It’s September, and fall is right around the corner. That means there’s just a few months left to enjoy the great outdoors before summer ventures give way to snow, parkas, and ski lifts. Luckily, fall is the perfect time to get out in nature and enjoy the not-too-hot, not-too-cold temperatures, changing leaves, and diminishing crowds. Getting the most out of fall, however, means equipping yourself with the right gear.
Matador Network’s editors venture into nature every chance they get. From kayaks to hydration vests and camping lanterns, this is what our editors are buying for their outdoor adventures this fall.
We hope you love the gear for fall we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase.
Hydro Flask water bottles
Photo: REI
The summer heat might be gone, but hydration is still as important as ever. This Hydro Flask water bottles come with slip-free powder coating, and is made with sustainable metal. The Hydro Flask is perfect for keeping your water cold and your warm drinks warm, even in extreme temperatures.
Price: From $29
Oru Kayak Beach LT Sport
Photo: Tim Wenger
Matador gear editor Tim Wenger loves his Oru Kayak — it assembles in about 10 minutes and breaks down in five at take-out. The Oru Kayak (Beach LT Sport) folds like origami into a compact package that’s easy to store and transport, making it an excellent choice for casual paddlers. Its sturdy construction handles light currents and lake excursions well, offering a durable, maneuverable option for fishing or leisurely paddling without requiring bulky storage or hauling gear (or even a roof rack on your truck).
Price: $1,539
Norrøna fjørå Equalizer Shirts and Flex1 Pants
Photo courtesy Norrøna
Fall is prime mountain bike season, and if your mountain bike gear kit needs a top off, Matador editors Tim Wenger and Suzie Dundas both recommend the Scandinavian brand Norrøna. The fjørå line is perfect for this time of year when temperatures can be more unpredictable – the long-sleeve option is best for most days and its breathable and form-fitting, but also protects from sun and wind. The pants make for a viable option this time of year as well, when trails can be moister and you need something to keep your legs dry and free of dirt — even the hero kind. The line will last you for years, so the investment now will keep you riding in style for the forseeable future.
Price: From $59
Patagonia Black Hole 32L Travel Pack
Photo: REI
Pretty much everyone could benefit from a new hiking backpack every once in a while. This is especially true for those of you who spent the summer wearing your hiking gear down to the bone. This Patagonia backpack has a spacious main compartment, internal padded sleeve, internal mesh pocket, front and top stash pockets for small electronics, and daisy-chain lash points to secure extra gear. Its comfort and durability make it a must-have for your fall outdoor gear wish list — especially for seasoned hikers.
Price: $117
Patagonia Nano Puff Vest
Photo: Patagonia
Made with 55 percent recycled material, including a 100 percent recycled polyester riptop shell, this vest’s insulation will keep you warm even on the most brisk fall evenings. The vest is also water repellent, retaining 98 percent of its insulation even when wet.
Price: $189
Vont 2 Pack LED Camping Lantern
Photo: VONT
Whether you’re going for a night hike or just trying to keep a light on at your campsite, LED lanterns are essential — especially as the days get shorter. These waterproof lanterns are essential fall outdoor gear and have battery life lasting over 90 hours, and are compact enough to easily fit in your backpack or emergency kit.
Price: $15.99
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Photo: Lifestraw
Anyone who hikes regularly knows that water is even more important than being in shape. You might have packed a few water bottles, but on longer hikes and in emergency situations, water might become scarcer than you’d like. Enter the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter. This water filtration device filters out 99.9 percent of waterborne bacteria and parasites, giving you clean drinking water wherever you might be.
Price: $14.95
Salomon Active Skin 8 Set Hydration Vest
Photo: REI
You can’t put a price on being able to hydrate on the go. The Salomon Active Skin 8 Hydration Vest allows you to do just that, including two 17 fl. oz. soft flasks you can drink simply with the touch of a finger. There are also two front stretch pockets, and two front flask pockets with secure loops.
Price: $115
Helly-Hansen Crew Midlayer Jackets
Photo: Helly Hansen
Fall weather is unpredictable. That’s why our editors love this fleece-lined jacket that’s both waterproof and windproof. Made with breathable Helly Tech fabric, the jacket is quick-drying and insulated with 100g fleece lining, with hand warmer pockets. 
Price: From $80