April and May are all about transition, and as I see more and more signs of spring, my gear uses tend to change as well. It can be a tricky time of year. My skis slowly migrate to the back of my closet, but it’s not quite time to break out my bikes and bathing suits. Below are some favorites that I’ve been gravitating toward lately as I navigate weather and conditions that run the gamut of winter to summer within the day-to-day.
Mud season means varied terrain, so I never head to the trails without poles. After 4 knee surgeries, I don’t like taking chances! Recently, I’ve been using this collapsible set from MSR that I love for packability and strength. Made of aluminum, there are dual DynaLock mechanisms that allow easy adjustment on the fly. I find them handy as I attempt trails that still have patches of icy snow. They come with powder and trekking baskets, so can be used year round. $110, msrgear.com
During April, the snow finally melted enough that my yard is no longer a giant mud pit which means yard games are back! Sure, Cornhole and Bocce are standard, but for some new variety I recently tried TowerBall, a 360 degree toss game. It’s easy to play, portable and 100% weatherproof. Great for groups of all ages, it includes a collapsible tower, 8 soft hackey balls and a backpack carry case. $190, towerball.com
Springtime means ditching my clunky boots for lighter and more fun footwear. These classics from Saucony are colorful, iconic and have 40 years of approval from runners and sneaker fans alike. Saucony constructs the shoe with some technological upgrades such as premium suede and a molded EVA sole for durable comfort. Available in a variety of women’s and men’s styles and colors. $80, saucony.com
As much as I wish I could hang up my heavy-duty down, we’re not there quite yet. For this season I love this 800-fill waterproof and windproof jacket from Rab. It’s warm, durable and able to stand up to that unpredictable off-season weather. I find myself keeping it nearby for early season camping, meet-ups in the park and for those forced, chilly outdoor dining experiences we’re all jonsing for. Available in women’s and men’s sizes and colors. $385, rab.equipment/us/
Whether sitting on the deck or hitting an early crag, a new coffee mug is always a welcome companion. The Elevation has a durable stainless steel build with an internal copper lining for extra temperature control. The 14oz size is perfect for coffee as well as a chilled vessel for wine while your taking the dog on a happy hour walk. Although not entirely leak proof, the Elevation has a closed lid for spill-resistant transport. Available in a variety of great colors. $25, ottorbox.com
Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.
Readers around Aspen and Snowmass Village make the Aspen Times’ work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.
Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.
Each donation will be used exclusively for the development and creation of increased news coverage.
A wine-inspired road trip to Palisade, Colorado with WineInk columnist Kelly J. Hayes.
Parks & Golf - FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES LETS TALK!!! Parks Maintenance, Parks Forestry & Trails, Parks Construction, Parks Horticulture/FloralGolf Pro Shop…
Roaring Fork Family Practice in Carbondale needs Registrars and CNA/MAs
Hiring hands-on: Maintenance Professional. Must be experienced in all aspects of building & property maintenance Year round position $70k -…
The North of Nell is now hiring full time positions for Housekeeping, Maintenance and Front Desk. Great starting wages with…
NOW HIRING: Apprentices, Residential Wireman, Journeyman ElectriciansSkills/Qualifications:* High End Residential and Commercial experience a MUST.* Team Player.* Physical hands-on environment...
Looking for seasonal bus drivers for an outdoor adventure-based company.Positions available are Full-time and Part-time.Seasonal Position with flexible schedule.Competitive pay…
The Gant in Aspen has immediate openings for:HIRING BONUSHousing may be available.* Bell Staff* Food & Beverage* Housekeeping To see…
Minimum 3-5 years experience, leadership qualities, strong work ethic, competitive salary, passionate. Email resume: samantha@cprestaurants.com
Tired of commuting to Aspen? Operating Room Cleaning and Floor Tech openings at Valley View HospitalStarting pay - $20/hour plus…
SOUS CHEF, LINE COOK FT/PTORGANIZED, FUN, "NO DRAMA" WORK ENVIRONMENT3-11PM OPENING FOR THE SUMMER 6/15
Crew: $17.00 per hour. Shift Managers: $19.00 per hour. Free meals, free uniforms, flexible schedules, opportunity of advancement. Text WEN12…
The Town is currently accepting applications for the Finance Advisory Board. Interested persons should attend at least one to two…
Now Hiring:The Aspen Mountain Residences Maintenance Engineer$23 - $25/hour + $1,500 Signing Bonus! Bell Attendant$18/hour plus tips + $1,500 Signing…
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies Rock Bottom Ranch Sustainable Ag Director About ACES:Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) is a…
F/T, benefits, top pay, bonus
WE'RE HIRINGALL POSITIONSGENERAL MANAGER BARTENDERS KITCHEN STAFF HOST/HOSTESS SERVERS ETC...Contact us Careers@thesnowlodge.com
Transmission Tech for R & R Min 2 yrs exp FT 8-5 Drug and Alcohol Tested Reply by email or…
1) Free medical, dental & vision coverage for you 2) Wellness bonus and HSA employer contributions 3) 17% retirement savings…
Line cooks PrepDishwashersBaristasNow hiring FT/PT positions in the front and back of house.Stop by the cafe to get an application,…
Apply to Drive with RFTA today!Drive Your Life$50K Starting SalaryPaid CDL TrainingFull Health BenefitsPaid Time OffFree Ski PassApply at https://www.rfta.com/employment/
Sat H: 50° L: 28°
Sun H: 56° L: 31°
Mon H: 55° L: 31°
Tue H: 51° L: 35°
Wed H: 59° L: 27°
Submit a Request to Update a Crime Story
Do not sell my personal information
Steamboat Springs - Routt County
Winter Park - Granby - Grand County
Aspen High School - Skier Scribbler