As someone who spends a lot of time outside—hiking, running, guiding, or just trying to stay ahead of Maine’s blackflies—I’m always on the hunt for gear that works hard without weighing me down. Over the past few months, I put a wide mix of new products to the test. Some stood out for their comfort, some for their versatility, and a few for simply doing exactly what they said they would. Here’s a quick roundup of the lightweight essentials that earned a permanent place in my kit.| Fit For Miles