Zebulon Pike and his crew didn’t have hiking boots with shock-absorbing heel pockets, jackets laminated with waterproof nylon or compasses equipped with digital barometric weather trackers when they began their journey 200 years ago this month. It’s a wonder they ever made it up a mountain. Celebrate their path but not their pain with these hiking accessories designed to make your Pikes Peak summit less arduous.
The right shirt
Look like you’re on your way to a barbecue as you saunter past sweating flatlanders who didn’t have the foresight or the style to equip themselves with this Patagonia shirt. Not only does its organic cotton/polyester mesh construction keep you cool, but there’s even a hidden chest pocket for your MP3 player. $49.83. REI
Solar shower
Z.P. probably bathed in icy mountain streams, but there’s no need to repeat that excruciating part of his journey. This solar shower comes with a 4-gallon bag that can be filled with water and propped in the sun. A few hours later, use the battery-operated pump to deliver a pressurized, hot shower. $29.99. USCAV.COM
Fashion footwear
Sure, hiking boots offer foot support and all that, but there’s a reason you don’t see them in the latest Manolo Blahnik collection. Take your next trek in these fashionable yet practical clogs from El Naturalista, which feature a specially cushioned insole and leather uppers treated with animal fat and vegetable oils to resist water and dirt. $123.95. ZAPPOS.COM, OR ORDER FROM BROWN’S SHOE FIT IN DURANGO, FORT COLLINS OR LONGMONT
Where to hang out
Why rest on filthy dirt or an uncomfortable rock when you can swing in a Hennessy hammock complete with sunshade and bug-repellent netting? $170. EASTERN MOUNTAIN SPORTS
Light the way
Your kids can illuminate a super man’s journey with a Superman flashlight. $8. OUTDOORKIDS.COM
