How to Keep Your Cool–Gear and Tips for Summer Adventures

Overheating in the outdoors can be more than an annoyance—it can be dangerous.

From heat exhaustion to heatstroke, overheating can damage organs, leave you hobbled, cause disorientation, and worse. With summer here, it’s time to learn which gear can help you stay cool.

We see firsthand how proper gear helps people stay cool, comfortable, and safe in the outdoors. If you’re planning to hike, bike, paddle, camp, or explore this summer, here are some of the best types of gear to help keep things comfy.

Start With Sun Protection

Less clothing does not always equal less heat. In reality, the sun hitting bare skin can raise your body temperature quickly, especially at elevation.

• Lightweight sun hoodies and UPF clothing protect your skin from the sun while allowing airflow and sweat evaporation

• Look for light-colored, breathable fabrics

• Wide-brimmed hats and breathable mesh caps also help reduce direct sun exposure

• Don’t forget sunglasses

Hydration Is Everything

A dehydrated body has difficulty regulating temperature. By the time you are seriously thirsty, it’s too late.

• Hydration packs make drinking on the go easy

• Insulated water bottles can keep water ice-cold for a full day

• Electrolyte powder can help replenish salt while making water more palatable

• Carrying a small water filter can make filtering from creeks, ponds, and even puddles easy

Cooling Towels Really Work

Cooling towels may seem like a gimmick, but there’s a good reason why so many roofers wear one. Any microfiber towel will work–simply soak it in water, wring it out, and place it around your neck or head. As the water evaporates, it pulls heat away from your body.

Breathable Is the Way to Go

Carefully choose the gear you take when you’re adventuring in the summer. Besides hats and shirts, look for:

• Shoes with plenty of vents and no leather

• Breathable socks

• Backpacks with mesh backs and straps

• Mesh-topped tents

Stay Cool and Keep Exploring

Summer in Durango is meant to be enjoyed—from alpine hikes and mountain rides to days at the lake and on the river, there are endless ways to get outside. That said, watch out for telltale signs that the heat is taking a toll:

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Muscle cramps

• Nausea

• Confusion

• Chills or goosebumps despite the heat

Durango Outdoor Exchange is packed with gear to help you explore and stay cool. Stop by today and see what works for you.