Guide to Spring

1. Timberland Earthkeepers ($119) On sale now, these waterproof boots prove good looks are tougher than mud and muck from trail to tavern. Outsole crafted from recycled plastic bottles.
2. 6 Cup Coffee Percolator ($29) Every campsite needs an early morning caffeine kick via fire and coffee grounds. This Chinook model I own from Amazon offers a heat-resistant wooden handle.
3. Helly Hansen Swift 2 Fleece Jacket ($140) H/H invented the fleece jacket so expectations are high on this anniversary edition full-zip. Enough warmth and insulation for cool Spring mornings.
4. Big Agnes Long Lake SL ($279) I've trusted Big Agnes for years. This new model is proven to 30 degrees. Stay warm all night and avoid overheating in the early morning hours.
5. MSR Carbon Reflex 3 ($649) Wide enough to fit three or two plus extra gear inside, this 4lb. tent  offers an exceptional value for long trips - you're going to want you space that 2-man tents won't cut.
6. CRKT Tomahawk ($180) Small-tree-chopping and kindling-splitting is easier now. Defense against the ever-present Zombie Apocalypse included. Two-sided sharpness proves the investment.
7. Old Town Canoe ($979) Adventure begins here. No sign-up sheet necessary. 16.4 feet provide a fine balance between weight and long-distance performance. Endless exploration lies ahead.
8. Woolrich Field Shorts ($45) Whether the decision is to hit the trail for the afternoon or do a beer-run into town, you'll have the style to impress any frisky country girl.
9. Filson Feather Cloth Shirt ($67) Lightweight and breathable performance will prove comfortable and cool when your bonfire gets a bit too warm. This shirt will suffice thru fall for your adventures.
10. Kershaw Cryo ($50) The 2012 Blade Magazine Best Buy of the Year won't disappoint. I've carried the knife for months and she's performed daily in a range of critical tasks, field and at home.