Aging playfully: active apparel | members only access

SAFETY FIRST Trekking poles have joined the ranks of hats, glasses and sun protection as accessories that we once packed as an afterthought, but should not leave home without today. We may

think we can still "billy goat" up a rock- and root-strewn trail, but if we’re honest, taking careful steps with the aid of trekking poles will allow us to hike longer over more

varied terrain. Trekking poles can help with stability and balance and take the pressure off your knees while hiking. Crai S. Bower Most trekking poles are retractable and manufactured in

either aluminum or carbon fiber. The essential differences between the aluminum Leki Journey Lite Trekking Poles ($90) and REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles ($149) are durability and

weight, respectively. Lightweight, collapsible trekking poles are not new, but manufacturers continue to introduce stronger and lighter versions yearly, though carbon will usually cost more.

Another option to consider: L.L. Bean Access trekking poles ($50), which are great for both summer and winter activities. Katherine Lalangan, a marketing specialist with SA Expeditions in

San Francisco, says her company’s tour guides highly recommend poles for all of their walking tours. “They assist in stability and balance, help save energy and take the pressure off the

knees," she says. As for the sun, wearing protection from the rays is as important as wearing a parka outside during a blizzard. Given what we now know about skin cancer, innovations in

ultraviolet-radiation-blocking sun shirts are more critical than shaped skis or light hiking shoes. Most of these garments contain thicker weaves and are treated with zinc oxide and other

sun-blocking minerals. The Outdoor Research Spectrum ($59), NRS Baja ($76) Sun Shirt or Lands’ End Crew Neck Swim Tee ($48) are three options, whether you’re exploring a tropical environment

or trimming tomato plants in your garden. PACK SMART For years I carried a medium canvas duffel bag with a shoulder strap. I liked that I could compress this luggage to use as a carry-on or

expand it to fit additional items and check it. My shoulders paid the price, however. When I realized I was packing lighter as a result and was thus less prepared for my trips, I

compromised with a rolling duffel bag. I quickly discovered how much they had changed. Duffel bags have evolved, with improved wheels that roll smoother and last longer. They also feature

separate shoe bags to stow those muddy or dusty hiking boots, and mesh interior pockets for worn clothes and electronics. If you’ve ever watched your luggage get soaked on the tarmac as you

sat helplessly in 17F, you’ll be happy to know there are water-resistant duffels too. The Ogio Terminal Travel Bag ($239) includes multiple internal and external pockets for easy organizing

over the long haul. The Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 90 ($340) is water-resistant. REI makes its Co-op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel ($269) from recycled and bluesign-approved

materials, a positive trend in outdoor gear. Like selecting luggage, choosing a backpack depends on the itinerary. Low-volume, roll-up backpacks are light but have limited capacity.

They're easy to pack as checked or carry-on luggage, have enough pockets to keep a water flask separate from cameras and tablets, and are comfortable enough for a multi-hour hike or

bike. The North Face Jester Daypack ($75), Arc’teryx Aerios 45 ($250) and Deuter Speed Light 23 ($120) hold a day's worth of supplies and come in men's and women's versions.

They’re also light and compress easily. Larger backpacks continue to improve by providing more lumbar support, better weight distribution and technological conveniences like interior USB

charging stations. There are so many styles available that it may help to make a list of your most important backpack criteria before visiting your outdoor retailer. AGING PLAYFULLY SERIES

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