resistant Tritan™ and the rest is made of BPA-free polypropylene.

More great ideas are coming, check back soon!

YETI Coolers at Alabama Outdoors

YETI coolers have become the must have outdoor gift for Christmas this year. If you work, play, or relax outside, this cooler will be your go to item. They are virtually indestructible and will keep your food and drink fresh and cold for longer then just about any cooler we’ve seen on the market. Come summer your gonna want one.The coolest gift under the tree this year.

YETI Coolers are roto-molded which creates a seamless one-piece construction. This construction process ensures impact resistance and long-term durability of the cooler. Add locks in the integrated padlock ports and it makes these coolers bear-resistant as certified by the USDA’s Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

Here are some of the other features that make these coolers some of the toughest on the market:

• T-Rex™ Lid Latches
• BearFoot™ Non-Slip Feet
• NeverFail™ Hinge System
• AnchorPoint™ Tie-Down Slots
• LipGrip™ Handles
• Vortex™ Drain System
• DoubleHaul™ Handles

Follow this link to check them out on our website: YETI Coolers

For Alabama Outdoors Location Information Click Here.

We are Alabama Outdoors. Experience Matters.

Our Shoe spotlight this week: Saucony! The name is legendary in the running business. Saucony has been in the shoe game since 1898 and today they are releasing some of the best shoes on the market for runners worldwide. Since we here at Alabama Outdoors are trail junkies we’re going to focus on the shoes we’ve hand picked for our 8 stores.

The Peregrine 2. One of our go-to must-have trail shoes on our walls. This is one of our best selling performance shoes for both men and woman simply because it works so well in almost every condition we’ve thrown at it. This light weight (9oz) neutral cushioned runner has just a slight amount of stability in the mid sole, a low profile yet very stable upper (4mm heel to tow offset), paired with incredible underfoot traction keeping you upright and moving forward no matter what the trail throws at you. Ideal for everyday off road training, racing, trail hiking, and fast packing. One shoe to rule them all. Plus the mens and woman’s colors look killer. Get cha some.

Kinvara TR. Saucony’s true trail racer. I ran in this shoe this past weekend at the Stumpjump 50k up in Chattanooga (hence the dirty kicks in the picture) after having only worn them 2 times before! I was blown away. These light weight (7+oz) low profile (4mm heel to toe offset) kicks kept me stable and incredibly comfortable, thanks to the perfect amount of cushioning where it’s needed and a great amount of ground feel. The rubber underfoot was incredible, the outsole blew me away! The morning was rainy, the trail was rocky, and I flew over it all with ease. The sticky gripping rubber traction had me upright on the technical, braking with ease on the downhills, and charging up the hills. These shoes are fast. They will help make you faster. And they look fresh.

Xodus 3.0. The Armadillo on our wall. Saucony’s stability cushioned trail runner weighing in at only 11oz! Like the above stated trail critter (numerous at Red Mountain Park BTW), these shoes are incredibly light (11oz) for the amount of motion control and comfort they bring, fast and stable thanks to a low profile (4mm heel to toe) foot bed, and tough as all get out thanks to the Vibram under sole traction that will keep tearing up the trail no matter how much you beat it down (Mud? no problem, Obstacles? what ever, Roots? Rocks? Bring it). If this shoe could bench press it’d out lift you, then beat you to the finish line (and you’d cry, just like your fellow racers will when you crush them). Fast and Furious indeed (pardon the pun).

We love Saucony obviously, but we picked these 3 shoes for a reason, because they perform when you need it. And they keep performing. There’s no hype better then honest hype. Come by any one of our 8 locations for an expert shoe fit today and you’ll see the Saucony difference and why we stand behind this brand. Heck, my Saucony’s and me will be running this weekend out at the Ruffner Crusher Ridge Marathon and Half! So looking forward to this race as we’re big ole fans of Ruffner Mountain and fine folks out there (Thanks to Vanessa Stroud for putting this race together!). Hopefully I’m somewhat recovered from Stumpjump! Me and one other Alabama Outdoors Trail Team member Ali Edwards will be out there going up and down the hills loving every second of it (What? you didn’t know about our AO Trail Team! (Look for a really fun announcement about that next week!).

We’re stocked, excited, and really really really looking forward to the inaugural Dirty Spokes Xterra Alabama Trail Run October 20th at Red Mountain Park!!!! We’re helping make this an amazing experience for all the runners with some awesome over all prizes in both distances, masters prizes, and tons of swag give aways for all runners and all spectators!!! Speaking of spectators, this course is extremely fan friendly as both the 5milers and 10milers will do the same loop around the park on the very runnable BMRR double track trail/road (easy walking access for any one looking to cheer on a loved one), with the 10milers continuing on back to the Redding Shaft Mine where they will then turn onto the challenging Ike Maston single track (get you a good spot to along this trail as it’ll be worth it to watch the runners fight up and down these short steep hills!!). Those looking to register can do so at the Dirty Spokes Web Site or the morning of out at Red Mountain Park. Both Merrell and The North Face will be at the race with shoe demos and free give aways for all! Come enjoy a fun day out at Birmingham’s newest city park (heck, jump on the Zip Line Tour if you get a chance!).

Come check out any of our 8 Alabama Outdoors locations for expert advice and shoe fit!

We Run, We Climb, We Paddle, We Backpack, We Get Outdoors in Alabama.