WHEN THE INNOVATORS at Kokatat introduced Gore-Tex to the paddling community in 1981, there was great rejoicing amongst the formerly saturated. Now boaters have a new reason to get jiggy: Kokatat's PACLITE ANORAK, the first paddle top to incorporate Gore's lightest, most packable waterproof fabric. The Anorak's utilitarian details include self-draining, accessible-with-your-PFD-on chest pockets, double storm flaps, and wrist-cinching Lycra cuffs. But it's the soft touches—like a fleece-lined draft collar and hand warmers—that make it the Cadillac of recreational boating jackets. Its breathability will keep you comfortably dry while sea-kayaking in Baja; the roomy cut allows for layering while on Arctic canoe trips under the midnight sun. ($285; 800-225-9749, www.kokatat.com) —Sam Moulton
THE BACKPACK STALWARTS at Kelty invested five decades of know-how into the new SATORI BACKPACK, which,
(Eric Swanson)
at just five pounds and two ounces, is one of the lightest, simplest, and most versatile packs we've seen. It can take you from weekend peak assaults (3,500 cubic inches) to the Appalachian Trail (6,500 cubic inches) thanks to two 500-cubic-inch pockets that can be attached along the sides of the pack via a simple toggle system. Find more space in the pack's 1,000-cubic-inch expandable top and 1,000-cubic-inch mesh front pouch (perfect for wet gear). Other removables include—get this—the suspension system itself. At maximum capacity, the Satori hauls sumo-size loads with the grace of Baryshnikov. Which is exactly how you should feel as you dance down the trail. ($250; 800-423-2320, www.kelty.com) —S.M.
TAKING THIER CUE from the iMac brains at Apple Computer, the designers of the AQUAFLY FLYBOX grabbed a
(Eric Swanson)
fishing mainstay stuck at an evolutionary standstill and said, "Color!" Luddite anglers, don't panic—all the standard trappings are here: Dual compartments keep nymphs and dry flies in separate but equal housing, transparent lids let you take stock of your feathered friends without opening the box, and ridged polyolefin foam pads hold scores of flies and keep the unit afloat when you fumble it into a freestone riffle. With its snag-free edges and decidedly noncamouflage color, this is a glimpse into fly-fishing's brash techno future. ($34; 415-922-1163, www.aquafly.com) —Chris Keyes
