Gear companies are doing their part to preserve natural resources by offering eco-friendly products. Here are just a few of the innovations you can use for your state park adventure.
Greens to Go®
This antioxidant-packed drink is 100% natural and made with certified organic fruits and vegetables. Just rip, mix and drink. It’s as convenient as sports drinks, but healthier and eco-friendly. www.greenstogo.com
CleanWell natural hand sanitizers
Most hand sanitizers are made with alcohol and petroleum products. Not CleanWell. This nontoxic, natural germ killer is chemical-free, safe for kids, not tested on animals, and biodegradable. $9.99 (starter pack); www.cleanwelltoday.com
SteriPEN Adventurer and Solar Charging Case Pack
Whether you’re camping, backpacking, or traveling abroad, a reliable water purifier is a must. SteriPEN is a chemical-free alternative to messy drops and iodine tablets. Best of all, you can charge it using the sun, reducing your dependence on batteries. $149.95; www.steripen.com
Solar Lite Hybrid
This solar-powered flashlight holds a single charge for more than 3 years. It uses a super-bright 1 Watt LED; an 8-hour charge provides 16 hours of burn time. The back-up battery has 7-year shelf life. And if that’s not cool enough, it’s 100% waterproof and floats! $24.95; www.hybridlite.com
Keen Ridgeline
Simplify your wardrobe with one do-it-all shoe. This low-cut wonder is a light hiker, trail runner and supportive walking shoe, all in one. Breathable mesh uppers keep you cool in summer’s heat while the toe guards and lugs protect you from stray rocks and slippery roots. $85; www.keenfootwear.com
Many hard plastic reusable water bottles contain potentially harmful BPA and phthalates that can leach into water or into landfills. Not Klean Kanteen. Made of stainless steel, which is durable, toxin-free and non-leaching, Klean Kanteen is available in various sizes, including a sippy cup style for kids. $17.95; www.kleankanteen.com
Ex Officio Insect Shield® Barrier Crew or Long-Sleeve Hoody
Enjoy your state parks without the bugs-or the messy chemical bug spray. Barrier shirts have insect repellent built into the very fiber of the shirt and last for up to 70 washings. Bonus: It offers UPF 20+ sun protection, too. $75; www.exofficio.com
Bushnell 10×25 H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Compact Binoculars
Don’t disturb wildlife by approaching them. Instead, admire them from afar using a good pair of binoculars like these. Waterproof construction and textured, non-slip rubber pads give you a grip on the situation, and withstand the toughest weather and abuse. $57.56; www.bushnell.com
The North Face Ladies XTC L/S Midweight Crew Shirt
Made from a fabric that has been treated with infused bamboo (a sustainable, antimicrobial fiber), this shirt is lightweight, durable, offers UPF sun protection, and wicking away of perspiration. Underarm gussets allow freedom of motion for hiking and climbing, too. $46.00; www.thenorthface.com
Helly Hansen Ekolab Rain Jacket
The Ekolab Jacket sounds like an experiment in sustainability. Its waterproof coating is made without fluorocarbons, a huge innovation for waterproof breathable jackets. And every jacket made is cut in a way to reduce waste, reducing the ecological footprint. www.hellyhansen.com
For State Park Fun, visit:
www.parkvisitor.com
Shari Boyer, CEO
Shari has an extensive background in sales, marketing, and product management including Brand Management positions at Nestle and Proctor & Gamble. Shari was one of the initial employees of Imagitas and during her 7 year tenure she helped forge their strong relationship with the U.S. Postal Service and started their sales force. Shari has a BA in Economics and an MA in Sociology both from Stanford University.
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