5 Companies Offering Great Gear For Outdoor Activities

Whether you're new to cycling or you've been snowboarding for years, it's essential to equip yourself with great gear that will keep you safe and comfortable while doing outdoor activities. From socks that help prevent injuries to camping gear that allows for a good night's rest in the woods, companies are designing some cutting-edge items to enhance recreation. In no particular order, this list shares several brands and stores making a splash in the open-air adventure scene.

For #1, we have Astral, a maker of footwear and life jackets. The company was started in 2002 by Philip Curry and is based in Asheville, North Carolina. Its shoe collection, which includes women's, men's, and kids' options, is meant to be both stylish and technical. Most models are engineered to be water-resistant, and even have drainage holes that minimize entry of silt.

Astral makes life jackets for adults, kids, and dogs. The company's Airbelt is a waist wrap that transforms into a large buoyant bubble with a quick jerk of the cord if things go awry on the water. Outdoor Magazine selected its canine jacket as one of the best pieces of dog gear in 2018.

Coming in at #2, we present Kamp-Rite. The company, based in Sacramento, California, makes a variety of camping gear. Its signature item is the "Original Tent Cot," which is meant to combine comfort and protection, as it is a fully enclosed off-the-ground sleep shelter.

In addition to Tent Cots, the company sells ancillary camping furniture like hammocks, tables, and rocking chairs. For changing, showering, or other personal needs, it also offers the Privacy Shelter, which includes a five-gallon portable shower unit.

The #3 entry is Feetures, which manufactures a line of athletic socks that are sold in sporting goods stores across the country. It is committed to giving back to the community, and sponsors the Charlotte-based nonprofit, Let Me Run, which inspires boys to be active.

Feetures' socks are lightweight and cushioned, elements the company purports are excellent for runners, cyclists, and more. The company claims its line of relief and recovery foot covers will stabilize the plantar fascia and support the Achilles tendon, easing heel and arch pain.

Next up, at #4, we have The Unlikely Cyclist, a bike shop located in Costa Mesa, California. It specializes in cycling gear and apparel for women riders and offers monthly group rides and clinics. The store has a master fitter and saddle consultant available by appointment for those new to the activity.

It specializes in cycling gear and apparel for women riders and offers monthly group rides and clinics. The store has a master fitter and saddle consultant available by appointment for those new to the activity.

The Unlikely Cyclist sells many popular bike brands such as Cannondale, Bianchi, Linus, Virtue, and Pure City. The shop also offers various exercise classes, such as yoga, circuit training, and personal cycling coaching. It has been featured in many news outlets, such as the Orange County Register.

Rounding out our list, at #5, we present Comor Sports, a ski, snowboard, and bike shop in Vancouver. In addition to adults' items, the store has a wide variety of gear for kids, including helmets, fleece sets, bib pants, and more.

Comor also offers ski and snowboard tuning, performed locally with an extensive range of Swiss-made Montana machinery. The shop can provide personalized fittings for these outdoor activities, so buyers know they are selecting the optimal equipment.