Klymit Kinetic Vests

Whether you’re looking for some inspiration from the original, extreme ski club, or searching for the latest in cutting-edge, cold-weather gear, these two finds should help set you up for a Spring ski outing.

Swift. Silent. Deep. documents the story of a renegade group of elite skiers who call themselves the Jackson Hole Air Force. Determined to try their skis on snow that was truly a step beyond adventure, these extreme sportsmen pursued pure powder to the fullest extent, breaking the law and pushing their athleticism to the limit in the process. Swift. Silent. Deep., which has won a number of awards for its stunning cinematography, takes viewers on a back country skiing adventure with a group of men who rejected formal ski etiquette and took their lives into their own hands, later founding (and winning) extreme skiing competitions.

For a more practical leg up on the upcoming trip, check out Klymit’s award-winning kinetic vest. This sleek, trim layer gets its heat by way of an entirely new technology – a palm-sized pump that breathes argon gas into the vest’s puffy chambers, creating warmth superior to that offered by a down jacket and at a fraction of the size. But don’t worry, the argon gas is non-flammable and non-toxic, making it safe for the user and the environment.

While the vest has been lauded by Backpacker and Popular Science, Klymit is also rolling out argon-powered jackets for hunters, climbers and water sports enthusiasts in 2010. Products range from $199 – $225. Klymit.com

"A Tight Point" by Luke Frazier

The largest wildlife art and nature event in the nation, Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) will be held February 12-14 in Charleston, SC. SEWE ’10 will highlight 120 fine artists, retriever demos, shows with Jack Hanna, cooking demos by some of the Lowcountry’s finest chefs, Dock Dogs competitions, sporting outfitters & guides, conservation exhibits, free flight falconry, children’s activities, and much more.

Day tickets are $10-20 and 3-Day passes are $40. Children 10 and under are free. VIP packages and special event tickets are also available. (843) 723-1748 / SEWE.com

Courtesy of Camelbak

There’s nothing like a nice, cold drink after a hard workout, but most water bottles don’t hold a chill long enough to last through extended runs, bike rides or hikes. Camelbak’s insulated Podium Chill sports bottle does just that, though, keeping beverages cool for hours. Designed specifically for cyclists, this bottle has a jet valve for a spout rather than Camelbak’s signature bite valve, giving easier access to hydration; it is also malleable and lightweight and fits most conventional bike cages. As with all of Camelbak’s products, the Chill is BPA-free, dishwasher safe and coated with antimicrobial HydroGuard. $12, REI.

If it’s been too long since you’ve had an adventure in the outdoors, take advantage of America’s treasures and hike, climb, raft or kayak one of our diverse national parks with REI. Whether you’re looking to engage your athleticism or simply want to witness out-of-the-way beauty firsthand, there are a range of options among the 20 compelling journeys available. Expert guides promise to reveal the true character of legendary parks such as the Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, Mt. Rainier, the Grand Canyon, Alaska and others. The eco-minded trips range from weekend excursions up to 11 days, all year long. Find more details about the trips here.

For some inspiration to book that trip check out Ken Burns’ stunning documentary “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.“

Bucket Grill shown above

These two products, invented for tailgaters, campers and on-the-go grill-masters everywhere, reduce the hassle of grilling out away from home. The disposable, easy to use EZGrill, which comes loaded with 100% natural charcoal, is small enough to fit in a backpack and is made with recyclable aluminum, cutting down on environmental impact. To give foods that distinctive charcoal taste, the EZGrill can also be used at home, inside a gas grill.

Crate & Barrel’s Bucket Grill features a 12″ lift-off grate in chrome-plated iron with legs that fold in to store and a handle for easy carrying. It gets high marks from reviewers who praise it for its size, ease of use, and its inspiration for impromptu picnics – one reviewer stores the bucket in the back of his car.